As a dog owner, I know how easy it is to get into the bad habit of feeding your pup treats throughout the day. You may feed them a little extra while you’re cooking, or it can be a reward for going on that really good walk together, or just because your heart can’t handle their cuteness. Snack time can turn into an everyday thing really quickly. And frankly, they love it. But what if those snacks make them sick, just because they aren’t the best for their health?
We all love to spoil our dogs (and they absolutely deserve it!), but make sure that you’re not feeding them healthily. Here are a few healthier snacking options for a dog to help keep their tail wagging without sacrificing the nutritional aspect.
What are Healthy Dog Snacks Made Of?
Healthy snacks can contribute to a lot, from keeping teeth clean and offering mental stimulation to preventing obesity. The following are a few things to consider when choosing any type of pet snack:
All-Natural Ingredients: The more natural, the better. Opt for treats that are free of animal by-products, artificial colors and sweeteners.
Size and Texture: Get treats that are an appropriate size for your dog’s breed and chewing power. Smaller dogs should have smaller, softer chews, while larger ones may like something tougher.
Dental Health: Chewing promotes dental health while freshening breath, and massaging gums can reduce stress & relieve a dog of anxiety.
Best Healthy Snacks For Your Dog
Let’s take a look at some of the healthiest snacks for your dog.
Yak Chews
One of the best natural chews you can find in the market is yak chews. If you’ve never given them a try, here’s why they make such an excellent option for your doggy.
Protein and Calcium: Made from yak and cow milk, these chews are high in protein and calcium to help support muscle & bone health.
Long-lasting: Yak chews are hard and the best option for heavy chewers. These chews will keep your pup entertained for hours.
Dental Health: They help remove plaque and tartar buildup as your dog or puppy chews, promoting fresh breath while massaging their gums.
Natural: While some treats contain artificial colours and preservatives, yak chews are all-natural, so you can feel good about giving your dog something that’s safe to eat.
If you have a teething puppy or dog who needs something tough to chew, give yak chews a try. They are a safe, healthy and enjoyable option that your dog will gobble up, but in hours!
Fruits and Veggies
We always believe that meat is the only good treat for dogs, but who knew these fruits and veggies are this good? Not only are they low in calories, but they also come loaded with vitamins and fiber. Some of the top choices are:
Carrots: The crunch is great for dental hygiene.
Sweet Potatoes: They are high in vitamins and easy to digest.
Blueberries: They are packed with antioxidants and an excellent source of fibre.
These healthy snacks can be a good way to mix up your dog’s diet and help your pet feel full without extra calories.
Homemade Dog Treats
If you’re the kind of person who likes to make things on your own, then nothing beats the homemade goodies for your dog. You can control what goes into it and avoid any unwanted filler or preservatives.
You can experiment with hundreds of recipes from YouTube or Instagram that feature healthy, clean ingredients such as oats, pumpkin or chicken. Your dog will not only love these treats, but also stay healthy.
Commercial Healthy Dog Snacks
If you want a fast and easy solution, there are also some great commercial options available. It’s also a good idea to choose brands that offer organic, grain-free or single-protein treats and read the ingredient list. Stay away from sugar or by-product filled treats. Some great options include:
Biscuits: Excellent for dogs with allergies.
Freeze-Dried Meat Treats: Just all-natural meat with no filler.
Dental Chews: Several companies make chews that can freshen your dog’s breath and help keep their teeth clean.
Things To Avoid In Dog Snacks
Sure, healthy snacks are a great option to concentrate on, but there are also a few that should be avoided at all costs:
Poisonous Foods: Don’t ever give your dog chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions or garlic. Yes, they are delicious or nutritious, but they are poisonous to dogs.
Too Much Fat and Sugar: Don’t make dog treats from high-fat or high-sugar ingredients. They may promote obesity and also cause other health issues.
Artificial Additives: Make sure to buy the products that have no artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives.
Conclusion
As doggy parents, we want to make sure we give our pups the best of everything: love, attention, and treats that’ll make them feel special. But what’s equally crucial is ensuring those treats are also working in their favour healthwise.
