Every dog deserves a good treat. They play an important role in not just giving them a little extra enjoyment, but training them, rewarding good behaviour, and building the bond between pet and owner. However, not all treats are created equal. Some are going to be much better for your dog than others, supporting their overall health while still ensuring that they love to get them. Here, we’re going to look at a few recommendations on how to choose the right treats.
Consider Nutritional Value
While treats should definitely be a luxury for dogs, they should still offer more than just an enjoyable taste. In particular, look at the nutritional value they offer. Protein-rich options are a popular choice because they help support muscle maintenance as well as keep their appetite well-sated. On the other hand, you want to avoid giving them too much in the way of empty calories or those with excessive levels of fat.
Simple, Quality Ingredients
If you want an idea of how good a treat is for your dog, you might want to start with its ingredient list. Generally speaking, the fewer ingredients it has, the easier it is to understand the kind of health impact it might have on your dog. You want to avoid artificial colours, flavours, and preservatives, as you never know how they might affect your digestion or health. High-quality whole meats, when cooked, on the other hand, are as simple as it gets. Simple ingredients also make it easier to monitor potential sensitivities or allergies.
Consider Their Size And Needs
You should make sure that you’re choosing treats that actually meet the needs of your dog in particular. For instance, a treat that works well for a big dog with bigger, more powerful jaws might be too large, too hard, or too calorie-dense for a small dog. Puppies, seniors, and dogs with dental issues typically also require treats that are easy to chew. Given that some dogs tend to wolf down their treats, you should also keep safety in mind. They should be able to eat the treat safely without creating a choking hazard. If you’re uncertain what kind of treats might work for your dog in particular, then you might want to talk to your vet about your options.
Thinking About Dental Health
Your dog’s dental health is an important part of your dog’s overall well-being. While brushing their teeth tends to be the best option, some treats can support cleaner teeth and healthier gums, as well. There are treats that are designed to reduce plaque and tartar buildup by encouraging chewing and gentle abrasion against the teeth, while others stimulate saliva production, which generally makes for a healthier mouth. On the other hand, some treats could be bad for their teeth, as well, like anything that’s overly soft, sticky, or sugary.
The best treats are nutritious, have good quality ingredients, and support your dog’s health in the long-run. Hopefully, this helps you choose those that do some real good.
Feature image by Amina Filkins on Pexels.
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