What treats are good for dogs?
Just like you and me, dogs love treats. And just like us, dogs often get fat if they eat too many treats or treats that aren’t healthy. What treats are good for dogs and how to please your pet without compromising his health?
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Veterinarians are increasingly saying that, if owners are not responsible enough, treats can cause obesity in dogs. The owner can give the dog two, three or four cookies at a time at a time, and so many times a day, without thinking about it at all, until he encounters health problems with the dog.
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Rule 10%
But dogs love treats so much! And people love to treat their pets so much! After all, it is necessary in the learning process and forms a bond between the person and the dog, so there is nothing wrong with treats.
It’s perfectly okay to feed your dog. But it is better to do this in moderation and consider the amount of treats when making up your pet’s diet.
Tami Pierce, DVM, UC veterinarian, advises sticking to the 10% principle. Treats should not “supply” more than 10% of the daily calorie intake to the dog’s body. And it is better to consult with a veterinarian about how much and what kind of treats you can give your dog. The veterinarian will make recommendations based on your dog’s taste preferences, weight and lifestyle.
Can fruits and vegetables be dog treats?
Commercial treats are often too high in fat, sugar, and preservatives, so fruits and vegetables may well be a healthier treat for a dog.
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For example, Tami Pierce suggests giving dogs bits of carrots or broccoli, which are virtually calorie-free, and the owner won’t feel any remorse about the dog’s obesity. Dogs, in principle, are ready for experiments and can eat any food, of course, if it is not unhealthy. Most vegetables are harmless to dogs.
You can treat your dog with fruit, such as banana slices, berries, watermelon, or apple slices.
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What should not be fed to a dog?
Grapes, raisins, onions, chocolate and anything containing caffeine are not suitable treats for dogs. These products are dangerous for your pet.
The dog should easily chew and swallow the treat. So bones won’t work either.
Tami Pierce suggests following the “rule of the nail”. If you press down on a potential pet treat with your thumbnail and a mark is left on the piece, the treat is fine. If not, the option is unsuccessful – too hard for the dog to swallow it quickly.
Do dogs need treats?
Not everyone agrees that dogs need treats. For example, Tony Buffington, DVM, PhD, professor of veterinary science at Ohio University, believes that treats are fun, and fun doesn’t have to be food. And if you really want to please your dog, take him on an unscheduled walk or teach him new tricks. Dogs want attention more than treats, he says.
But still, it is hardly worth being so categorical and refusing treats for the dog. Treats are a great way to bond and motivate your pet. Everything is just good in moderation.
What do you feed your pets?
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