Selecting the ideal treats for your canine companion can be a perplexing task. The pet market offers a multitude of options, from bully sticks to dental chews, each with its own merits and drawbacks. In this article, we aim to unravel the mystery behind the myriad of dog treats, helping you distinguish healthy from harmful for your beloved pet.
The Good: Nutritious Treats for Any Pup
Affordable, Healthy, and Perfect for Training
Carrots
Carrots are a superfood for dogs. These low-calorie veggies are rich in carotenoids, fiber, Vitamin C, Vitamin K, and potassium. They can even help prevent plaque buildup due to their abrasiveness. To maximize their nutritional value, consider boiling whole baby carrots before slicing them for your furry friend. Research shows that cooking carrots whole enhances their anti-cancer properties.
Apples
Apples are a wholesome snack, providing dietary fiber, Vitamin C, and antioxidants. While they’re a delightful treat, be mindful of their sugar content and feed them to your pup in moderation.
Packaged Sardines
Cut up frozen sardines make for an affordable and healthy snack. Packed with omega-3 and -6 fatty acids and low in contaminants, sardines support your pup’s skin and coat health. You can find packaged sardines in most grocery stores and even on Amazon.
Broccoli
Whether boiled or raw, broccoli is another low-calorie, low-fat snack enriched with fiber and Vitamin C. Keep the portions small, though, as broccoli contains isothiocyanates, and excessive intake can lead to gastric irritation. Additionally, cut the broccoli stalk into small pieces to prevent choking hazards.
Long-Lasting and Satisfying
Kong Toy Lined with Peanut Butter or Pumpkin
To keep your pup entertained for up to half an hour, fill a classic Kong toy with a thin layer of peanut butter or canned pumpkin and freeze it for a few hours. This mentally stimulating exercise encourages dogs to work for their treats. Opt for all-natural “one-ingredient” peanut butter without added salt, sugar, or artificial components. However, be cautious due to its high calorie content. Alternatively, try canned pumpkin—a lower-calorie alternative packed with fiber and vitamin A. Kong toys are widely available on Amazon and at most pet retailers.
Frozen Carrots
Freeze a large carrot to serve as a chew or teething toy for your pup. Ensure the carrot is large enough to prevent choking hazards and refreeze it when it starts thawing.
Himalayan Dog Chew
Himalayan Dog Chews are rock-hard, fully digestible treats that captivate even the most active or distracted pups. These chews consist of boiled yak (and sometimes cow) milk, dried over several weeks to form a sturdy snack. Dogs enjoy their cheesy aroma and work their teeth to scrape off the cheese. Keep an eye on your pup while they enjoy these chews to avoid any potential risks, such as chipped teeth. Himalayan Dog Chews are available on Amazon and at most pet retailers.
Elk Antlers
Elk antlers are long-lasting treats packed with vitamins and minerals like calcium, zinc, manganese, and potassium. They’re odorless, stain-free, and promote dental health. While they are appealing to puppies going through chewing phases, not all older dogs share the same enthusiasm. Always supervise your dog while they indulge to minimize the risk of chipped teeth. Elk antlers are available on Amazon and at most pet retailers.
The Ok: Proceed with Caution
Cheese
Cheese is a delectable treat but high in fat, cholesterol, and calories. Excessive cheese consumption can lead to weight gain and obesity.
Bully Sticks
Bully sticks, made from the uncooked pizzle or penis of a bull, are 100% beef dog chews. Although they’re beloved by most dogs, they’re calorie-dense and can contribute to weight gain. On average, a bully stick contains about 90 calories, which can be a significant portion of a dog’s daily nutritional intake. Moreover, be cautious about the quality of the bully sticks, as some brands may not be as natural as claimed, potentially containing chemicals and preservatives. Opt for USDA-approved bully sticks to ensure they are free from antibiotics, hormones, and chemicals. You can consider Patriot’s grass-fed bully sticks, available on Amazon.
The Ugly: Steer Clear of These Widely Marketed Dog Treats
Rawhide
Rawhide treats should be avoided for several reasons, with contaminants being the primary concern. These treats are often imported from overseas and produced with a mixture of chemicals, colorings, and preservatives like sodium benzoate. In the short term, rawhide treats can lead to stomach issues, vomiting, and diarrhea. Over the long term, they can cause more severe health problems. Choking is another risk, as rawhide can break into chunks that dogs may swallow.
Cow Hooves
Cow hooves, similar to rawhide treats, have a reputation for breaking into pieces. These chunks can irritate the stomach and small intestine, potentially causing bowel perforation and posing a choking hazard.
Pig Ears
Pig ears are greasy treats that may upset your dog’s stomach. They also often harbor bacterial contaminants like salmonella, leading to stomach pains, diarrhea, and vomiting.
We hope this guide helps you make the best choices for your furry friend. Remember to keep treats in moderation and consult with your vet to ensure they’re suitable for your pup’s dietary needs. If you have any questions or suggestions, please feel free to leave a comment below.
