Does your canine companion enjoy treats? If not, you should schedule an appointment for him, as this is not typical! Most dogs are really passionate about treats and snacks. And, while giving Fido a special something isn’t difficult, there are a few things to consider. A local Cherry Hill, NJ vet provides some insight into this below.
Is It Okay To Give My Dog Treats?
Absolutely! At least, unless your pooch needs to be on a restricted diet. Treats are really useful to Man’s Best Friend!
There are several benefits to providing your pet a tasty snack.
Bonding: Dogs can create remarkably strong ties with their human companions. Fido has gone above and above for us, risking his own life to save ours. However, that specific link does not form by itself. It’s critical to ensure that your dog feels loved and safe with you. Treats are an excellent way to achieve this!
Training: Fido won’t be impressed by a gold star or an A on his report card, but he will certainly appreciate a treat. (Tip: when training, use modest servings to avoid overfeeding your learner.)
Tail Wags: We all enjoy snacking, right? A tasty treat can be an excellent little mood booster or pick-me-up. Treats are a great way to make your pet happy. Fido looks lovely when he is angling for something tasty.
Stability: Our canine companions can be fairly adventurous, but at the end of the day, they thrive on routine. Giving Fido a treat—even a small one—at the same time every day might help foster a sense of security, making him feel protected.
What Are the Best Treats for Your Dog?
There are countless options available when purchasing treats for your dog. Examples include bully sticks, beef strips, dental chews, jerky treats, and crunchy treats. Fido, of course, would be delighted to sample all of them, even trying some again to check their quality. However, you cannot judge based just on your canine companion’s very undeveloped palette. Check the label to ensure that your dog is getting high-quality goodies.
Reading pet food labels may be challenging, to say the least. Choose items that include meat, fish, or poultry first and foremost on the label. As with human food, pet food makers must specify components in proportion, so that the first item on the label represents the greatest percentage of the mix. Avoid products that include fillers such as corn syrup or sugar. It’s advisable to avoid items with extensive, complex lists of words you can’t speak or recognize. Of course, your veterinarian can provide valuable information about this.
Is It Okay to Let My Dog Beg?
Fido isn’t hesitant about giving us that sorrowful, soulful face and trying to coax us into sharing some of our meal. We understand that it may be difficult to resist, but try not to go too far. It takes very little to overfeed your puppy. Even eating ten more calories per day adds up to one pound per year. A hundred extra calories per day equals one pound per month. That’ll add up quickly for a dog! If you can’t resist Fido’s antics, give him something healthy, such a carrot stick or a green bean, instead of the meatball he wants.
Weight gain is not the sole reason to limit your pet’s snacking habits. It’s also horrible manners! If Fido knows he will be rewarded for begging, he may become increasingly pushy about it. Some puppies can develop bad behavior over this.
Finally, Fido may request—and receive—something that is not safe for him. If you have small children, keep in mind that they may not realize that dogs cannot always eat the same foods as humans and may naively try to share something your dog should not consume.
In short? Try not to spoil your furry pet. If you can’t resist indulging your pet, have him do a trick for his treat first.
What Human Foods Can Dogs Eat?
Dogs are always curious about what their owners are eating. Meat, fish, and poultry are good, as long as the skin, bones, and fat have been removed. Just be cautious with fatty meats such as bacon, sausage, and ham. Small amounts are acceptable on occasion, but you should avoid giving your canine companion too much. Organ meats, such as liver, should be minimized. For additional information, contact your veterinarian.
Which Foods Are Not Safe for Dogs?
Some dangerous foods to avoid are garlic, onions, scallions, and chives; grapes, currants, and raisins; avocado; pitted fruit; and chocolate. Meat on the bone, uncooked bread and yeast, processed foods, alcohol, caffeine, and anything containing xylitol, often known as birch sugar, are all dangerous.
Can I Make Dog Treats?
Absolutely! There are several recipes available online. Typically, you would want to begin with a base. This could be ground beef, minced meat, shredded chicken, or something similar. Other possibilities include wheat germ oil, pureed pumpkin, and ripe bananas. To thin out the mixture, you can add sodium-free broth, water, fat-free yogurt, or baby food. You can also add natural peanut butter, olive or wheat germ oil, cheese, bacon bits, whole-wheat flour, eggs, bananas, kibble, or safe veggie chunks like peas, carrots, or spinach to the cookies. Ask your Cherry Hill, NJ veterinarian for recommendations.
Here are some possible recipes:
Pumpkin Nibbles: Combine pumpkin puree, ground turkey, eggs, rolled oats, and whole wheat flour. Combine the wet ingredients first, then add the oats and flour. Divide into individual servings and bake for approximately 20 minutes at 325 degrees.
Apple/Chicken Bites: This is a healthy food that both you and Fido can enjoy. Combine one and a quarter cups grated carrots, a cup grated apple, half a cup natural peanut butter, two eggs, and quick oats. You’ll need two bowls: one for the peanut butter and eggs, and another for everything else. Mix them separately, then combine and divide into tiny servings. Cook for 15 minutes at 350.
Sweet Potato Jerky: Jerky is an excellent treat for dogs. It not only tastes good, but it also has a chewy texture that will fulfill your pet’s desire to chew. It’s also simple to make. Simply slice a sweet potato lengthwise into thin strips. You want them to be about a quarter-inch thick. Place them on a cookie sheet and bake at 225°F for 3 to 4 hours. You can change the time; you may need more if you want them crunchier. Just make sure the strips aren’t choking hazards.
Make sure to only use safe ingredients. If you are unsure if something is appropriate or not, err on the side of caution and exclude it. Contact your Cherry Hill, NJ veterinarian for further information.
Book An Appointment At Our Cherry Hill, NJ Pet Clinic
Have you got any questions about your dog’s diet or care? Contact your local Cherry Hill, NJ veterinary hospital at any time! We are dedicated to providing excellent treatment!
