Did you know that February 23rd may very well be Fido’s favorite holiday? It’s Dog Biscuit Appreciation Day! We don’t have to tell you how much dogs love treats. Many pooches start thumping their tails if you go anywhere near their snacks! Read on as a Cherry Hill, NJ vet discusses dog treats.
Choosing Treats
If our canine patients could choose their snacks, we suspect that quite a few of them would want bacon, bacon, and more bacon, with perhaps some sausage and cocktail wieners thrown in on occasion. However, while a special treat here and there is okay, you don’t want to overdo it with these fatty foods. Stick to healthy options, like cooked, plain, boneless meat, fish, or chicken.
Rewards
Treats are wonderful training aids. When working with your furry pal, you’ll want to offer small snacks, like pieces of kibble or cut up hot dogs. Once Fido has completed his training, reward his good petiquette by giving him yummy treats for following commands. You don’t necessarily have to give your pet a snack every time he obeys you. Just do it enough to reinforce his training.
Store-Bought Treats
There are dozens, if not hundreds, of dog treats available today. We suspect our canine pals would happily sample all of them. Feel free to experiment a bit, and see if Fido seems to have a preference. We do recommend reading labels, however. Opt for things that list meat, fish, or poultry first and most frequently. Avoid anything with a long list of ingredients that you can’t pronounce or identify.
Recalls
It’s always a good idea to keep an eye out for recalls. You can do that at the AMVA site here or the FDA site here . Another option is to set up some email alerts.
Tricks
Dogs love pleasing their owners. Have Fido do a simple trick for his treat. This can also help timid pooches build confidence!
Unhealthy Snacks
Although most dogs would gobble up anything and everything they can, it’s important to remember that not everything is safe for them. Never give Fido garlic, onions, scallions, or chives; meat on the bone; chocolate; grapes, currants, or raisins; alcohol; raw dough or yeast; or anything containing xylitol. Ask your vet for more information.
Please contact us, your Cherry Hill, NJ vet clinic, for all your pup’s veterinary care needs. We’re here to help!
