| If you're like most pet parents,
you love to give good things to your pup. Treats are often helpful as training aids and can be used to distract pets undergoing procedures such as removing mats, trimming nails, etc.
Fortified treats offer
extra health benefits. And sometimes, it is just fun to give pets something special. But are all treats created equal?
All-Natural Meat Treats
Protein is the building block of good nutrition for dogs. Because dogs are carnivores, animal protein is easier for them to process and digest than proteins derived from grain products. All dogs should eat a premium dog food with the first ingredient listed as real meat. In addition, treats high in animal protein and low in fat, like real meat treats made of 100% chicken, duck or pork are a healthy complement to your dog's diet. They offer the necessary animal protein that is often missing
in cheaper dog foods and snacks. These treats are a good choice for picky dogs.
 Rawhide
Natural rawhide bones are low in calories and offer immense dental benefits. Rawhide bones have the useful effect of removing plaque from your dog's teeth to keep them clean and healthy. This is significant as periodontal disease is a real problem in many dogs. There are several different forms of rawhide available
including bones or sticks, pressed or
ground, beef or pork, smoked or natural,
etc. Choose a shape and form that best suits your dog's mouth size and chewing habits - then watch them chew their way to contentment and better dental health.
 LiverSnax®
This high protein, low calorie treat will please the pickiest eater. Liver Snax are high in iron and promote healthy muscle development and red blood cell formation. The special freeze-drying process seals in the taste and nutrition that creates delicious flavors of lamb, chicken, or beef few dogs can resist. They are the perfect size for rewards and treats and because of their low calorie count can be given more freely.
When selecting treats for your pet, be calorie-conscious, aware of the nutritional value of the treat and be sure that treats do not make up more than 10% of your pet's daily intake. Remember, your pet cannot drive up to the take-out window, open the freezer, or scrape the dishes. What your pet eats is determined by you. Choose healthy!
TABLE SCRAPS
Once you reward begging behavior with table scraps or something off your plate, you can expect to see the same hopeful eyes looking up at you every meal from that day forward. That is fine if you do not mind, but if you have a dog that whines, the behavior may disrupt your dinner. If you do mind, you will have a hard time training your dog to stay out of the room now that he knows he just might get a handout. Table scraps do not offer the nutrition dogs need. The more you fill your pet up with your food the less likely he is to eat his own. And since our nutritional needs are not the same as our dogs', your
dog will get less of the vitamins and minerals he needs and probably more of those he does not need. Quality dog treats are developed with your dog's nutritional needs in mind. |
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