As a pet parent, dog treats are crucial to your shopping list. They’re an invaluable way to reward your dog when reinforcing good behavior, training, or learning new skills. Treats also come in handy during long walks to maintain your furry friend’s energy and motivation until their main meal. With so many dog treat options, picking the best can be challenging. Discussed below are six factors to consider when choosing treats for your dog.
Nutritional content
Your furry friend requires a healthy, balanced diet to thrive. When selecting treats for your dog, inspect them for the following:
- Proteins: Treats packed with prime-quality proteins are essential for muscle repair and growth. Protein-rich treats such as chicken feet for dogs also promote your dog’s joint and dental health
- Carbohydrates: While puppies don’t need a lot of carbohydrates, they’re vital for energy. Opt for treats that use vegetables and whole grains as carbohydrate sources
- Healthy fats: These nutrients give energy to your dog while helping in the absorption of vitamins
- Vitamins and minerals: Ensure your dog treats contain vitamins and minerals because they’re critical for your pet’s overall health
Buying treats containing all of these nutrients is key to keeping your furry friend happy and healthy.
Purpose of the treats
Although treats are an excellent way to indulge or spoil your pet, they serve various purposes, including the following:
- Dog training: These treats are usually small in size and low calorie, so your dog can consume them quickly and in higher quantities during training sessions
- Weight management: These are low-calorie treats and might have extra fiber to help your furry friend feel fuller for longer
- Dental health: These treats are not only firm but pliable as well, encouraging thorough chewing
- Supplements: These treats help improve or maintain your dog’s overall health while giving its diet a nutritional boost
Ingredient quality
The quality of ingredients in dog treats significantly contributes to their nutritional value and overall health. Opt for treats made using quality, whole-food ingredients like real beef, fruits, and vegetables for superior nutritional value. Dog treats made with high-quality ingredients are not only rich in minerals and vitamins but also facilitate healthy digestion.
Your dog’s sensitivities and allergies
Being mindful of your pup’s allergies and sensitivities is important when selecting treats. Avoid treats containing dairy, corn, wheat, or other allergens if your dog is allergy-prone. Rather, opt for hypoallergenic dog treats prepared with limited, easy-to-digest ingredients. If you’re uncertain of the treats suitable for your furry friend’s sensitivities and allergies, consult a veterinarian.
Treat size and texture
Puppies or smaller dogs need bite-sized treats that they can easily consume without choking, while bigger dogs can take larger treats that are more challenging to chew. Texture is another consideration when buying dog treats. Hard treats reduce tartar buildup, helping with dental hygiene. However, an old dog or one with dental issues will require softer treats to avoid discomfort or tooth damage.
Your dog’s dietary requirements
Your furry friend’s dietary needs are a major consideration when choosing treats. Pups have various nutritional requirements based on their age, breed, size, and health condition. If your dog is active, high-protein treats would be ideal, while low-calorie treats are perfect for overweight dogs. If your pup is diabetic or has other health issues, choose treats suitable for their condition.
Endnote
Picking the right treats is vital for your dog’s health and happiness. Nutritional content, purpose, ingredient quality, and dietary requirements are factors to consider when choosing treats for your furry friend.
