Our dogs are part of our family and as such we want them to be happy and healthy. Giving your dog a treat is always a special moment that lets them know that you love them. Being concerned about their health means evaluating all aspects of their diet including dog food and treats. There are so many varieties of dog treats that a trip to the pet store can be overwhelming. Healthy treats can be more expensive, but the health of your pet is worth the extra cost.

Dog Treat Ingredients

Just grabbing the regular bag of treats can be a mistake. Take the time to look at the ingredient labels as they play an important part of your pet’s diet. Treats should always be made from natural and organic ingredients. Ideally, the treats would be made with single proteins such as chicken or beef and paired with whole grains like brown rice and oats. When evaluating treats, watch out for sugars, fats and by-products which are unhealthy for dogs. By-products are ingredients that are not fit for human consumption, but are added as “filler” into dog food and treats. If it’s not good for you, then it’s not good for your pet either! Also keep in mind if your dog has any food allergies before purchasing a treat.

Calories

When purchasing dog treats, be sure to look at the calories of the treat. If you give your dog several treats a day, the extra calories can really add up. An overweight dog can result in higher vet bills down the road. Treats should have a lower calorie count and smaller in size.

Frequency

Treats should be primarily used as a reward or for training purposes. It is fun to give your dog a treat randomly, but it should be relatively infrequent so it doesn’t interfere with their meals and overall diet. Two to three treats a day should be the maximum amount that you give your dog. Be sure to mix up the type of treat so your dog can enjoy a little variety too.

Dog Treat Texture

While texture is less important than other items, it is still something that needs to be considered. Hard or firm dog treats are better than soft treats for your dog’s dental health. There are even greenies which help keep your dog’s teeth clean and healthy. If you have an older dog or one with a mouth injury then a soft treat can be used instead.

When you head to the store, make sure the treats are made with organic and natural ingredients without any by-products. Look for dog treats that are bite sized, low in calories and made with organic ingredients. If you can’t seem to find the right dog treat, then consider making your own chicken or beef jerky. They are easy to make in the oven and you will know that you are giving your dog the healthiest choice available. Your furry friend will live a long and happy life with these dog treat tips.