Dog people know the inevitable truth – dogs are with us for a finite time. So, why not treat them to the best life possible?
In addition to a balanced diet, dogs also need the sheer joy of treats. Choosing treats for your dog should be easy, but with so many options, it can be surprisingly tough to make the right choice.
With multiple options available in the market, finding affordable, high-quality dog treats may seem even tougher.
Also see: What makes a dog food good or bad?
Don’t worry, we are here to help you decide.
Healthy treats for your dog – homemade
Several pantry staples make healthy treats for dogs. Many pups love little chunks of zucchini or cucumber as regular training treats.
- Egg – Served scrambled or cooled, Egg makes for a perfect protein-rich treat.
- Yogurt – Rich in Probiotics and Calcium, Yogurt helps with your dog’s nutritional needs.
- Pumpkins – With a healthy dose of fiber, Pumpkins help keep your dog’s urinary and digestive tract running smoothly.
- Fish Oil and Flax Seeds – Containing Omega-3 fatty acids, Fish Oil and Flax Seeds promote overall health in dogs.
- Pineapples – Rich in both Calcium and Potassium, Pineapples make for a sweet snack for your dogs.
- Apples (minus the seeds) – A rich source of Vitamins, Apples also work as a breath-freshener for your pooch.
- Potatoes – Rich in antioxidants, copper, iron, potassium, fiber, and magnesium, Potatoes contain all essential minerals that perform myriad functions in cells, from transporting oxygen to assisting in the assembly of proteins.
- Bananas – Rich in Potassium, Fiber, and Magnesium, Bananas have Vitamin B6 which helps metabolize proteins and regulates blood cell function so the blood can bring more oxygen to the brain and muscle.
- Oatmeal – A good source of fiber, Oatmeal is great for dogs with bowel irregularity issues, and it’s also safe for dogs with wheat allergies.
- Carrots – With Vitamin A and beta-Carotene, Carrots can be given to your dog either raw, or sliced and boiled until semi-soft.
- Peanut Butter – While Peanut Butter is good for dogs, be sure to check the label for ingredients. Avoid products containing Xylitol, a low-calorie sweetener, which can have adverse effects on dogs.
Looking for commercial dog treats?
When looking for commercially available dog treats, check the label for the list of ingredients. A good treat shouldn’t only be rich in proteins but also have a mix of antioxidants and herbs. It should be tasty and help in bonding with your pet.
While your dog’s taste buds may be his only test when it comes to treats, you need to look beyond that when it comes to choosing dog treats.
A. Pay utmost importance to the quality of ingredients. Single-source proteins, limited fillers and preservatives make for an ideal choice.
B. If you can, try opting for treats that also have the goodness of herbs, fruits, and veggies. For example, omega-rich Flax Seeds support skin and coat health. Blueberries are good for the eyes and Cranberries help balance pH levels in the urine, and also bolster digestion and immune function.
Among commercially available dog treats, check out Himalaya Healthy Treats.
- It contains chicken, a rich source of proteins. And we know how much dogs love them!
- The herbal actives – Flax Seeds and Gokshura –have great nutritional benefits for your dog’s overall health and fitness.
- Himalaya Healthy Treats are fortified with Ashvagandha which supports boosts immunity in puppies.
- The treats for adult dogs are enriched with Flax Seeds that are known to support dogs’ skin and fitness.
- Healthy Treats are tasty, highly relished, and help in bonding with your pet. You may serve them pet 2-8 daily depending on the size of your dog.
Here is to happy, healthy snacking!