It’s important for your dogs to have a healthy diet to live a long and happy life. Any pet owner can agree that treats make up a potion of that diet. Unfortunately, many of the available dog treats on the market have preservatives and additives in them. So what should you give your dogs? Well, you don’t need to look further than your kitchen. Many of your house staples are natural and nutrient-dense foods you can give your dogs as treats. You won’t even need to make a special trip to the grocery store. Read on to discover some of our favorite natural treat options for your dogs.
Fruit
Fruit is a delicious treat option for your dogs. They are low in calories and full of vitamins and fiber. Most fruits are safe for your dogs, with a few exceptions. Citrus fruits can potentially upset your dog’s stomach. Plums and peaches are other items you should never give your dogs because of their toxic pits. Persimmons and grapes are also a bad idea since they can lead to inflammation and renal failure. Here is a list of fruit that you can safely give your dogs as treats!
Apples
Apples are fiber-rich snacks that are as healthy for your dogs as they are for you! They can provide your dogs with a good supply of vitamin C and calcium and keep them energized for a fun day. Just cut them up into small pieces and remove their seeds before feeding them to your pooch.
Bananas
Bananas are another tasty treat option that you probably already have in your kitchen. So reach for those the next time you want to treat your dogs. Just be careful not to overdo it. It’s vital you know how much food your dog should eat and how often. It’s the same with treats, especially ones high in sugar like bananas.
Strawberries & Blueberries
Berries can be fun, natural treats for your dogs. Strawberries and blueberries are high in vitamin C and antioxidants. They are also the perfect size for all dogs. However, you should be careful not to give them too many since berries have a high sugar content like bananas.
Vegetables
High-quality, natural treats are one of the many simple ways you can bring luxury to your dogs’ lives, and vegetables are one of those treats. Not all dogs will be on board with veggies, but it’s worth giving them a try since they are a great source of fiber. But just like fruit, there are some vegetables you should avoid. Among them are onions, wild mushrooms, and rhubarb. Onions in any form are toxic for your dogs’ red blood cells. Wild mushrooms can damage their different organs, and rhubarb can cause abnormalities. Apart from these and other greens like cauliflower and cabbage that can cause gas, most other vegetables are safe to give your dogs as treats. Let’s look at a few of them.
Carrots
These crunchy snacks are a rich source of vitamin A, beta carotene, and fiber. You can cut them into bite-sized pieces and entertain your dogs with them while filling their bodies with healthy nutrients!
Green Peas & Beans
Green peas and beans can be a great addition to your dogs’ diet. You can give it to them fresh, frozen, or cooked as a healthy supplement and a nutritious treat.
Sweet Potatoes
Sweet potatoes are one of the healthy treats you can cook and keep in the fridge for a while. Just cut them into strips and roast them in an oven. Don’t give raw potatoes to your dogs.
Proteins
If you want to give your dogs a more filling and beneficial treat, you can opt for protein snacks. Chicken jerky dog treats are healthy and delicious commercial options with zero additives, containing only chicken breast.
Another natural protein treat option you probably already have at home is peanut butter! You can mix it with one of the fruits for an even more nutritious treat. If you want to get more creative, you can make healthy treats at home with ground beef and pork.
Treat Your Pup
Make smart choices for your dogs and pay attention to the treats you give them. Be aware of their dietary needs and if you’re not sure what’s good for them, ask your veterinarian. Use the examples we gave you as a guide, and start your dogs on a journey toward better health.