Dogs are naturally food-driven species, and many love snacking. While table scraps should never be fed to your pup, having healthy treats ready can help ensure she remains satisfied between meals.
An average-sized banana will satisfy your pup’s hunger pangs and aid with digestive issues, while providing energy boost and providing source of nutrition.
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1. Apples
An apple a day may not keep the vet at bay, but it makes for an easy snack to give to their pup. Packed full of vitamin C, fiber, potassium and antioxidants it makes for the perfect pick-me-up treat!
Keep in mind, however, that apples contain natural sugars so should only be eaten in moderation. Also keep an eye out for seeds and cores with amygdalin which contains amygdalin (a type of cyanide poisonous to dogs).
Make homemade apple snacks to avoid added sugars and preservatives, by first removing seeds and core for reduced choking hazards, before using a mandolin slicer to cut thin slices for dehydrated crunchy apple snacks.
2. Carrots
Carrots make an excellent snack for dogs that helps maintain clean teeth while providing essential fiber, vitamin C, and potassium – even some studies indicate they may prevent certain cancers like transitional cell carcinoma in Scottish Terriers!
If your pup suffers from allergies, hypoallergenic treats that contain natural ingredients should be readily available. When searching for these treats, read the labels carefully and look for ones with short ingredient lists.
No matter the treat, it is essential that you restrict how much of it you give your pet. Too much snacking could lead to obesity which has serious repercussions for their health.
3. Green Beans
Green beans provide your dog with essential vitamins and minerals while being low-calorie and easy for pets to digest.
Simply be wary about adding any additives or seasonings. Also keep in mind that even healthy fruits and vegetables may contain too many calories for some dogs to handle and may lead to digestive distress.
Just as it can be dangerous for humans, obesity can be an equally severe problem for dogs. Obesity leads to weight gain that increases joint issues and heart disease risks while restricting mobility – so it is crucial that owners monitor the calorie intake from snacks such as green beans as part of your pet’s healthy lifestyle regimen.
4. Pumpkin
Pumpkin can be an excellent source of vitamins and fiber for your pup, providing low fat calories while being packed full of A, C, K, potassium and iron – not to mention helping prevent bloat, constipation and diarrhea!
These tasty oatmeal pumpkin dog treats will delight your pup! To make them egg free, switch out the eggs for chia seeds mixed with water. For nut free treats, swap out peanut butter with another nut butter (just be wary that xylitol isn’t present – toxic to dogs!).
These chewable treats are created using slow-baked pumpkin, goat’s milk and cinnamon for optimal dog nutrition. Plus, they’re gluten- and grain-free – an ideal snack choice for all life stages of dogs!
5. Blueberries
Blueberries are an incredible superfood, providing your pet with essential vitamins and minerals while fighting aging and improving overall health.
Air-dried blueberries are lighter and easier for children to digest than their rehydrated counterparts, while strawberries contain higher concentrations of sugar – just ensure you give only small portions at once!
Use either a mold or an ice cube tray for these treats. Line the bottom with yogurt, then pipe in blueberry mixture using either a baking syringe or spoon and freeze until solidified. Adding cantaloupe or watermelon slices would also work!
6. Boiled Chicken
Boiled chicken is an ideal treat to use during training sessions as it contains both lean protein and is generally well tolerated by most stomachs. Salmon contains omega-6 fatty acids which promote skin and coat health but should only be given in limited amounts due to higher fat content.
Sometimes the best snacks for dogs can be found right in your own kitchen! Remember that treats should only be given in moderation and consult your veterinarian to understand more about your dog’s daily caloric requirements. Also take into account any food sensitivities, allergies or texture preferences when selecting treats for your furry pal!
