There’s a pretty big doggy holiday coming up soon. February 23rd is National Dog Biscuit Awareness Day! If there’s one thing we know for sure about Man’s Best Friend, it’s that he really, really, really likes treats. (He’s also very fond of belly rubs and car rides, but that’s another topic.) Treats are a great way to get your canine buddy’s tail going, and brighten up his day a bit. However, there are some things to keep in mind when giving Fido his snacks. In this article, a McHenry, IL vet offers tips on giving your pup treats.
Choose Healthy Options
Plain, cooked meat, fish, or poultry is always fine. Fido can also enjoy some shredded deli meat, or a bit of sodium-free broth.
Buy Wisely
Get into the habit of reading labels. Opt for products that use mostly meat, fish, and/or chicken, and don’t have a huge list of unidentifiable ingredients.
Limit Fatty Foods
If Fido could name his favorite things, bacon and sausage would definitely be on that list, along with walks, ear scritches, playtime, toys, and comfy beds. However, too much fat isn’t good for dogs. Limit your furry pal’s intake of fatty foods.
Make Fido Work
One of the many things we love about our canine companions is the fact that they really do try to please their owners. Have Fido do a trick for his treat! This is a great way to reinforce your pet’s training, and boost his confidence.
Homemade Goodies
If you like, you can make your furry friend’s snacks. The ingredients listed above are all safe. You can customize Fido’s biscuits by adding things like meat, cheese, bacon bits, bacon grease, safe fruits and veggies, eggs, liver powder, and/or wheat germ oil. Look online for recipe ideas.
Avoid Dangerous Foods
Your pooch would happily consume anything you offer him, but be careful. Some of our favorite foods are toxic to Fido! Never give your canine companion anything that contains garlic, onions, scallions, or chives; grapes, currants, and raisins; chocolate; caffeine; alcohol; nuts; mushroom; pitted fruits; or raw meat, dough, or yeast. You’ll also want to avoid giving your four-legged friend foods that are high in salt, sugar, or fat, as well as anything that contains xylitol.
Do you have any questions or concerns about your dog’s diet? Call us, your local McHenry, IL pet clinic, today!