Only the best works for our furry friends, right? This includes the best food, bed, toys, collars, and treats. With so many varieties of treats on the market, all claiming to be the best, it can be overwhelming to know if you are making the best choice for your pup.
Treats must satisfy two needs: they must be tasty because you want your dog to enjoy them and healthy because we love our furry friend. Satisfying these two requirement can sometimes be a challenge.
The pet treat market is massive
The global pet snack and treat industry was valued at USD 8.12 billion in 2022 and is expected to skyrocket at a compound annual growth rate of 5.2%. This is huge. Here are some tips to help you navigate the waters of this vast market and make the best choice for your pooch.
Research the company
Before purchasing treats, research the company that makes them. Check for quality control standards, reviews, history of recalls, and the manufacturing process. All these things will help you make the best decision regarding quality treats for your pets. Consider supporting locally owned businesses that make healthy treats.
Check the ingredient list….twice
As with human food and treats, the shorter the list, the better. Avoid buying treats with words that you can’t pronounce. Look for natural preservatives such as vitamin E or rosemary extract. Avoid dog snacks that contain artificial ingredients, including:
- Corn syrup
- Artificial food coloring
- BHA, BHT, or Ethoxyquin – artificial preservatives
- Rendered fat
- Propylene glycol
- Chocolate
- Caffeine
- Xylitol and other artificial sweeteners
- Onions
- Garlic
Consider your dog’s dietary sensitivities and avoid ingredients you know will upset your dog.
Choose age-appropriate snacks
Treats come in all shapes and sizes. It is important to pick snacks that match your dog’s age – especially if you have puppies or senior dogs. Puppies generally do better with smaller and softer treats, and senior dogs often benefit from healthy, harder treats that promote good oral health.
Remember the purpose of the treat
Treats can be used in various ways, and defining how you wish to use one will help you pick the best. Some pup owners use treats to dispense medications or supplements. Small, soft treats work best for this. Treats are also a popular training aid. For training, pick high-end, quality treats that your pet loves and break them into small pieces.
Consider making healthy dog treats
If you have the time, consider making doggie snacks out of super healthy ingredients. This way, you can actually control what your furry friend is eating. Here are a few delicious – human grade and easy recipes to try.
Baked Sweet Potato Slices
Sweet potatoes are rich in vitamins, minerals, and fiber, making them a nutritious addition to your dog’s diet. They contain vitamins A, C, and B6, as well as potassium, manganese, and fiber.
What you need
- 2 large sweet potatoes
How to make
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Preheat oven to 250 degrees F.
- Wash and peel the sweet potatoes.
- Cut the potatoes into ¼-inch slices and place them on the parchment paper in a single layer.
- Bake for 3-4 hours total until they are somewhat crispy. Flip them over halfway through.
- Let slices cool completely before giving them to your dog. Store in an airtight container
Chicken and Carrot Cookies
These delicious snacks are not only tasty but healthy, too. Dogs love the chicken flavor, carrots, and the perfect sweetness.
What you need
- 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded
- ½ cup grated carrots
- 1 egg
- 1 ½ cup whole wheat flour
- ¼ cup filtered water
How to make it
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and preheat oven to 350 degrees F.
- Mix the chicken, egg flour, and carrots until well blended.
- Add water a little at a time until you can roll the dough. Roll on a floured surface and use cookie cutters to make your favorite shapes.
- Bake cookies for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
- Allow treats to cool before serving, and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Peanut Butter Banana Snaps
Most dogs love peanut butter and as long as you use natural – it is good for them in moderation. Bananas are rich in essential nutrients and help with healthy digestion.
What you need
- 1 ripe banana
- 1 cup rolled oats
- ½ cup natural – no sugar or sweetener added – peanut butter
How to make it
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.
- Mash the banana until smooth, and add the oats and peanut butter. Blend until well mixed.
- Make small balls and flatten them to ¼-inch thickness with a fork.
- Bake 12-15 minutes or until brown.
- Let the treats cool before serving. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one week.
Remember, treats are just treats, not meals
Remember that too many treats – even if they are healthy – are not meant to be meals but treats. This means you should always give your pup only a few treats daily.
Here are some signs that you may be “over-treating” your favorite furry friend.
- Your dog is using the bathroom more frequently
- Eliminating treats causes your dog to become aggressive
- You dispense treats whenever your dog demands
- Your pup refuses to obey unless you give him a treat
Limiting treats to 10% of your pup’s daily caloric intake is a good rule of thumb. Too many treats can cause digestive issues in the short run, weight gain, and ensuing health problems in the long term.
