It’s no secret that pets hold a special place in our hearts, so we often want to reward them with treats as a sign of affection or reinforcement. For dog owners, in particular, the desire to give dogs treats can feel almost instinctual. According to veterinary experts, providing the occasional treat can help strengthen the bond between you and your canine companion, as well as support training efforts when offered in moderation. However, it’s essential to be mindful of portion sizes, treat types, and your pet’s overall diet to ensure you’re promoting good health rather than inadvertently contributing to obesity or other health issues. In this article, we’ll discuss the key guidelines for giving treats to pets, focusing specifically on dogs, cats, and other small animals. We’ll also share tips for selecting healthier treat options to keep your furry friend happy, energetic, and thriving. Stay tuned for expert-backed information ahead.
The holidays are officially over. For many of us, December is a time to let go of our diets, and enjoy some yummy seasonal foods. Then, come January, it’s back on the wagon. Of course, our animal companions also enjoy having special snacks. There’s no reason not to indulge Fluffy and Fido a bit, but you do need to take care to stick with safe options. Here, a local Carmel Valley, CA vet offers some advice on giving your furry friend treats.
Choose Healthy Options
Many of our four-legged pals get extra cute when they notice that we have bacon, sausage, or other fatty meats. It’s fine to offer Fido and Fluffy small amounts of these snacks now and then, but you definitely don’t want to go overboard. Most types of plain, cooked meat, fish, or poultry are fine, though you’ll need to remove the skin, bones and fat. Limit organ meat: it’s only safe to eat occasionally.
Don’t Go Crazy
It’s easy to go overboard when giving your furry best friend treats. Fido and Fluffy are both very, very good at getting us to pamper them. Treats should only account for 5-10 percent of your dog’s daily caloric intake. When you give dogs treats, choose options that are low in calories and made from high-quality ingredients to support their overall health. Steel yourself against that adorably sad stare and those plaintive meows!
Make Fido Work
This one is for the dogs, though if you can get Fluffy to do tricks, go for it. Having your canine buddy perform for his snacks. This can be a great confidence booster!
Portion It Out
It’s important to track calories. Even giving your furry pal ten calories too much a day can add up to a pound a year. 100 extra calories a day would be a pound a month. That’s a lot for Fido and Fluffy! When you give dogs treats, opt for small portions like training treats to keep them happy and healthy.
Avoid Unsafe Foods
Never give your pet chocolate; alcohol; caffeine; meat on the bone; garlic and onions; grapes or raisins; avocado; nuts; fruit seeds or pips; raw dough; or anything that contains xylitol. Keep in mind that some things are more dangerous than others. For instance, if your canine buddy eats a piece of onion off the floor, he may just get a tummyache. If he eats a grape or raisin, he could go into kidney failure! Ask your vet for more information.
How to give dogs treats: A comprehensive guide to proper treat introduction and selection
What’s the proper way to introduce new treats?
When introducing new treats, start with small portions to gauge your pet’s reaction and prevent digestive upset. Look for wholesome, low-fat options, such as small pieces of cooked chicken without bones or skin. Gradually increase variety while monitoring for signs of allergies or intolerance. Avoid unhealthy ingredients, like chocolate, grapes, raisins, and foods containing xylitol. Keep treats to about 5-10 percent of daily calories, and focus on fresh, high-quality ingredients. Balance indulgence with exercise or play sessions to maintain a healthy weight. Always consult a veterinarian before offering unfamiliar foods.
Should treats be measured by volume or calories?
Measuring treats by calories is more accurate than using volume. Many factors, including treat density and ingredients, can affect the calorie count, so portion control is best guided by total daily caloric intake. Since treats are recommended to account for 5-10 percent of a pet’s daily calories, tracking those numbers helps avoid weight gain and health problems. Even small amounts of extra calories add up over time. Tools such as treat-size guidelines and calorie calculators ensure pets receive appropriate nutrition while still enjoying occasional indulgences. A veterinarian can recommend the best approach for individual pets.
What are the best low-calorie treat alternatives?
Low-calorie treats include small bites of cooked, lean meats or fish, such as chicken or salmon, with skin, bones, and visible fat removed. Plain, steamed vegetables like green beans, peas, or carrots can add variety without excessive calories. Use small slices of fresh fruits that are safe for pets, such as apple or banana, but skip any seeds or pits. Limit high-fat or processed foods, and watch portions to keep total treat calories at no more than 10 percent of the daily diet. A veterinarian can suggest specific options for each pet’s unique needs.
What should you look for on treat ingredient labels?
Check the ingredient list for real meats, not just by-products or meal, and avoid ingredients that pose health hazards (onion, garlic, xylitol). Limit artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives, and keep sugar content low. Steering clear of labeled by-products is beneficial, and checking for low fat content helps reduce the risk of unnecessary weight gain. Focusing on natural, minimally processed products prevents hidden calories or harmful additives. Meat should generally be the first ingredient, indicating a more protein-rich product. Monitoring how new treats affect weight and digestion helps identify issues early. If there’s any doubt about what’s safe, consulting a veterinarian is advised.
What types of treats are best for training?
Small, soft, easy-to-chew treats made from real, lean protein work well for training sessions. They can be quickly consumed without distracting from learning, and also help keep total calorie intake in check. Single-ingredient options, such as freeze-dried chicken or fish, are particularly appealing and generally well-tolerated. Avoid sugary or high-fat products, and skip anything containing unsafe ingredients like garlic, onions, or xylitol. Frequent, small rewards keep dogs engaged and maintain focus during practice sessions. To ensure a balanced diet, these training treats should remain within 5-10 percent of daily calories. Consulting a veterinarian can guide suitable products and portion sizes.
Our vet clinic in Carmel Valley, CA is always here to assist you and your furry companion. We offer comprehensive Veterinary Dentistry services to ensure your pet maintains a healthy smile throughout their life. Please feel free to call us anytime for any assistance related to your pet’s health.