Just like humans, dogs can be finicky eaters or have an insatiable palate. Every dog is different, so keep in mind what you include in your doggy’s diet. Either way, it is important to know what treats are good for your pet and what treats could be harmful.
Good Treats
- Carrots are healthy, crunchy, and a reasonably priced treat for your dog. They can help lower the risk of heart disease, improve eyesight, and keep your dog’s teeth clean. Not to mention, carrots could satisfy your pup’s need to chew.
- Fish Oil. Fish oil has anti-inflammatory properties that are great for your pup. Not to mention, the omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids found in fish oil adds shine to your pup’s coat. Fish oil can also help reduce itching and scratching. Add salmon or a few drops of fish oil to your dog’s food to notice the benefits.
- Sweet Potato. Add sweet potato to your pet’s diet for an extra boost of anti-inflammatory nutrients and antioxidants. Sweet potatoes contain vitamins A, C, B5, B6, fiber, potassium, and magnesium. Simply baking or steaming a sweet potato is a great treat for your dog.
- Apples are a healthy choice for your dog. They include vitamin C, vitamin A, and dietary fiber. A bonus is the tendency to freshen your dog’s breath. Make sure to remove all the seeds from the apple and discard the core as well. Your pooch will appreciate the crunch of a fresh apple slice.
Bad Treats
- Onions and Garlic. Even though onions and garlic add flavor and spice to your food, don’t add these to your dog’s dinner. They are harmful for your pet and could cause toxicosis in your dog. It might take a few days before your dog develops symptoms of the disorder. Steer clear of these foods.
- Chocolate is one of the better-known foods to avoid with your pet, but did you know that the type and amount of chocolate determines the toxicity? Theobromine is an ingredient found in chocolate that slows a dog’s metabolism. There are higher levels of theobromine in dark chocolate, cooking chocolate, and cocoa.
- Grapes and Raisins. Grapes and raisins are another potentially toxic food for your dog that cause toxicosis. Vomiting, lethargy, and diarrhea usually occur within the first twelve hours of the food being ingested, but it could take even longer for your dog to exhibit symptoms. Since kidney cells do not regenerate, make sure grapes and raisins are kept out of reach.
- Many sugar-free foods and sweets contain xylitol, which is poisonous to dogs. Sugar-free gum can cause severe hypoglycemia and liver failure. It only takes about 15–30 minutes after ingestion for symptoms like weakness, vomiting, tremors, lethargy, seizures, or a coma to occur.
Your veterinarian will answer questions regarding your dog’s diet, spaying, neutering, or any other concerns. Speak to a veterinarian from a business like Mt. Hermon Veterinary Clinic if you have any concerns regarding your pet’s food, especially if your dog has diabetes or any other condition. Moderation is key for many things in life, so keep this in mind when choosing what treats to feed your pet.
