Because we adore our loyal furry friends, we want to ensure we are giving them not only the best daily meals, but also healthy, all-natural dog treats. Natural dog treats are made with whole food ingredients, including animal protein and fresh fruits and vegetables. Unlike some commercial treats, these natural treats have no harmful ingredients, fillers or artificial additives. Essentially, they provide your dog with a tasty treat and an added boost of high-quality nutrition.
Look for treats that contain whole, nutritious ingredients. Meats, fruits, and vegetables are excellent choices. Peanut butter can also add flavor and texture to treats.
Another positive in giving fruits and vegetables as treats is fewer calories. With our tendency to sometimes over-indulge our pets with commercial, cookie-type treats, fruits and veggies are a great alternative that can help them stay lean and live longer.
Here are some treats your dog is sure to love.
Apples
Apples can provide vitamin C, fiber and calcium. Just be careful to limit your dog’s intake, cut up the apple and remove the seeds and core.
Yogurt
Yogurt is high in calcium and protein. It also can act as a probiotic, which can be good for the digestive system. If you feed your dog yogurt, it should be plain and free of any added sweeteners, both natural and artificial.
Peanut Butter Popsicles
In the heat of the Carolina summer, this cool treat will surely help. The Humane Society recommends mixing one cup of peanut butter (unsalted and unsweetened, ideally) with half a mashed banana and some water. Freeze the mixture on wax paper or in a toy like a Kong and give it to your dog when frozen.
Blueberries
Blueberries are the perfect treat size for any size dog. They offer healthy antioxidants and vitamin C. They are super safe for dogs to eat and will battle signs of doggy aging, including in the brain!
Carrots
It makes sense that dogs might like fruits, thanks to their natural sweetness. But, what about vegetables? Carrots can be a good choice due to their vitamin A and fiber content. Most dogs will eat carrots raw or cooked, but be sure to cut raw carrots up so they’re not a choking hazard.
Watermelon
Who doesn’t like watermelon? Turns out dogs love it. Give them a slice, and they’ll happily chow down on this delicious and hydrating treat. You will need to remove the seeds and take the rind away before you give your dog a piece.
Green Peas
Peas are also an awesome dog treat. Throw a small handful in your dog’s bowl with some carrots, or watch their funny faces when you give them a few frozen peas.
Strawberries
Red and delicious. Your dog will love strawberries. Keep in mind that they’re high in sugar, so only give them a few at a time. Still, being high in vitamin C, it’s better than any branded treats.
Cooked Squash or Pumpkin
If it’s Halloween time of year again, you’ve likely got a big pile of pumpkins lying around. Don’t let them go to waste. Not when they can make a perfect dog treat. Be careful of the seeds, though. Whether you’re giving your dog butternut squash, zucchini or pumpkin, seeds are a major danger.
Sweet Potato Jerky
If you’re searching for a treat that’s a little more like what you’d find in stores, this might be just the thing! Simply scrub the potatoes clean and cut into ½-to 2/3-inch strips and bake in an oven set to 225 F for three to four hours.
Vets recommend that treats and snacks should never account for more than 10% of a dog’s daily calories. Otherwise, you’ll end up with a rather porky pooch.
