With wagging tail and salivating tongue, dogs anticipate the treats they receive for rolling over on command or learning a new rule of obedience. The market is filled with an array of treats for dogs ranging from moist pellets to chew bones larger than a toy poodle. In this day and age, owners are seeking the best snacks or treats for dogs that are both healthy and satisfying for their canine companion. As you browse the selections offered at the local pet shop, Internet outlets, and grocery stores, there are a few factors to consider that will make your final decision much easier.
Intended Use and Frequency
Choosing treats for dogs serve many different purposes and their intended use will influence the type of selections better suited for your pet. Some owners use treats to encourage a better response during training sessions, while others simply enjoy rewarding their dogs for compliance or just for being themselves.
Depending on your objective for using dog treats, you will encounter a variety of shapes, sizes, and types. For instance, smaller options are perfect during training because they provide the least amount of distraction. Also, if you plan on rewarding your dog often, low-calorie treats are suggested in order to maintain weight and health.
Age and Health
When selecting treats for dogs, the specific health and age of an animal should be taken into account. Smaller treats accommodate the growing teeth of puppies while senior dogs respond better to softer selections that are easy to chew. A canine that is prone to food sensitivities and/or allergies will benefit from hypoallergenic treats for dogs.
Since dogs are natural carnivores, treats that contain meat products or protein as the primary ingredient are highly suggested. Treats for dogs that consist of natural grains or wholesome foods have been known to cause allergies and inflammation, and are also associated with diseases that attack the immune system.
Know Your Options
Treats for dogs may come in boxes, bags, or individually wrapped packaging. Some owners like the mix-and-match nature of buying treats in bulk, although some individuals are skeptical regarding their ingredients. Treats may come manufactured from a brand name company or offer the natural taste and shapes of pig ears and hooves.
To satisfy your dog's urge to chew, you may consider the purchase of a Nylabone, which simulates chewing on a real bone without the threat of cracking or splintering. The resistance associated with a Nylabone is enough to exercise the jaw of the strongest canine through a safe and non-toxic approach. A variety of flavors are also attached to this type of dog treat.
For dogs that like the sound of crunchy snacks, a wide range of biscuits and cookies provide the texture that many companions yearn for. While dogs are satisfied by the taste, the consistency of this type of treat helps to promote healthy gums and teeth. Rawhide bones are also popular, as they encourage dental health and come in an array of sizes and styles. When a bone is too much for your smaller dog or puppy, chew sticks are just as safe and tasty.
Noting a dog's preference will also help select treats for the future. Dogs possess unique tastes and not all treats will appeal to their preferences. Some owners may experiment with an assortment of sizes, shapes, textures, and flavors before finding one that their pooch will really take a liking to. Flavored treats may offer the taste of liver, beef, lamb, chicken, gravy, and bacon.
Safety Issues
To make sure you are choosing treats for dogs that are safe and healthy, you should make a habit to read the ingredients listed on packages. Familiarizing yourself with acceptable components for a dog to ingest and digest will keep your pet safe. Often, grocery-store brand and cheap dog treats are thought to provide the least amount of quality. Owners should also refrain from selecting bones and other treats that may splinter or break off into small pieces, which can cause a dog to choke.
