It’s time to ditch the store-bought treats.
Over the past few years, many dog owners have started to pay more attention to the ingredients in most dog foods. As more and more dog owners realized that foods containing cheap fillers, like wheat, soy and corn, can cause allergies in dogs, dog food companies started to change their recipes. While this has led to an influx of healthier food options for dogs, it hasn’t led to healthier treats, at least not in the way that it has for dog food. Many of the most popular dog treats are still made with fillers and are unhealthy for our four-legged friends. In our last blog, our veterinary clinic in North Bellmore went over the benefits of making your own dog treats, but if you are looking for a quick snack to give your dog, you’ve come to the right place. Here is our list of the best single-ingredients treats for dogs:
#1. Apples
They say an apple a day keeps the doctor away, and while that may not be strictly true, apples can be a healthy part of your dog’s diet. Apples are sweet, crispy and delicious, and they are full of nutrients, such as vitamin K, calcium, vitamin C and pectin. Note — your dog shouldn’t consume the seeds or the core of the apple, so give your dog apple slices only.
#2. Quinoa
Quinoa isn’t just for your hipster friend who you met at the farmer’s market; it’s a healthy, protein-packed grain that is great for dogs as well. Although quinoa is a grain, it’s not your average grain. Quinoa is a good source of fiber, folate, magnesium, zinc, manganese and more, and it is even good for dogs who have grain sensitivities. Like brown rice, quinoa can help to settle upset stomachs in dogs.
#3. Frozen Sardines
Believe it or not, everyone’s least favorite pizza topping actually makes an incredible dog treat. Sardines are full of Coenzyme Q10, which helps with heart health and circulation, and omega-3 fatty acid, which helps to prevent cancer, improve immunity and reduce inflammation. Sardines are so small that they typically contain much less mercury than most other kinds of fish; plus, they can be fed whole! When buying sardines, look for wild caught, and don’t buy sardines that are packed in anything but water.
#4. Cheese
Most people absolutely adore cheese, and luckily, our dogs feel the same way. Cheese is a calcium-dense dog treat that most dogs simply can’t get enough of. However, keep in mind that cheese is high in calories, so don’t make cheese the only treat you give your dog. Also, steer clear of cheeses that are soft and unripened, like ricotta or cream cheese, as they can cause upset stomachs in dogs.
#5. Pumpkin
Pumpkin is a good source of beta-carotene, fiber, iron, potassium, vitamin A, zinc and carotenoids, and dogs love it. You can either cook a pumpkin yourself or buy a canned of unsweetened pumpkin to give your pup; either way, your dog will love this healthy snack!
Do you have any questions or concerns about what treats to feed your furry friend? If so, contact us at East Meadow Veterinary Center today!