New Year’s resolution: learn the benefits of healthy dog treats
The UK is a nation of pet owners, but not everyone understands the benefits of healthy dog treats. In this article, we explain why you should make a New Year’s resolution to know the difference between mass-produced and natural treats.
Nutrition and regular exercise are essential for ensuring our dogs live long, healthy and happy lives. While pet owners invest in good quality dog food, they often overlook the type of treats they buy. Factory-produced dog treats and rawhide chews are often loaded with artificial chemicals, preservatives and fillers that can be harmful to your pet's health.
The hidden dangers of mass-produced dog treats
Many of the dog treats you find in supermarkets and pet shops are designed to be appealing and long-lasting. However, there are some issues associated with mass-produced dog treats:
Additives: check on the back of the packet and you might be surprised to learn what artificial colours, flavours and preservatives are contained in treats. Some of these additives have been linked to pet health issues such as allergies.
Quality: unlike healthy dog treats, mass-produced varieties often include low-quality ingredients, by-products and fillers like corn and soy. These, along with excessive amounts of salt and sugar, can contribute to obesity, diabetes and digestive issues.
Rawhide: chews are a popular option, but rawhide chews come with significant health risks. They are often treated with harsh chemicals during processing and can pose a choking hazard or cause digestive blockages if not properly chewed.
The benefits of healthy dog treats
Opting for natural dog treats offers a host of benefits that can significantly improve your dog’s wellbeing. Here are some reasons why you should make the switch:
Healthy ingredients: natural treats are typically made from high-quality, unprocessed meat, providing essential nutrients without harmful additives.
Digestion: natural treats are free from fillers and artificial ingredients, they are easier for your dog to digest, leading to better gut health and fewer stomach upsets.
Dental health: natural meat chews like liver sticks can help promote dental hygiene by reducing plaque.
Allergens: dogs with food sensitivities or allergies often benefit from natural treats that exclude common allergens such as wheat, corn and soy.
Weight management: healthy dog treats tend to be lower in calories and free from unhealthy fats and sugars, making them a better option for maintaining a healthy weight.
Sustainable: natural treats prioritise ethical and sustainable production methods, allowing you to support environmentally friendly businesses.
For example, salmon skin treats are an excellent natural snack. Packed with omega-3 fatty acids, these treats contribute to healthier skin and shinier coats. Omega-3 oil is known to support a dog's overall skin health, reducing dryness and irritation while also promoting a lustrous and strong coat. In addition to their nutritional benefits, salmon skin treats are free from artificial additives, making them a wholesome and natural option that dogs love.
Choosing healthy dog treats
When shopping for natural dog treats, look for products with simple, whole-food ingredients like dehydrated meats or single-source proteins. Ensure the product is free from artificial additives and choose treats that provide health benefits such as high protein content, vitamins and minerals.
It is also important to select treats that are suitable for your dog’s size and chewing habits to prevent choking hazards. For example, treats are not suitable for young puppies.
Transitioning your pet to healthy dog treats doesn’t have to be complicated. Start by gradually introducing natural options alongside their regular treats and observe how they respond. Over time, your dog will adapt to the healthier alternatives and enjoy the benefits of improved health and wellbeing.
Contact us today to learn more about Naturally Good Treats.