When choosing dog treats for your beloved pooch, it’s important to choose those free of added sugar, low-quality fillers, artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives. You can also avoid treats that claim to be organic or natural but still contain high calories and unnecessary fillers. To avoid these pitfalls, read the label carefully and look for a nutritional breakdown.
Avoid hard chews
Dogs are known to be chewers, so it is important to avoid giving your pups hard chews when choosing dog treats. The purpose of these treats is to provide long-lasting chewing pleasure. These treats can keep your Yorkie busy for hours and help to divert your pet’s attention from chewing on other objects. However, you should be aware that some types of chews may cause your pup to choke and could splinter their teeth.
Hard chews should be tough enough to withstand vigorous chewing. Chews that are too soft or easily broken apart will lead to choking hazards. Additionally, you should choose sized chews that will fit into your dog’s mouth. Always wash your hands after handling chews and supervise your pet while he is chewing.
Avoid potatoes
Potatoes are good for dogs, but only in small amounts and when cooked properly. Potatoes are high in starch, and feeding too much can cause several health problems in dogs. Potatoes can also cause weight gain and other digestive problems. To avoid these problems, keep your dog away from potatoes.
One of the reasons dogs should avoid potatoes is their high oxalate content. This chemical is naturally present in plants, including potatoes. However, the canine body has difficulty digesting it, and tiny amounts can cause oxalates to accumulate in the kidneys. If this happens, it can lead to calcium oxalate kidney stones. To reduce the number of oxalates in your dog’s diet, consider steaming or baking the potato. Steaming reduces the number of oxalates by five to fifty-three percent. Baking does not.
Avoid legumes
Although some types of legumes are safe for dogs, many are not. The seeds and skins of legumes are indigestible and can limit the body’s ability to absorb nutrients. Additionally, some types of beans contain preservatives and salt, which can cause stomach upset and diarrhea in dogs. Also, some types of legumes, like baked beans, can contain harmful amounts of coffee beans and may contribute to neurological damage in dogs.
Whole grains are also a good alternative to legumes. Whole grains are digestible and contain more nutrients than legumes. They are also a great source of fiber and protein. Plus, whole grains are easier on your dog’s digestive system and are high in antioxidants.
Avoid chemicals
Choosing a dog treat free of chemical preservatives is essential for your dog’s health. These chemicals are added to extend the shelf life of dog treats and save manufacturers money. However, many of these chemicals are carcinogenic and harmful to your pet’s health. They can also irritate your dog’s skin and eyes.
Avoid hard bones
It’s important to avoid giving your dog bones as treats. This is because some bones are hollow and can break easily, causing choking or blockage. If you’re unsure whether a bone is safe for your dog to chew on, you can check the label to ensure it’s safe. Otherwise, it’s best to opt for other chewy treats instead.