5 Tips for Giving Your Dog Treats

Most pet owners choose to give their dogs more than just dog food.  Treats are often an important part of the dog’s diet.  Unfortunately, many owners go overboard with treats and this often leads to weight gain and an unhealthy pet. Listed below are 5 tips for giving your dog treats.  Allow these tips to help keep your dog healthy and allow it to enjoy special treats during the day. 

Burgess Sensitive Gourmet Treats

Choose to give your dog treats instead of bones or other table food

Table food can be filled with ingredients that can be harmful to your pet’s diet.  It can cause digestive problems and also deter your dog from eating dog food.  To avoid these problems, give your dog treats that are made specifically for its dietary needs.

Give dog treats at the proper time

When used right, dog treats can be very effective. Avoid giving your dog treats during times when it is overly excited as this condones the behavior.  Treats are perfect for positively reinforcing good behavior.  

When using treats for training, avoid giving too many treats near meal time 

Dog treats are the perfect tool for training your pet to do tricks.  However, if you choose to give them near meal time, you run the risk of ruining your dog’s appetite. While most dog treats are healthy for your dog, they still won’t provide enough nutrition to sustain your pet.  Meal times are important. Avoid feeding your dog too many treats near meal time.

Find treats that will be helpful for your dog’s dental needs

A dog’s teeth and gums are a crucial part of health. Without strong, healthy teeth, your dog’s diet will be affected.  When searching for treats, look for those that are formulated to help improve your dog’s teeth.  From cleaning to fresh breath, there are many dental treats available that your pet is sure to enjoy.

Never give your dog chocolate

Dogs will eat almost anything that you put in front of them. They won’t reject food that is not good for them. It is up to you to know what foods are harmful for your pet.  Chocolate is one of those foods.  

Use the tips above when giving your dog treats. Treats are great for bonding and when giving correctly can actually improve your dog’s health.  What treats will you choose to encourage your pet?