3 minute read
10 HEALTHY TREATS
from DQ Magazine Issue 5B
by hqmagazine
YOU CAN FIND IN YOUR KITCHEN
Lots of great healthy treats for our dogs can be found in our fridge and fruit bowls. Here we look at a selection of fruits and vegetables that make terrific treats for our dogs; the great news is that these treats are not just easy to find, they are also nutrient-dense, low in calories and great for health too.
1. APPLES
Apples are good for dogs, just like people. They are full of nutrients and fibre, which is ideal for gut health. Just make sure not to let your precious pooch have the seeds or the core.
2. BANANAS
Bananas are loaded with healthy nutrients, and dogs tend to really enjoy them. Just be careful not to feed too much banana, as these fruits are very high in sugar.
3. BROCCOLI
Cruciferous vegetables like broccoli have well-known health benefits for humans and dogs. Broccoli can be fed raw, roasted or steamed but must be plain, i.e. without seasoning. Like humans, dogs often have an easier time digesting high-fibre foods that have been cooked, but either raw or cooked is safe.
4. BLUEBERRIES
Blueberries are healthy and easy treats to share with your pooch!
5. CARROTS
Lots of dogs love carrots! Loaded with beta carotene and other vitamins, carrots make ideal treats. Cut up some bite-sized pieces and use them as a healthy reward when your dog has been a really good boy!
6. GREEN BEANS
Dogs can eat green beans as long as they are not seasoned. These are great sources of greens and fibre.
7. GREEN PEAS
Fresh or frozen green peas make excellent treats. Hand your dog a couple as training treats or even put some in their bowl.
8. STRAWBERRIES
Strawberries are very sweet and contain lots of vitamin C. Just like bananas, however, they are high in sugar, so keep this in mind when feeding them to your dog.
9. SWEET POTATOES – COOKED!
Cooked sweet potatoes are a little less convenient than the other treats listed here, but once cooked, they can be kept in the refrigerator for a couple of days. The key here is that they MUST be cooked. You cannot feed a dog raw potato of any kind.
10. WATERMELON
Most dogs love watermelon as a tasty and hydrating snack. Just be sure to remove any seeds, and don’t give your dog the rind.
FINAL POINTS
When trying out new treats for your dog, it is always best to start with small portions to see how your dog’s gut copes. Introduce treats gradually, and you have a greater chance of the gut adapting to tolerate them.