Being a dog owner is a rewarding experience. When treated with care, our canine companions can show us unconditional loyalty and love. Responsible pet parents go above and beyond to ensure their dogs receive affection and appreciation, and one way to do it is by giving them treats!
Treats are the best way to reward your dogs for their excellent behavior and loyalty. In this article, we will discuss how vital dog treats and snacks are and which ones are the best to give them.
Why Should You Give Dog Treats?
Treats are delicious for dogs. When they see you holding one in your hands, your dog will likely wiggle their tail in excitement as they anticipate that they’re about to eat it.
Dogs’ enthusiasm and cravings for treats make it a powerful training tool to reinforce positive behavior. If you reward them with treats when they behave, your dog will associate treats with praise and encouragement.
Moreover, some treats also help facilitate dental hygiene. There are dog treats and snacks that promote healthy teeth and gums, reduce tartar buildup, maintain fresh breath, and stimulate saliva production to cleanse the oral cavity, which prevents plaque formation.
Dental chews also massage gums and satisfy your dog’s urge to chew. The longer they chew, the healthier their oral cavity becomes, reducing the likelihood of dental issues.
Puppies and Senior Dog Treats
Treats are essential in the crucial development stages of puppies. There are specialized treats that cater to puppies’ needs. The soft and chewy treats contain nutrients such as calcium and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid), promoting good brain development for puppies.
Meanwhile, senior dogs also need treats, but with different nutritional benefits. Older dogs have a slower metabolism and may experience dental issues and reduced appetite. There are treats designed for seniors dogs that are softer and easier to chew, containing nutrients like glucosamine and chondroitin, which promote joint health, and antioxidants to support their aging immune systems.
Adult Dog Treats
For adult dogs, you can offer an abundance of treats and snacks with various flavors and textures to suit their preference. However, when selecting treats, you may want to consider your dog’s dietary needs and potential allergies.
Adult dog treats are crafted with high-quality ingredients and are free from artificial additives. Some treats contain energy boosts and are rich in protein, making them perfect for active dogs. Furthermore, there are meat-based snacks that are also packed with protein.
If your dog has special dietary needs, allergies, and other sensitivities, you may want to give them grain-free treats made with sweet potatoes or pumpkin.
Takeaway
Dog treats and snacks are perfect for indulging and satisfying your dogs’ cravings. However, they also play a vital role in your dog’s well-being. When you get your dogs suitable treats that fit their age and nutritional needs, you set them up to be healthier and happier.
To learn more about your dogs’ needs and how you can provide them, sign up on PetPal! We have all the pet-related tips, tricks, and fundamental knowledge you need to be a great pet owner!
