Are dog treats healthy?

As pet parents, we give treats to our canine companions to show them love or to reward them for good behavior.

However, there’s such a thing as too many treats.

Overfeeding your pup can lead to health issues, so it is important for pet parents to learn how many and what type of treats are best to offer their furry companion.

Key Takeaways

• Feeding your dog treats in moderation is OK.
• Too many treats or overfeeding your dog can lead to potential health problems and obesity.
• If you are ever unsure if a specific treat is appropriate, speak with your veterinarian for guidance.

Is It Healthy To Give Dogs Treats?

Treats can be healthy for dogs if given in moderation.

They can help strengthen the bond between animals and humans and allow pet parents to show affection to their furry family members. In specific situations, it’s appropriate to offer treats to your dog, especially since they are highly food-motivated.

For example, when obedience or potty training your puppy, giving treats as a reward is acceptable.

However, pet parents should be mindful of the number of treats given during each training session. Using small treats while training can be helpful.

Some recommended treats include:

On training days, it’s also reasonable to reduce the amount of food at each meal to ensure daily caloric intake stays consistent. This means if you have given 200 calories of treats during the day, breakfast or dinner for your dog should be reduced by 200 calories to avoid unintended weight gain.

Giving too many treats can lead to obesity in dogs, especially those who lead inactive lifestyles. Obesity can cause strain on a dog’s joints, which can worsen arthritis and cause significant pain, especially in senior dogs.

Excessive treat intake may also contribute to the development of serious health conditions, such as heart disease, diabetes, and pancreatitis.

How Often Can You Give Dogs Treats?

Different types of dog treats can be offered at different times. Treats should make up no more than 10% of the dog’s recommended daily calories.

Over the course of a training session, it’s OK to offer a small handful of training treats as incentives and rewards.

Because puppies are growing and have a high caloric need, they’re less likely to experience the negative effects of overeating compared to adult or senior dogs.

Dental treats and chews are great for dogs and help to reduce plaque buildup on their teeth.

Always be sure to supervise your dog if he receives a dental chew to ensure he is not swallowing large pieces. Here are a few recommended dental chews: