How Do You Account For Treats in Your Dog's Diet?
Treats can be an enjoyable way to reward your pup and they also help develop a stronger bond between you and your furry friend. However, treats should only be added in moderation to their diet; any excess calories should be avoided.
How Should You Account for Treats?
As a general guideline, treats should not constitute more than 10% of your dog's daily calorie intake. This limit helps prevent overfeeding and encourages them to maintain an ideal weight by helping regulate their food intake accordingly.
Finding the balance between giving your pup extra treats at mealtime can be tricky, particularly if they have become accustomed to receiving them at each meal. If you're struggling with this, try calculating how many calories your pup requires each day and then determine how many treats are allowed without exceeding their daily calorie limit.
If you're uncertain how to calculate this, speak with your vet or use a calorie calculator online for assistance.
When selecting treats for your dog
look for those made with high-quality ingredients and low amounts of fat. Avoid foods high in saturated fat (like cheese or peanut butter) as well as chemical preservatives; these are detrimental to the health of your pup.
Fruit and vegetables
Fruit and vegetables make great treats for your pup, as they tend to be lower in calories than treats like cookies or ice cream. Plus, fruits and veggies usually have more fiber and vitamin content, making them healthier alternatives in your dog's diet.
In addition to fruits and vegetables, you can also incorporate some protein-based treats for variety. If unsure what constitutes a suitable option, consult your vet.
Some veterinarians suggest
adding canned or raw meat-based treats to your dog's daily diet, as these tend to be lower in calories than other treats. Examples include cooked chicken, beef, lamb, turkey as well as salmon or tuna.
If you want to make the treats healthier and easier to manage, give your pup some fresh, chopped fruits and veggies. For instance, giving them some slices of apple will provide plenty of vitamins and minerals while still being low in calories.
It's essential to be mindful of the calorie content of any treats added to your dog's diet, as overfeeding can lead to obesity and other serious health problems. So always measure out treats in appropriate serving sizes for optimal enjoyment.
If you want to make the treats healthier and easier to manage, give your pup some fresh, chopped fruits and veggies. For instance, giving them some slices of apple will provide plenty of vitamins and minerals while still being low in calories.
It's essential to be mindful of the calorie content of any treats added to your dog's diet, as overfeeding can lead to obesity and other serious health problems. So always measure out treats in appropriate serving sizes for optimal enjoyment.
Maintaining your dog's food
Maintaining your dog's food intake can be a challenge, but it is an essential way to keep them healthy and contented. A balanced diet combined with regular exercise and some patience will reap rewards in the end.
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