We all consider our pets to be part of the family, and we want to ensure they are happy and healthy. Those adorable puppy eyes and cozy cat snuggles can make it tempting to share our meals, but it's crucial to keep their digestive health in mind.
Just like humans shouldn't rely on fast food and microwave dinners, our pets require nutritious meals packed with the energy and vitamins they need to stay by our sides for as long as possible. During Halloween, for instance, just as we wouldn’t let our kids indulge in too many sweets, we should be mindful of our dogs’ treats as well.
While many of us know that certain human foods are harmful to dogs, we often assume that pet food is always nutritious. However, it's essential to understand your pet's breed and digestive health to ensure they have a happy tummy.
Unless you're ready to channel your inner chef and whip up gourmet meals for your furry friend, keep reading. (For those interested in baking, check out this Pumpkin Apple Dog Treats Recipe!)
So, how do you discern what's good or bad for your pup? Here are some key ingredients to avoid and types of treats to give sparingly.
Prepare to discover some surprising truths about common pet treats, along with a few that are surprisingly healthy!
Preservatives:
It’s no surprise that preservatives make this list. Like in human food, they extend shelf life. Common preservatives in dog food and treats include BHT, BHA, Ethoxyquin, and Propyl Gallate. Always check the label to see what preservatives are in the food or treats you're considering.
Rawhide:
Rawhide and similar treats that claim to support dental health are worth questioning. These “long-lasting” treats are more about keeping your pet occupied than providing nutrition. While they can prevent your dog from chewing on furniture, they should still be given in moderation.
We’ve all resorted to quick fixes, whether it's a chocolate bar for kids or a rawhide treat for our pets. Just remember that moderation is essential with these kinds of treats.
Meat by-products:
Pet food brands often highlight their perceived nutritional benefits, but the reality can be different. Some brands market meat by-products as healthy, yet these can consist of ground-up feet, feathers, beaks, and low-quality meat unfit for human consumption. So, even if you think you’re giving your pet something wholesome, these ingredients often lack real nutritional value.
Charlie's Paws has been a pioneer in developing nature-friendly health and beauty care products for over thirty years. We believe that pets are family, so we're bringing the same natural attention and care to your closest furry friends. Charlie's Paws now brings nature's solutions to our beloved pets with a specially formulated line of natural grooming products including shampoos, conditioner, sprays, wipes, and treatments.