If you’ve successfully begun feeding your dogs raw food without so much as a whine or whimper, pat yourself on the back—you’ve done it! Yet, you’re not quite sure what to do with the kibble and treats that remain in your cupboards. Should you quit feeding your pooch processed treats, now that you’ve transitioned them into a much healthier diet? Let’s find out.
What Natural Treats Should You Give Your Dog?
Every dog loves a treat—whether a milk bone or a rawhide chew, the tail-wag and enthusiastic bark you receive after handing your pup a snack are priceless. But if your dog is already eating raw, natural treats are the way to go.
These treats come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and smells. From small training treats, chewing treats, biscuits, and even puppy ice cream, the choices are plentiful—so where do you start?
First, you’ll want to avoid the following ingredients:
All grains
Preservatives like BHA and BHT, which contain carcinogens
Cooked bones soaked in fat
Pigs Ears
Any type of rawhide chew
A lot of processed treats contain unregulated chemicals and too much fat. While your dog may find them scrumptious, they won’t do much to help your four-legged friend detox!
Grain-free baked biscuits are perfect for bedtime snacks, while dehydrated liver treats make an excellent training reward.
Bones
The rumours are true—dog love bones! Yet traditional pet shop bones splinter easily, while fatty ingredients cause loose and smelly stool. Instead, try raw chicken, turkey, lamb, or beef bones that are soft enough to chew and digest.
Because raw bones soak in moisture, your dog will have an easier time breaking down this delectable treat. Not to mention, your dog will get its fair share of calcium, magnesium, iron, boron, and vitamins.
Alternatively, you can opt to purchase dehydrated treats that don’t contain any preservatives.
Natural Chews
No, natural tree roots, stag antlers, and milk chews aren’t the ingredients to an otherworldly recipe—they make for excellent natural treats! Processed without chemicals, you and your pup can go wild exploring rabbit ears, dried hooves, venison strips, and pig’s pizzle.
If the treats are too big for your toy-sized buddy, you can cut them down into smaller pieces, much like training treats.
Fruits and Vegetables
When selecting the right fruits and veggies to feed your pup, stick to berries or frozen bananas. When feeding carrots, purchase organic ones—you’ll want to avoid the added sugars in their processed counterparts.
How to Pick the Right Treat
What you give your dog will depend on their current diet, preferences, and weight. If your dog isn’t fond of vegetables, fruits, or herbs, you can supplement this nutritional need with a treat that processes all three ingredients. Consult with your veterinarian to determine a healthy amount of treats you can indulge your pet in daily.
Conclusion
Starting your dog on a raw food diet will allow them to enjoy the benefits of silky fur, less odorous stool, better breath, and higher energy levels. Pairing their diet with a nutritious selection of treats will be the cherry on top!
At Roxy’s Raw Food, you’ll be sure to find something your dog will enjoy amid our expansive selection of natural treats for dogs in Telford. Carefully vetted, our suppliers provide only the best meals—and your dog deserves it!