Have you been wondering how to choose the best treats for your pet? Don’t know where to start when it comes to training traits, chews, and all the other tasty morsels available out there for your four-legged family member? It can be totally overwhelming to narrow down the options and choose the treats that are best for your dog, but it doesn’t have to be complicated! Here are some things to consider when you are choosing bite-sized goodies for your dog!
Consider Your Dog’s Needs
All pups are unique and your pet is no exception! He is special and the best dog treat for him will likely be different than the best treat for another dog. So, how do you choose the right goodie for your pet? First and foremost, keep his needs in mind!
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Age: Your dog’s age can influence the type of treat that is most appropriate for him. Puppies have developing teeth and often need softer chews. Adult dogs have different nutritional needs and should eat treats formulated specifically for their life stage and seniors? They have distinct nutritional needs that should be considered, too!
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Size: Dogs come in all shapes and sizes and so do treats! It’s important to feed Fido a treat that is size-appropriate to ensure it is safe for him to eat. Large dogs can choke more easily on teeny, tiny bite-sized treats. And little dogs should not be treated with food that is too big for them to comfortably eat.
- Dietary Restrictions: It’s essential to keep your dog’s dietary restrictions in mind—if he has any—when selecting dog treats. There are so many options on the market that are formulated with specific diets in mind, so you’ll likely have no problem finding a treat that is appropriate for your dog’s dietary needs!
Consider Your Dog’s Health
When selecting treats to add to your dog’s diet, it’s a good idea to consider your pet’s health needs, too. And that’s because treats can serve multiple purposes! Sure, they can be used to reward your good dog for doing something great, but they can also be used as training tools or to supplement your pet’s diet. Consider selecting treats that will support your dog in a variety of ways, depending on the ingredients that will help your pet’s health needs. Here are some ideas to help you when choosing dog treats:
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Mood: If you are hoping to improve your dog’s mood with supplements, reach for treats that contain ingredients that are rich in Omega Fatty Acids. These compounds support mood balance and even help with cognitive function and make for the perfect addition to your dog’s diet if you are hoping to help him feel his best. Or, if your pet is a nervous nelly that experiences occasional anxiousness, reach for treats that contain calming, soothing ingredients like hemp, chamomile, or valerian root to support your dog.
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Mobility: I mobility or joint discomfort is a concern for your furry friend, look for treats that can help! Choose chews that contain ingredients like collagen, turmeric, and other ingredients that support joint health and promote a healthy inflammatory response to promote mobility for your dog.
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Digestion: Is your dog constipated, irregular, or having loose stool? Whatever your dog’s digestive issue, support his gut with a treat that benefits digestive health. Look for a probiotic-packed chew to rebalance and replenish your dog’s gut with healthy bacteria. Or, choose dog treats that contain plenty of fiber, an ingredient that will help your dog with healthy poo.
- Allergies: Do seasonal allergies annoy your dog? If they are a concern for your pet, look for treats that are packed with antioxidants to support his immune system. They help fight free radicals and prevent oxidative stress, something that is key when you are supporting your dog through allergies!
There are countless supplements targeting different health needs that you can choose from. Be sure you follow the dosing guidelines on the packaging of any pet treat, especially if it’s full of nutrient-dense or active ingredients. And, as always, check with your Vet before introducing anything new to your dog’s diet.
Consider Your Dog’s Preferences
Let your dog have a say in the treats you choose for him! He’ll likely let you know which treats he loves best, all you have to do is pay attention. Stock up on the treats he gets most amped up about and avoid the ones that garner a slightly less enthusiastic response.
Consider the flavor and texture when you are choosing treats! Some dogs go bonkers for peanut butter and others are absolutely ga-ga for anything that’s bacon-flavored. Take cues from your dog to figure out which treats he loves the best!
Consider The Company’s Practices
Safety and quality are key when it comes to selecting the best dog treats. The flavor, health claims, or cute packaging don’t matter if the treat is manufactured by a company that doesn’t follow strict safety guidelines or that doesn’t align with your values.
Do your diligence when shopping for new treats and get some background information on the manufacturer before you check out and bring home a new jar or bag of treats. Look into the company’s ingredient values, ethical standards, ingredient sourcing, quality cheeks, and safety standards to help you determine if that company’s treats are suitable for your pet.
There is no perfect formula or single best dog treat out there! Instead search for the treats that are right for your dog, his needs, and that are manufactured by a company you can trust!
Pet Honesty Chews for Your Dog
Ready to select some traits for your dog? Here are some nutrient-dense supplements that can double as treat chews for your dog:
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For your stressed pet: If your dog is having a tough time now that you are back at the office, is having a hard time getting used to a new home, or is otherwise anxious, try Pet Honesty Premium Hemp Calming Chews. They are packed with soothing ingredients designed to help your stressed pet calm down!
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For your allergy dog: If your pet has seasonal allergies and they are bothering him this fall or spring, reach for some Hemp Allergy SkinHealth Chews. They are designed to help your dog survive allergy season with less itching and discomfort!
- For your senior dog: As your pet gets older, mobility becomes a concern and PureMobility Chews can help. They taste amazing, but also deliver some serious bone, joint and connective-tissue support at the same time.
