Many pet owners realize that table scraps are not healthy for their furry friends. Not only is most people food higher in fat and simple sugars than can be metabolized by a dog, but the act of feeding a dog from the table encourages unwanted behaviors like begging and even food aggression in some dogs. However, if you want to reward your dog with a treat, there is no reason to head to the pet store and buy expensive, brand-name treats. Aside from the monetary consideration, many so-called “treats” for dogs contain harmful chemicals that can adversely effect the health of your pet. It’s very easy to give your pet safe, healthy, inexpensive treats at home. Here are some ideas for alternatives to packaged treats:
Ice Cubes
Most dogs love a cold, crunchy ice cube and not only are they completely safe and calorie-free, but they cost you nothing. If your dog prefers something more flavorful, then filling an ice cube tray with chicken, beef or vegetable broth (low-sodium is best) and freezing it is the solution. Likewise, a rubber Kong toy filled with broth and set into the freezer for several hours is a fantastic treat on a hot day. You’ll want to have your pet enjoy this treat out on the patio or in the yard, though, as the melting Kong can be messy.
Raw Fruits and Vegetables
Many dogs enjoy Raw Fruits and Vegetables as treats and carrots seem to be a particular favorite. An ice-cold carrot also makes a great teething toy for a young puppy. Apple, pear and banana slices and most other fruits also make good low-calorie snacks for dogs. Be sure to remove any apple or pear seeds before giving the fruit to your pet, as these seeds are toxic. (Apple and pear seeds actually contain a cyanide compound). Also, grapes and raisins should never be given to a dog and can cause renal failure in canines. You might be surprised by your dog’s love of fruits and vegetables since most pet owners think of their dogs as primarily carnivorous. But dogs are true omnivores and will often enjoy the sweetness of a strawberry or the crunchiness of a frozen green bean. My own Golden Retriever prefers melons and is especially fond of cantaloupe.
Homemade Dog Biscuits
It’s very simple to make your own dog biscuits at home with only a few inexpensive ingredients. A combination of corn meal or wheat flour, peanut butter, milk (or water if your doggie doesn’t do dairy) and an egg is all you need. Mix to a cookie-dough consistency, cut into shapes and bake until crispy (usually about 20 minutes) at 375 degrees. Since these homemade treats don’t have preservatives, be sure to keep them in an air-tight container or Ziploc bag. You can use the same recipe with many substitutions, such as canned pumpkin in place of the peanut butter or oatmeal as a replacement for the wheat flour. You can also work any “safe” scraps into the recipe by chopping up left over meats or vegetables and adding them to the mix. The variations are almost endless.
So go ahead and indulge your pet. You can give him a special treat that is healthy and still stay on your budget.
