Homemade Dog Treats

As pet owners, we love the dogs in our lives. We want them to have many happy and healthy years with us. So what happens if one day we notice that our dogs have put on some weight and are looking a little chubby? We might initially think that it’s a cute thing, but just as excessive weight is not good for humans, the same goes for our pets. Extra pounds or obesity in dogs is a very common occurrence here in the United States. In fact, half of all dogs in the nation are overweight. 

Making healthy homemade dog treats can go a long way in helping control our dogs’ weight or facilitating them to slim down a bit. Healthy homemade dog treats can be much more healthful than store bought products. Keep an eye out for featured recipe blogs in the future, but in the meantime here are some general guidelines on some popular nutritious and healthy treats you can make at home with recipes we tested.

• Peanut Butter & Banana Dog Biscuits – Most dogs love both peanut butter and bananas. By combining these ingredients with oats, applesauce and whole wheat flour, you can whip up some great tasting homemade peanut butter dog treats.
• Grain Free Potato Treats – Some dogs are intolerant of grains, so there are a number of grain free, homemade dog treats that you can make. Made from sweet potatoes and coconut flour, these grain free treats will taste delicious and be good for your dog too. 
• Pumpkin Dog Biscuits – Dogs love pumpkin and it’s good for them too! Mix canned pumpkin with eggs, dry milk and wheat flour. In no time, you will have an irresistible canine treat.

While these homemade dog treats are very healthy and contain many nutritious ingredients, too much of a good thing can work against your best intentions. Keep in mind that these easy, homemade dog treats do contain calories in them, so give them to your pet in moderation. Also, if your dog has any food allergies or intolerances, be sure to stay away from the ones that could cause a reaction.

Lastly, always remember that there are certain foods that you should never give a dog such as avocado, garlic, chocolate, onions, grapes, raisins, broccoli or anything spicy.  

There are many recipes for healthy, homemade dog treats on the internet. It’s fun to make easy and healthy, homemade dog treats for the four legged, tail waggers in our lives. Given in moderation, these treats can help prevent excessive weight gain as opposed to other treats from your local pet and grocery stores!