Snacks For Dogs - Good or Bad?

Oh those puppy-dog eyes. . . who can resist? There is a reason to turn the phrase "puppy-dog eyes" is used to describe a deliberate emotional blackmail, especially the tender on the basis of anyone with the wherewithal for a sweet ride the train to nowhere. expression most certainly comes with its namesakes. You know the look - easy head tilt, asking eyes, perhaps barely perceptible whine, just for emphasis

of your puppy, that look can say a lot of things, but it is often transparent asking for a snack. He seems to be saying, "See how cute I am? do not deserve something special ?"

Well of course I yield to his entreaties, because as owner of the dog will be if you do not agree wholeheartedly?

Well, believe it or not, would you refuse actually very responsible and loving pet owners.

The fact is, digestively-speaking, your dog does not need extra snacks to get him through the day. Giving and handing over a handful of nail clippers, only adds to (literally) growing problems with obesity that we see in dogs. Obesity causes serious health concern for dogs, including diabetes mellitus and orthopedic, musculoskeletal, cardiovascular, digestive, endocrine, respiratory, immune and reproductive disorders. Fat dogs are more at risk in surgery, more prone to injury, and have more stress on the heart, lungs, liver, kidneys and joints.

Snacks do not have their place, however. They can be a very effective tool for training, for example. So, the key component here would be not to eliminate snacks, but that censorship.

It is very important to limit snacks to those of healthy diversity and to always, always, always, without exception, and include them in your dog's daily calorie count. You can see the results for yourself snacking (Dare we point out those "love handles ", you're ignoring?). It is important to remember that these same results will be seen in your dog, even if it is less obvious at first glance.

When it comes to snacking, there are a few basic rules of thumb to follow:

Snacks should not account for more than 5% of the total daily diet, as measured in calories.

Avoid fatty snacks, such as commercial imitation bacon and sausage types, which only serve to upset the digestive system.

Do not tempt your pet with easily accessible goodies around the house.

Remember that everything is labeled as a snack should be considered supplemental in nature, and should never be used as a substitute for a complete and balanced diet.

Healthy snacks can include fruits and vegetables, and even some homemade "cookies" and biscuits. As a companion to our delicious Doggy Cuisine, we have put together a home-made recipes to treat your dog's enjoyment. They are fun to make, and even more fun to use. Many can be made ​​in "bulk" amounts, so you can store extras for later use. Take a look, you'll find a complete list if the recipes included on this page!

So there you have it - we now have our blessing. When he gives you that look that just can not resist, go ahead and cave. However, for the health of your dog, when a cave, the cave please be responsible.