An increase in food intake will result in an overweight pet, and these foods include treats, chews and titbits. A medium-sized dog having an extra chew as a treat during the course of the day is equivalent to a person eating a chocolate bar. Or the same dog eating a small portion of cheese as a titbit is the same as a person eating a whole hamburger as an extra snack during their day.

When choosing the right treat for your dog, make sure the item is healthy and safe for dogs to eat. When buying commercial dog treats, check the kilojoule content and read the ingredients list.

Treat Guidelines

• Offer treats at the right time – either during training or between meals.
• Don’t offer a treat if your dog is jumping up around you. Ask him to sit nicely and when he is calm and collected, offer the treat.
• Veterinarians advise against feeding your dog table scraps, not only because it may cause imbalances in the dog’s diet, but also because some human foods are harmful to dogs.
• Consider safe fruits and vegetables as treats. They are low in kilojoules, sodium, phosphorus and fats. Start off with very small quantities to allow your dog to get used to it. Remember, not all fruits, vegetables and nuts are safe for dogs. If you are unsure, check with your vet.
• Treating your dog doesn’t have to be with food. Giving him extra love, a daily walk, having a play session or even a special toy are all ways to show your affection.

Source:contentUtrust

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