What is the best snack for dogs?

 There are so many treats on the market that it can sometimes be difficult to decide which is the best treat for training. As with the food we put into our own bodies, in the last few decades people have become more and more conscious about the health and nutritional content of what we feed our dogs. There are still many treats on the market that are full of salt and additives that are not good for your dog's health.

Below is a list of important factors to consider when selecting your dog's training treat.

1. Size

One of the important factors in choosing a treat for training is the size of the treat itself. During any training session your dog can easily consume about twenty pesticides. As many breeds have a tendency to put on weight, you should be cautious about the size of the treat you give each time. Remember that the size of the treat alone is not what matters to your dog, it is simply the reward of getting the treat itself. As a trainer, I recommend that the treat be no larger than the size of a pea and possibly even smaller for small breeds. You can choose a treat that is small enough as is, or you can break a larger treat into smaller pieces.

2. Consistency

There are two main types of snack; soft and dry biscuits. Soft snacks are easier to break into small pieces. Additionally, some small breeds and puppies find soft treats easier to chew. It is important that the consistency of the treat does not require the dog to have to chew excessively which then takes time out of the training session. Soft snacks also tend to be tastier.

3. Ingredients

It is important to check the nutritional information listed on the back of the package of any snack you choose. Snacks that are made without additives, preservatives, artificial colors or flavors are always the best choice. These ingredients are not good for your dog's health and can irritate the stomach. You should also note the amount of salt. Salt is not good for dogs and many commercial treats have a lot of salt added. You should also avoid snacks that contain corn. They are usually used to “fill” the dog with food, without being particularly healthy for your dog.

4. Flavors

Most snacks come in a variety of flavors. What you choose doesn't make much difference as long as your dog likes it.

5. Special snacks

When a handler refers to something as a “special treat”, they mean something that is very special that your dog would not usually get. Regular training treats don't fall into this category as they are things you often give your dog. If there's a training or behavioral issue that you're really having a hard time with, it's a good idea to use special treats to really motivate your dog. I would recommend small pieces of chicken, beef or sausage, cheese or peanut butter. It is important to choose good quality food. If you weren't comfortable putting a particular mark on your own body you shouldn't give it to your dog either!

6. Treats for Dogs with Skin or Stomach Problems

Even if your dog suffers from skin or stomach problems, there are quality treats on the market. Choose a grain-free snack made from squash or sweet potatoes. These ingredients are very gentle on the stomach and have nothing that can irritate the skin. You could also choose a salmon-based treat for dogs with skin problems.

7. Portability

Another important factor to keep in mind when choosing a treat for dressage is how easy it will be for you to carry it. Owners often take the treats on walks, walks, trips to the park and so the treats should be of a suitable size and shape so that you can put it in a purse or even your own pocket. Recommending at the right time is everything and if you are having a hard time getting the treat, breaking it into the proper size could very well miss the time and your dog will think he is being rewarded for something different.

8. Packaging

Even though you can store open treats in a plastic bag or jar, choosing a treat that comes in its own packaging is always easier! Some snacks can get hard very quickly when exposed to air.

There are many snacks available on the market. If you check out the ingredients, size and texture, and use these tips as a general rule of thumb, it should be simple to find a snack that is healthy, tasty, and on a budget.