Summer is here, and for many dog owners, providing refreshing and nutritional treats for their four-legged friends is a top priority! At Country Boarding for Cats and Dogs, we have provided nutritional summer tips on how to introduce new treats to your pet’s diet. Below are some ideas for summer treats that your dog will hopefully enjoy:
1. Frozen Treats
Frozen treats are perfect for hot summer days. You can easily make them at home using an ice cube tray or a blender. Some ideas for frozen treats include:
- Frozen fruit: Dogs love fruit, and many fruits are safe for them to eat. Try freezing watermelon, strawberries, or cantaloupe for a tasty and refreshing treat
- Frozen yogurt: Plain Greek yogurt is a great source of protein and probiotics. Mix it with some peanut butter and freeze it before serving
- Frozen broth: Mix some low-sodium chicken or beef broth with water and freeze it for a hydrating dog friendly snack
2. Treats for Training and Attention
Summer is a great time to work on training and bonding with your dog. Here are some treats that can help with that:
- Apple slices: Apples are a great source of vitamins and fibre. Cut them into small pieces and use them as a training treat
- Liver treats: Liver is a great source of protein and minerals. You can buy pre-made liver treats or make your own by baking liver in the oven
- Frozen toy: Fill a toy with wet food or broth and freeze it for a fun and challenging treat that will keep your dog entertained this summer
3. Treats for Health and Wellness
It is important to make sure your dog is getting all the nutrients they need for a healthy body and mind, especially during the summer months. Here are some summer treats that your dog may enjoy:
- Sweet potato treats: Sweet potatoes are a great source of vitamins and minerals. You can bake them in the oven and cut them into small bite size pieces
- Canned fish treats: Canned tuna or salmon are a great source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids. Just make sure to choose a brand that does not contain added salt or sugar
- Melon treats: Melons are a great source of fibre. Cut them into small pieces that are easily digestible
4. Treats to Avoid
While it is important to give your dog healthy and nutritious summer treats, there are some foods that you should avoid. These include:
- Chocolate: Chocolate is toxic to dogs and can cause serious health problems
- Grapes and raisins: These can cause kidney failure in dogs
- Onions and garlic: These can damage a dog’s red blood cells and cause anaemia
- Avocado: Avocado contains a substance called persin, which can be toxic to dogs
Lastly…
This summer, it is crucial to feed your dog a balanced and nutritious diet and to give treats in moderation. If you are unsure about whether a particular food is safe for your dog, consult with a veterinary nutritionist or your local, qualified veterinarian.
At Country Boarding for Cats and Dogs, we offer leading dog day-care facilities and hold a 5 Star ratings from Hertfordshire County Council for both canine care and pet boarding services. We offer the option of boarding only, day-care only or a combination of boarding plus day-care. Dog daycare, provides the perfect setting for your canine companion to receive regular exercise and mental stimulation in a dog friendly social space.