Why are natural dog treats a healthy choice? Because it’s a no-brainer!
In the world of canine companionship, one thing is certain—our dogs deserve the very best. When it comes to rewarding your pup, opting for natural dog treats is a choice you can feel good about.
Recently, there has been a noticeable shift in the mindset of pet parents about choosing treats for their pets. This shift can be attributed to a growing awareness of the importance of overall pet wellness. Plus a desire to provide our dogs with the best possible care.
The Rise of Natural Dog Treats
Let's dig deeper into why the rise of natural dog treats has become a significant trend and why it resonates with pet parents now more than ever.
Increased Focus on Pet Health
Pet parents today are more informed about the nutritional needs of their dogs. With a wealth of information available at our fingertips, there's a heightened awareness of the impact that diet has on a dog's health and well-being.
Natural dog treats, containing organic or natural ingredients, align with the desire to seek out healthier options for our pets. Pet parents now recognie that a wholesome diet plays a crucial role in supporting their dog's overall health.
Natural Treats Minus Unnecessary Additives
The rise of natural dog treats signifies a conscious effort to avoid additives and preservatives often found in mass-produced commercial treats.
Pet parents are now scrutinising ingredient lists, opting for treats that are free from artificial colours, flavours, and fillers.
This shift reflects a commitment to providing our dogs with treats that are as close to nature as possible. Promoting not only a delightful snacking experience but also minimising the risk of potential health issues associated with artificial additives.
Demand for Transparency in Pet Products
Modern pet parents are advocating for transparency in the pet industry, and this makes us so happy! They want to know exactly what goes into the treats they feed their dogs.
Natural dog treats, often made with a limited number of recognisable and high-quality, human-grade ingredients, fulfil this demand for transparency.
Pet parents appreciate knowing the source and quality of each ingredient in their dog's treats, building trust between consumers and pet food manufacturers.
Environmental and Ethical Considerations
Beyond the health aspect, pet parents are increasingly concerned about the environmental and ethical implications of their choices.
Natural dog treats, particularly those made with organic ingredients, often align with sustainable and ethical practices. This resonance with eco-conscious values has led to a surge in the popularity of treats that not only prioritise a dog's well-being but also consider the broader impact on the planet.
It's not just about giving a treat; it's about fostering a holistic approach to pet care that resonates with the evolving mindset of today's conscientious pet parents.
Humanisation of Pets
The evolving role of pets in our lives has led to a phenomenon known as the “humanisation of pets”. Now considered integral members of the family, pet parents give them the same level of care and attention they would for other family members. Dogs are our “fur family”.
This shift in perspective has elevated the standard for pet products, including treats. Prompting a preference for options that mirror the quality and health-conscious choices we make for ourselves.
As our understanding of pet nutrition deepens, and as our relationships with our dogs become more intertwined, the demand for treats that prioritise quality, health, and transparency is a priority.
Natural Dog Treats
If you're looking for healthy, natural treat options, we have some great choices for you. Here are some fantastic ways to provide healthy treats for dogs:
Homemade Dog Treats
There's something special about whipping up treats for your fur family right in your own kitchen.
Homemade dog treats allow you to control the ingredients, ensuring your pup gets a healthy and delicious snack. From grain-free treat options to low-calorie delights, the possibilities are endless. Experiment with dog treat recipes that incorporate the best ingredients.
Fruits and Vegetables
Fruits and vegetables can indeed be excellent options for natural dog treats. Many fruits and vegetables are not only delicious but also packed with essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that contribute to your dog's overall health.
Popular choices include apple slices, carrot sticks, and blueberries. When offering fruits and vegetables as treats, it's important to ensure they are prepared appropriately, safe, and suitable for dogs, avoiding any items that may be toxic to them.
Explore 10 Healthy Treats for Dogs
Functional Treats
Within the realm of natural treats, there's a noteworthy category known as functional treats for dogs. These treats provide desirable flavours but also offer additional health benefits that go beyond basic nutrition.
The term "functional" in this context signifies that these treats are designed with a specific function or role, elevating them beyond mere snacks. Functional treats may include vitamins, minerals, herbs, antioxidants, probiotics. Plus other bioactive compounds, all working synergistically to promote various health benefits for our pets.
Read more about Functional Treats for Dogs
PetWell's functional treats do exactly that, they provide targeted benefits to support your pet's well-being.
MOBILITY + BEEF treats offer natural joint health support with freeze-dried beef infused with glucosamine, chondroitin, antioxidants, and omega-3 fatty acids.
DIGEST + KANGAROO treats feature freeze-dried kangaroo infused with a multi-strain live probiotic blend. Plus other natural ingredients to ease IBD and enhance gut health.
THRIVE + DUCK treats are formulated for immune boosting, combining freeze-dried duck necks and chicken with super greens and anti-inflammatory properties.
CALM + LAMB treats offer a calming solution with a blend of lamb hearts and tripe. Infused with ingredients like L-tryptophan and L-theanine to naturally alleviate anxiety.
These functional treats go beyond mere flavour, addressing specific health concerns and catering to your pet's individual needs, ensuring a holistic approach to their overall health.
Freeze-Dried Treats
Freeze-dried treats emerge as a superior choice over heavily processed commercial treats for pets for many reasons. The freeze-drying process involves rapid freezing and moisture removal, preserving natural nutrients, flavours, and aromas, ensuring optimal nutritional value.
They undergo minimal processing, avoiding heat and chemicals, maintaining ingredient integrity, and reducing the risk of nutrient loss. Additionally, moisture removal extends shelf life without preservatives.
Read more about Healthy Pet Treats – The Freeze-Dried Way
At PetWell, we prioritise nutrition, which is why we love freeze-dried treats for dogs and cats. We take pride in using only the highest quality proteins, selecting raw single ingredients that meet human-grade standards.
Whether used as a special treat or as a beneficial meal topper, our freeze-dried treats serve as an ideal addition to your pet's diet, contributing to their health and happiness.
Benefits of Natural Dog Treats
Let's investigate the myriad benefits of choosing natural dog treats:
Promoting a Shiny Coat and Healthy Skin
Natural dog treats are full of essential nutrients such as omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants. They play a crucial role in promoting a shiny coat and maintaining healthy skin.
These nutrients contribute to skin hydration and reduce inflammation. Therefore leaving your dog with a lustrous and vibrant coat that reflects their overall well-being.
Try PetWell’s freeze-dried, Green-lipped mussels, salmon fillets, and whole sardines which are all a natural source of omega-3 fatty acids.
Supporting Improved Digestion
The ingredients found in natural dog treats are thoughtfully chosen to support digestive health. Improved digestion not only contributes to your dog's comfort but also ensures that they can efficiently absorb and utilise the nutrients from their regular diet. Try PetWell’s DIGEST + KANGAROO freeze-dried functional treats.
Choosing natural treats is not just a treat; it's a holistic approach to caring for your dog's physical and emotional well-being.
Allergen-Free Formulation
One standout feature of natural dog treats is their tendency to steer clear of common allergens and artificial additives.
Many dogs suffer from food sensitivities or allergies. The use of natural, carefully selected ingredients minimises the risk of triggering adverse reactions.
This makes natural treats an excellent choice for dogs with sensitivities, providing a delicious option without compromising their well-being.
A Vital Component of Training
Training treats for your pup is a rewarding experience for them. The irresistible flavours and textures of these treats make them a highly effective and motivating reward during training sessions.
Whether you're teaching basic commands or working on more advanced tricks, the positive association formed with natural treats enhances the learning experience for your dog, making training sessions enjoyable for both of you. Read more on practical dog training techniques.
Low-Calorie Dog Treats
Many natural dog treats are created with a focus on providing flavourful options without excessive calories. This calorie-conscious approach ensures that your dog can indulge in tasty treats without compromising their weight management. It's a win-win situation, allowing you to reward your pup without concerns about overindulgence.
Building a Stronger Bond
Offering natural treats to your dog's diet creates positive interactions and strengthens the bond between you and your dog.
As you become the provider of tasty, health-conscious rewards, your dog associates you with joy and satisfaction. This positive reinforcement builds trust and affection, fostering a deeper connection that extends beyond treat time.
In essence, the benefits of natural dog treats extend far beyond a momentary indulgence. They contribute to your dog's overall health, support their specific dietary needs, enhance training experiences, and reinforce the special bond between you.
Shopping Smart
Finding healthy dog treats doesn't mean breaking the bank. Online dog treat stores like PetWell.au provide a convenient way to purchase a range of options that also have a cash-back rewards program.
When it comes to healthy dog treats, the market offers a variety of choices. By exploring healthy options from freeze-dried delights to functional treats, you can tailor your dog's treats to suit their individual requirements.
In Summary
In the search for the perfect dog treat, natural options stand out as a beacon of health for your pet. Whether you choose to make homemade dog treats or explore the diverse offerings from responsible pet brands, the key is to prioritise ingredients that contribute to your dog's overall well-being.
Disclaimer
The entire contents of this email and website are not to be taken as medical advice. PetWell encourages you to make your own pet healthcare decisions based on your research and in partnership with a qualified pet healthcare professional.
