How Many Treats Should Your Dog Really Have? Vet Warns Most Get It Wrong
Summary
A veterinarian warns that many dog owners give too many treats, which can add extra calories beyond a dog’s regular diet. Experts suggest treats should make up no more than 10% of a dog’s daily calories to keep them healthy and prevent weight gain.Key Facts
- Treats, table scraps, and chews often add 15-30% more calories to a dog’s diet than owners realize.
- The “10 percent rule” says only 10% of a dog's daily calories should come from treats.
- Dog food is made to give balanced nutrients, but most treats lack this balance.
- Giving too many treats can cause obesity, joint problems, pancreatitis, and stomach issues in dogs.
- Signs of overfeeding treats include less visible waist, hard-to-feel ribs, more begging, and less interest in regular meals.
- Multiple people in a household often contribute to giving too many treats without realizing it.
- Lower-calorie treats like plain vegetables or using regular dog food as rewards can help control calorie intake.
- Non-food rewards like praise and play can also motivate dogs without adding calories.
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