Does your canine buddy perk up when he hears the word treat? Does Fido materialize at your feet with bright eyes and a wagging tail whenever you go near the jar or cupboard his snacks are in? If there’s one thing all our furry patients have in common, it’s a love of snacks. While giving your pet treats isn’t exactly rocket science, there are some things to consider. A Del City, OK veterinarian lists some of them below.

Don’t Overdo It

First and foremost, don’t overindulge your furry buddy. Treats should only be about 5 to at most 10 percent of Fido’s daily caloric intake. We know, many of you like to pamper your pets this way. However, too many treats puts your pup at risk of obesity. That would be very bad for his health!

Choose Snacks Carefully

Stick with healthier options. Plain, cooked meat, fish, or chicken is great, as long as you remove the skin, bones, and fat. Store-bought treats are also popular with our furry friends. Read the labels, and avoid brands with ingredient lists that read like science projects. Ask your vet for recommendations.

Use Them As Rewards

Dogs really do strive to please their humans, and they get adorably proud of themselves when they know they’ve done something right. Have Fido work for his rewards! When training your pooch, use small snacks, so you don’t overfeed your fuzzy student.

Avoid Unsafe Foods

Fido has a very healthy appetite, and he’d be delighted to sample anything you offer. However, not everything we eat is safe for our four-legged friends. This is one reason it’s so important to discourage begging. Fido could easily end up with something that is toxic to him! Some dangerous foods include garlic, onions, scallions and chives; grapes or raisins; chocolate; bones, especially cooked ones; avocado; alcohol; and anything that contains xylitol. Ask your vet for more information.

Don’t Spoil The Pup

Our canine companions have been begging us to share our food with them for tens of thousands of years. Fido has had plenty of time to practice that sad-hungry stare that is so effective on us. Your pup may look super cute when he’s angling for a meatball, but don’t let him manipulate you! Do you have questions or concerns about your furry friend’s diet? Contact us, your local Del City, OK veterinary hospital, today!