One of the best parts of owning a dog is seeing the excitement on their face when they receive a treat or reward for good behaviour... or simply because we can't say no! Shop-bought treats need to be given in moderation as many are very high in fat, salt, sugar and artificial flavours. Ever wondered why your dog is always so thirsty after such treats? It's the high salt content.
At eDog we aim to enhance the training you do with your dog, and treats are just a part of it! We thought some tips and tricks on keeping your rewards healthy were very apt, especially as we enter the optimal training seasons, summer & spring!
1. Don't overlook the power of fruits and vegetables
Dogs love veggies; just because they have turned their nose up at some does not mean they will turn their nose up at others. 'Watery' fruits and veg are excellent as they are very low in calories and sugar, so no worries about the amount they eat. These include Cucumber, Watermelon and Melon (no seeds), Courgette and Celery. If your dog loves 'the chew', simply freeze them, and they will love the challenge.
2. Reward your dog with a durable chew
Durable chews can be a great reward after training! Look for options recommended by vets with few calories and without the risk of breaking like raw bones. Visit our website to explore quality chew options for dogs of all sizes!
3. Greek Yogurt
Natural (unflavoured) Greek yogurt is a great treat for dogs! Now available in 'squeezy' on-the-go packs, they are perfect for walk training where you don't have space for bulky treats. The probiotics in Greek yogurt also combat yeast infections, which can help dogs with recurring ear or skin issues.
4. No Food, Just Play
Another great idea is to bring your dog's favourite toy to your training session. When your dog performs well, simply show them the toy! This serves as an excellent reward once finished too.
