7 rules of thumb when making your pets treats |

These are seven things to remember when you’re making your dog homemade treats from scratch.

1.Use Pet Safe Ingredients

This may be a no brainier, but you’d be surprised at how many people still feed their dogs things like grapes and chocolate. Also, if you are using something that is pre-mixed such as baby food, make sure to read the package to ensure that it is free of things that could harm your pet. Many times ingredients are put in human foods for taste that animals stomachs can not handle, like onions

2. Go Au Naturale

As we become more aware of the detrimental effects that antibiotics, hormones and genetic modifications can have on our bodies. Many people are opting for more natural and organic foods. Why not do the same for your pet who is probably even more susceptible to the harmful effects of dangerous additives and artificial flavors.

3. Take it Slow

When switching foods or introducing a new treat you want to do so slowly. This is to give your pets gut a chance to get used to the treat.

4. Limit the Amounts of Treats

Don’t allow your pet to scarf down as many treats as he or she may want. Make sure you place limits on the amount of treats they get, especially if this is the first time they are eating them.

Feed smaller amounts and make sure to limit the number. This should help cut down on any negative gastrointestinal effects.

5. Keep it Simple

When I make treats for my pets I try to limit the ingredients to no more than three. This is because I have a dog with pancreatitis and know that their stomachs are a bit more gentle.

Make it a rule to try to limit the ingredients to no more than 4 or 5. Not only will this be gentler on your pets stomach, but if they happen to have an allergic reaction to one of the ingredients it will be much easier to rule out.

6. Watch for Allergies

Speaking of allergic reactions, if you are introducing your dog to something for the first time always keep an eye out for allergies and sensitivities. This could be as simple as sneezing to something more serious like vomiting, diarrhea and swelling.

7. Mix it up

There are times that too much of a good thing is a bad thing. If you are feeding your pet something like egg everyday, it could serve to add some unwanted weight to your pet. Remember they are treats and should be given as such.