Perhaps the largest litter of Bernese in the UK 2020
We are often asked what are the best alternative natural treats for dogs and with Christmas fast approaching and the arrival of many highly decorative “cute” chews and treats it can be difficult to know what to choose for our canine companions.
Yes, these treats look very festive with their colourful layers and cute christmas additions but many of these are not at all good for our dogs.
We have covered a few stories recently on our social media regarding imported rawhide and the processes used to make it look “festive”. These treats are damaging to our dogs and yet still being sold in shops.
They start with the hides being soaked in a toxic sodium sulphide to remove all the hair and fat.
More chemicals are then used to split the hide into layers and then washed in hydrogen peroxide in order to give the white look and remove the awful rancid smell.
They are coloured with artificial colouring’s and shapes formed using glues, They regularly are the cause of intestinal blockages and choking as the chews go slippery when wet and are almost impossible to get a hold of to save a choking dog.
Dogs won’t love you any less if the treats you get them aren’t coloured, pretty and Christmas themed. So what are the healthier alternatives for our dogs??
Frozen Carrots
Yes, that’s right its not only Rudolph who loves these orange gems. Frozen carrots are a perfect all natural treat that most dogs love. Putting them in the freezer helps them to be a longer lasting chew or give them fresh for a quick and tasty snack.
Antlers
Antlers have multiple benefits. They help your dog maintain clan and healthy teeth and provide essential nutrients their bodies need to thrive. Antlers are chock full of potassium, zinc, calcium and manganese to promote a long and healthy life,
Fish Skin
Fish skin chews are low in fat and non greasy, making them a great alternative to the traditional rawhide bones. Dried fish skins also provide lean protein and Omega 3s whilst helping to clean your dog’s teeth.
Himalayan Yaks Milk Chews
These can be expensive but they are very long lasting and a great choice for dogs with digestive issues. Made from Yak and cows milk, along with salt and lime juice for flavour.
Raw Bones
Raw marrow bones can be a fantastic source of minerals and other nutrients and also great for keeping teeth clean. Ask for a hip or femur bone from large animals like cows which are filled with marrow. NEVER feed cooked bones which can splinter and cause choking.
Pizzles
Cut them in half or thirds for smaller dogs or leave whole for large dogs. A natural, air dried treat from beef cattle, long lasting and very popular, good for teeth and gums and only around about 50p per pizzle. Pizzle are dried bull penises. Dogs love them!
Ears
Pig, cow or venison ears, they’re tough for your dog to chew through whilst also being a healthy treat.
Whilst the natural alternatives above aren’t the prettiest or indeed most festive of treats for your dog, they are the healthiest, tastiest and most natural alternatives that dogs love and enjoy.
Don’t forget with each purchase from Salters we send out a bag of free healthy dog treats.
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