The festive season is a time of giving, and what better way to show our pets some love than with delicious treats? However, amidst the festive spirit, it’s essential to separate fact from fiction when it comes to what we’re feeding our dogs. In this blog we unwrap some common myths about dog treats in order to keep our pets safe and healthy, not only for the Christmas period but all year round.
Myth 1: All human food is safe for dogs
Fact: While it might be tempting to share your Christmas dinner with your dog, not all human foods are safe. Things to avoid include:
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Toxic ingredients like grapes, raisins, onion, chocolate, nuts.
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Especially during the festive period make sure your dog cannot get to your Christmas pudding, Christmas cake and mince pies.
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Watch out for high levels of salt and fat, which at Christmas is usually found in gravy and stuffing.
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Avoid feeding scraps of your food or leftovers, hidden ingredients can be dangerous.
Instead, stick to treats specifically formulated for dogs instead.
Myth 2: Any treat is a good treat
Fact: Many commercial dog treats are loaded with unhealthy fillers, but there are plenty of nutritious options available. The key is to choose treats that provide beneficial ingredients. Look for treats that list whole foods as their first ingredients, such as real meat, fruits, or vegetables. These not only taste good but also provide essential nutrients like protein, fibre, and vitamins.
Everything available on our website is 100% natural, ensuring you know exactly what you are feeding your pet.
Myth 3: Dogs can have unlimited treats
Fact: Just like with humans, moderation is key. Treats should make up no more than 10% of your dog’s daily calorie intake to maintain a healthy weight and prevent nutritional imbalances.
During the festive season, consider using smaller treats like our Venison bites or breaking larger ones, like our Pork sausages into pieces to extend the joy of treat time without overindulging.
The joy of giving safe treats this Christmas
As you prepare to celebrate this holiday season, remember that your dog deserves some festive fun too!
To be on the safe side, it’s always best to give your dog food that’s made specifically for them to eat. At Hollings we have a wide range of treats and chews that are full of natural ingredients and are safe and healthy for them to eat, not just at Christmas, but all year round.
Happy holidays, and happy treating!
