Whether your dog is on a diet and you’re helping them lose weight, or you just want to keep them in good shape, these cheap homemade snacks are nutritious, low calorie and can help your dog maintain a healthy lifestyle.
Tips for healthy eating
Just because you’re trying to keep your dog healthy doesn’t mean that you need to stop giving them treats. However, it does mean that you should watch what you give them and how often.
If you do want to give treats, make sure that they are not high in fat, salt or sugar
When giving treats, make sure you include them in your dog’s total daily calorie intake to balance things out
Always ensure that any homemade snacks that you give your dog are cut up into small chunks. This can make them last longer and stop them from getting stuck in your dog’s throat
Try putting your dog’s snacks in a food puzzle. These toys slowly release food when they are moved around or played with and are a great form of mental stimulation
Find out more about creating and maintaining healthy feeding habits.
Protein – helping your dog ‘meat’ their weight loss goals
Treating your dog to lean meat is a guaranteed way to grab their attention and keep them feeling fuller for longer. Plain boiled chicken breast with no added seasoning or oils is a great healthy snack. It helps build muscle, is gentle on the stomach and the omega-6 fatty acids it contains help to keep their skin and coat healthy too.
You could also try giving your dog salmon as this is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, but it’s much higher in fat and ideally should be given occasionally and in small amounts.
Always avoid giving your dog processed meats that are high in fat and salt.
Kibble - for when they just want a nibble
If your dog is on a prescription diet, or a special low-fat diet, then giving them a small amount of their normal dry food can be a great way to give them a treat without risking their health. Even if they’re not on a special diet this is a good way to give them a snack that’s low in calories. Always ensure that the amount you give them is included in their daily allowance.
Peanut butter – your dog will go ‘nuts’ for it
Peanut butter is a great source of protein. Dogs love it, but you have to be careful which type you use. Always avoid feeding them peanut butter that is high in salt and sugar and should not contain artificial sweeteners. An artificial sweetener called xylitol is particularly dangerous and can be fatal to dogs and may be listed as birch sugar or E967. If you’re not sure it’s safe then it’s best to avoid it.
Pumpkin – helping you ‘carve’ out a healthy diet
Pumpkin and squash are packed full of fibre and vitamins that help keep your dog regular whilst also giving them a healthy-looking coat. You can cook the flesh of these fruits, but make sure you remove the seeds and rind too. You can also give your dog unsweetened tinned pumpkin.
Apple – a very ‘a-peel-ing’ snack
Apple slices are a tasty crunchy treat for your dog. They're full of fibre and nutrients and may even help to freshen your dog’s breath. Apples are higher in sugar, so should be fed in moderation. Always give apple slices, because a whole apple could be a choking hazard. The pips should always be removed as these could be poisonous in large amounts or if eaten regularly.
Vegetable snacks for dogs – keeping your dog ’full of beans’
There are several vegetables that you can give to your dog either cooked or raw, including:
Carrots
Broccoli
Green beans
Remember any fruits or vegetables should be cut into very small pieces, especially if your dog tends to swallow food whole rather than chew it. As with all foods, remember to give these snacks in moderation. Certain foods, particularly broccoli, can cause stomach problems if too much is eaten.
Where can I find healthy, homemade recipes for my dog?
We've put together a number of healthy recipes that you can give to your dog as an occasional treat:
Summer treats
Easter treats
Christmas treats
St Patrick's day treats
The Queen's Platinum Jubilee treats
Valentine's Day treats
Foods not to give your dog
Dogs are affected by certain foods in a different way to us and there are a number of human foods that can be very dangerous to them, including but not limited to:
Blue cheese
Chocolate
Macadamia nuts
Onions, leeks, shallots and garlic
Grapes, raisins, currants and sultanas
Find out more about foods that are poisonous to dogs.
What’s the healthiest way to help my dog lose weight?
Although obesity is very serious and both diet and exercise are vital in helping your dog to lose weight, it is important to remember that weight loss should always be done in a gradual and gentle way. Always speak to your vet about the best ways to help your dog lose weight.
Find out more about how to manage your dog’s weight.
Important things to remember
The snacks we’ve listed above should only be given as treats and shouldn’t be used to completely replace your dog’s usual balanced diet
Even though these snacks are healthy always remember to give them in moderation
If possible try to give organic fruits and vegetables
If your dog is overweight, or requires special food, always speak to your vet about which snacks to give and any lifestyle changes that you may be considering
Related Topics
Feeding your puppy from birth to weaning Puppy food to adult food
11 Healthy, Natural Treats for Dogs in Your Kitchen
Apples. An apple a day doesn't necessarily keep the veterinarian away, and a whole apple would be a bit much for a dog anyway, but they are good for dogs just like they are people! ...
Nutritional Value: Both yak chews and elk antler chews offer vital nutrients like calcium, making them beneficial for your dog's health. Safety: Unlike some non-edible chews, yak and antler chews are less likely to splinter, reducing the risk of digestive issues or injury.
Avoid treats that contain artificial preservatives, colors, and flavors. Look for natural, wholesome ingredients, such as chicken, lamb, or sweet potato. Avoid ingredients like wheat, corn, and soy that can cause allergies and stomach issues in dogs.
While these biscuits are fine once in a while, their number-one ingredient is wheat. This filler isn't the healthiest option for dogs. Furthermore, Milk-Bones contain artificial colourings, Red 40 and Yellow 5, which have been linked to health issues, including cancer [6].
Your dog's dental health isn't just important for their teeth and gums — it can impact their overall well-being, too. One GREENIES™ Dental Treat a day can help keep their teeth clean, maintain healthy gums and freshen their breath for a sparkle in every smile.
There are a lot of foods dogs should not eat including grapes/raisins, chocolate, walnuts, onions, garlic among many others. Dogs are curious by nature, and most are eager to try people food or just about anything that smells like it might be a tasty treat.
It is entirely acceptable to feed your dog a pure kibble diet. Or you can mix their diet up with some cooked or raw meat, fish, vegetables and rice. Many owners like to feed a raw meat diet to their dogs, and while this can suit some dogs very well, there are some important considerations you need to be aware of.
Instead of hard bones, consider a rubber toy that you can fill with cheese, peanut butter, treats, or anything flexible or passes the thumbnail test as mentioned above!
Among the long-lasting options, yak chews, elk antler chews, and certain raw bones stand out for their durability. While each dog's chewing habits vary, these options withstand vigorous chewing and last longer than softer treats or toys.
Offer your dog some edible things to chew, like bully sticks, pig ears, rawhide bones, pig skin rolls or other natural chews. Dogs can sometimes choke on edible chews, especially if they bite off and swallow large hunks.
There's no rule about how often you can dole them out, as long as you limit treats to 10% of their daily calories. Some owners choose to give one large biscuit each day. Others give a handful of kibble (perhaps 20 or 30 pieces) over the course of the day, one or two pieces at a time. Giving no treats is fine, too.
You can offer them treats at different points throughout the day! Treats can be used as a reward, or just as a way to spoil your dog with some delicious happiness. You can give your dog a treat as often and whenever they want one, but it's important not to overdo the treats.
Homemade dog treats, especially when made with my Bake & Treat dog treat baking mixes, are infinitely healthier than commercial dog treats. They contain only 100% natural ingredients. They don't have an extended shelf-life so they don't contain unhealthy preservatives.
For the most part, yes, says Albert Ahn, DVM, veterinary advisor for Myos Pet and veterinarian at Inwood Animal Clinic in New York City. Certain dogs—puppies and ones with dental problems—probably need something else to snack on, but most other pups will enjoy a bully stick, provided you have a watchful eye.
While they may not be the typical bone you're accustomed to seeing, pig ears are good for dogs because of their irresistible natural flavor and variety of benefits. Plus, they truly satisfy dogs' cravings! As you explore other natural chews, your furry friend may also love cow ears!
Yes, dogs can eat bananas. In moderation, bananas are a great low-calorie treat for dogs. They're high in potassium, vitamins, biotin, fiber, and copper. They are low in cholesterol and sodium, but because of their high sugar content, bananas should be given as a treat, not part of your dog's main diet.
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