4 Healthy Ingredients To Look For In Dog Treats

When you give your dog a treat, do you want to give them the equivalent of candy — or do you want to give them something that can benefit their health? Most dog owners would agree that the latter approach is the better one. So here are four ingredients to look for in dog treats that are not only tasty but also beneficial.

Green Algae

Green algae, which may also be listed on the label as spirulina, is a common ingredient in a lot of natural and holistic dog treats. Not only does it turn the treat green, but it packs it full of vitamins that your dog needs for good health. Green algae dog treats tend to be very high in B vitamins, which help keep your dog's metabolism chugging along. Thus, these are good treats to give a dog that tends to have low energy levels or to hold onto weight easily. Green algae is also a good source of vitamin K, a vitamin that is important for healthy blood clotting. 

Flaxseed

Flaxseed is a common ingredient in dog treats that are marketed as "high fiber." It can help dogs who have irregular bowel movements or other digestive issues. Flax is also really high in omega-3 fatty acids, which are good for the heart and blood vessels. They may also help lubricate the eyes and joints, making flax treats a really healthy choice for old dogs suffering from stiffness and arthritis.

Pumpkin

Dogs seem to love pumpkin. Some owners even add a scoop of pumpkin to their dog's food once or twice a day. Treats made with pumpkin are really high in fiber, making them a good choice for dogs with digestive issues. They're also really high in vitamin A, a vitamin that is good for the eyes and skin. If your dog has dry skin or vision issues, like cataracts, this is a good ingredient to look for in treats.

Applesauce

Applesauce sounds like a strange ingredient for dog treats, but it actually has a pleasant sweetness than dogs love, and its texture makes it perfect for use as a binder to hold the treats together. Applesauce is high in fiber, and it's also a good source of vitamin C. As you probably know, vitamin C boosts the immune system and helps the body fight off infections. It is therefore a very smart choice for older dogs and those who are exposed to a lot of viruses and bacteria at kennels, shows, or other social events. 


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