When the holiday season rolls around, it’s not just humans who deserve to indulge—our furry friends do too! Treating your dog to festive snacks can be a fun way to include them in the celebrations. Holiday treats for Fido can range from specially made dog cookies to homemade treats crafted with wholesome ingredients that are safe for pets. While you enjoy your seasonal favorites, consider how to spoil your pup without compromising their health. Many holiday-themed treats are available in stores, but making your own allows you to control the ingredients and ensure they’re beneficial for your dog’s unique dietary needs. From pumpkin-flavored biscuits to peanut butter delights, there’s no shortage of ways to pamper your pet during the holidays. Remember, not all human foods are safe for dogs, so focus on treats designed specifically for canine consumption to keep your pup healthy and happy all season long.
The holiday season is officially here! Many people really enjoy making seasonal cookies and treats for their friends and family members. Of course, our canine friends are also part of the family! If you like baking, why not make your dog some special snacks? In this article, a local vet lists some great holiday snacks you can make for Fido.
Doggy Eggnog
To whip up a holiday treat for Fido, begin with plain yogurt and blend in organic baby food or sodium-free beef or chicken broth. Add a little water to reach the right consistency. Finish it off with a dog-friendly biscuit or some bacon bits to give your furry friend a festive, tail-wagging snack.
Muttloaf
This delicious snack is bound to get your furry friend’s tail wagging! Start with minced beef or turkey, and add egg, whole-wheat flour, cooked peas and/or carrots, parmesan cheese, and tomato paste. Bake at 350 for an hour. Be sure to let it cool before handing it over to your pooch.
Peanut Butter/Pumpkin Yums
Mix pureed pumpkin with peanut butter, eggs, and whole-wheat flour to create a special batch of holiday treats for Fido. Roll out the dough with a rolling pin, cut it into fun shapes using cookie cutters, and bake at 350°F for about 20 minutes. These homemade snacks are a festive way to spoil your dog during the holiday season.
Bark Biscuits
Your furry buddy is going to love this one! Mix whole-wheat flour with wheat germ oil, eggs, and sodium-free broth. You can also add in some bacon fat for extra tail wags. Other optional ingredients include peanut butter, mashed banana, shredded cheese, and/or bacon bits. Cut into squares or cute shapes, and bake for about 15 minutes at 375.
Sweet Potato Treats
Sweet potatoes make a perfect option for holiday treats for Fido since they are both safe and healthy for dogs. Simply slice a clean sweet potato into thin pieces and cook them on low heat for several hours to dehydrate. You can also prepare boneless salmon or strips of chicken or beef this way, creating delicious and nutritious homemade treats for your dog.
Tips
When cooking for Fido, be sure to use only ingredients that are safe for him. Some things to avoid include garlic and onions; meat on the bone; grapes, currants, and raisins; caffeine; chocolate; nuts; and anything that contains xylitol. Also, be sure never to give your pup raw dough, meat, or yeast. Ask your vet for more information.
While it’s fun to treat your dog to special snacks during the holidays, be mindful of any unusual eating habits or behaviors. If you’re spoiling your dog with holiday treats for Fido and notice they’re compulsively eating non-food items, this could be a sign of pica, a condition that requires veterinary care. Check out our article ‘Pica In Dogs‘ to learn more about this condition and how to keep your furry friend safe.
Holiday Treats for Fido in 2024: Safe and Unsafe Foods for Dogs During Festive Times
What are safe and unsafe foods for dogs during the holidays?
During the holidays, it’s tempting to share festive foods with dogs, but choosing safe options is vital. Foods like plain yogurt, sodium-free beef or chicken broth, cooked lean meats such as minced beef or turkey, eggs, whole-wheat flour, cooked vegetables like peas and carrots, pureed pumpkin, peanut butter (without xylitol), and sweet potatoes are generally safe for dogs. Treats made from these ingredients can be enjoyable for them. However, certain foods should be avoided, including garlic, onions, meat on the bone, grapes, currants, raisins, caffeine, chocolate, nuts, and any products containing xylitol. Raw dough, raw meat, and yeast are also unsafe and should not be given to dogs.
How can portion control be maintained during holiday treats?
Maintaining portion control during holiday treats ensures dogs enjoy festivities without compromising their health. Start by determining treats as no more than 10% of daily caloric intake to prevent weight gain. Use precise measurements when preparing homemade snacks to avoid overfeeding. Opt for smaller, bite-sized portions to satisfy without excess. Schedule treat times around regular meals to balance calorie distribution. Incorporate low-calorie ingredients, such as vegetables or lean proteins, to enhance nutritional value. Monitor your dog’s overall diet and adjust regular food portions accordingly. Consistent portion management supports a healthy weight and prevents digestive issues during the holiday season.
What are some simple, single-ingredient treats that can be given to dogs?
Simple, single-ingredient treats for dogs include dehydrated sweet potato slices, which are safe and nutritious. These can be prepared by slicing clean sweet potatoes and cooking them on low heat for several hours. Additionally, boneless salmon, chicken, or beef strips can be dehydrated and offered as healthy snacks. These treats are natural and free from additives, making them a wholesome option for dogs. Always ensure the meat is cooked thoroughly and avoid seasoning to keep it safe for canine consumption.
How can leftover holiday food be repurposed for dog treats?
Leftover holiday food can be repurposed for dog treats by using safe, dog-friendly ingredients like plain yogurt, sodium-free broth, and cooked meats like beef or turkey. Leftover sweet potatoes, peas, carrots, or pumpkin can be incorporated into treats, such as baked biscuits or dehydrated snacks. Avoid harmful ingredients like onions, garlic, chocolate, and anything with xylitol. For example, minced beef can be used in a ‘muttloaf,’ while sweet potatoes can be turned into chewy treats. Always ensure the food is properly cooked and free of bones before offering it to dogs.
What are some alternative cooking methods for dog treats besides baking?
Dehydrating and blending are great alternatives to baking dog treats. Sweet potatoes, for instance, can be sliced thin and dehydrated at low heat for several hours, creating a chewy snack. Boneless salmon, chicken, or beef strips can also be dehydrated this way. For softer, drinkable treats like dog-friendly eggnog, blending plain yogurt with sodium-free broth and organic baby food provides a tasty liquid option. These methods avoid traditional baking while ensuring the treats remain safe and nutritious for dogs. Always use safe, non-toxic ingredients for pets.
Happy Holidays! Please contact us, your local animal clinic in St. Lucie County, FL with any questions or concerns about your pet’s health or care. We are always happy to help! If you notice any concerning symptoms or changes in your dog’s health, our Veterinary Diagnostics service can help identify the underlying cause and develop an appropriate treatment plan.
