Maintaining a healthy diet is important for everyone, including dogs. But we all deserve a little treat sometimes, don’t we? Here’s our Top 10 list of healthy dog treats. Many of these healthy treats can be found in our brand-new DOG MENU. It’s over 2 years since we launched our first menu for dogs, putting the Tea Room firmly on the map as the most dog-friendly café in Knutsford. Our regular canine customers will love new dishes including a Sunday Roast and home-made bone ice lollies. Dogs may also be pleased to see that the salmon fish-cakes are here to stay!
TOP 10 HEALTHY DOG TREATS
1. BANANAS
2. CARROTS
3. APPLES
4. PEAS
5. SPINACH
6. SALMON
7. TURKEY
8. SWEET POTATOES
9. PEANUT BUTTER (avoid any wit Xylitol in)
10. OAT-BASED CEREAL
1. BANANAS
Bananas are low in cholesterol and sodium, relatively high in fibre, and contain potassium, vitamins (including vitamin C), fibre, and copper, which can contribute to a healthier heart, better digestion, and increased energy. Keep in mind that a small banana has 12 grams of sugar, so serve in moderation.
2. CARROTS
If you’re wondering, can dogs eat carrots? the answer is yes. Carrots are rich in nutrients like fibre and the antioxidant beta-carotene, which may help protect against certain diseases. The texture of carrots may also help remove film from the surface of teeth and do a small part in helping prevent the build-up of plaque.
3. APPLES (but not the pips!)
An apple a day may not keep the vet away, but they do make a healthy snack for dogs. Apples are high in fibre which can help with digestion. They’re also a good source of antioxidants (vitamins A and C) and can help remove residue from teeth; keeping their mouth healthy and their breath fresh. [WARNING: Be sure to remove the pips first because they are poisonous if consumed.]
4. PEAS
Green peas, snow peas, sugar snap peas, and garden or English peas are all OK for dogs to eat. Peas have several vitamins, minerals, and are rich in protein and high in fibre. You can feed your dog fresh or frozen peas, but avoid canned peas with added sodium.
5. SPINACH
Spinach contains vitamins A, B, C, and K, not to mention minerals like calcium, iron, fibre, manganese, folate, and potassium. It has almost twice as much iron as other sources), and it helps defend against inflammation, cardiovascular issues, and cancer. It can boost the immune system, heart health, energy levels, and vitality.
6. SALMON
Rich in omega-3 fatty acids and protein, salmon is one of the healthiest types of fish you can prepare for both you and your pet. It also contains vitamins A, D, and B-complex, as well as the minerals zinc, potassium, and magnesium. Always make sure it is thoroughly cooked.
7. BROCCOLI
Broccoli is another great veggie. It’s an amazing source of fibre, calcium, beta-carotene, folate, and vitamins A and C. Dogs love it raw, baked, boiled, and/or frozen, though if your pup has some trouble digesting tough foods, you may want to steam and cool before serving. As a bone replacement, you can try giving your dog the stalk to chew on, too.
8. SWEET POTATO
Sweet potatoes are high in beta-carotene and vitamins B-6 and C. They also contain minerals which serve many purposes in a dog’s body; potassium, for example, helps keep kidneys functioning properly, maintains the right fluid balance in the body, and helps with nerve and muscle function. Their high dietary fibre content also helps digestion. If you’re cooking sweet potatoes for your dog at home, opt for steaming or boiling them.
9. PEANUT BUTTER (as long as it doesn’t contain Xylitol)
Natural peanut butter is a great source of protein, B and E vitamins, and healthy monounsaturated fats. Just make sure it doesn’t contain an artificial sweetener called xylitol, which is extremely toxic to pets.
10. OAT-BASED CEREAL
Oats are rich in B vitamins and linoleic acid, a type of omega-6 fatty acid as well as being high in fibre. If your dog has high cholesterol levels, oatmeal may help to lower that as well. Keep in mind that raw oats can be difficult for your dog to digest so they must be cooked first. It’s also best to cook them in water rather than milk as many dogs cannot digest lactose very well.
If you’re looking for a dog-friendly cafe, pop in and see us for a yummy treat off our new Dog Menu. With Tatton Park right on our doorstep, the Tea Room in Knutsford is the perfect pitstop for a day out with dogs out in Cheshire.
See the new DOG MENU now.
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