Caissie Canine Instruction: Holiday Treats for your K9 to Enjoy

We begin this week’s “RUFF TAILS” featuring a beautiful 14-month-old mixed breed (Akita/American Bulldog/German Shepherd) named Loops.

Loops is the best adventure buddy around! This dog loves spending time outside, whether that means getting some wind in her fur chilling on a boat or happily leading the way down a shady hiking trail.

Of course, not all of Loops’ time is spent exploring. When it’s time to unwind, you can find this princess amongst a fort of pillows on the couch. We’re so lucky to have her!

Welcome to Doggie Dialogue

Good holiday treats for your dog can include sweet potatoes or pumpkin puree, small amounts of plain apples (no seeds), small amount of cooked green beans, cooked turkey, and carrots.

When serving up cooked turkey to your K9 please ensure the turkey is unseasoned, without bones, skin or gravy.

Pumpkin puree is safe and great for your K9’s digestion. We recommend serving the sweet potatoes cooked and plain as well.

As for peanut butter, it must be unsalted, unsweetened, and xylitol free.

Many of our clients will make homemade treats such as oatmeal and apples pretzels. The recipe for this is simple, combine rolled oats, diced apples, and an egg, then bake until firm.

Another great homemade treat is doggie meatballs. Use lean ground meat mixed with shredded carrots and green beans, and bake.

An easy frozen treat is mixing pumpkin puree with water or a bit of bone broth and freeze in ice cube trays.

Important safety guidelines for your K9 are to avoid seasonings, such as salt and garlic. Also, your K9 should not be allowed chocolate, onions, grapes, raisins and alcohol.

Should your K9 get into any of the above “toxic” foods please contact your veterinarian immediately.

Enjoy your holiday season.