The Importance of Natural Dog Treats During the Festive Season

Why Natural Dog Treats Matter at Christmas

Christmas often means more time at home, more visitors, and more food around. Dogs can get bored or anxious with all the changes, and natural dog treats provide a safe and healthy way to keep them occupied.

Benefits of Natural Dog Treats

• Nutritional Value

Natural treats often contain wholesome ingredients like real meat, vegetables, and fruits. These provide essential vitamins and minerals that support your dog’s immune system and overall health.

• Digestive Health

Many natural treats include fiber-rich ingredients that help maintain good digestion. This is especially important during Christmas when dogs might accidentally eat something unusual.

• Mental Stimulation

Chewing on natural treats can reduce stress and boredom. It keeps dogs engaged and helps prevent destructive behaviour caused by anxiety or restlessness.

• Fewer Allergens and Additives

Unlike many commercial treats, natural options usually avoid artificial colours, flavours, and preservatives. This lowers the risk of allergic reactions or digestive upset.

Examples of Popular Natural Treats

• Bully Pizzles

These are the dried penises of bulls, rich in protein and low in fat, making them a long-lasting chew that dogs love.

• Pig Ears

A favourite among many dogs, pig ears are high in protein and provide a satisfying crunch.

• Natural Twists

Made from beef bladder, these twisted chews are great for dental health as they help reduce plaque and tartar buildup.

• Chicken Feet

High in protein and glucosamine, chicken feet are excellent for joint health and provide a crunchy texture that dogs enjoy.

• Freeze-dried liver bites

High in protein and packed with nutrients, these treats are irresistible to most dogs.

• Carrot sticks

Crunchy and low-calorie, carrots are a great natural snack that also helps clean teeth.

• Apple slices (without seeds)

Provide vitamins A and C, plus hydration from their water content.

• Other Options

There are many other natural chews available, including lamb rolls, goat horns, and puffed rabbit ears, each offering unique flavours and textures.

Natural chews are great for sensitive tummies as they are generally easy to digest while being tasty and enticing. We have low-fat options, single proteins, and more!

(Finn - Our first Ridgeback/Educator on all things tasty - gone but never forgotten)

Foods to Avoid Giving Your Dog at Christmas

While it’s tempting to share your festive food with your dog, many common Christmas foods can be harmful or even toxic.

Dangerous Foods to Keep Away from Dogs

• Chocolate

Contains theobromine, which dogs cannot metabolise. Even small amounts can cause vomiting, diarrhoea, rapid heartbeat, seizures, or death.

• Grapes and Raisins

Can cause kidney failure in dogs, sometimes with just a few grapes or raisins.

• Onions and Garlic

These vegetables damage red blood cells and can lead to anaemia.

• Alcohol

Even small amounts can cause intoxication, vomiting, difficulty breathing, and coma.

• Xylitol

A sugar substitute found in sugar-free gum, candy, and some baked goods. It causes a dangerous drop in blood sugar and liver damage.

• Cooked Bones

They can splinter and cause choking, blockages, or internal injuries.

• Fat Trimmings and Gravy

High-fat foods can cause pancreatitis, a painful and serious condition.

Common Christmas Foods to Watch Out For

• Stuffing with onions or garlic

• Christmas pudding and mince pies with raisins

• Turkey skin and fatty parts

• Nuts like macadamia nuts, which are toxic to dogs

  
  

Why Rawhide Chews Can Be Risky During the Holidays

Rawhide chews are popular for keeping dogs busy, but they come with HUGE risks, especially during Christmas when dogs may be more excited or stressed. Watch out for these types of chews that can often be found in commercially packaged doggy gifts. We HATE Rawhide... Natural Treats are all we sell, nothing artificial and no nasties to be seen on our site!

Risks of Rawhide Chews

• Choking Hazard

Dogs can bite off large chunks that get stuck in the throat.

• Digestive Blockages

Swallowed pieces can cause blockages in the stomach or intestines, requiring emergency surgery.

• Chemical Residues

Some rawhide treats are treated with chemicals during processing, which can irritate your dog’s digestive system.

• Long Digestive Time

Rawhide can take a long time to break down, increasing the risk of problems if your dog swallows large pieces.

Safer Alternatives to Rawhide

• Natural bully sticks

• Antlers or horn chews

• Dental chews made from natural ingredients

• Frozen carrot sticks or apple slices for chewing

  
  

Tips for Keeping Your Dog Safe and Happy This Christmas

• Provide Plenty of Natural Treats

Keep your dog busy with healthy, natural snacks that support their health.

• Create a Safe Space

Set up a quiet area where your dog can retreat from the noise and excitement.

• Educate Guests

Ask visitors not to feed your dog any human food or rawhide chews.

• Monitor Your Dog’s Behavior

Watch for signs of distress, vomiting, or unusual behaviour and contact your vet if needed.

• Keep Dangerous Foods Out of Reach

Store chocolate, grapes, and other harmful foods in secure places.

Celebrate the Season with Natural Treats

We wish you and your pups a Safe, Happy, Healthy Christmas... After all, good dogs deserve great treats! And we have lots of those to choose from!

Why not check out our Hampers? They are a perfect natural treat for your beloved dogs!

https://www.pawfectpettreats.co.uk/category/pawfect-paws-hampers

(Sir Chipolata - Chief Taste Tester/Santa's Elf - has he been naughty or nice?)