New Year, New Treats: Balancing Flavor and Health for Your Pet

January 02, 2024 Iris Guo

As the New Year unfolds, your furry friend has probably unwrapped a treasure trove of gifts and treats during the festive season. Among the delightful presents, there are undoubtedly some special snacks that make their tail wag with joy. While it's heartwarming to see your pet savor their favorite indulgences, let's embark on a flavorful journey that not only tickles their taste buds but also keeps them in the pink of health. Are you ready to explore the world of pet treats and their impact on your beloved companion's well-being?

7 Common Pet Health Issues Linked to Diet

It's crucial to recognize that not all treats are created equal, and indulging your pet with unhealthy snacks can lead to a range of health issues. Let's delve deeper into these potential health risks and back them up with some persuasive statistics:

Obesity: Feeding your pet excessive high-calorie treats, such as sugary biscuits or fatty table scraps, can lead to obesity. Did you know that approximately 56% of dogs and 60% of cats are considered overweight or obese? Just like in humans, obesity in pets can result in weight gain, reduced activity, difficulty breathing, and an increased risk of other health problems. For example, imagine your once-vibrant dog gaining excess weight, struggling to climb stairs, and being at a higher risk for diabetes.
Diabetes: Regular consumption of treats high in sugar or carbohydrates, like candies or sugary pet snacks, can increase the risk of diabetes in your pet. Diabetes affects about 1 in every 300 dogs and 1 in every 230 cats. Visualize your pet showing symptoms of diabetes, such as drinking water excessively, urinating frequently, losing weight despite an increased appetite, and appearing lethargic.
Dental Problems: Offering your pet sticky and sugary treats can lead to dental issues, similar to humans who consume too much candy. Did you know that over 80% of dogs and 70% of cats develop dental problems by the age of three? Imagine your pet suffering from bad breath, swollen or bleeding gums, difficulty eating, and a reluctance to chew. Dental problems can be painful and affect your pet's overall quality of life.
Allergies: If your pet consumes treats containing allergens, they may develop food allergies or sensitivities. For instance, consider a pet that enjoys a treat with artificial flavors or preservatives. Visualize the pet scratching incessantly, developing skin rashes, experiencing ear infections, and even vomiting or having diarrhea as their body reacts negatively to the treat.
Pancreatitis: Treating your pet with high-fat snacks like bacon or deep-fried goodies can lead to pancreatitis, causing severe abdominal pain, vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite, and lethargy. Imagine your once-energetic pet now suffering from a painful condition due to indulging in unhealthy treats.
Joint Problems: Overindulgence in treats, contributing to excess weight, can put added stress on your pet's joints, potentially causing joint problems like arthritis. Picture your once-active pet limping, having difficulty getting up, showing stiffness, and being unwilling to participate in activities they once enjoyed due to the added strain on their joints.
Heart Disease: Feeding your pet treats high in salt or unhealthy fats can contribute to heart disease. Did you know that heart disease is a leading cause of death in both dogs and cats? Imagine your pet experiencing symptoms such as coughing, difficulty breathing, fatigue, and being unable to keep up during walks—all signs of potential heart issues.

These examples underscore the importance of being mindful of the treats you offer your pet to prevent these health issues. Choosing healthier treat options and monitoring your pet's overall diet can significantly contribute to their well-being and longevity.

7 Healthy Pet Treats to Keep Their Tails Wagging

Here's a diverse menu of 7 specific and healthy treat alternatives, each falling into distinct categories, to keep your pet excited and their well-being in check:

Crunchy Veggie Chews: Nature's toothbrush, vegetables like carrots, celery sticks, and green beans are not only low in calories but also packed with vitamins and minerals. Their satisfying crunch helps keep your pet's teeth clean.
Protein-Packed Delights: Lean proteins such as turkey, chicken, salmon, or even lean beef are fantastic choices for meat-loving pets. Consider treats like freeze-dried chicken bites, salmon jerky, or lean beef strips.
Dental Health Treats: Dental chews and sticks are specially designed to promote oral health by reducing plaque and tartar buildup. Choose from a variety of shapes and sizes to find the one your pet loves.
Natural Goodness Bites: Seek out treats made with natural, wholesome ingredients like sweet potato, blueberries, pumpkin, or peanut butter. These treats often contain fewer additives and preservatives.
Homemade Love Snacks: Get creative in the kitchen and whip up some homemade treats for your pet. From peanut butter and banana biscuits to pumpkin and oatmeal delights, homemade treats allow you to cater to your pet's specific dietary needs.
Freeze-Dried Tidbits: Freeze-dried treats retain their natural flavors and nutrients while providing a convenient and mess-free snacking option. Look for options like freeze-dried liver or chicken for a protein-packed punch.
Grain-Free Goodies: If your pet has dietary restrictions, consider grain-free treats made with ingredients like chickpea flour or potato. These options are gentle on sensitive stomachs.

Asahi Paws Dog Treat Bundles: A Feast of Healthy Delights

Now that you've explored the world of healthy pet treats, it's time to introduce you to the Asahi Paws Dog Treat Bundles—a selection of irresistible goodies crafted to keep your puppies both satisfied and healthy.

Our bundles feature a mouthwatering assortment of treats that your pet will adore, including:

Chicken Milky Bites:

Premium Quality: Crafted with care, made from 100% Australian Chicken Breast.
Irresistible Flavor: Bursting with real milk goodness.
Versatile Snack: Ideal for training, rewards, or occasional treats.

Kangaroo Milky Bites:

Hypoallergenic: Safe for sensitive pups with food allergies.
Nutrient-Rich: Packed with essential nutrients for health.
Irresistible Flavor: Crafted for your dog's delight.
Training Made Easy: Convenient for effective training.
Suitable for All: For dogs of all sizes and breeds.

Beef Jerky Bites:

Premium Ingredients: Our Beef Jerky Bites use high-grade beef for top-notch quality.
Nutrient-Rich: Packed with essential nutrients for muscle health and energy.
Irresistible Flavor: Bursting with savory taste that dogs love.
Versatile Snacking: Convenient bite-sized pieces for various occasions.
Ideal for Active Dogs: Provides an energy boost for active pups.

Purchase Link:https://www.asahipaws.com/collections/bundles/products/assorted-treats-bundle

As you and your furry friend embark on this flavorful journey into the world of pet treats, remember that the choices you make can impact their well-being. Opting for healthier alternatives and being mindful of portion sizes can keep their tails wagging with joy for years to come. Here's to a year filled with tasty, yet health-conscious, treats for your beloved companion!