When buying pet treats, many pet owners assume one flavor is just as good as the next. Stereotypically, it is believed pets eat anything and everything. While this may be the case with some canines, it is not true for all of them. Just like people, there are pets out there that prefer one flavor over another. In some cases, specific ingredients needed to make a particular flavor might even cause your pet to become sick.
Causes of Picky Eating
Some pets are just born picky. They may have specific flavors they simply do not like. However, some canines become selective eaters due to a lack of variety. You may find your pet no longer wants to eat the same treats you have been offering him or her for months. Put yourself in your pet’s position.
Would you grow weary of eating the same exact thing every day for months or even years? The solution is to add some variety to the diet. This could require a complete food or pet treat change, or simply the addition of a few new items to your pet’s diet.
You might even find that the variety or change makes your pet willing to go back to their old diet later on.
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Safe Experimentation
It is not recommended to suddenly switch from one pet food to another abruptly and repeatedly. While this would provide variety, it might also cause an upset stomach. Instead, research other brands or flavors and gradually change, offering portions of both foods in each serving. One good way to experiment with flavors is to use small packages of pet treats. This will help you get a feel for your pet’s reaction to each flavor before you purchase a large, expensive bag of pet food.
Flavor Alternatives To Consider
Freeze dried pet treats come in many different flavors, even beyond the standard beef and chicken. These flavors are popular, and should be tried as well, but also consider the more “exotic” flavors that might entice your pet. Some pets love the taste of fish, such as salmon. It is highly recommended to let your pet try a small sample to make sure he or she has no allergic reaction. Plus, some pets simply do not like the taste.
Poultry variations are available as well. Consider going with a turkey flavored pet treat rather than chicken. Combination flavors are another great choice, such as BBQ chicken rather than plain chicken, or turkey and potato. Lamb and bacon are other popular favorites among canine connoisseurs. Some pet treats even come in peanut butter or cheese flavors.
Good Nutrition
Never substitute treats for good nutrition. Feed your pet the best quality food available. It is not advised to give any pet table food, chocolate or any other type of “human” food that will wreak havoc with their digestive system. While it may take a while to determine which type of food your pet finds acceptable; if it is high quality, your pet will most likely settle for it without any problem.
By their very nature, treats are just that; a reward for good behavior or just because you want to give them something special. It’s akin to a snack; and everyone enjoys a snack now and then, right? A good way to control treat-giving is to break the treat in half. In this way, your pet will not expect that which he didn’t receive in the first place. Also, this will save you money in the long run, as the treats will last longer.
Food allergies
If your pet has any food allergies, check with the vet who can advise you which treats are suitable. While some pet owners use specialized treats for dental hygiene, the best method would be to simply brush away the plaque and tartar. Another consideration is to ensure that your dog chews the treat, and not swallow it whole. Breaking the treat in half or pieces is recommended.
Pets not only provide unconditional love but trust that you will take care of them in every facet of their growth process. This applies to their diet as well. As with all healthy pet treats, what to look for as it relates to nutritional benefit should be first and foremost in the care of your pet.
When using Freeze dried pet treats to let your pet sample flavors, always do so in small quantities and never all at once. Rather than give your pet five different flavored treats in a sitting, offer only one during each treatment session. Gauge your pet’s reaction to determine which flavors are ideal. Also watch for negative reactions, such as vomiting and diarrhea to avoid a disagreeable flavor.