Chances are you're a dog lover who wants to give your furry friend the best possible care. As a dog owner myself, I understand how important it is to make sure our pets are healthy and happy. One way to do this is by providing them with natural treats and chews. But what exactly are natural treats and chews? Simply put, they are treats and chews made from natural ingredients, without any added artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives.At Natural Farm, we believe that natural is the way to go, and we're proud to offer a variety of natural treats and chews for dogs.
Why are Natural Treats and Chews Important to our Dogs?
Well, as many of us know, dogs are more than just pets - they're part of the family. And just like with our human loved ones, we want to make sure they're healthy and happy. Dental health is a key aspect of a dog's overall health and wellbeing. In fact, according to the College of Veterinary Medicine in Cornell, it's estimated that many dogs show signs of canine periodontal disease at 3 years of age, with one of the earliest indicators being bad breath. That's where natural treats and chews come in. They not only provide a tasty snack for our pups, but they can also help promote good dental health.
As dogs chew on these treats, they help to remove plaque and tartar buildup, resulting in fresher breath and happier gums. Read on as we dive into more benefits of feeding your dog these treats.
Benefits of Natural Treats and Chews for Dogs
Natural ingredients are healthier
Just like with our own diets, the quality of the ingredients we feed our dogs can have a big impact on their health. Natural treats and chews are made with high-quality ingredients that are free from harmful additives and preservatives, in a similar way to dog food without dyes. By choosing natural treats and chews, you can feel good about giving your dog a healthy and wholesome snack.
Natural treats and chews come with more nutritional benefits
Natural dog chews are often minimally processed, which means that they retain more of their natural nutritional value. For example, chicken chews are a good source of vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin B6, niacin, and selenium, while beef chews Gullet Sticks contain essential amino acids, such as lysine and methionine, which are important for muscle growth and repair.
Natural treats and chews can provide mental stimulation
Dogs need mental stimulation just as much as they need physical exercise, and natural treats and chews can provide both! As your dog chews on these treats, they're able to engage in a natural behavior that provides mental stimulation and relieves boredom. This can be especially beneficial for high energy dogs that requires more mental and physical exercise..
Types of Natural Treats and Chews
Single ingredient treats
First up, we have single-ingredient treats. These treats are made from just one ingredient, such as chicken, beef, or salmon. They are a great option for dogs with food allergies or sensitivities, and they're also a healthy choice for dogs who need to watch their weight. Examples of single-ingredient treats include beef jerky and chicken feet chews which are readily available on Natural Farm Pet!
Rawhide chews
Next, we have rawhide chews. These chews are made from the outer layer of cow hides. Rawhide chews can be a risk for dogs as they may cause digestive issues, choking and blockages, contamination, chemical poisoning, and allergic reactions. We recommend steering away from rawhide altogether to ensure your dog can safely enjoy a chew without the above health risks.
Antlers and bones
Another option is antlers and bones. These natural chews are a great source of calcium and other nutrients, and they can also help clean your dog's teeth. However, it's important to choose the right size and type of bone or antler for your dog, as some can be too hard and cause tooth fractures.
Multi ingredient treats
These types of treats are made with a combination of ingredients that work together to provide dogs with a balanced diet, while also satisfying their taste buds. Multi-ingredient treats often contain a mix of proteins, fruits, vegetables, and grains, providing dogs with a variety of vitamins and minerals that support their overall health. Additionally, these treats can be used to train dogs and reward good behavior.
How to Choose Safe and Healthy Natural Treats and Chew
Now that we've covered the benefits of natural treats and chews for dogs, let's talk about how to choose safe and healthy options for your furry friend.
Reading labels
The first step in choosing a safe and healthy natural treat or chew is to read the label. Look for treats and chews that are made with high-quality, natural ingredients and avoid products that contain artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives. It's also important to check the nutritional information, as some treats and chews can be high in calories or fat. Keep in mind that just because a product is labeled as "natural" doesn't necessarily mean it's a healthy choice. Actually reading the label is the best way to make an informed decision.
Researching the brand
Another important factor to consider when choosing natural treats and chews is the brand. Do some research to find out if the brand has a good reputation for producing high-quality products. Look for reviews from other dog owners, and check to see if the brand has been involved in any product recalls or safety issues. By doing your research, you can feel confident in the products you choose for your dog.
Consulting with a veterinarian
It's always a good idea to consult with your veterinarian before introducing new treats or chews to your dog's diet. They can help you determine if a particular product is a good fit for your dog, taking into consideration their age, breed, and any underlying health conditions. They can also help you determine the appropriate portion size for your dog.
In Conclusion
Natural treats and chews can be a tasty and healthy way to support your dog's dental health and overall wellbeing. By choosing high-quality, natural options and taking the time to research brands and ingredients, you can feel confident in the products you choose for your furry friend. Before you go, don’t forget to visit our online shop at Natural Farm and browse our selection today!
About Natural Farm
In 2018, after years of searching for high-quality, natural dog treat products, we decided to bring them to the market ourselves. That’s how Natural Farm was born—we wanted to present the industry with what it lacked the most: natural dog chews, treats, and bones, sustainably sourced from local suppliers and produced in our own human-grade, FDA- and USDA-approved facilities, where every product is lab tested for quality and contamination.
Natural Farm is committed to pets, people, and the planet. We give back to communities and pets in need, support reforestation efforts and nonprofits, and our products are packaged using recycled materials.
