How Many Treats Should I Give My Dog Each Day?
A Double-Edged Sword
The American Feed Association (AAFCO) clearly defines dog treats: they are not meant to meet a dog’s daily nutritional needs but to encourage positive behavior and enhance training.
However, in reality, dogs, much like humans, are drawn to foods high in fat and sugar. Many dog treats contain significant amounts of these ingredients to make them more appealing.
In other words, while popular dog treats can help with training, they can also contribute to weight gain.
How Much Should I Give Each Day?
There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question. A dog’s age, health, and breed will influence the appropriate amount of treats. However, an internationally recognized guideline states that daily treats should not exceed 10% of a dog’s total caloric intake.
You might be wondering how to calculate this daily calorie intake. Generally, it’s best to offer treats only 1 to 2 times a day. If you keep the number of treats within this range, you shouldn’t have to worry too much.
Classification of Snacks
In addition to controlling the quantity of treats, it’s important to understand their classifications:
- High-Nutrient Snacks: These treats typically consist of meat, cheese, and animal liver. It’s recommended to limit these to once a day due to their high nutrient density.
- Nutritious Snacks: Common examples include small biscuits. While they may not seem calorie-dense at first glance, their ingredients can be quite high in calories. Be sure to read the ingredient list on the packaging before purchasing and limit these treats to twice a day.
When to Give Treats
Treats can be given at any time, but after various inquiries, it appears that the best time to offer them is between meals. This timing helps the calories from the treats to be better utilized.
If your dog has three meals a day, consider giving treats in the afternoon. As with humans, it’s generally not advisable to provide treats in the evening.
