Dog treats - what you should pay attention to

Treats come in different consistencies: hard, soft, creamy and liquid. Which one you choose depends on you and your dog. For older dogs that can no longer chew so well, for example, soft treats are recommended.

Dog treats come in many different varieties to suit the specific needs and preferences of our four-legged friends. Some of the different categories of dog treats are:

• Functional treats: These are specifically formulated to provide specific health benefits, such as supporting teeth, joints or the digestive system.
• Special Diet Treats: These are designed for dogs with food intolerances and can be free of grains or certain meats or contain exotic species and carbohydrate sources that some animals can tolerate better.
• Meat treats: These consist of dried meat or are dog biscuits with a particularly high meat content and are often particularly tasty for dogs.
• Treats with a particularly high or low calorie content: The calorie content of treats can vary greatly. There are calorie-dense pastes that are particularly suitable for sporting dogs or animals that need to gain weight. On the other hand, there are also vegetable snacks that are particularly low in calories and are therefore suitable for animals that tend to be overweight.
• Traditional treats: These are similar to homemade dog biscuits and are free of additives such as vitamins or colors and preservatives.

It is important to note that some treats can fall into several of these categories, such as a traditional treat that is also suitable for a special diet or a functional treat that is also low in calories. It is always advisable to read the packaging and ingredient list carefully to ensure the treat is suitable for your dog's specific needs and preferences.

Treats are not just a simple reward - they can play an important role in your relationship with your dog.

• During training, treats are an effective way to reinforce positive behavior and learn new commands. By rewarding your dog for correct performance, you create incentives for him to be attentive and cooperative.
• Treats promote the bond between you and your four-legged friend, as they create positive associations with your presence and your instructions.
• If your dog shows good behavior in everyday life or listens to you, you can show him appreciation with a treat and further support these behaviors.