Which dog treats to avoid?

Synthetic preservatives are often added to dog treats to extend their shelf life, but they could be harmful for your fur baby. Three of the most common preservatives found in dog food include BHA (Butylated hydroxyanisole), BHT (Butylated hydroxytoluene) and propyl gallate. These ingredients (and others) can lead to poor digestion, skin and coat issues, irregular bowel movements and many other health issues. So, to keep your pooch happy and healthy, definitely steer clear of treats that contain harmful preservatives. Rawhide chews can be incredibly dangerous for our dogs. Rawhide chews are meant to be eaten over time so that they break down into softer, more manageable pieces. However, if your pooch is a particularly aggressive chewer, they may be able to break off larger chunks, which poses risks of choking and blockages, as well as digestive irritation. Synthetic sweeteners, like sorbitol, are also commonly found in dog treats, and they’re used to enhance the taste. These can cause a myriad of health problems, including: Obesity Tooth decay Allergies Digestive problems (including stomach cramps, diarrhoea, vomiting and bloody stools). You should avoid treats with added salt to prevent any of these health problems from occurring – so make sure to have a quick check of the labels.

So we’ve compiled a list of the key ones to avoid: 1. All rawhide chews. Rawhide is one of the most popular dog treats on the market, but it’s a major no-no. The whole process sees your dog's 'healthy' treat being bathed in various chemicals, some of which can be highly toxic. Treats with artificial colouring should also be avoided. Evidence suggests that some of these additives could be harmful to pets and can cause health problems, so it’s best to play it safe and stick to natural plant-derived colourings like beetroot, spirulina or purple-sprouting sweet potato. And avoid the sweet treats as well. Sugar should not be a part of a dog's diet and excessive amounts can cause inflammation throughout the body, including tummy troubles like vomiting or diarrhoea. Cooked bones should always be off-limits, whether from your kitchen and those purchased from shops. Foods that you must also avoid feeding your dog include chocolate, onions, garlic, chives, macadamia nuts, corn on the cob, avocado, alcohol, grapes and raisins.