Summertime is here and the days are long and humid. Since the weather may prevent your dog from enjoying his regular exercise routine during the day, now’s the time to treat him to some summertime dog treats to help alleviate boredom. These days you have lots of options when it comes to dog treats! Here are some ideas:
1. Frosty Paws
If you haven’t discovered the magic of Frosty Paws, you’re in for a real treat! (no pun intended). Frosty Paws is a nondairy “ice cream” designed just for dogs. Best of all, dogs love it! The first time I introduced Frosty Paws to our pack of three dogs, I thought a fight was going to erupt in their eagerness to get to this tasty dog treat. Actually, it’s only tasty to dogs. I’ve heard when humans taste tested it, their reaction was decidedly negative. Nevertheless, your dog will appreciate an occasional cup of Frosty Paws during the summer.
2. Flavored water
Your dog is going to be drinking alot of water during the summer months. Why not treat him to some flavored water designed just for canines? You can find meat flavored waters for dogs, dog sports drinks, and designer dog waters in pet stores and online these days. As an alternative, you may be able to add a bit of salt free beef broth to your dog’s water to create meat flavored water if you can’t find it locally.
3. Fresh fruit
Many people don’t realize how much dogs love fruit. Plus, with all those antioxidants, it’s great for their health! Try removing the core of an apple and adding peanut butter to the interior or simply cut up some chunks of fruit and put it in your dog’s food bowl. He’ll appreciate it either way.
4. Ice cubes
Some dogs enjoy having ice cubes added to their water and can entertain themselves for short periods trying to retrieve them from the bowl. Add a few to your dog’s water bowl and see how he reacts.
5. Freshly baked dog cookies
Dogs always appreciate a good dog cookie. Why not bake some of your own so you’ll know exactly what ingredients your best friend is snacking on? There are numerous recipes for dog cookies on the internet, just google “dog cookie recipes” and you’ll be rewarded with lots of options. My dogs are fixated on peanut butter, so I always include that ingredient in their cookies.
6. Fresh vegetables
Yes, many dogs enjoy vegetables! (I wish more humans felt that way). Try spreading some peanut butter onto some celery sticks and watch the response. It’s a great way to get more healthy plant matter into your dog’s diet.
Give some of these summertime dog treats a test run with your dogs and see how they respond! You just might make their afternoon!