I have 2 dogs both of which are older ladies, one is a Sheppard/Lab and the other is a Mastiff/Lab. The Sheppard has always had stomach issues and last year, my little baby developed a food allergy where I almost lost her. It WAS commercial food and treats. She can’t eat anything commercial and quite frankly I don’t trust them.
Long story short, I opened a business where I make fresh biscuits that I use as my kibble and treats for my babies. Dogs love these treats, I usually have a following of dogs when I go to the dog park as I do try to carry free samples which I give to the owners if they wish.
I am quite passionate about what anyone feeds their dog. I don’t think any pet should be fed anything that contains items that are harmful to them. I don’t mean to offend anyone, but my opinion both as an pet owner and business owner is this:
1) If the ingredients are not human grade, then you are giving your pet/your child food that you would not eat. You are what you eat – your pet is what they eat.
2) Both food and treats should be healthy and not compromise your pet’s health including their weight.
3) Balanced diet including treats – meat, grains, fruits and veggies – always. Diet and exercise DOES make a different.
4) Any food or treat should not have additives, preservatives, artificial sugars or ingredients that are not good for dogs. Dogs don’t eat stuff like this in the wild – why should we be feeding it to them because we can purchase the food from a store?
5) Only deal with companies that stand behind their products – your pet/your child should be before profits.
6) Fresh is the best. If your dog was living in the wild – they would hunt daily in the hope that what they eat is fresh.
7) Always listen to your dog – if they gobble it down, it’s probably good but watch for any signs that the treats and/or food isn’t the best. We all like to eat things that aren’t the best for us. Eating gas, different behaviours, rashes, scratching etc. I have found to be key signs to look for as signs something is wrong. When in doubt – See a Vet – they are the experts.
