We all love spoiling our dogs with treats, right? But if you’re worried about your pup gaining a few extra pounds, it’s time to think about switching to low-calorie options. Don’t worry—there are plenty of tasty and natural snacks out there that will keep your dog’s tail wagging without packing on the pounds. Let’s explore some of the best low-calorie dog treats and why they’re a smart choice for keeping your furry friend happy and healthy.
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Why Choose Low-Calorie Dog Treats?
Giving your dog treats is one of the best ways to bond and reward them, but too many treats with high calories can lead to weight gain and health problems. That’s why low-calorie dog treats are such a great option. They’re a way to give your dog tasty rewards without worrying about extra calories.
Here’s why you might want to make the switch:
- Weight Management for Dogs: Just like humans, dogs need to stay active and maintain a healthy weight to avoid issues like joint pain, heart problems, or diabetes. Overweight in dogs is a serious issue which should be handled properly.
- Frequent Treating: If you’re working on training your dog, you’ll want to use more treats. With low-calorie options, you can give your dog more rewards without overfeeding them.
- Great for Senior Dogs: Older dogs tend to slow down, so their calorie needs decrease. Healthy snacks with fewer calories can help prevent weight gain as their metabolism changes.
- Nutrient-Rich Choices: Many light treats are made from healthier ingredients, meaning you’re feeding your dog something nutritious rather than empty calories.
10 Best Low-Calorie Treats for Dogs
Let’s dive into some of the top low-calorie dog treats that your pup will love!
1. Carrot Sticks
Carrots are a go-to for many dog parents. They’re naturally sweet, crunchy, and low in calories. Plus, they help with dental health while providing vitamins that are good for your dog’s eyes and immune system.
Calories per treat: About 3 calories per baby carrot.
2. Green Beans
Green beans are a great vegetarian dog treat that’s super low in calories but high in fiber. You can serve them fresh, frozen, or steamed—just skip the seasonings.
Calories per treat: Roughly 1 calorie per bean.
3. Blueberries
Not only are blueberries low in calories but they’re also packed with antioxidants, which help support your dog’s immune system. Plus, most dogs love the sweet taste!
Calories per treat: About 1 calorie per berry.
4. Pumpkin Bites
Pumpkin is a fantastic, fiber-rich vegetable dog treat that helps with digestion. You can find pumpkin-flavored dog treats or make your own by baking some pumpkin puree into small bite-sized pieces.
Calories per treat: 3-5 calories depending on the size.
5. Apple Slices (No Seeds)
Apples are another crunchy treat that most dogs love. Just make sure to remove the seeds as they can be harmful to dogs. A few apple slices make for a refreshing and healthy snack.
Calories per treat: About 5 calories per slice.
6. Yak Cheese Chews
Yak chews are long-lasting treats made from yak milk, lime, and salt. They’re a low-calorie, healthy dog treat that not only satisfies your dog’s chewing instincts but also promotes dental health.
Calories per treat: About 10-12 calories per inch.
7. Sweet Potato Chews
Sweet potatoes are packed with nutrients like vitamins A and C (source), and they’re naturally low in calories. You can bake or dehydrate thin slices to create a chewy, low-calorie dog snack that your pup will love.
Calories per treat: Around 5-7 calories per slice.
8. Frozen Yogurt Bites
Plain, unsweetened yogurt can be frozen into little bite-sized treats for your dog. These are great for hot days and contain probiotics, which support digestion.
Calories per treat: 4 calories per small bite.
9. Chicken Jerky
Homemade chicken jerky, made from lean chicken breast, is a high-protein, low-fat treat. It’s simple to make at home and provides a chewy, satisfying snack for your dog.
Calories per treat: 6-8 calories.
10. Small, Soft Training Treats
Small, bite-sized treats made specifically for training are an excellent option if you want to give frequent rewards. These treats are often low in calories and come in a variety of flavors that dogs enjoy.
Calories per treat: About 3 calories per treat.
Why Are Yak Chews Considered Low-Calorie Dog Treats?
You might be wondering: how can something as long-lasting as a yak chew be low in calories? Well, the secret is that dogs don’t usually eat a whole yak chew in one sitting. A small piece of a yak chew can last a long time and keep your dog entertained, without consuming too many calories at once.
Plus, yak chews are made from natural ingredients with no artificial fillers or preservatives, which means they’re a healthier choice compared to many store-bought treats. They also help with dental health by scraping away plaque as your dog chews. So not only are they a non-fattening treat, but they’re also great for keeping your dog’s teeth clean.
FAQs
How many low-calorie treats can I give my dog each day?
Treats should make up no more than 10% of your dog’s daily caloric intake. Even with low-calorie treats, it's important to avoid overfeeding. You can give your dog a few more rewards compared to regular treats, but it’s still essential to maintain portion control.
What dog treats have the least calories?
Vegetables like green beans and carrots are some of the lowest-calorie dog treats, with as little as 1-3 calories per treat. Fruits like blueberries also offer low-calorie options while providing antioxidants and other nutrients.
Can I make low-calorie treats at home?
Yes! Homemade low-calorie treats like pumpkin bites, apple slices, and sweet potato chews are easy to prepare. They allow you to control ingredients, ensuring your dog gets healthy, natural snacks.
Are low-calorie treats safe for all dogs?
Absolutely. Low-calorie treats are great for all dogs, especially for senior dogs and those prone to being overweight like Beagle, Golden Retriever, German Shepherd, etc.
Can puppies have yak chews?
Yes, puppies can have yak chews but it’s important to monitor them closely to ensure they don’t break off and swallow large pieces. Starting with smaller yak chews or offering larger pieces that they can’t easily bite into is a good option.
Can low-calorie treats help with training?
Yes, low-calorie treats are ideal for training because they allow you to reward your dog frequently without the risk of overfeeding. Many training treats are designed to be small and low in calories, perfect for reinforcing good behavior.
Conclusion
Finding the right low-calorie dog treats doesn’t have to be hard. With options like vegetables, fruits, and yak chews, you can keep your dog healthy without sacrificing the joy of treat time. Whether you're managing your dog’s weight or just want to offer them healthier snacks, there’s a wide range of low-calorie treats to choose from. Give your dog a treat that’s tasty and good for them!