Refreshing snacks for the dog

A cool refreshment is not only a welcome change for us humans in summer, dogs are also happy about a healthy and delicious little thing. Homemade refreshment snacks are a great way to do something good for the dog without using artificial additives. Here are a few simple and healthy recipe ideas for summer dog snacks.

Fruity refreshment

• Frozen berries: Strawberries, blueberries or raspberries can be freezing and are a great, cold snack for in between.
• Watermelon ice cubes: Puree some watermelon (without shell and kernels) and fill the mass in ice cubes. A wonderfully refreshing and moisturizing snack.
• Apple or pear columns (frozen or fresh): Remove the core and offer the dog in small pieces. They are particularly popular on hot days.
• Banana (frozen): Bananas are rich in potassium and can be a delicious reward in small frozen slices.

Hearty delicacies

• Frozen yoghurt swaps: Natural yoghurt ((without Sugar additive) is good for the intestinal flora. Mixed with some pureed fruit freezing as small portions.
• Vegetable ice cubes: some chicken or vegetable broth (without onions or garlic!) Cooking and chopped, add cooked vegetables such as carrots or peas. Fill the mixture into ice cubes.
• Cooked chicken or turkey: Lean, cooked meat in small pieces is always a welcome and protein -rich reward.
• Sweet potato snacks: Cooked or baked sweet potato (without a bowl) In small pieces, it is easy to digest and delivers important nutrients.

Enjoyment with brains
Dog snacks should only be a supplement to normal feeding and not make up more than ten percent of the daily calorie intake – so only give small quantities! Be sure to make sure that the snacks do not contain artificial sweeteners such as xylitol, as these are highly toxic for dogs. Xylitol, also called birch sugar, is a natural sugar alcohol and can trigger a massive insulin release in dogs, which leads to a strong reduction in blood sugar levels. This can lead to seizures, unconsciousness and, in the worst case, to death. In general, always note the dog to ensure that it can tolerate the snacks well.

The amount does it
Even if the dog loves ice cream, it should only be fed in moderation. Ice is a snack and should not replace the main meal. Too large amount can lead to digestive problems such as diarrhea or abdominal pain, especially if the dog is sensitive.

• Little dogs: Only a few teaspoons to a small ice cube.
• Medium -sized dogs: One or two small ice cubes or a small portion.
• Big dogs: A slightly larger portion, but still in moderation.

Note the ingredients!

• Avoid ice with added sugar or artificial sweeteners. Homemade ice cream should only be obtained from natural ingredients such as fruits.
• Many dogs tolerate lactose badly. Use lactose -free alternatives such as yogurt, cottage cheese or kefir for homemade ice cream.
• Always make sure that all ingredients in the ice are compatible for the dog. Be sure to do without chocolate, nuts, raisins and other poisonous or difficult -to -digest foods for dogs!
• Depending on the ingredients, ice cream can have a higher fat content. This should be taken into account in dogs with weight problems or sensitive digestion.

The ice should not be given directly from the freezer to the dog. It is best to be thawed for a few minutes so that it is not too hard and does not cause any irritation in the mouth or throat. Very cold ice can also lead to stomach problems in some dogs.

Particular caution is required for sensitive dogs. If the dog has known allergies or intolerances, make sure that the ice ingredients are suitable for it. Four legs with a sensitive stomach should only get ice in small quantities and with mild, well -tolerated ingredients. In puppies and very old dogs, the crowd should also be reduced and attention should be paid to well digestible ingredients.

With healthy and delicious summer snacks and always sufficiently fresh water, you can make the four-legged friend happy and at the same time support him in the heat. Have fun trying it out! (Stefan Richter)