What Are The Best Treats For Corgi Puppies?

Last Updated on April 9, 2024 by May Jones

Corgi puppies, with their boundless energy and insatiable curiosity, make for delightful companions. When it comes to rewarding these little bundles of joy, choosing the right treat is crucial—not just for their taste buds but for their health and development too.

Here’s everything you need to know about selecting the best treats for your corgi puppy, from understanding their unique dietary needs to using treats effectively for training and everything in between.

Puppy Treats vs. Adult Dog Treats: What’s the Difference?

Puppies have different nutritional needs compared to adult dogs. They require more protein, vitamins, and minerals to support their rapid growth and development. Treats for puppies should be easy to digest and designed to meet their developmental needs.

Moreover, the size and texture of the treat are important to prevent choking hazards and ensure that the treat is gentle on their developing teeth.

Top Treats for Corgi Puppies

When it comes to puppy treats, think nutritious, small, and soft.

Here are some great options:

• Small-sized, Soft Chews: Ideal for young puppies with delicate teeth.
• Freeze-dried Meat Treats: High in protein and made with single ingredients.
• Training Treats: Small, low-calorie treats perfect for training sessions.
• Dental Chews: Specifically designed for puppies to support dental health.

Exploring the Types of Treats

Treats come in various forms, each serving different purposes:

• Training Treats: Small and low-calorie, these treats keep your puppy focused without overfeeding.
• Comfort Treats: Softer and often more flavorful, great for bonding or soothing.
• Chew Treats: Good for dental health, but ensure they are safe for puppies.
• Interactive Treats: Treats that can be placed in toys to keep your puppy engaged and mentally stimulated.

Calorie Content: Striking a Balance

Puppies need energy, but it’s essential to balance their calorie intake. High-calorie treats are great in small quantities, especially during active training sessions. However, to avoid weight gain, mix in low-calorie treats and adjust their meal portions accordingly.

High-Calorie Treats

High-calorie treats are typically denser in nutrients and energy, making them suitable for very active times or as special rewards. Because of their higher calorie content, they should be given sparingly to avoid unnecessary weight gain.

1. Peanut Butter: A favorite among many dogs, peanut butter is high in calories and fat. It’s great for stuffing into toys for a long-lasting treat but use in moderation and choose brands without xylitol.
2. Cheese: Small pieces of cheese can be very effective as a high-value training treat. Choose low-lactose options for puppies with sensitive stomachs.
3. Cooked Meats: Bits of cooked chicken, beef, or turkey without any seasoning are excellent high-calorie treats. They’re packed with protein and are usually irresistible to dogs.
4. Commercial Gourmet Treats: Many premium dog treats on the market are higher in calories and are made with rich ingredients like bison, duck, or salmon.

Low-Calorie Treats

Low-calorie treats are perfect for training sessions where you’ll be giving out many treats or for dogs that are less active or need to watch their weight.

1. Carrots: Baby carrots, or small chunks of carrot, provide a crunchy, satisfying low-calorie snack. They’re also good for dental health.
2. Green Beans: Fresh or frozen green beans are full of fiber and low in calories, making them a great snack or treat option.
3. Commercial Low-Calorie Treats: Look for treats marketed as low-calorie or made for training. These are often smaller and designed to give your dog satisfaction without the extra calories.
4. Apple Slices: Small, peeled slices of apple (without the seeds) can offer a sweet, crunchy treat. Just be sure to limit the amount to avoid too much sugar.
5. Pumpkin: Plain, cooked pumpkin (not pie filling) is low in calories and can help with digestive health. It can be given alone or mixed with other foods as a treat.

Timing and Training: When to Treat

Treats are a powerful tool for training and bonding. Use them to reward good behavior, during training sessions, and as a tool for socialization. However, it’s vital to moderate the treat intake to avoid overfeeding.

• Training: Use small, low-calorie treats to keep them motivated.
• Socialization: Treats can make new experiences more positive.
• Bonding: Sharing a treat can strengthen your bond.

Training Treats: Matching the Treat to the Occasion

Different training scenarios might call for different types of treats. High-value treats (like bits of chicken or cheese) are great for challenging commands or new environments, while regular training treats suffice for routine exercises.

Identifying and Managing Food Sensitivities

Puppies can have sensitive stomachs. If you notice signs of digestive distress (like diarrhea or vomiting) after giving a new treat, it might be an indication of a food sensitivity. It’s important to:

• Introduce new treats one at a time to pinpoint any sensitivities.
• Consult your vet if you suspect a food allergy.
• Choose limited ingredient treats to minimize the risk of sensitivities.

Conclusion

Finding the best treats for your corgi puppy involves understanding their nutritional needs, the purpose of the treat, and the right timing for reward-based training. By choosing wisely, you can ensure these treats contribute positively to your puppy’s growth, training, and overall happiness.

Remember to monitor for any signs of food sensitivities and adjust their diet as needed. With the right approach, treats can be more than just snacks—they can be tools for healthy development and effective training.