We all love to treat our dogs—whether it’s to reward good behavior, teach a new trick, or simply show our love. However, treating our dogs comes with responsibilities, like knowing which treats are safe and how much is appropriate. National Treat Your Pet Day was created to address these questions and to encourage pet lovers to choose healthy treats, not just during Halloween and the holiday season, but all year round.
When is National Treat Your Pet Day?
National Treat Your Pet Day is celebrated every year on October 30.
This pet holiday was introduced in 2021 by Dr. Marty Goldstein, the founder of Dr. Marty Pets, to inspire pet parents to treat their furry companions with delicious and nutritious snacks, along with extra love and attention.
The holiday is perfectly timed to coincide with Halloween and the start of the festive season—a time when treats are abundant, making it easy to indulge in the wrong snacks or overindulge, which can be a problem for both humans and pets. Whether you buy or make your own dog treats, it’s essential to give the right amount based on your dog’s size and activity level.
How to Treat Your Dog Safely
In the spirit of National Treat Your Pet Day, Dr. Marty offers these guidelines to help keep your pet safe during Halloween and beyond, while ensuring they enjoy the healthiest treats possible.
- Avoid Commonly Toxic Foods: Store candy securely and be cautious with table scraps. Most pet parents know to keep highly toxic foods like chocolate and candies containing xylitol away from pets. These human treats can cause severe digestive issues and other dangerous side effects if ingested by your pet.
- Don’t Overindulge: Many dog and cat treats on the market are higher in fat than regular food, making them extra appealing to our pets. However, it’s easy to overindulge when giving treats. Treats should make up no more than 10% of your pet’s daily diet, though this can vary depending on their age, breed, and activity level.
- Choose Premium Ingredients: The nutritional quality of your pet’s treats can greatly impact how well they enjoy and digest them. Selecting treats with high-quality ingredients can make a big difference in your pet’s overall health.