If you’re the pet parent of a miniature or toy dog, you know that finding doggy treats for small dogs that are easily chewable, yet still nutritious, can be problematic. Most dog treats are too large and too hard for tiny teeth and are manufactured with chemicals and fillers that have no nutritional value. However, a solution can be found right in your own refrigerator or pantry.

Treats for small dogs  already in your frige

Baby carrots fit perfectly into smaller dog mouths and, with their crunchy texture, help keep your dog’s teeth clean while adding the fiber to her diet that benefits a strong digestive tract. Believe it or not, my maltese can't eat enough carrots. So carrots have been a great snack for our entire family! Additionally, the beta-carotene that gives the carrot its bright orange color is an anti-oxidant that builds the immune system and converts to Vitamin A during digestion. Vitamin A works to supple the skin, improve hair growth, and maintain your dog’s healthy eyesight.

Small bites of peeled apple or pear are a rich source of Vitamin C (necessary for a healthy immune system), all of the B-Complex Vitamins (key elements in maintaining red blood cells), and minerals such as calcium, phosphorus, and potassium. Studies have shown that apples and/or pears help dogs with heart disease by reducing high blood pressure and lowering bad cholesterol.

Broccoli contains high levels of both soluble and insoluble fiber and is a rich source of Vitamin C that is necessary for the over-all health of your dog. Broccoli is also rich in vitamin A, iron, vitamin K, B-complex vitamins, zinc, phosphorus and phytonutrients. Phytonutrients are compounds that lower the risk of diabetes, heart disease, and certain cancers.

Rich in antioxidants and vitamins, blueberries are known to alleviate and protect against various forms of intestinal inflammation in dogs, including diarrhea, inflammatory bowel disease, and colitis. Blueberries are rich in polyphenols, which have an antimicrobial and antioxidative effect and are necessary to help increase your dog’s immune system.

Green peas are low in fat and calories, and high in Vitamin C, Vitamin E, and Omega-3 fatty acids that make them a perfect treat for the little dog that doesn’t need to gain weight. The generous amounts of Vitamin B1 and folate, B2, B3, and B6 reduce your dog’s risk factor for heart disease by lowering an amino acid in the blood that can cause blood clots, strokes and heart attacks.

The perfect treat for small dogs

If you’re pressed for time and the chopping of fruits and veggies seems endless,  try an all-natural treats that is made with all the nutritious ingredients listed above. Dogs love the taste of peanut butter and these mini-treats are made to fit in a smaller dog’s mouth. Additionally, they have a soft, moist consistency suited for older dogs, are low in fat and calories, and are wheat, corn, and soy-free. This smaller size is also perfect to use as training treats when working with a new dog or puppy.  Check out DOG TREATS, you're small dog will love them!

Rocky Kanaka

Rocky Kanaka is an entrepreneur, pet rescue advocate and dog dad to a rescue boxer named Flip, a blind Cane Corso called Kobe, and a terrier mix named Zoey. He's also a pet chef and owner of The Dog Bakery, which specializes in dog birthday cakes and fresh baked dog treats. His three dogs can't get enough of the dog cakes and treats!

Lorna Ladd

Lorna Paxton Ladd is a passionate dog lover and enthusiast of The Dog Bakery. She loves spoiling her 3 rescue dogs with dog cakes and jerky. A 15 year veteran in the pet industry, her aim is to educate pet parents on the best recipes, products, tips and tricks to optimize the human/canine bond. Her favorite product at The Dog Bakery are the customizable dog birthday cakes.