Holiday Hazards or Healthy Choices? What Every Pet Parent Must Know

The holidays are all about sharing joy, but could festive treats be doing more harm than good for your furry friend? Hidden carbs lurk in many holiday favourites, and while they might seem harmless, these sneaky culprits can lead to serious health issues for your dog. Here’s what you need to know to keep tails wagging without the worry.

Why Are Hidden Carbs a Problem for Dogs?

Dogs aren't built to process high amounts of carbohydrates. Excess carbs can lead to several issues:

1. Weight Gain: Carb-heavy treats can quickly lead to weight gain, putting stress on your dog's joints and organs.
2. Energy Fluctuations: Just like in humans, high-carb treats can cause rapid spikes in blood sugar, followed by energy crashes.
3. Digestive Issues: Many dogs have difficulty digesting complex carbohydrates, which can result in gas, bloating, and diarrhea.
4. Long-term Health Concerns: A high-carb diet may contribute to insulin resistance and increase the risk of diabetes in dogs.
5. Increased Risk of Pancreatitis: High-carb and fatty foods can overwork the pancreas, potentially leading to inflammation. This condition, known as pancreatitis, can be serious and even life-threatening for dogs. Learn more about pancreatitis in dogs here. 

Where Are Hidden Carbs Hiding?

Common sources of hidden carbs in dog treats and holiday foods include:

• Grain fillers in commercial dog treats
• Sweeteners and artificial flavors
• Flour-based ingredients
• Holiday foods like bread, potatoes, and baked goods

How Can You Identify Hidden Carbs?

1. Read Ingredient Labels: Look for ingredients like wheat, corn, rice, or any type of flour.
2. Be Wary of "Healthy" Claims: Even treats marketed as "natural" can contain hidden carbs.
3. Check for Sugars: Ingredients ending in "-ose" (like fructose or dextrose) are sugars.
4. Understand Serving Sizes: Pay attention to the carb content per serving.

Healthier Alternatives: Low-Carb Treats for Your Pup

Now that we know the risks of hidden carbs, let's explore healthier options:

1. Low-carb, high-protein treats: Meat-based spreads (like chicken, salmon, lamb, and beef) are versatile and nutritious.
2. Homemade treats: Make your own using low-carb ingredients.
3. Simple options: Small pieces of cooked, unseasoned meat can be great rewards.
4. Keto-friendly dog foods: Consider these for a comprehensive low-carb approach.

Practical Tips for the Holiday Season

1. Avoid Table Scraps: Many holiday foods are high in carbs and fats.
2. Keep Treats Out of Reach: Store holiday treats where your dog can't access them.
3. Maintain Regular Feeding Routines: Try to keep your dog's feeding schedule consistent.
4. Exercise Regularly: Help your dog burn energy and maintain a healthy weight.
5. https://visionarypet.com/collections/low-carb-high-protein-peanut-free-meat-spreads: Let visitors know not to feed your dog human food or treats without your permission.

Your dog is part of the family, and their health deserves attention this holiday season. By swapping out carb-laden treats for healthy, protein-rich options, you can ensure your furry friend stays safe and happy while still being part of the festivities.

After all, a happy pup is the greatest gift any pet parent could ask for!

Authors Bio
Paul Raybould is the Co-Founder and CEO of KetoPet and Visionary Pet Foods. Paul is an experienced dog dad and a passionate advocate for dogs everywhere. He has a deep understanding of dogs' dietary needs and the importance of providing them with the best nutrition possible. When not working helping dogs everywhere have a long, healthy life, Paul enjoys spending time with his wife Susan and two rescue standard poodles, Freya and Coconut.

Disclaimer
The content provided here is for informational purposes only and should not be taken as medical advice. If you have any medical concerns about your dog, please consult a qualified veterinarian.