How often should you give your pug treats? Healthy feeding tips

The pug is the UK’s third most popular dog breed, known for its charming personality and compact size, making it a favourite among many dog owners. Despite their small stature, pugs require careful management regarding diet and treats to maintain optimal health.

Treats are a valuable tool for training and rewarding your pug, but with their predisposition to weight gain, it is crucial to give treats in moderation to support a healthy lifestyle. Overfeeding treats can quickly tip the balance, resulting in obesity and related health problems that can reduce a pug's quality of life and longevity.

How many treats is it ok to give to your pug?

When planning treat portions, aim to ensure treats do not exceed 10% of your pug's total daily calorie intake. This means you should factor treats into the overall balanced diet rather than adding them on top, reducing the main meal portions accordingly to accommodate treat calories.

It’s important to measure treat portions carefully and not free-feed treats throughout the day. Allocating a set quantity helps maintain control over your pug’s intake and prevents excessive calorie consumption.

How often can I give my pug treats?

Frequency depends on the total treat allowance for the day. Spread small, low-calorie treats across several sessions, especially if you use treats as training rewards. This approach keeps your pug motivated without risking overeating.

When and why you should give your pug treats

Treats should be special rewards that your pug earns through positive behaviours, such as obeying commands or coming when called, rather than expecting them regularly. Assigning value to treats helps reinforce training and improves your dog’s focus and compliance.

Allocating at least half your pug’s daily treats as action-based rewards ensures treats retain their motivating power. Additionally, keeping a small reserve of treats for unexpected situations—such as grooming or calming your pug—is beneficial.

Always ask your pug to show good manners, like sitting calmly before giving a treat, and ensure they take treats gently to encourage polite behaviour.

Healthy treat options for pugs

Choose treats that are low in calories and rich in nutrients to support your pug’s health. Suitable treat options include small pieces of carrots, green beans, air-dried chicken or liver, sweet potato chews, and low-fat cheese cubes in moderation.

Avoid high-calorie or fatty treats and never give your pug human foods that can be toxic, such as chocolate, onions, or grapes. Homemade treats made from safe, dog-friendly ingredients are a great way to offer tasty rewards without excess calories.

Tips to prevent overfeeding and obesity

• Monitor your pug’s weight regularly and adjust treat allowance as needed.
• Use treats as training rewards and not as constant snacks.
• Maintain consistent meal portions accounting for calories from treats.
• Choose low-calorie treats to reduce risk of weight gain.

FAQs: How often should you give your pug treats?

Is it okay to give my pug treats every day?

Yes, daily treats are fine as long as they make up no more than 10% of your pug’s daily calorie intake and are given in moderation.

What type of treats are best for pugs?

Opt for low-calorie, nutrient-rich treats such as vegetables like carrots and green beans, air-dried chicken or liver, and small amounts of low-fat cheese.

How many treats should I give during training?

Allocate about half of your pug’s daily treat allowance for training to keep them motivated without overfeeding.

Can overfeeding treats cause health problems?

Yes. Overfeeding can lead to obesity in pugs, which increases the risk of joint issues, heart problems, and a shorter lifespan.

Responsible pug ownership

By thoughtfully managing treat frequency and type, you ensure your pug remains healthy, happy, and well-behaved. Always consult your vet if you’re unsure about the best diet for your pug and select treats from reputable sources. For finding pug puppies or reputable breeders, choosing ethically bred puppies helps support breed health and wellbeing.

With the right approach, treating your pug remains a joyous part of your bond without compromising their health or happiness.