Your dog loves them, and you love giving them to him. But unfortunately, commercial treats are calorie bombs and can undo all the work you’ve done portioning out breakfast and dinner. Fresh fruits and veggies are just as rewarding—you just have to condition your dog to see them as dog treats.
“I always recommend that pet owners introduce veggies and fruits to their pets at as young an age as possible,” says Wynn. “They’re the healthiest treats we can use. If you teach the dog early that a vegetable is good, then veggies are treats to them.”
For easy rewards, consider small apple slices (without seeds), pear slices, blueberries, mini carrots, or for a cold treat… frozen green beans.