Dog Biscuit Appreciation Post

Does your dog perk up when he hears the word ‘Biscuit?’ Maybe Fido knows them as ‘Treats’ or ‘Cookies’ or some other name. Regardless of what they are called in your home, it’s probably pretty safe to say that your furry pal’s response is most likely both enthusiastic and adorable. In fact, we’re pretty sure that biscuits are one of Fido’s favorite things. A local Exeter, CA vet offers some insight into giving your cute pet his favorite treats in this article.

Who Invented The Modern Dog Biscuit?

That honor belongs to a businessman named James Spratt. Spratt was behind the first mass production of pet food, which happened over in England around 1860. Spratt didn’t stop there. He also created what is generally accepted to have been the very first dog biscuit. The ingredients he used were wheat meals, beet root, beef blood, and vegetables. His inspiration? Seeing dogs eating hardtack, which is a tough biscuit often brought on ships.

Fast forward to 1890, and a British company started producing Spratt’s biscuits at an American factory. This ultimately brought a wave of competitors and a bit of a marketing war. Spratt eventually sued one of the competitors, but lost the court. The ruling more or less set the term dog biscuit as a generally accepted description.

Through most of the Middle Ages and up to the mid 19^th century, most pups ate pretty much what their humans ate. By the mid-1800s, horse meat was becoming a popular pet food. Of course, we’ve been giving Fido treats since long before that. As you may suspect, the dog treat in general has a much longer history. Roman philosopher recommended giving Fido meat with bones and barley soaked in milk. Gaston III, the eleventh Count of Foix, described his greyhounds’ diet in his 14^th century novel. The pampered pups were given bran bread and some meat.

What Is The Shelf Life Of Dog Biscuits?

While this may vary a bit from brand to brand, most unopened kibble and dry biscuits can last up to 18 months if stored properly.  After it’s been opened, it usually will last about six weeks. Organic products may not last as long, as they may not contain preservatives. Of course, you’ll want to read the label for specific advice.

Is It Ok To Eat Dog Biscuits?

This is actually one of the most frequently asked questions about dog biscuits, which is why we’re addressing it. While a single dog biscuit probably isn’t going to hurt, this isn’t something you should eat regularly. They’re made for pups, not people.

How Do I Choose The Right Biscuits?

Choosing Fido’s treats isn’t exactly complicated, but it can be a bit overwhelming. There are plenty of options to choose from in grocery stores, and even more if you go to a pet shop. Of course, your canine pal would probably be happy to sample every product offered.

Here are a few tips:

Read labels: Pet food manufacturers are required to list ingredients in specific ways. The ingredient listed first will have the largest proportion in the mix, the second will have the second largest, and so on. You want to pick things that list healthy, identifiable ingredients, like meat, fish, or poultry, at the beginning of the label. It’s also best to stick with things that don’t have a lot of fillers, like wheat and corn syrup.

Pick Appropriately: Choose things that are appropriate for your dog’s age, size, and health.

Monitor Callbacks: Keep an eye out for recalls! You can monitor them at the FDA site here or the AMVA site here. Or, set up an alert.

Let Fido have his say! While it’s pretty rare for a pup to turn his cute nose up at a treat, most dogs do have preferences.

Can I Make Homemade Biscuits?

Sure! If you enjoy cooking, you can definitely make your pet’s treats. You’ll find lots of great recipes online. You can also try your hand at creating one. Or, just mix and match. You can get yourself a bone-shaped mold, or even a dog treat maker, which is very much like a waffle or panini maker, except that the slot for the batter is bone-shaped.

These also can make great gifts for Fido’s four-legged buddies. Put some in a Mason jar with a cute label. It’s not a bad thing to write the ingredients down, just in case someone’s pup has allergies or dietary restrictions. 

One thing that is key, though, is to stick with things that are safe.

Here are a few options:

• Ripe Bananas
• Apples (No Seeds Or Pips)
• Natural Peanut Butter (No Xylitol)
• Beef, Fish, Chicken, Turkey, Or Veggie Broth
• Bone Broth
• Rice
• Bacon Bits
• Bacon Grease
• Olive Oil
• Wheat Germ Oil
• Meat, Fish, Or Poultry 
• Carrots
• Flour
• Peas
• Beans
• Fat Free Yogurt
• Applesauce
• Oats
• Cheese
• Bread Crumbs
• Egg
• Spinach
• Kale
• Blueberries
• Pureed Pumpkin
• Liver powder

Of course, it’s also important to know what not to include. That list includes things like garlic, onions, scallions, and chives; grapes, currants, and raisins; avocado; pitted fruit; chocolate; alcohol; meat on the bone; nuts; or xylitol. Also, never give your canine buddy raw dough. It can expand inside his digestive system, which can be very dangerous and potentially fatal. 

Ask your Exeter, CA vet for more information on safe and unsafe foods and treats.

How Many Biscuits Can Fido Have In A Day?

We probably should note that if Fido were to answer this question, he’d probably have a much different reply. However, it’s important to use treats carefully. There are definitely benefits to giving your pup a special something. Not only will that treat brighten your dog’s day up and get his tail going, it’s also good for bonding and training.

That said, you don’t want to go too crazy. Those biscuits (or treats or cookies) should only make up about 5 percent of your dog’s daily caloric intake. 

What Are Some Tips For Giving Fido Biscuits? 

There aren’t too many rules or concerns about giving Fido his treats, as long as you are sticking with safe ones and not going overboard. However, we do have a few pointers. 

Why not have Fido do a trick for his treat? Many pups absolutely love to soak up adoration from their humans. This is also good for your pet’s self-confidence. Dogs look adorably proud of themselves when they get praised or rewarded!

Another thing to keep in mind? If you are going to a park, be discreet. If Fido’s playmates notice that you have the goods, you may find yourself in the center of a doggy ruckus.

Can I Use Dog Biscuits As Training Treats? 

Yes! You may also find that your canine companion suddenly gets much more enthusiastic about his lessons. Just be sure to use smaller snacks. If you overfeed your furry bestie during school, he may become more interested in napping than in continuing his petucation. 

Make An Appointment At Our Exeter, CA Veterinary Clinic 

Do you have questions about your canine companion’s diet? Please feel free to contact us, your local Exeter, CA animal clinic, today!