Fruitables Dog Treats: Safety, Nutrition, and Value
Fruitables Dog Treats: Safety and Nutritional Value
Answer Upfront: Are Fruitables Good for Dogs?
Yes. Fruitables dog treats are widely considered a healthy, low-calorie, and nutritious option for dogs. They offer a beneficial alternative to many highly processed commercial treats.
They are formulated with real fruits, vegetables, and superfoods, providing antioxidants and essential vitamins (A, C, K). These whole-food ingredients contribute significantly to the treats' nutritional profile.
The treats are low in calories (often under 9 calories per treat), making them excellent for weight management or training. This low density allows owners to reward frequently without excessive caloric intake.
The brand focuses on natural ingredients and avoids common fillers like corn, wheat, and soy. This commitment to purity reduces the likelihood of triggering common food sensitivities in dogs.
Key Takeaways
Superfood Focus: Fruitables utilize ingredients like pumpkin, blueberries, apples, and sweet potatoes, which are known for their high nutritional density. Pumpkin, in particular, is excellent for digestive health due to its high fiber content.
Weight Management: The low-calorie count allows owners to treat their dogs without significantly impacting their daily caloric intake. This is crucial for maintaining a healthy body weight, especially in smaller breeds or senior dogs.
Ingredient Transparency: The brand is committed to quality, purity, and using identifiable, wholesome ingredients. Owners can easily recognize the components listed on the packaging.
Treats, Not Food: Fruitables are supplements and rewards; they should not replace a dog's primary, balanced diet. Treats, regardless of how healthy, should constitute no more than 10% of the total daily caloric intake.
Fruitables Product Checklist: What to Look For
Calorie Count: Verify the specific product's calorie count (most are 8–9 calories per treat). This information is usually displayed prominently on the packaging or the brand's website.
Texture: Choose based on preference (e.g., crunchy baked treats, soft chews, or jerky). Crunchy treats help clean teeth, while soft chews are ideal for older dogs or puppies.
Primary Ingredients: Ensure the first ingredients listed are whole foods (e.g., pumpkin, fruit purees, oats). The first five ingredients make up the bulk of the product.
"Free From" Claims: Look for confirmation of no artificial flavors, colors, preservatives, wheat, corn, or soy. These additives offer no nutritional benefit and can sometimes cause adverse reactions.
Sourcing/Manufacturing: Products are typically made in the USA. Domestic manufacturing often implies adherence to stricter quality control and safety standards.
Tools & Products (Generic Categories)
Low-Calorie Crunchy Treats: Ideal for satisfying chewing instincts and general rewarding. These often come in fun shapes and are useful for maintaining dental hygiene.
Soft Chews/Training Treats: Useful for repetitive training sessions due to their small size and palatability. Their soft texture allows for quick consumption, minimizing distraction during training.
Fruit/Vegetable Supplements (Purees/Mixes): Used to enhance dry food, providing added fiber and moisture. These can be particularly beneficial for dogs needing digestive support or increased hydration.
Measuring Cup/Scale: Essential for ensuring treats (even low-calorie ones) do not exceed 10% of the dog's daily diet. Accurate measurement prevents accidental overfeeding and weight gain.
Risks & When to See a Vet
Overfeeding: While low-calorie, excessive consumption can still lead to weight gain or digestive upset (diarrhea/gas). Treats should not exceed 10% of total daily calories, regardless of their quality.
Allergies: Dogs can be allergic to specific ingredients (e.g., chicken, certain grains). Monitor for signs of itching, paw licking, or digestive issues after introducing a new flavor. If symptoms appear, discontinue the treat immediately.
Choking Hazard: Always select a treat size appropriate for the dog's breed and chewing style. Small, hard treats can be a hazard for large dogs who tend to swallow items whole.
When to Call the Vet: If the dog experiences severe vomiting, persistent diarrhea, lethargy, or signs of an allergic reaction (facial swelling, hives) after consuming the treats. These symptoms require immediate professional attention.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Are Fruitables suitable for dogs with sensitive stomachs?
Due to the focus on whole, easily digestible ingredients like pumpkin and the absence of common fillers (wheat, corn, soy), many varieties are well-tolerated by dogs with sensitivities.
Can I use Fruitables for weight loss?
Yes, their low-calorie formulation makes them an excellent choice for dogs on a weight management plan, allowing owners to reward their pets without adding significant calories.
Do these treats contain real fruit?
Yes, Fruitables are formulated using actual fruit and vegetable purees and concentrates, such as blueberries, apples, and sweet potatoes, providing natural flavor and antioxidants.
Are there any toxic fruits I should be aware of, even in dog treats?
While Fruitables avoids toxic ingredients, dog owners should remember that grapes, raisins, and the pits/seeds/cores of certain fruits (like apples and cherries) are highly toxic and should never be fed to dogs in their raw form.
How should I store Fruitables treats to maintain freshness?
Like most baked or soft treats, Fruitables should be stored in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight. Keeping the bag sealed tightly or transferring them to an airtight container will help maintain texture and flavor. Fruitables dog treats are a highly recommended option for pet owners seeking nutritious, low-calorie rewards, leveraging the benefits of real fruits and vegetables while strictly avoiding common artificial additives and fillers, making them a safe and healthy supplement to a dog's balanced diet.
