Spending time outdoors with your dog is one of the best ways to enjoy nature and make lasting memories. Whether you’re hiking, relaxing in a park, or having a cozy picnic, your dog should be part of the fun. A great way to include your furry friend is by bringing along some tasty, dog-safe treats to keep them energized and happy throughout your outdoor adventure.
In this article, we’ll explore the best dog treats for picnics and outdoor activities. From easy-to-pack snacks to hydration options, we’ve got everything you need to keep your dog satisfied and content while you both enjoy the great outdoors.
1. Bite-Sized Dog Biscuits
Bite-sized dog biscuits are a great choice for picnics and outdoor adventures. They’re easy to pack in a small container or resealable bag and perfect for on-the-go snacking. Look for grain-free biscuits made with healthy ingredients like sweet potatoes, chicken, or peanut butter.
These treats are convenient to toss and serve, making them ideal for rewarding your dog after a hike or play session. Plus, they’re usually low in calories, so your dog can enjoy them without getting too full or sluggish during your adventure.
Some great options include:
- Carrot & Peanut Butter Biscuits: These treats are packed with fiber from carrots and protein from peanut butter, making them a nutritious option for outdoor fun.
- Chicken Jerky Bites: Made with pure chicken, these protein-rich treats are perfect for giving your dog an energy boost while out exploring.
When selecting bite-sized treats, choose ones that are free from artificial preservatives, colors, or flavors to ensure they’re safe for your dog.
2. Dehydrated Treats
Dehydrated treats are another excellent option for a picnic or outdoor adventure. These treats are lightweight, easy to store, and don’t require refrigeration. By removing the moisture from the ingredients, they maintain their flavors and nutrients while offering a long shelf life.
You can find a variety of dehydrated treats to suit different dietary needs, such as:
- Dehydrated Chicken or Turkey Strips: These protein-packed treats are perfect for outdoor activities and will help keep your dog energized.
- Dehydrated Sweet Potato Chews: Full of vitamins and fiber, sweet potato chews are a healthy, chewy snack for your dog during a hike or picnic.
Dehydrated treats are especially convenient for longer trips since they’re compact, easy to carry, and have a longer shelf life, so you can buy them in bulk and use them throughout the year.
3. Freeze-Dried Treats
For a nutritious, lightweight treat, freeze-dried treats are a fantastic option. Freeze-drying helps preserve the nutrients in the ingredients while maintaining their natural flavors. These treats are often made with single-ingredient proteins like chicken, beef, or lamb, making them ideal for dogs with sensitive stomachs or food allergies.
Some popular freeze-dried treats include:
- Freeze-Dried Liver Bites: Packed with vitamins and minerals, these treats offer a great source of protein. Their small size makes them easy to carry and perfect for rewarding your dog during outdoor activities.
- Freeze-Dried Salmon Cubes: Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, these treats support your dog’s skin and coat and have a delightful aroma many dogs love.
Freeze-dried treats are convenient, mess-free, and can be served in small portions, making them ideal for outdoor adventures where you want to keep things light and simple.
4. Hydration Treats
Staying hydrated is just as important for your dog as it is for you during a picnic or outdoor adventure. While you’re sipping on water, make sure your dog has access to fresh water too. You can also help keep them hydrated with hydration treats.
These treats are designed to provide extra moisture, which can be particularly helpful on hot days or after physical activity. They often come in the form of gel treats, wet treats, or hydrating biscuits, and are usually made with ingredients like coconut water, broth, or fruit purees.
Here are a couple of hydration treats to consider:
- Coconut Water Treats: These refreshing treats help hydrate your dog while offering some electrolytes. They often come in fun shapes, like bones or paw prints, making them easy to carry and serve.
- Broth-Based Hydration Treats: Made with beef or chicken broth, these treats are a great way to keep your dog hydrated while out on a hike or enjoying a park picnic.
Always make sure your dog has access to fresh water too, and supplement it with these hydrating treats when necessary.
5. Homemade Dog Treats for Outdoor Adventures
If you enjoy baking, consider making your own homemade dog treats for your outdoor adventures. Not only will your dog feel extra special with treats made just for them, but you can customize the ingredients to suit their tastes and dietary needs.
Here are a couple of great homemade dog treat ideas for outdoor activities:
- Peanut Butter & Banana Biscuits: Mix whole wheat flour, peanut butter, mashed banana, and an egg to make a dough. Roll it out, cut into fun shapes, and bake! These treats are sweet, delicious, and full of nutrients.
- Pumpkin & Carrot Chews: Combine pumpkin puree, shredded carrots, and whole wheat flour to make chewy, wholesome treats. They’re easy to carry, and your dog will love the flavors!
Homemade treats can be tailored to your dog’s specific needs, and making them together can be a fun bonding activity. Just be sure to pack them in an airtight container to keep them fresh during your trip.
6. Dog-Friendly Picnic Packs
If you want to make your outdoor picnic even more fun for your dog, consider creating a dog-friendly picnic pack. Include a variety of treats, a portable water bowl, your dog’s favorite toy, and a comfy blanket for them to relax on. You can combine dehydrated treats, bite-sized biscuits, and hydration snacks to create a well-rounded selection of treats that keep your dog full, hydrated, and happy throughout the day.
Conclusion
A picnic or outdoor adventure is the perfect chance to spoil your dog with special treats while enjoying the beauty of nature. Whether you choose bite-sized biscuits, freeze-dried treats, or homemade snacks, the key is to pick dog-safe, nutritious options that will keep your dog energized and happy on your adventure.
By bringing along the right treats, you’ll make sure your dog feels included and enjoys the outdoor experience as much as you do. So next time you head out with your pup, pack some of these fantastic dog treats, and create memories you both will cherish.