Most dog owners are aware of the health dangers in allowing their dog to become overweight. They also know that some table foods can be dangerous for dogs so they’re looking for healthy treats that will also be tasty for their canine pets.
With the pet industry growing nationwide, pet specialty stores such as boutiques and bakeries are popping up everywhere. According to the American Pet Products Manufacturers Association, the industry will reach sales estimated at $43.4 billion in 2008. That’s almost double the amount just ten years ago. Three Dog Bakery claims that their All-Natural Dog Treats Category is a $2 billion category and is expected to grow by 18% this year alone. Even in these troubled economic times, many dog owners seem to be stretching their last dollars to spoil their beloved companions.
Dog Bakeries Offer Variety of Treats
Pet specialty stores such as Happy Dog Bakery in Moline, Illinois, Barbara’s Canine Catering in Charlotte, North Carolina, and Three Dog Bakery with franchise locations throughout North America, China, and Japan offer a vast array of unique treats.
Doggy gourmet shops seem to have something for any dog. Many recipes use all natural, human grade ingredients. Selections may include such creations as bacon and egg piglets, beagle bagles, peanut butter cups, and raspberry vanilla stars. Some may be coated with yogurt or carob and decorated with sprinkles or contain a yogurt filling. Shoppers may even find treats to accommodate dogs with allergies to wheat and grain products.
Three Dog Bakery claims, on its website, to have pioneered the dog bakery concept. Their online “dogalog” offers such delights as Vanilla Woofers, carob chip cookies called Ulti”mutt” Spots, rrrRRRibs, and Bark ‘n Fetch Biscuits including a lowfat apple oatmeal variety.
Homemade Doggy Party Dip
High quality fancy dog treats do not come cheap and some families look for more economical alternatives to show their pooch how much they love them. For those dog owners, homemade dog treats or a simple party dip to dress up their dog’s regular treats helps to include Scruffy in holiday celebrations.
A doggy version of chips and dip can be quickly whipped up using common milkbones dipped in a mixture of vanilla yogurt or cottage cheese with a little baby food fruit, honey and wheat germ added.
Dogs love nothing better than to be with their humans, especially during happy events. This holiday, dog owners can easily serve up holiday treats for their best friend by shopping the local dog bakery, ordering online, or mixing up a homemade creation.
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