February 23 is definitely a favorite day among our furry friends. You can make this day especially special for them by making your own dog treats, finding one perfect for your pooch, or creating a whole meal around your dog’s favorite foods. There are plenty of recipes online for DIY dog biscuits or you can always purchase some great all-natural dog treats from your local grocer or farmer’s market. Here are a few tips on how to make International Dog Biscuit Appreciation Day even better.

DIY

While you may think they won’t notice, your pooch will love a handmade treat created by their favorite person. My favorite treat to make for my dogs is honestly one of the easiest. All you need are a few sweet potatoes, butter, and about ten to 20 minutes. First you slice the sweet potatoes into thick (about a quarter inch) chips, then slather them with butter and put them in the oven. Set the oven on a lower setting like 100 or 120 degrees. Let them stay in the oven until they are crispy on the outside. Your pet will love the savory treat and you can always have them in stock since they are so easy to make!

What To Look For

If you want to treat your pooch to a more sophisticated treat there are plenty of options. Going to a local farmer’s market will actually offer more variety than you could ever imagine. There are plenty of handmade treats that have peanut butter in them but if your dog is more of a meat eater pig’s ears and large bones can be perfect. Purchasing from the farmer is often less expensive and you feel better knowing the bones are not filled with any mystery meat or unhealthy by products. Just be sure to give them large, healthy bones instead of small, thin bones that can get lodged in their throat or tear at their stomach.

Mutually Beneficial

Dog biscuits can be great for the dog and the human. We do not suggest you munch on them with your pooch but getting dog treats with peppermint or cleaning agents (coconut oil or lemon) can help them have a healthier mouth and you won’t be as adverse to cuddle time at the end of the day. If you decide to purchase a dog treat to help your pooch be sure to read all labels carefully and avoid preservatives that are unnatural or that could upset your furry friend’s stomach. They will be forever grateful!