Let’s talk about summer. The sun’s out, the pool’s calling, and in this house, we’re all about the snacks. And by “we”, I mean Meatball. Obviously. 😊
When you’ve got a dog who’s allergic to literally everything except duck and a few select foods (because why make things easy, right?), you become a bit of a treat connoisseur. So today, we’re spilling the kibble on Meatball’s Top 5 Favorite Summer Snacks. They’re all allergy-friendly, dog-approved, and some are tasty for humans too.
1. Dog Delights Chewy Duck Sticks 🦆
These are one of the very few duck treats we’ve been able to find that also don’t have pea protein in them (which Meatball is also allergic too ☹). These are soft, chewy, and perfect for dogs of all ages and sizes. And the best part is that the only protein is duck, no added chicken fillers. Meatball’s highest allergy is chicken which is added in a lot of food and treats, so we always have to double check ingredients.
2. Bocce’s Bakery Soft & Chewy Dog Treats 🦆
If Meatball could write a love letter to a treat, this would be it. They’re soft (great for senior dogs or those missing a few teeth), made with limited ingredients, and again duck is the star. We love that Bocce’s has allergy-friendly options, so we can treat without stress. Bonus: they smell decent. That matters when you’re carrying them in a treat pouch all day. 😊
3. Watermelon 🍉
Watermelon is the ultimate summer snack, for humans and dogs. It’s hydrating, sweet, and full of good-for-you stuff. We serve it fresh, freeze it, or blend it and smear it on a lick bowl for a frozen treat. We get our Watermelons from Costco or a local produce stand, depending on what’s available.
We also grew our first watermelons last year which turned out great, so hoping we get good ones again this year (not able to be picked until at least September though). Don’t forget we also have Meatball inspired dog poop bags that are watermelon scented, perfectly fitting for our Bubs.
4. Mango (Fresh or Dried) 🥭
Meatball doesn’t discriminate. Fresh mango? Yes. Dried mango? Also, yes. We usually grab both from Costco and let me tell you, watching him delicately nibble a mango slice is comedy gold. Sweet, packed with vitamins, and safe in moderation, mango is a summer must.
5. Strawberries & Blueberries 🍓🫐
Meatball can never pick just one, so we do both. These make great toppers on his kibble for both breakfast and dinner. Both are packed with antioxidants which help support overall health and are also low in calories.
How We Use These Treats
In addition to giving Meatball treats just because he’s the best boy or during meals as toppers, we also use them as training motivation. I even wear a treat pouch like it’s an accessory to my daily outfit when we’re outside so we can keep working on Meatball’s backyard reactivity in real-time.
Consistency (and duck treats) are key, friends.
Treat Recap
Summer snacks should be simple, healthy, and bring joy to your dog’s day.
Whether it’s a fancy duck stick or a frozen fruit blend, the real win is making your dog feel loved, happy, and seen.
Now if you’ll excuse us, Meatball just heard me say “treat” out loud and is giving me the stare.
Stay cool, stay snacky, and give your dog a blueberry from us. 🐾
With love & pawsitivity,
Susie Cogswell, Cogs Dogs Mom
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