Bake or Buy to Bond: Celebrate National Dog Biscuit Day Your Way

February 23rd just got a whole lot yummier for doggos. Why? Because it’s not just National Dog Biscuit Day but also International Dog Biscuit Appreciation Day. That makes Feb. 23 a day to celebrate your precious pooch with a few extra biscuits.

The Power of Dog Biscuits

Using biscuits while training.

Dog biscuits aren’t just for spoiling your pup, although there’s nothing wrong with that. They can be valuable for:

Positive reinforcement training: Reward good behavior like following commands or staying calm around other dogs with small, healthy treats to encourage the pup to repeat that behavior.

Tricks and games: Use biscuits to motivate your dog to learn fun tricks or engage in nosework or treat puzzles.

Enrichment: Keep your dog occupied and mentally stimulated with long-lasting chews or puzzle feeders filled with biscuits to help combat boredom and destructive behaviors.

Bonding: Sometimes, a simple “just because” biscuit is a great way to show your dog you care.

Smart Treats

While dog biscuits are fantastic, mindful portion control is essential to keep your dog’s weight on point. Here are some tips:

Choose small biscuits: This allows for more rewards without overdoing calories.

Factor in meals: Adjust their meal portions to compensate for treat calories.

Use puzzle toys: Slow down eating and maximize enjoyment with puzzles that dispense treats slowly.

Get creative: Break larger biscuits into smaller pieces for more treats or use them as stuffing for Kong toys.

Navigate the Biscuit Bonanza

Commercial dog biscuits offer convenience, but there’s a trade-off.

On the one hand, they are easy to find and come in various shapes, sizes, and flavors. On the other hand, they may contain additives, fillers, or ingredients your dog is sensitive to. Be sure to consult your veterinarian if your dog has any allergies or dietary restrictions.

If you enjoy baking or have a pooch with food sensitivities, consider making your own dog biscuits. Here are links to a few recipes to get you started.

Peanut Butter and Pumpkin Dog Treats: flour, xylitol-free peanut butter and pumpkin puree.

Easy Homemade Dog Treats: oats, xylitol-free peanut butter and banana.

Chicken and Sweet Potato Dog Biscuits: chicken, sweet potatoes, eggs and flour.

Blackberry Biscuits: almond flour, flax meal, blackberries, olive oil, egg.

Peanut Butter Dog Treats: flour, xylitol-free peanut butter, egg, water and honey.

Crunchy Beef Dog Biscuits: beef, eggs, oats, flour and water.

Frozen Milk Bone biscuit sandwiches. Filling includes dog food pate, squeezy cheesy, xylitol-free peanut butter and unsweetened Greek yogurt.

Frozen cookie sandwiches: Cover a commercial or homemade dog biscuit with xylitol-free peanut butter, squeezy cheesy, cream cheese, unsweetened Greek yogurt or canned dog pate and top with another biscuit, then freeze. Make a bunch at once for easy frozen enrichment.

Celebrate with a Wag

Whether you bake a batch or pick up their favorites, make National Dog Biscuit Day a celebration of love, learning, and fun for your furry companion. Don’t forget to share your #NationalDogBiscuitDay adventures to inspire other pet parents to spoil their pups.

Happy baking and celebrating, fellow dog lovers!