Everybody craves snacks — including your dog! And these beefy, cheese flavored dog treats are perfect for that snack attack. Their lip-smacking taste will have your dog begging for more ′′Snausages® treats, Snausages® treats!”
A Snausage in a Blanket mimics the food form of a little sausage wrapped in a biscuit.
Canine Carry Outs® Snausages In a Blanket® Beef & Cheese Flavor treats are sold in grocery stores and other large chain retail stores. To find a store near you, please check our online Product Locator. Simply choose your product and type in your zip code for a list of area stores that carry the product.
You can also order Canine Carry Outs® Snausages In a Blanket® Beef & Cheese Flavor treats online by visiting our friends at the Smuckers® Online Store, or by calling 1-800-742-6729 to reach our customer service representatives who will be happy to help. Orders placed through the Smuckers Online Store can be shipped within the continental United States.
Wheat Flour, Beef, Soy Flour, Corn Syrup, Water Sufficient For Processing, Propylene Glycol, Liver, Animal Fat (bha Used As A Preservative), Dried Cheese, Chicken By-product Meal, Calcium Sulfate, Potassium Chloride, Salt, Phosphoric Acid, Vegetable Oil (mixed Tocopherols Used As A Preservative), Titanium Dioxide (color), Garlic Powder, Sorbic Acid (used As A Preservative), Potassium Sorbate (used As A Preservative), Natural Smoke Flavor, Yellow 6, Yellow 5, Red 40, Lactic Acid, Bha (used As A Preservative), Citric Acid (used As A Preservative).
Feed as a snack or treat as part of a healthy diet. Break into small pieces for small dogs. Always monitor your pet while treating. Provide plenty of fresh water at all times.
Let’s face it – we all love to spoil our furry friends with treats. And when those puppy eyes are staring up at you, it’s hard to say no! But when it comes to Snausages, those popular dog treats that many pet owners reach for, are they actually good for your canine companion?
The short answer? Nope, they’re not. And in this article, I’m gonna break down exactly why these tasty-looking treats might be doing more harm than good to your four-legged friend.
What Are Snausages Actually Made Of?
Before we dive into whether Snausages are good or bad for dogs, let’s take a closer look at what’s actually in these popular treats. Despite their meaty appearance and smell that dogs go crazy for, the ingredient list might surprise you
- Meat by-products – These include parts of animals not typically used for human consumption like organs and bones
- Grains – Corn, wheat, and soy that provide carbohydrates and chewy texture
- Sugar – Added to enhance taste (dogs don’t need added sugar!)
- Artificial additives – Colors, flavors, and preservatives to improve appearance and shelf life
- BHA (Butylated Hydroxyanisole) – A preservative identified as a potential cancer-causing agent
- Propylene Glycol – A chemical that can be used as a replacement for antifreeze (yikes!)
That last ingredient deserves special attention. Propylene Glycol has been banned for use in cat treats because it can cause Heinz Body Anemia, which can be fatal. Unfortunately it’s still allowed in dog treats like Snausages. Not exactly what you want to be feeding your best friend right?
The Health Risks of Feeding Snausages to Your Dog
When you give your dog a Snausage, you might think you’re giving them a special treat. But you could actually be introducing several health risks:
1. Potential for Cancer
The BHA preservative found in Snausages has been identified as a cancer-causing agent. It has produced tumors in laboratory animals. This is definitely not something we want to be giving to our beloved pets!
2. Risk of Anemia
As mentioned earlier, Propylene Glycol, another ingredient in Snausages, can cause Heinz Body Anemia in pets, which can be potentially fatal.
3. High in Fat and Calories
Snausages are loaded with fat and calories, which can contribute to:
- Weight gain
- Obesity
- Joint issues
- Diabetes
- Heart disease
4. Poor Nutritional Value
These treats contain fillers and artificial ingredients that provide little to no nutritional benefit to your dog. They’re essentially empty calories that can displace more nutritious foods in your dog’s diet.
5. Potential for Allergies and Digestive Issues
The artificial ingredients and additives in Snausages can trigger allergies or digestive problems in some dogs. Common symptoms include:
- Itching
- Skin rashes
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
6. Dental Health Concerns
The sticky nature of Snausages can cause them to stick to your dog’s teeth, potentially leading to dental issues such as plaque buildup, tartar, and bad breath.
What Experts Say About Sausage-Type Treats for Dogs
Most veterinary experts agree that sausage-type treats, including Snausages, are not good for dogs. According to multiple sources, dogs should avoid sausages and sausage-type treats altogether.
One comprehensive guide from Dog Food Genius states: “Dogs should not eat sausages because they are high in fat and salt, and often contain seasonings like garlic or onions that are toxic for them.”
This applies to all types of sausages, including:
- Vienna sausages
- Italian sausages
- Chorizo
- Turkey sausages
- Pork sausages
- Chicken sausages
- Breakfast sausages
- Kielbasa
- Bratwurst
- Summer sausages
And yes, this includes commercial sausage-shaped dog treats like Snausages too!
The Truth About Commercial Dog Treats
Snausages aren’t the only commercial treats we should be avoiding. Other popular treats that made the “do not feed” list include:
- Milk Bones – These contain BHA, which as we’ve learned, is a potential carcinogen.
- Pupperoni – Like Snausages, these contain both BHA and Propylene Glycol.
- Beggin’ Strips – These contain carcinogenic dyes like Yellow Dye #5 and Red Dye #40, which have been linked to hyperactivity, anxiety, migraines, and cancer. Yellow Dye #5 has been banned in many European countries.
- Temptations (for cats) – These are made with “meat meal” which can be any meat not used for human consumption, including roadkill and other unsavory sources.
Healthier Alternatives to Snausages
So if Snausages aren’t good for your dog, what can you give them instead? Here are some healthier alternatives that your pup will love just as much:
1. All-Natural Dog Treats
Look for treats made from high-quality, natural ingredients without artificial preservatives, colors, or flavors. Many pet boutiques and online stores offer these healthier options.
2. Single-Ingredient Treats
Some of the best treats are simply dehydrated or freeze-dried single ingredients, such as:
- Freeze-dried liver or chicken
- Dehydrated sweet potato slices
- Freeze-dried fish treats
3. Fresh Foods (in moderation)
Many dogs love these healthy human foods that can be given as occasional treats:
- Carrot sticks
- Apple slices (no seeds)
- Small pieces of lean, cooked chicken or turkey (no seasonings)
- Blueberries
4. Homemade Dog Treats
If you’re feeling adventurous, try making your own dog treats! This way, you control exactly what goes into them. There are tons of simple recipes online that use wholesome ingredients.
5. Dental Chews
Look for natural dental chews that help promote good oral health while also satisfying your dog’s urge to chew.
How to Choose Healthy Treats for Your Dog
When shopping for dog treats, follow these tips to ensure you’re making the healthiest choice for your furry friend:
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Read the ingredients list – Look for real, recognizable ingredients. The shorter the list, the better!
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Avoid artificial additives – Stay away from treats with artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives (especially BHA, BHT, and Ethoxyquin).
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Consider your dog’s specific needs – If your dog has allergies or dietary restrictions, choose treats accordingly.
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Watch the calorie content – Treats should make up no more than 10% of your dog’s daily caloric intake.
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Check for recalls – Before purchasing, check if the brand has had any safety recalls.
Frequently Asked Questions About Snausages and Dog Treats
Are Snausages safe for dogs to eat?
No, Snausages are not recommended for dogs to eat. They contain harmful ingredients like BHA and Propylene Glycol, which can cause serious health issues including cancer and anemia.
Do Snausages provide any nutritional benefits for dogs?
Snausages provide very little nutritional value for dogs. They’re high in calories, sodium, and fat, which can contribute to weight gain and other health issues.
What are some signs my dog might be having a reaction to Snausages?
Signs of an adverse reaction can include itching, skin rashes, vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, or changes in behavior. If you notice any of these symptoms after giving your dog Snausages, discontinue use and consult your veterinarian.
Are all commercial dog treats bad?
Not all commercial treats are bad, but many popular brands contain questionable ingredients. Always read the label and choose treats with whole, natural ingredients.
How often should I give my dog treats?
Treats should make up no more than 10% of your dog’s daily caloric intake. The rest should come from a balanced, nutritious diet.
Conclusion: Ditch the Snausages for Healthier Options
When it comes to treating our furry friends, we want to give them the very best. After all, they give us their unconditional love every day! While Snausages might make your dog’s tail wag with excitement, they’re not doing any favors for their health.
The evidence is clear – Snausages contain harmful ingredients that could potentially cause serious health issues over time. Instead of reaching for these toxic treats, opt for healthier alternatives that will satisfy your dog’s cravings without the health risks.
Remember, treats are meant to be just that – treats! They should be given in moderation and should complement a balanced, nutritious diet. By making informed choices about what you feed your dog, you’re helping ensure they’ll be by your side, happy and healthy, for many years to come.
We love our pets too much to give them treats that might harm them, don’t we? So next time you’re shopping for dog treats, skip the Snausages and choose something that’s actually good for your furry best friend!
Has your dog ever had Snausages? What healthier treats have you found that your dog loves? Share your experiences in the comments below!
