Can Dogs Eat Wheat Thins? 4 Vet Reviewed Reason & Alternatives
By Adam Mann
Updated on
When you’re munching on your favorite treat, it’s a common sight around the world for your dog to come up and start begging for some. But if you’re debating giving your dog some Wheat Thins, you really shouldn’t.
There are a few different reasons Wheat Thins aren’t an excellent choice for your dog that we’ll highlight for you below. And before you start to feel too bad, we’ve also highlighted some great healthy treat options you can feed your dog guilt-free.
The 4 Reasons Your Dog Shouldn’t Eat Wheat Thins
While you don’t have to worry if your dog gets a Wheat Thin or two by mistake, there are a few reasons you should avoid feeding them to your pet routinely. We’ve highlighted those reasons for you here. That way, you know exactly why they’re not the best choice for your pup!
1. Sodium Content
By far, the most significant reason you shouldn’t feed your pup Wheat Thins is because of the high sodium content in the crackers. Sodium isn’t good for humans either, but humans can consume more sodium than dogs. It doesn’t take many Wheat Thins to start creating problems for your dog.
2. Sugar
While we can certainly find snacks with more added sugar than Wheat Thins, Wheat Thins still have too much sugar for your dog. Too much sugar can cause diabetes, weight gain, and more. And this is especially true with artificial sugars, which is exactly what you’ll find in Wheat Thins.
3. Carbohydrates
While your dog needs carbohydrates, where they get those carbohydrates from matters. Ideally, your dog wants to get their carbohydrates from vegetables and fruits, not from grains that you’ll find in Wheat Thins.
4. Artificial Preservatives and Colors
These ingredients are nothing but additives, and they can lead to some long-term health problems like cancer. To be fair, artificial preservatives and colors aren’t good for us either, but because of their smaller size, smaller quantities can lead to more problems for your pet.
The 5 Better Treat Options for Your Dog
While you shouldn’t feed your dog Wheat Thins, that doesn’t mean you can’t give them anything at all when they’re giving you those pleading puppy eyes! Below are some great healthy snack options you can feel good about giving your dog when they want a snack.
1. Apples
Apples are an outstanding sweet treat that many pups enjoy. Apples provide plenty of nutrients and fiber for your dog, but you don’t want to feed them either the seeds or the apple’s core.
2. Carrots
Whether you want to feed your dog cooked or raw carrots, it’s a great healthy treat option for your dog. If you’re looking to feed your dog raw carrots, ensure you cut them up into small bits so they don’t turn into a choking hazard. Meanwhile, if you’re feeding your dog cooked carrots, don’t add any additional seasonings, as these are not good for your dog.
3. Watermelon
Watermelon is a refreshing treat for your pooch! Remove any seeds and the rind before giving it to your dog. Don’t overdo it, though, because watermelon is high in natural sugars, and too much isn’t great for your pet.
4. Bananas
Bananas are another sweet treat loaded with beneficial nutrients for your dog. Bananas are also one of the more cost-effective options out there, so you won’t break the bank feeding them to your dog every now and again.
But just like with watermelon, you don’t want to overdo it with bananas because of the higher sugar content.
5. Broccoli
Broccoli is another great food choice for your dog, and you can feed it to them cooked or raw. It’s easier for pups to digest cooked broccoli, but there’s nothing wrong with a raw piece of broccoli or two. Just like with other foods, don’t feed your dog broccoli with any added ingredients or seasonings.
Final Thoughts
If you’re thinking about feeding your dog some Wheat Thins, please consider a healthier snack option for them. We’re not saying you can’t make their day by giving them a few treats, we’re saying you shouldn’t make that treat Wheat Thins, even if that’s what you’re munching on.
While it might be tempting, it’s up to you to keep your dog’s best interests in mind, and this means not giving them any of the Wheat Thins they’re asking for!
