Healthy Treats for Morkies: What Georgie Eats (and What He Avoids)
The crinkle of the dried sweet potato bag sends Georgie into a tail-wagging frenzy, a tiny tornado of white fur and boundless enthusiasm. He knows that sound, and he knows what comes next: a chewy, wholesome reward for being, well, Georgie. It’s a stark contrast to the time I accidentally left a bag of those mini hot dogs on the coffee table. The resulting stomach upset and the vet bill that followed taught me a valuable lesson about responsible treat-giving, especially for a little guy like a Morkie with a sensitive digestive system. (Check out our top pick: training treats.)
The truth is, while it’s tempting to share a bite of whatever you’re eating, most human snacks are a no-go for Morkies. Their small size means even a tiny amount of something unhealthy can cause big problems. Take chocolate, for instance. It’s an obvious one, but many people don’t realize how truly toxic it is. Beyond the outright dangerous, even seemingly harmless things like heavily processed cheese or fatty meats can lead to pancreatitis, a painful and serious condition. My vet explained that Morkies, with their mixed breed heritage, can sometimes inherit sensitivities from both sides, making a careful diet even more crucial. So, Georgie avoids anything with excessive sugar, salt, artificial sweeteners like xylitol (extremely dangerous!), or a long list of unpronounceable ingredients.
Instead, Georgie’s treat repertoire is delightfully simple and healthy. His absolute favorite, as mentioned, is dried sweet potato. I buy the single-ingredient kind, no additives, and cut it into small, manageable pieces. Another winner is plain cooked chicken breast, shredded into tiny bits – perfect for training or just a special snack. For a crunchy treat, baby carrots (in moderation, due to sugar content) or green beans are excellent. These fresh options provide essential vitamins and fiber without any of the harmful fillers or preservatives found in many commercial treats. Plus, they’re often cheaper than those fancy, branded dog cookies.
It’s not about depriving your Morkie; it’s about providing them with treats that contribute to their well-being, not detract from it. Georgie gets just as excited for a sliver of apple (seeds removed!) as he would for a greasy bite of my burger, if I ever let him have one. The trick is to establish those healthy habits early and stick to them. Prioritize single-ingredient, whole food treats for your Morkie.
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of healthy treats does Georgie, the Morkie, enjoy?
Georgie’s favorite healthy treats include specific fruits like blueberries, small pieces of cooked lean meat, and certain vegetable slices, all chosen for their nutritional value and safety for Morkies.
What types of treats are Morkies generally advised to avoid?
Morkies should avoid treats high in sugar, artificial ingredients, or common allergens. Georgie, for example, steers clear of processed snacks, chocolate, xylitol, and grapes, which can be toxic.
Why is choosing healthy treats particularly important for Morkies?
Morkies are small and can be prone to dental issues or sensitivities. Healthy treats support their overall well-being, aid digestion, and help maintain a healthy weight without introducing harmful additives or excessive calories. (Check out our top pick: dental chews.)
Instant digital download — print at home or at your local print shop