What are risks of giving too many treats or table scraps to a senior dog?

• A. No effect; dogs don't care.
• B. Weight gain, dental issues, GI upset, and conflicts with prescribed medical diets.
• C. Improved energy and better health.
• D. Guaranteed longer life.

Answer: (B)

Giving too many treats or table scraps introduces extra calories and nutrients that can create a range of health risks for a senior dog. The most immediate issue is weight gain, which is common in older dogs and can worsen joint pain, reduce mobility, and raise the risk of conditions like diabetes or heart disease. Dental health is another concern; many treats are sticky or hard and can promote plaque and dental disease, which is already more common in older dogs and can cause pain and appetite loss. Gastrointestinal upset is also a real possibility; rich or unfamiliar foods can cause vomiting, diarrhea, or pancreatitis, especially in seniors with sensitive digestion. Finally, feeding extra treats can interfere with prescribed medical diets, throwing off the precise balance of nutrients (like protein, phosphorus, sodium, or calories) needed for conditions such as kidney disease, diabetes, or heart problems.

That’s why this option is the best answer. The other choices aren’t accurate: treats do affect dogs, and overdoing them is unlikely to improve energy or extend life; there’s no evidence that more treats guarantees longer life.