Top Ten Healthy Dog Treats

A Guide to Choosing the Best for Your Furry Friend

Treats are an essential part of your dog’s life-whether for training, rewarding, or simply showing some extra love. But with so many options out there, how do you ensure you’re making the best choice for your dog’s health and happiness? Below are ten tips to help you pick the healthiest treats for your dog.

1. Go Handmade for Maximum Quality

Handmade dog treats are often your best bet. Why? They typically contain no artificial additives like preservatives, colours, or flavour enhancers. Plus, many handmade options still offer a shelf life of up to 12 months without compromising on quality. 

2. Prioritise Human-Grade In

When choosing treats, look for those made with human-grade ingredients.  Check the ingredient list and ensure that high-quality items like meat, fish, sweet potatoes, or vegetables appear as the first or second ingredient as everything is listed in weight order. So the good stuff should be near the top of the list.

3. Check the Fat Content

Low-fat treats (around 5% fat) allow you to offer your dog a few treats  throughout the day without worrying about weight gain. These are also excellent for dogs with specific health conditions, such as pancreatitis. If you and your dog are active and enjoy long walks or engage in sports, consider treats of around 10% fat to provide a valuable energy source.

4. Look Beyond Grain-Free Labels

While many treats are marketed as “grain-free,” this doesn’t automatically make them healthy. Grain-free can often mean replacing grains with grain-free flour and a few herbs. Instead, look for treats rich in healthy, wholesome ingredients like meat, fish, vegetables, or fruit. These provide much more nutritional value.

5. Supplement Their Diet with Treats

Treats can be a great way to complement your dog’s regular diet. Most dogs eat the same brand of food every day, so treats with added ingredients such as liver, turkey, fish, fruits, and vegetables can offer extra nourishment. Variety is key—try offering different types of treats to ensure your dog gets a wide range of nutrients.

6. Look for Joint Support

Some dog treats come with added joint care supplements, such as glucosamine and chondroitin, or omega-3, which are beneficial for dogs of all ages. Supporting your dog’s joints is especially important as they age or if they are of a breed prone to joint issues.

7. Smell Matters for Training

It’s no secret that dogs are motivated by strong scents, so liver or cheese-based treats can make training sessions more effective and enjoyable. The stronger the smell, the more eager your dog will be to learn!

8. Crunchy Treats for Dental Health

Dogs love the satisfying crunch of a hard treat, and these also help promote dental health. Crunchy treats can clean teeth up to the gum line, reducing plaque buildup and promoting overall oral hygiene. It’s a win-win-fun for your dog and good for their teeth.

9. Try Dehydrated, Single-Ingredient Treats

Homemade dehydrated treats made from a single ingredient, such as meat or fish, are excellent for training. They’re simple, nutritious, and can be made at home. Just be sure to store them in an airtight container and use them within a week to maintain freshness.

10. Don’t Get Caught Up in Grain-Free Hype

Contrary to popular belief, grain-free isn’t essential for most dogs. Dogs don’t commonly suffer from gluten sensitivity (also known as gluten enteropathy). What’s more important is the source of protein. Some proteins, like chicken and beef, can be linked to allergies in dogs. Be mindful of your dog’s specific needs and consider alternative proteins such as turkey, lamb, or fish.

Final Thoughts

By following these tips, you’ll ensure that your dog’s treats not only taste great but also contribute to their overall health and wellbeing. Whether you’re looking for low-fat options, treats that support joint health, or something packed with nutrients, there’s a healthy treat out there for every dog.

If you’re ready to explore some nutritious and delicious treats for your furry friend, head over to our dog treat shop, where new customers can enjoy 20% off their first order!