The Ultimate Guide to Dog Treats: How to Choose the Best for Your Pup
For many pet owners, spoiling their dogs with toys and treats is a delightful part of pet parenting. Whether it’s an afternoon energy boost or a reward for good behavior during a public outing, treats are a beloved way to show affection. However, while dogs relish food rewards, it’s essential to be mindful of what and how much we give them. Human food, even in small amounts, can quickly add up to extra calories and potential health issues for our furry friends.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore how to choose the best dog treats, the nutritional balance they should maintain, and some top recommendations from veterinarians and pet experts.
Understanding Dog Treats: A Nutritional Perspective
Why Treats Matter
Treats should be considered a small part of your dog’s overall diet. Experts recommend that treats make up no more than 10% of your pet’s daily calorie intake. This means that while it’s tempting to shower your pup with goodies, moderation is key to maintaining their health and preventing obesity.
Nutritional Balance
When selecting treats, look for those that clearly state the number of calories per serving and include feeding recommendations on the packaging. The Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) nutritional adequacy label can also be a helpful guide, although not all treats are required to carry this label.
Ingredients to Avoid
Certain ingredients can irritate your dog’s stomach or pose health risks. Avoid treats containing:
- Artificial sweeteners like xylitol
- Artificial colors
- Excessive salt
- High-sugar syrups and molasses
Instead, opt for treats that include dog-safe fruits and vegetables, such as carrots, green beans, apples, and bananas, which offer low calories and good nutritional value.
Size Matters
The size of the treat should be proportional to your dog’s size. Giving a small dog a large treat can pose a choking hazard, while a large dog may not be satisfied with a tiny morsel. Consider breaking larger treats into smaller pieces to manage calorie intake effectively.
Top Dog Treat Recommendations for 2024
Based on expert advice and staff favorites, here are some of the best dog treats available this year:
Best Overall: Hill’s Natural Baked Light Small Biscuits
- Calories (per treat): 34 kcal
- Key Ingredients: Chicken, rice bran, whole grain wheat
- Recommended for: All sizes, adults, and mature dogs
These low-calorie chicken-flavored biscuits are a healthy alternative that won’t add extra calories to your pet’s diet.
Best Treat Sticks: SmartBones SmartSticks Beef Chews
- Calories (per treat): 55 kcal
- Key Ingredients: Corn, chicken, glycerin
- Recommended for: All breeds, all life stages
These rawhide-free sticks are not only tasty but also support dental health while keeping your dog entertained.
Best for Puppies: Blue Buffalo Blue Bits Dog Treats
- Calories (per treat): 4 kcal
- Key Ingredients: Chicken, oatmeal, brown rice
- Recommended for: All breeds, all life stages
These soft, meat-flavored treats are perfect for training and support skin and coat health.
Best for Joint Health: Zuke’s Hip Action Hip & Joint Natural Dog Treats
- Calories (per treat): 19 kcal
- Key Ingredients: Chicken, rice, oats
- Recommended for: All breeds, all life stages
These treats are enriched with egg shell membrane to support joint health, making them ideal for older dogs.
Best Variety Pack: Old Mother Hubbard Original Mix Oven-Baked Dog Treats
- Calories (per treat): Varies
- Key Ingredients: Whole wheat flour, oatmeal
- Recommended for: Small breeds, all life stages
This variety pack offers different flavors, ensuring your dog enjoys a mix of tastes.
Best Low-Calorie: Zuke’s Mini Naturals Chicken Recipe Dog Training Treats
- Calories (per treat): 2 kcal
- Key Ingredients: Chicken, rice, oats
- Recommended for: Small breeds, all life stages
These tiny morsels are perfect for training without adding excessive calories.
Best Freeze-Dried Treats: Maeve Human-Grade Freeze Dried Treats
- Calories (per treat): 2 kcal
- Key Ingredients: Beef liver
- Recommended for: All breeds, adults
These single-ingredient treats are great for dogs with sensitive stomachs.
Best Dental Treats: Greenies Regular Dog Dental Treats
- Calories (per treat): 91 kcal
- Key Ingredients: Wheat flour, glycerin
- Recommended for: Medium breeds, adults
These dental treats help reduce plaque and tartar while freshening breath.
How to Shop for Dog Treats
When shopping for dog treats, consider the following tips:
1. Determine Nutritional Balance
Treats should not replace your dog’s core diet. Ensure that the total calorie count from treats does not exceed 10% of their daily intake.
2. Analyze Ingredients
Avoid harmful ingredients and look for treats that contain wholesome, natural ingredients.
3. Find the Right Size
Choose treats that are appropriate for your dog’s size and chewing habits. Small treats are ideal for training, while larger ones can be used for enrichment.
4. Consider Special Needs
If your dog has specific health concerns, such as joint issues or allergies, look for treats that cater to those needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I Get My Dog Dental Treats?
Yes, dental treats can help maintain your dog’s oral health, but they should not replace regular brushing. Look for treats approved by the Veterinary Oral Health Council.
What About Grain-Free Dog Treats?
Grain-free treats are not necessarily better for dogs and can sometimes lead to nutritional deficiencies. Consult your veterinarian before switching to grain-free options.
Conclusion
Choosing the right treats for your dog is essential for their health and happiness. By considering nutritional balance, ingredient quality, and your dog’s specific needs, you can make informed decisions that keep your furry friend healthy and satisfied. Remember, treats are a way to show love, but moderation is key to ensuring a long, healthy life for your beloved pet.