Just as you might opt for a handful of almonds over processed snacks, selecting the right treats for your dog is crucial for their health and well-being. With a growing market of pet treats boasting natural ingredients and botanical extracts, it’s natural to wonder: are pet botanic treats safe and are they a good choice for your furry companion?
This guide, crafted by pets.edu.vn’s pet experts, dives deep into the world of pet botanic treats, exploring their safety, benefits, and how to choose the best options. We’ll analyze popular choices, discuss what makes a dog treat truly healthy, and address your frequently asked questions to ensure you’re making informed decisions for your dog’s treat time.
Navigating the pet treat aisle can be overwhelming. Terms like “natural,” “organic,” and “botanic” are frequently used, but understanding what they truly mean for your dog’s health is essential. While treats are a fantastic way to bond with your dog and reinforce positive behavior, moderation and informed choices are key.
Dr. Alejandro Caos, a veterinarian with The Vets, emphasizes this point: “It’s important to note that while treats can be a fun and rewarding way to bond with your dog, they should be given in moderation and should not make up a significant portion of your dog’s daily diet.”
To help you make the best choices, we’ve curated a list of top-rated healthy dog treats, followed by an in-depth look at what constitutes a healthy treat, with a special focus on the safety and advantages of botanic-infused options.
Our Top Picks for Healthy Dog Treats
This selection features a variety of treats catering to different needs, from training aids to dental care, and includes options with beneficial botanicals.
Best Overall:
Pet Botanics Training Rewards Flavor Dog Treats at Amazon $18
Jump to Review
Best Organic:
Wet Noses Organic Crunchy Dog Treats at Amazon $13
Jump to Review
Best for Puppies:
Wellness Soft Puppy Bites at Amazon $10
Jump to Review
Best Dental:
Virbac Tartar Control Dog Chews at Amazon $36
Jump to Review
Best Jerky:
Rocco & Roxie Supply Co. Gourmet Jerky Sticks at Amazon $104
Jump to Review
Best Fish:
The Honest Kitchen Beams Ocean Chews at Amazon $18
Jump to Review
Best Freeze-Dried:
Open Farm Freeze-Dried Raw Dog Food at Amazon $38
Jump to Review
Best Fortified Treats:
Merrick Power Bites Dog Treats at Amazon $8
Jump to Review
Best Topper:
The Honest Kitchen Pour Overs at Amazon $31
Jump to Review
Best for Picky Eaters:
Hill’s Science Diet Soft Savories Treats at Amazon $10
Jump to Review
Best for Large Dogs:
Blue Buffalo Blue Bits at Amazon $5
Jump to Review
Best for Small Dogs:
Old Mother Hubbard Mini Dog Biscuits at Amazon $7
Jump to Review
Best Bully Stick:
Natural Farm Odor-Free Standard Bully Sticks at Amazon $65
Jump to Review
Best Training Treats:
Fruitables Skinny Minis Soft Dog Treats at Amazon $10
Jump to Review
Best Small Batch:
Bocce’s Bakery Soft & Chewy Treats at Amazon $8
Jump to Review
Best Overall
Pet Botanics Training Rewards Flavor Dog Treats
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/Pet-Botanics-Training-Rewards-12eec8d0332f4ac0b0ed1c6239598ae8.jpg)
PHOTO: Petsmart
$18 $17 at Amazon $17 at Chewy $27 at Walmart
What We Like:
- 500 treats in each bag
- Variety of flavors
- Recognizable ingredients, featuring real meat protein
- Enriched with botanicals and antioxidants
What We Don’t Like:
- Noticeable smell
These soft, bite-sized treats are an excellent choice for training, containing only 3 calories each. Their small size makes them perfect for both small dogs and training sessions with dogs of any size. With approximately 500 treats per bag, they offer great value. Available in flavors like beef, chicken, and salmon, their primary protein source is pork liver.
What sets Pet Botanics Training Rewards apart is their inclusion of botanicals. These treats are crafted in the USA without corn, artificial flavorings, soy, or preservatives, and boast easily identifiable ingredients such as potatoes and dried whole eggs. They also incorporate a range of beneficial botanicals, including rosemary, green tea, chamomile, antioxidant-rich fruits, and other herbs known for their vitamin content. These botanicals not only contribute to the treats’ flavor profile but also offer potential health benefits through their antioxidant and vitamin properties.
For even smaller dogs or more calorie-conscious training, Pet Botanics offers a “mini” version with just 1.5 calories per treat, also available in various flavors like chicken, bacon, beef, and grain-free salmon.
Treat Type: Soft | Calories per Treat: 3 | Size: 500 per package | Primary Ingredients: Pork liver, pea flour, potatoes, dried whole eggs
Best Organic
Wet Noses Organic Crunchy Dog Treats
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/Wet-Noses-Organic-Crunchy-Dog-Treats-bd392b374e1846fbaea7778b905c5785.jpg)
PHOTO: Amazon
$13 at Amazon View on Chewy View on Petco
What We Like:
- USDA-certified organic and non-GMO verified
- Wide variety of 13 flavor combinations
- Limited ingredient list
- Appealing aroma
What We Don’t Like:
- Relatively higher price point
Wet Noses dog treats stand out with their diverse and intriguing flavor options. These organic crunchy treats come in over a dozen flavor combinations, such as peanut butter and banana, carrot and sweet potato, and pumpkin and quinoa. They are USDA-certified organic and made without corn, soy, or wheat. These treats prioritize human-grade organic ingredients like peanut butter, pea flour, and sunflower kernels, and contain no preservatives or fillers.
The treats are generously sized, slightly larger than a quarter, making them suitable for larger dogs. However, they can easily be broken into smaller, crunchier pieces for training treats or smaller dogs. The appealing fruity and vegetable flavor combinations make them smell delicious to both dogs and their owners.
Treat Type: Crunchy | Calories per Treat: 18 | Size: 14 ounces | Primary Ingredients: Fruits and vegetables
Best for Puppies
Wellness Soft Puppy Bites
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/Wellness-Soft-Puppy-Bites-Grain-Free-Lamb–Salmon-a1b60141da2145ce9ab8b4ed7d20c17a.jpg)
PHOTO: Amazon
$10 at Amazon $10 at Chewy $10 at Petco
What We Like:
- Easy to break into smaller pieces for tiny mouths
- No artificial colors, flavors, or meat byproducts
- Salmon and lamb listed as first ingredients
What We Don’t Like:
- Can have a strong odor
Puppies will eagerly respond to these soft salmon and lamb treats from Wellness. They possess just the right amount of enticing smell to capture a puppy’s easily distracted attention. These nickel-sized squares can be easily torn into even smaller pieces, making them a healthy and manageable option for young pups. Each treat contains only 6 calories.
Lamb and salmon are the primary ingredients, and the treats are free from artificial colors, flavors, and meat byproducts. Salmon provides DHA, an omega-3 fatty acid that supports brain development in puppies. Other wholesome ingredients include carrots, blueberries, apples, and sweet potatoes. The ingredients are globally sourced, and the treats are made in the USA.
Treat Type: Soft | Calories per Treat: 6 | Size: 8 ounces | Primary Ingredients: Lamb, salmon, chickpeas, potatoes
Best Dental
Virbac Tartar Control Dog Chews
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/virbac-cet-veggiedent-fr3sh-tartar-control-dog-chews-a5780352c7ce407c92a7c06d97ea2bd6.jpg)
PHOTO: Amazon
$36 $32 at Amazon $32 at Chewy
What We Like:
- Available in multiple sizes
- Plant-based ingredients
- Contains a prebiotic to support digestion
- VOHC (Veterinary Oral Health Council) approved
- Helps reduce plaque and tartar and freshens breath
What We Don’t Like:
- Can be relatively expensive
- Higher calorie count compared to other treats
- Taste may not appeal to all dogs
These plant-based dental chews, made without any animal-derived ingredients, feature a unique Z-shape. This design allows dogs to easily grip the chew, while the zigzag shape aids in cleaning all surfaces of your dog’s teeth. Virbac, a reputable pharmaceutical company for animals, is known for its oral health products for pets, including toothpastes, toothbrushes, and oral rinses.
These dental chews are available in four sizes, suitable for dogs ranging from under 11 pounds to over 66 pounds. They effectively freshen breath and reduce plaque and tartar buildup. They include a prebiotic to aid digestion, are approved by the Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC), and have a concise ingredient list.
Treat Type: Plant-based chewy | Calories per Treat: 75 calories/medium chew | Size: 30 per package | Primary Ingredients: Corn starch, glycerin, soy protein isolate, rice flour
The 10 Best Low-Calorie Dog Treats for Weight Management and Training
Best Jerky
Rocco & Roxie Supply Co. Gourmet Jerky Sticks
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/Rocco–Roxie-Jerky-Sticks-8fa97788d5d0406eb00df5374157c4ad.jpg)
PHOTO: Amazon
$104 at Amazon $16 at Chewy $25 at Target
What We Like:
- Offered in three flavors: beef, chicken, and turkey
- Easily broken into smaller pieces
- No artificial flavors or fillers
- Made in the USA by a family-run business in small batches
What We Don’t Like:
- Softer texture may lead to quicker spoilage
These soft, meaty jerky sticks from Rocco & Roxie are highly appealing to dogs without being overly pungent for owners. They are made with American-raised chicken, beef, and turkey, and then hickory smoked for 10 hours to achieve a tender texture. Produced in the U.S. by a small family business, these treats are free of fillers and artificial flavors.
Each stick is approximately six inches long and easily breaks into smaller pieces for training purposes. Their soft and palatable nature means they are not a long-lasting chew. These treats are produced in small batches and come with a satisfaction guarantee. A smaller six-ounce bag is available for sampling, but the standard package is a generous one pound.
Treat Type: Soft jerky | Calories per Treat: 20 | Size: 6 ounces, 1 pound | Primary Ingredients: Chicken, beef, or turkey and rice protein, spices
Best Fish
The Honest Kitchen Beams Ocean Chews
$18 at Amazon View on Chewy View on Petco
What We Like:
- Single-ingredient treat
- Long-lasting and more digestible than rawhide
- Available in two fish types and two sizes
What We Don’t Like:
- Not suitable for dogs that tend to gulp treats
- Strong fish odor
Fish skins offer a long-lasting chew option for dogs, made solely from the outer skin of fish. This high-protein treat is considered a healthier and more digestible alternative to chews like rawhide. The Honest Kitchen offers two varieties: hearty wolffish and thinner codfish. Both are available in 5.5-inch (small) and 8.5-inch (large) sizes. These chews are not recommended for dogs that tend to swallow treats whole, as pieces could pose a choking hazard.
These dehydrated skins are a single-ingredient product, free from preservatives, byproducts, and fillers. All ingredients are human-grade, and the chews are produced in a human food facility. Besides protein, they are rich in omega fatty acids, promoting healthy skin and coat. The fish is sourced from wild-caught sources in Europe. As expected, they have a pronounced fish smell.
Treat Type: Long-lasting chew | Calories per Treat: 24 (small codfish) | Size: 5.5 ounces | Primary Ingredients: Wolffish or cod fish skin
Best Freeze-Dried
Open Farm Freeze-Dried Raw Dog Food
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/Open-Farm-Freeze-Dried-Raw-Dog-Food-8d046b8dfbca497ea1d808d3388d807c.jpg)
PHOTO: Amazon
$38 at Amazon View on Openfarmpet.com View on Petfood.express
What We Like:
- Six protein options available
- No artificial preservatives or additives
- Organic and responsibly sourced ingredients
What We Don’t Like:
- More expensive compared to many other treats
While primarily intended as a complete meal or a food topper, this premium freeze-dried dog food from Open Farm also serves as highly motivating and healthy treats. The pieces are soft and crumbly, making them easy to break into smaller portions or carry in a treat pouch or pocket. It’s made with organic and responsibly sourced ingredients, including humanely raised meats and wild-caught salmon, and is enriched with organic fruits and vegetables such as carrots, cranberries, and squash.
Available in six protein varieties, from beef and chicken to lamb and pork, it contains no artificial flavors, preservatives, or additives. Although pricier than typical treats (making it a more economical treat option when considering its primary purpose as food), it comes in a resealable, durable pouch for convenient storage.
Treat Type: Freeze-dried | Calories per Treat: Not listed | Size: 22 ounces | Primary Ingredients: Meat protein, fruits, vegetables
Best Fortified Treats
Merrick Power Bites Dog Treats
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/merrick-power-bites-dog-treats-ec20b23946cd4f5dba422df2e7d4680d.jpg)
PHOTO: Amazon
$8 at Amazon $8 at Chewy $9 $8 at Petco
What We Like:
- Five flavor options, including unique turducken
- Available in two sizes
- Free from corn, wheat, and soy
- Fortified with omega fatty acids
What We Don’t Like:
- Not as soft in texture as some other chewy treats
Merrick Power Bites are marketed as “powerful” due to their added nutrients, including omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids that promote healthy skin and coat. These soft and chewy bite-sized treats come in a variety of flavors, including chicken, beef, and even turducken. Meat is the primary ingredient in every flavor, followed by antioxidant-rich ingredients like carrots, apples, and blueberries. They are formulated without corn, wheat, or soy.
Each treat is relatively small, containing only 5 calories. For those preferring larger treats, Merrick also offers Power Bites Big Bites in chicken and beef flavors, slightly larger than a dime. In addition to omega fatty acids, they are fortified with glucosamine and chondroitin to support healthy joints, which can be particularly beneficial for larger, active dog breeds.
Treat Type: Soft and chewy | Calories per Treat: 5 (beef) | Size: 6 ounces | Primary Ingredients: Meat protein, fruits, vegetables
The Best Dental Chews for Dogs, According to Testers and Vets
Best Topper
The Honest Kitchen Pour Overs
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/honest-kitchen-bone-broth-pour-over-a89e37713df846838fa774a108978db8.jpeg)
PHOTO: The Honest Kitchen
$31 at Amazon View on Chewy View on Thehonestkitchen.com
What We Like:
- Limited ingredient list with no additives, preservatives, or fillers
- Stew-like mix of broth and chunks of meat and vegetables
- Human-grade food quality
- Made in the USA with globally sourced ingredients
- Easy-to-pour and resealable packaging
What We Don’t Like:
- Cartons can be difficult to open
The Honest Kitchen Pour Overs offer a chunky blend of broth and meat pieces that can be poured over your dog’s regular food to enhance mealtime appeal and palatability. Made with proteins like chicken and turkey, along with broth, fruits, and vegetables, these toppers have a human-grade food quality and a tempting aroma. The Honest Kitchen prides itself on being the first company to offer human-grade ingredients for pets. These pour overs contain no fillers, additives, artificial flavors, or artificial preservatives.
They can be served as is or warmed up to further entice picky eaters. Flavor options range from single-protein choices like chicken and turkey to protein and pumpkin combinations for digestive support. Each carton contains at least two servings and, while the cartons can be a bit challenging to open, they are resealable and can be stored in the refrigerator after opening.
The Honest Kitchen also produces dry kibble, wet food, and other meal enhancers, all featuring human-grade ingredients and limited ingredient lists.
Treat Type: Pourable stew | Calories per Treat: Varies (chicken stew: 107 calories/box) | Size: 5.5 ounces | Primary Ingredients: Proteins, broth, vegetables, fruits
Best for Picky Eaters
Hill’s Science Diet Soft Savories Treats
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/HillsScienceDietSoftSavorieswithPeanutButterBananaDogTreats-6752e83a80b947babd41f76d41ef0bfd.jpg)
PHOTO: Courtesy of Amazon
$10 $9 at Amazon $9 at Chewy View on Petco
What We Like:
- Available in three flavors
- Easy to break apart
- Appealing even to picky eaters
What We Don’t Like:
- Higher calorie count per treat compared to others on our list
Many veterinary offices stock Hill’s Science Diet Soft Savories Treats, often given to dogs as a reward after appointments. These soft and chewy treats are widely enjoyed by dogs, even those known to be finicky. Soft Savories come in three flavors: peanut butter & banana, chicken & yogurt, and beef & cheddar.
Each treat is about the size of a quarter and can be easily broken into halves or quarters for smaller portions, which is advisable due to their higher calorie content compared to training-specific treats. The treats feature limited ingredients like peanut butter, chicken, and potatoes, making them suitable for dogs with sensitivities. They have a strong aroma that is very enticing to dogs, even those with discerning palates.
Treat Type: Soft | Calories per Treat: 27 | Size: 8 ounces | Primary Ingredients: Peanut butter, chicken, beef, potatoes (varies per recipe)
Best for Large Dogs
Blue Buffalo Blue Bits
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/blue-buffalo-bits-natural-soft-moist-training-treats-7f29ac61202c4b62b78f1a3019b807a8.jpg)
PHOTO: Amazon
$5 at Amazon View on Chewy $5 at Walmart
What We Like:
- Four flavor options
- No artificial preservatives or flavors
- Easily broken into smaller pieces
- Real meat listed as the first ingredient
What We Don’t Like:
- Moist treats may have a shorter shelf life
Larger dogs often benefit from larger treats as a more substantial reward. These heart-shaped Blue Buffalo Blue Bits can be used as training treats, particularly for larger breeds, or broken into smaller portions for smaller dogs. They are available in four flavors—beef, chicken, salmon, and turkey—and are made without artificial preservatives or flavors. They contain flaxseed and fish oil, sources of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids and DHA respectively, which support skin and coat health and healthy brain function.
These treats are relatively affordable and come in a resealable bag. Real meat protein is the primary ingredient, typically paired with brown rice or oatmeal depending on the flavor.
Treat Type: Soft and chewy | Calories per Treat: 4 | Size: 4 ounces | Primary Ingredients: Meat, oatmeal, brown rice
Best for Small Dogs
Old Mother Hubbard Mini Dog Biscuits
$7 $6 at Amazon View on Chewy $4 at Target
What We Like:
- Wide variety of flavors
- No artificial preservatives or meat byproducts
- Small, mini size
What We Don’t Like:
- Higher calorie count compared to many other treats
These tiny, bone-shaped biscuits are ideally sized for smaller dog breeds. They are available in numerous flavors, including chicken pot pie, peanut butter, and veggie, or in assorted packs offering a variety of crunchy treat experiences. Old Mother Hubbard treats are made from a recipe dating back to 1926.
The ingredient list is relatively short and includes fruits, vegetables, peanut butter, oatmeal, and flaxseed. They are made without artificial preservatives or meat byproducts. The crunchy texture helps to clean teeth as your dog chews. These mini biscuits are perfect for small dogs or can be used as training treats for larger dogs. Old Mother Hubbard biscuits are also available in larger sizes and as mini crunchy training treats.
Treat Type: Crunchy | Calories per Treat: 10 | Size: 1.25 pounds | Primary Ingredients: Vegetables, fruits, flaxseed, oatmeal, cheese
Best Bully Stick
Natural Farm Odor-Free Standard Bully Sticks
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/Natural-Farm6-Inch-Bully-Stick-ff95f9df519f43b3a21fe60c907f4b9b.jpg)
PHOTO: Amazon
$65 at Amazon View on Naturalfarmpet.com
What We Like:
- Made from grass-fed, free-range cattle
- No hormones, additives, or chemicals
- Available in various sizes and shapes
What We Don’t Like:
- High in calories
- Size can vary slightly between sticks
Bully sticks are long-lasting chews derived from bull or steer pizzle. While they can be high in fat, bully sticks effectively satisfy a dog’s natural urge to chew, which can help reduce anxiety and stress. They should be given in moderation and always under supervision.
Natural Farm Bully Sticks are made entirely from beef, sourced from grass-fed, free-range cattle in Brazil. They are free from hormones, chemicals, and additives and are odor-free, minimizing any unpleasant smell. They are cleaned using only water and air-dried.
These treats are available as standard sticks and in various shapes like rings, braids, bites, and springs. Depending on your dog’s size and chewing habits, you can choose from standard, select, jumbo, pixie, or extra-thin sticks.
Treat Type: Bully stick | Calories per Treat: 88 (6-inch standard) | Size: 6 ounces | Primary Ingredients: Beef
Best Training Treats
Fruitables Skinny Minis Soft Dog Treats
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/fruitables-skinny-minis-soft-dog-treats-b190d8ad91284b2b93d9d154904f87c1.jpg)
PHOTO: Amazon
$10 at Amazon View on Chewy View on Petco
What We Like:
- Soft texture, easily broken into pieces
- Seven flavor options
- No artificial colors or flavors
- Also available in crunchy versions
- Made with natural, whole ingredients
What We Don’t Like:
- Can dry out if the bag is left open
Fruitables Skinny Minis are a top choice for training treats. These small, flower-shaped snacks are about the size of a dime and contain only 3 calories each. They come in seven flavors, from fruity options like watermelon and pumpkin berry to savory choices like grilled bison and apple bacon. Their aroma makes them highly appealing to most dogs. The treats are made with natural, whole ingredients, including pumpkin, chickpeas, and chicken.
Their soft texture allows for easy tearing or slicing into even smaller pieces. Their palatability is so high that even a quarter of a treat can be motivating for training. For larger dogs, a whole treat might be appropriate. As with any soft treat, it’s important to keep the bag sealed to prevent them from drying out.
Treat Type: Soft | Calories per Treat: 3 | Size: 5 ounces | Primary Ingredients: Pumpkins, chickpeas, chicken
Best Small Batch
Bocce’s Bakery Soft & Chewy Treats
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/bocces-bakery-4cb7324915f546499a8c33070b94225b.jpg)
PHOTO: Amazon
$8 at Amazon View on Chewy $9 at Walmart
What We Like:
- Extensive variety of flavors
- Limited ingredient list, locally sourced where possible
- Baked in small batches in the USA
- No artificial preservatives
What We Don’t Like:
- Higher calorie count compared to some other treats
Bocce’s Bakery offers a wide array of treat flavors in both chewy and crunchy textures. Their soft and chewy treats are particularly appealing due to their limited ingredient lists, whole food ingredients, and lower fat content. They offer dozens of flavors, with seasonal varieties frequently introduced.
These B-shaped treats are baked in small batches in the United States using locally sourced ingredients whenever possible. They are free from artificial preservatives and any artificial additives. Each treat contains approximately 9 calories, depending on the flavor. Their soft texture makes them easy to break into smaller pieces.
Pro tip: These treats are perfectly sized to fit inside a medium-sized classic Kong toy, along with a bit of peanut butter, enhancing your dog’s treat-time enjoyment and providing mental stimulation.
Treat Type: Soft and chewy | Calories per Treat: 9 | Size: 6 ounces | Primary Ingredients: Oat flour, peanut butter, rolled oats, blueberries (varies per recipe)
The 17 Best Dog Toys for Mental Enrichment, Tested With Real Dogs
Final Verdict
For an excellent overall healthy dog treat, Pet Botanics Training Rewards are a top choice. Their soft texture and ideal size make them perfect for training. They come in multiple flavors, feature real meat protein as the primary ingredient, and offer a generous 500 treats per bag. If you need small, tempting treats for training, Fruitables Skinny Minis are highly recommended. Their wide range of flavors and small size make them ideal for frequent rewards during training sessions.
What to Look for in Healthy Dog Treats
Choosing healthy dog treats involves understanding different types of treats and what ingredients contribute to their health benefits.
Types of Dog Treats
The market offers a wide variety of dog treats, each with unique characteristics:
- Crunchy treats: These hard biscuits come in various shapes, sizes, and flavors. Their crunchy texture can contribute to dental health by helping to scrape plaque and tartar.
- Soft treats: Chewy treats are also available in numerous flavors and sizes and are particularly effective for training due to their palatability and ease of consumption.
- Freeze-dried and jerky treats: Made from different proteins, these meat-based treats are highly flavorful and can be broken into smaller pieces for training.
- Dental chews: Designed to promote oral hygiene, these chews are often made from corn starch or other digestible materials and are intended for prolonged chewing to help reduce tartar and plaque.
- Animal bones and hooves: Generally not recommended by veterinarians due to their hardness, which can lead to cracked teeth and potential digestive issues.
- Rawhide: Also discouraged due to potential chemical treatments used in processing and digestibility concerns.
- Pig ears: These fatty treats can be chemically treated and have been associated with bacterial contamination. It is best to avoid them.
- Human food: Some human foods like carrots and apples can be healthy treats in moderation, while others, such as grapes and raisins, are toxic to dogs.
- Special diet treats: Companies producing prescription dog foods often offer treats formulated for specific dietary needs. Homemade treats with limited ingredients are also a healthy option.
What Makes A Dog Treat Healthy?
A healthy dog treat aligns with your dog’s individual needs and dietary requirements. Key features of healthy dog treats include:
- Organic or natural treats: These treats are typically made with organic ingredients and avoid artificial preservatives, colors, and additives. They often emphasize whole food ingredients.
- Single- or limited-ingredient treats: Single-ingredient treats, like dehydrated sweet potato slices, are made from just one food source. Limited-ingredient treats contain a small number of carefully selected ingredients, minimizing fillers and potential allergens.
- Low-calorie treats: These are formulated with fewer calories, making them suitable for dogs prone to weight gain or those on a weight management plan.
- Dental chews: Specifically designed to support dental health by reducing plaque and freshening breath.
- Botanical Ingredients in Dog Treats: Increasingly, dog treats incorporate botanicals – ingredients derived from plants, such as herbs, fruits, vegetables, and flowers. Are pet botanic treats safe? Generally, yes, many botanicals are safe and can offer health benefits. For example, chamomile and rosemary, found in Pet Botanics Training Rewards, are known for their calming and antioxidant properties, respectively. Green tea is another botanical frequently included for its antioxidant benefits. However, it’s crucial to ensure that the specific botanicals used are safe for dogs, as some plants can be toxic. Always check ingredient lists and consult with your veterinarian if you have any concerns about specific botanicals. High-quality pet botanic treats use safe and beneficial plant extracts in moderation.
- Homemade treats: Preparing treats at home allows complete control over ingredients, ensuring they are healthy and appropriate for your dog’s dietary needs.
Calories
Choosing treats with appropriate calorie content is vital, especially for weight management. Consider your dog’s size and activity level when selecting treats. Remember that treats should be given in moderation and can be broken into smaller pieces to manage calorie intake. Dr. Caos advises, “Consider the caloric content of the treats you are giving your dog, especially if your dog is overweight or has a tendency to gain weight easily. Look for treats that are low in calories or that can be easily broken into smaller pieces.”
Ingredients
Prioritize treats made with high-quality, natural ingredients, avoiding fillers, artificial preservatives, colors, and flavors. Dr. Caos recommends that “the first ingredient should be a protein source, such as chicken or beef. Avoid treats that contain additives such as artificial sweeteners or fillers like corn or wheat, which can be difficult for dogs to digest and may contribute to allergies or other health issues.” Generally, treats with fewer, recognizable ingredients, such as fruits, vegetables, and meats, are preferable.
Treats for Training
Treats are highly effective motivators during dog training. Soft training treats or larger treats broken into smaller pieces are ideal for training sessions. Dr. Caos cautions, “It’s important to use treats as a tool in training, rather than as a bribe or a substitute for training. Treats should be given as a reward for good behavior and used in combination with positive reinforcement and training techniques.”
“High-value” treats, which are particularly appealing to your dog, can be very useful in training. While some owners use human foods like cheese or hot dogs, specialized training treats often offer healthier ingredients and less mess.
Personal experience highlights the importance of choosing appropriate training treats. While hot dogs can be highly motivating, they can cause digestive upset in some dogs. Opting for small, healthy training treats like Fruitables or pieces of jerky is often a better choice. Alternatively, for puppies, using their regular kibble as training treats can be a convenient and healthy approach.
FAQ About Healthy Dog Treats
Are freeze-dried dog treats healthy?
Freeze-dried dog foods and treats can be a very healthy option for dogs. The freeze-drying process removes water content from real meat, preserving nutrients and flavor. Many freeze-dried treats are low in calories and free from fillers and preservatives, making them highly palatable and nutritious. While they tend to be more expensive, their nutritional benefits can justify the cost. When considering are pet botanic treats safe, freeze-dried options that incorporate safe botanicals can combine the benefits of both.
Are jerky treats healthy?
Jerky treats, typically made from dried strips of meat, poultry, or fish, can be healthy if chosen carefully. They can be high in calories, fat, and sodium and may contain preservatives or additives. Dr. Caos advises, “Look for jerky treats that are made with high-quality, natural ingredients and are free from additives or preservatives. Avoid jerky treats that contain fillers such as corn or wheat. Jerky treats should be given in moderation, as they can be high in calories and may contribute to weight gain or other health issues.”
How many treats are too many?
Moderation is key with dog treats. Dr. Caos explains, “The number of treats that you can give your pet depends on a few factors, including your pet’s age, size, activity level, and overall health.” A general guideline is that treats should not exceed 10% of your dog’s daily caloric intake. “Treats should not make up a significant portion of your pet’s diet, and you should consider the calorie content of each treat when determining how many to give,” he adds.
If my dog is overweight, can I still give them healthy treats?
Overweight dogs can still enjoy treats, but it’s essential to choose low-calorie options and give them sparingly. “Treats should not make up a significant portion of a dog’s diet, especially if they are overweight or have a tendency to gain weight easily,” says Dr. Caos.
Weight management is crucial for overweight dogs due to increased risks of various health conditions. Consult your veterinarian to develop a weight loss plan for your dog. Dr. Caos suggests, “Your veterinarian can help you determine how many calories your dog needs each day and can recommend appropriate treats that will not interfere with their weight loss or overall health goals,” and recommends offering small pieces of healthy human foods like carrots and green beans as low-calorie treat alternatives.
Top Tested Dog Products
Beyond treats, here are some top-rated dog products that enhance your pet’s well-being:
This convenient treat pouch features a magnetic closure and can hold up to a cup of treats, opening easily with one hand during training sessions.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/OllyDog-Goodie-Treat-Bag-977ff88a43de47dcae68c4c6b90477ba.jpg)
$21 at Amazon View on Ollydog.com View on Awesomedawgs.com
Ruffwear Front Range Dog Harness
This foam-padded harness, available in five sizes, offers four adjustment points to ensure a comfortable and secure fit for your dog during walks and outdoor activities.
$92 at Amazon $55 at REI View on Ruffwear.com
Max and Neo Double Handle Dog Leash
Our top-rated dog leash is six feet long and features a padded handle, a D-ring for poop bag dispensers, and reflective stitching for enhanced visibility during walks in low-light conditions.
$17 at Amazon $17 at Chewy View on Maxandneo.com
FurHaven Ultra Plush Faux Fur & Suede Sofa Bed
This dog bed, made with soft faux fur and memory foam, offers a comfortable and supportive space for your pet to rest and relax.
$64 at Amazon $36 at Chewy $36 at Walmart
Why Trust The Spruce Pets?
The Spruce Pets team is committed to providing reliable and comprehensive information to help you care for your pets. To identify the best healthy dog treats, we conduct thorough testing with our own pets and foster dogs. We also consult with veterinary experts like Dr. Alejandro Caos of The Vets, gather insights from dog owners, and analyze extensive product reviews.
This article was written and researched by Mary Jo DiLonardo, a seasoned animal and pet expert with decades of experience. Mary Jo has fostered over 75 dogs and puppies and is meticulous in selecting healthy and effective products for them, including dog foods and dental chews.
Reward Your Pup With These 10 Best Treats for Puppies
The Spruce Pets adheres to high editorial standards, utilizing only reputable sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to ensure the accuracy and trustworthiness of our content. For further details on our fact-checking and editorial process, please refer to our editorial process.
