Dog treats: how to choose the right rewards for their needs

A treat can make training easier, keep a dog occupied for a few minutes or simply accompany a moment of bonding in everyday life. But not all treats are designed for the same purposes. Behind claims such as “natural”, “grain-free” or “high in protein”, some essential information can sometimes be well hidden.

Before buying dog treats, three pitfalls deserve particular attention:

• Confusing complementary food with a complete meal: a reward does not replace your dog’s main diet. Its quantity should be deducted from the daily allowance.
• Relying solely on the appearance or recipe name: “with chicken” or “with duck” does not necessarily mean that this meat makes up most of the ingredients. Check the ingredients list and the percentages shown on the packaging.
• Choosing an unsuitable texture: a very hard bite may suit an adult dog accustomed to chewing, but be far less suitable for a puppy, a small dog or an animal that struggles to chew. Conversely, a very soft treat may be swallowed within seconds.

Criteria to check before buying

1. Ingredients and the proportion of meat

When choosing natural dog treats, start by checking the ingredients list, which is generally presented in descending order by weight. A single-ingredient recipe, such as dried meat made solely from duck, is easier to understand and limits the number of components you need to monitor.

Chicken dog treats and duck dog treats can make excellent rewards, provided you check for cereals, added sugars, technological additives or preservatives. The claim “grain-free” alone does not guarantee that a product will suit every dog: each animal’s tolerance and the amount given remain decisive factors.

2. Analytical constituents

The levels of crude protein, fat, fibre and moisture provide useful information, but are not enough to assess the overall quality of a treat.

• High-protein treats that have been dried often show a high protein level because the water has been removed.
• Moist bites may contain less protein according to the label, while being considerably easier to chew.
• A high fat content should be taken into account for less active dogs or those already fed an energy-dense diet.
• Fibre levels can vary depending on whether sweet potato or other plant-based ingredients are included.

Compare values on a consistent basis and follow the manufacturer’s guidance. Treats remain complementary foods for dogs.

3. Size, texture and safety

Dog training treats should be small enough, or easy to break into pieces, so you can give multiple rewards without overdoing it. Soft strips of dried meat can be cut up for a small dog, while a more substantial format may be better suited to occasional chewing.

With dog chew sticks, supervision is essential. Remove the product as soon as it becomes small enough to swallow whole, and always provide fresh water. Chewing may contribute mechanically to oral care, but it does not replace dental care recommended by a professional or suitable follow-up.

Our selection according to your dog’s profile

Recommended for: Beginners on a budget

INABA Fun Bites Dog Chicken Wraps Chicken with Sweet Potato

Why this choice suits this profile: These soft bites are ideal for early training sessions and occasional rewards. The recipe combines chicken, chicken broth and sweet potato, with a stated moisture content of 83 %.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The 40 g format means you do not have to open a large bag for occasional use. The ingredients and analytical constituents are clearly stated.

Main benefit and key strengths

A soft texture, a chicken and sweet potato recipe, and a format suited to both training and a small tasty treat.

Recommended for: Premium shoppers

Ziwi Peak Chews Lamb Green Tripe 80 g

Why this choice suits this profile: This product is aimed at those looking for a dried chew made from free-range lamb raised in New Zealand, according to the information provided by the brand.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The labelling clearly distinguishes complementary food from complete food and reminds you to remove the piece once it becomes too small.

Main benefit and key strengths

Slow drying, as stated, at least 60 % crude protein and an 80 g format.

Recommended for: Specific needs and frequent users

MeatyWay Chicken Jerky Tender Dog Treats

Why this choice suits this profile: At 454 g, this bag suits households that give rewards regularly, particularly during training or everyday activities.

How this product avoids the pitfall

Chicken is presented as the main ingredient, and the stated recipe is free from cereals, fillers and preservatives.

Main benefit and key strengths

A dried meat texture that is easy to break into pieces, at least 30 % crude protein and a resealable bag.

Recommended for: Dogs that enjoy duck

MeatyWay Duck Tenders 100g

Why this choice suits this profile: This single-ingredient dried duck meat is ideal for owners who want to keep the ingredients list short and adjust portions easily.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product details state 100 % duck, with no cereals, fillers or preservatives. However, check the label when your order arrives.

Main benefit and key strengths

A soft texture, at least 30 % stated crude protein and strips that are easy to break.

How to give treats as part of your dog’s daily routine

A few simple rules will help you keep control of the quantities:

1. Adapt the size of the reward to your dog’s size, and cut strips into smaller pieces whenever possible.
2. Slightly reduce the main daily allowance if treats are given frequently, following the recommendations on the packaging.
3. Introduce any new recipe gradually, particularly if your dog has a sensitive digestive system.
4. Always supervise chewing and never leave a dog to consume a product designed for chewing on its own.
5. Reseal the bag carefully and store it in a cool, dry place. Then follow the manufacturer’s stated period of use after opening.

If your dog has a known allergy, food sensitivity or particular health problem, check every ingredient with the professional responsible for their care. A “grain-free” treat is not a universal guarantee of tolerance.

Frequently asked questions about dog treats

How many treats can you give a dog each day?

There is no single amount that applies to every dog. Weight, age, activity level and the main diet must all be taken into account. The recommendations on the packaging provide a useful starting point, but treats should remain a limited part of your dog’s daily intake.

Which treats should you choose for training?

Choose small dog training treats that are easy to divide and quick to eat. Soft bites and flexible strips allow you to reward several behaviours without interrupting the flow of the session. A sufficiently appealing recipe helps maintain your dog’s attention without giving excessive quantities.

Do chew sticks replace tooth brushing?

No. Depending on its texture, a chew product may have a mechanical effect on the surface of the teeth, but it does not replace a suitable dental hygiene routine or professional advice. Supervision is still necessary throughout consumption.