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Dog treats: how to choose the right reward for your dog’s needs

A treat can reward good behaviour, make training easier or simply keep your dog occupied between meals. But not all dog treats are created equal, and they are not all suitable for the same uses. A soft bite does not keep in the same way as a biscuit, a dental stick may not be suitable for a puppy, and a highly appealing recipe can quickly unbalance your dog’s daily ration.

Before filling your basket, keep these three pitfalls in mind:

  • Relying solely on the claims displayed on the packet: labels such as “with chicken”, “natural” or “grain-free” do not mean you can skip checking the ingredients and analytical constituents.
  • Choosing a format that is too large or too hard: a reward that is difficult to break up makes training more complicated and may not suit your dog’s jaw.
  • Forgetting that these are often complementary pet food: biscuits, sticks and bites do not replace your dog’s main food. Their quantity must be included in the daily ration.

Criteria to check before buying

1. Ingredients and analytical constituents

Start by checking the ingredients list, which is generally presented in descending order by weight. A short recipe makes it easier to identify a specific ingredient, while a more elaborate formula may offer different textures and flavours.

When choosing natural dog treats, do not stop at the word “natural” printed on the packaging. Instead, look at:

  • the source of protein, such as chicken, beef or fish;
  • the fat content;
  • the moisture content, which is essential when comparing a soft bite with a dry biscuit;
  • the possible presence of cereals, added sugars, additives or preservatives, depending on your preferences.

There are plenty of chicken treats for dogs, but the actual proportion of chicken can vary considerably. INABA Fun Bites products, for example, advertise a recipe based on chicken, chicken broth and sweet potato, with a moisture content of 82%. This means they are soft bites rather than classic dry biscuits.

2. A format suited to every use

For training, choose dog training treats that are easy to break up and small enough to be given several times during a session. A strip of dried meat that can be broken into pieces is often practical, while a whole stick is better suited to an occasional chewing session.

To keep your pet occupied, dog chew sticks and dental chews should be selected according to your dog’s weight, age and chewing style. Always supervise your dog while they are consuming this type of product and remove it when it becomes too small or shows signs of wear.

Puppy treats require even greater care. Check the minimum age stated on the packaging and choose a size suited to smaller jaws. Some dental products are not suitable for puppies under four months old.

3. Storage and daily quantity

A moist treat should generally be eaten soon after opening and stored in the refrigerator, in accordance with the product listing instructions. Dry dog biscuits should be kept in a cool, dry place, ideally in a firmly resealed bag.

The amount you give depends on your pet’s weight, age, activity level and main diet. In all cases, rewards should not make up an excessive proportion of their daily energy intake. If necessary, slightly reduce the portion of their main meal, and always leave a bowl of clean water available.

For oral hygiene, a dog dental stick can complement a routine, but it does not replace veterinary care or tooth brushing. The size and frequency recommendations shown on the packaging should always be followed.

Our selection based on how you plan to use them

Recommended for : Beginners on a budget
Pedigree Tasty Minis Beef & Cheese Dog Treats - 140g

Pedigree Tasty Minis Beef & Cheese Dog Treats - 140 g

Why this choice suits this profile : At 140 g, this bag lets you try mini dog rewards without starting with an overly large pack.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product listing specifies that this is complementary pet food and recommends adjusting the quantity according to the dog’s weight, age and activity level.

Main benefit and key features

Mini format, beef and cheese flavours, 25 % crude protein and storage advice for after opening.

Recommended for : Premium-product enthusiasts
MeatyWay Chicken Thin Tenders 100g

MeatyWay Chicken Thin Tenders 100 g

Why this choice suits this profile : Its recipe is advertised as containing just one ingredient, making it suitable for owners who want to know exactly what they are giving their dog.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The stated ingredients list chicken as the only ingredient and indicates that there are no cereals, preservatives or added fillings.

Main benefit and key features

Soft texture, 100 g bag, advertised crude protein content of 70 % and pieces that are easy to break up.

Recommended for : Specific needs and frequent users
Pedigree Dentastix 112 Chew Sticks for Medium Dogs

Pedigree Dentastix — 112 chew sticks for medium-sized dogs

Why this choice suits this profile : The portioned pack is suitable for a regular routine for medium-sized dogs weighing between 10 and 25 kg.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product details specify the weight range, recommended frequency and the need to supervise your dog while they chew.

Main benefit and key features

112 sticks divided into individual bags, an X shape and a texture described by the brand as slightly abrasive.

Looking for more options ?

We have put together a complete, real-time updated list of products that meet these strict selection criteria and European safety regulations.

Frequently asked questions about dog treats

How many treats can you give a dog each day ?

There is no universal amount. Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations, then adjust the ration according to your dog’s weight, age, activity level and usual meals. Treats should remain a supplement. If your pet follows a particular diet or has a food sensitivity, ask your vet for advice.

Which treat should you choose for dog training ?

Choose a small reward that is easy to chew and break into pieces. Soft bites and breakable strips are often more practical during repeated training sessions than large biscuits. Remember to count the rewards you give to avoid overfeeding.

Do dental sticks replace tooth brushing ?

No. A dental stick can complement an oral hygiene routine, but it does not replace tooth brushing or veterinary check-ups. Always check the recommended size and minimum age, then supervise your dog while they chew.