Giving your dog a treat is a gesture of affection, but it's also a powerful training tool. The problem: the pet snack aisle often feels like a marketing jungle, where promising packaging hides disappointing ingredients. To help you see things more clearly, we've broken down the most common traps and the essential criteria to scrutinise before you check out.
Navigating the overwhelming selection of snacks for our four-legged friends requires a discerning eye. Here are three key points to watch for to sidestep false promises and wasted money.
To make an informed choice, focus on these three objective parameters.
The golden rule is simple: the first ingredient must be meat or fish. Look for specific terms like "chicken", "duck", or "salmon", and avoid vague wording such as "meat and animal by-products". A short list is often an excellent indicator, a sign that the recipe gets straight to the point without unnecessary ingredients.
This table, often relegated to the fine print, is a goldmine of information. It details the percentages of key nutrients:
Ensure the composition is free from:
These substances have no nutritional value and can be poorly tolerated, or even harmful in the long term.
To guide you, here are a few options that meet specific needs and tick all the boxes we've just discussed.
Why we love it: These bites are perfect as dog training treats. Their small size and soft texture allow for a quick, easy-to-swallow reward without breaking the momentum of the exercise. The variety of flavours keeps the dog motivated.
These bites are sized for a quick reward, unlike large treats that slow down a training session. This solves the size and texture problem.
With 68% moisture, they contribute to hydration. The formula is guaranteed free from grains, preservatives, and artificial colours.
Why we love it: For sensitive dogs, simplicity is key. This treat is made from 100% chicken, and that's it. The perfect option for owners who want absolute transparency about what their pet is eating.
It bypasses the "fake natural" and complex "grain-free" traps. With a single ingredient, there's no room to hide additives or fillers.
An ultra-simple composition (100% chicken), highly digestible, and guaranteed free from any additives, grains, or preservatives.
Why we love it: The jerky texture of these duck tenders offers long-lasting chewing satisfaction. It's an excellent option to keep your dog occupied while also supporting their dental hygiene through the mechanical action of chewing on tartar.
This treat combines pleasure with purpose (enjoyment and hygiene), making it more than just a simple reward. A real plus for owners looking for a product that's both tasty and functional.
High in protein, low in fat. Its texture encourages prolonged chewing, which mechanically helps limit the formation of plaque and tartar.
Explore our full selection of products that strictly adhere to our quality criteria and current regulations.
The golden rule: treats should never exceed 10% of your dog's daily calorie intake. Of course, this amount should be adjusted based on their size, weight, age, and activity level. Remember to slightly reduce their kibble portion accordingly to prevent any weight gain.
Not necessarily. If your dog tolerates grains well and has no known allergies, there's no reason to ban them. The most important thing is to choose a treat where meat is the first ingredient, whether or not it contains a small amount of quality grains. A good treat with a little rice is better than a grain-free dog treat that's packed with starch.
For dried treats like jerky, store them in their resealable bag or, even better, in an airtight container away from heat and moisture. For very moist treats, once the package is opened, they belong in the fridge! Consume them within 24 to 48 hours, following the brand's specific recommendations.