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Buying dog treats: how to choose a suitable snack for your dog

Anyone looking to buy dog treats online will soon come across dozens of varieties: soft dog treats, dog chews, training treats for dogs, and options made with chicken or salmon. Packaging often highlights flavour, meat content or a particular benefit. However, one prominent claim alone says little about whether a treat is suitable for your dog.

The right choice mainly depends on the occasion, size, ingredients and nutritional value. Below, we explain what to check before ordering dog biscuits or dog treats.

Three common pitfalls when choosing dog treats

1. Confusing an appealing flavour with a main ingredient

A treat labelled “chicken” or “bacon flavour” does not necessarily consist mainly of that ingredient. So check the ingredients list and pay attention to the order in which the raw materials are listed. For example, the composition of Bonzo Beggin' Strips Snack Speck states that it contains, among other ingredients, cereals, meat and animal derivatives, glycerol and sugars. The treat has a bacon flavour, but that does not automatically mean bacon is the main ingredient.

2. Judging whether a treat is “healthy” without considering the portion

Even a treat with relatively little fat or a high moisture content contributes to your dog’s daily diet. According to product information from various brands, treats should generally account for no more than 10% of daily calorie intake. If necessary, reduce the size of your dog’s normal meal and take its size, age, activity level and body condition into account.

3. Buying a treat that is not suitable for its intended use

A large chew is not practical during training, while a soft reward offers little chewing enjoyment. Also consider supervision: with hard or long-lasting chews, you should stay nearby and check that your dog is chewing safely. A chew is not a substitute for complete food and does not guarantee good dental care.

Important specifications to check

Ingredients and nutritional values

At a minimum, look at:

  • the proportion of meat, fish or animal derivatives;
  • the content of crude protein, fat, fibre, ash and moisture;
  • cereals, gluten, sugars, preservatives and colourings;
  • any known allergies or sensitivities your dog may have;
  • the recommended daily amount.

If you are looking for grain-free dog treats, read the full ingredients list. “Grain-free” does not automatically mean that a treat is suitable for every dog. For example, a recipe may contain other binding agents, potato or tapioca starch.

Size, texture and purpose

Small, soft pieces are convenient for training. They can be given quickly and are usually easy to portion. For a relaxed chewing session, firm sticks or dried treats are a better choice. Also consider your dog’s size: a small dog may need a smaller variety for safe and comfortable chewing.

Soft dog treats are particularly useful for hand-feeding, rewarding your dog and hiding a small tablet. A product description may mention this as a possible use, but always follow your vet’s instructions when giving medication.

Storing treats after opening

Moist treats often have a shorter shelf life once the packaging has been opened. According to the product information, INABA Fun Bites Dog Chicken Wraps Chicken with Sweet Potato contains 82% moisture. The packaging should be sealed properly after opening, stored in the fridge and used within 24 hours. INABA Fun Bites Dog Chicken Wraps Chicken with Cheese also states that refrigeration is required after opening.

Dry treats should generally be stored in a cool, dry place. Always check the packaging, best-before date and batch information. It is best not to use damaged packaging.

Our recommendations for different types of dog owner

Suitable for: Budget-conscious beginners
Bonzo Beggin' Strips Snack Speck

Bonzo Beggin' Strips Snack Speck

Why it suits this profile: The soft strips are intended as an additional snack or reward between meals, making them suitable for everyday use when the portion is adjusted appropriately.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product information clearly states that this is a complementary food and not a meal replacement. The analysis lists 15.7% protein, 5.7% fat and 23% moisture.

Key benefit & advantages

Soft texture, bacon flavour, and clear storage and portioning instructions.

Suitable for: Shoppers looking for premium quality
Rosewood Dog Salmon Fillet Strips Large 150g

Rosewood Dog Salmon Fillet Strips Large 150g

Why it suits this profile: This treat is suitable for dog owners looking for a fish-based option with a concise, easy-to-understand product description.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product information states that it contains 97% salmon and no added cereals, gluten, artificial colourings, flavourings or preservatives. Always check the label if your dog has allergies.

Key benefit & advantages

Soft salmon strips, 150 g contents and a recipe without added cereals, according to the product description.

Suitable for: Specific uses & intensive users
INABA Fun Bites Dog Chicken Wraps Chicken with Cheese

INABA Fun Bites Dog Chicken Wraps Chicken with Cheese 12g x 8 Packs

Why it suits this profile: The individually wrapped portions are practical for intensive training sessions, walks or controlled rewarding.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The pack contains eight 12 g portions. According to the product information, each portion contains approximately 15.6 kcal, and treats should account for no more than 10% of daily calorie intake.

Key benefit & advantages

Soft chicken coating, creamy filling, 69% moisture and individually portioned packaging. According to the product description, the treat contains no cereals, preservatives or artificial colourings.

Suitable for: Dogs that love to chew
Bonzo Dental Delicious Snack Beef

Bonzo Dental Delicious Snack Beef

Why it suits this profile: The firm stick is designed for a longer chewing session and, according to the product information, is suitable for medium-sized dogs weighing 10 to 25 kg.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The feeding guidance is specific: one stick per day for medium-sized dogs. According to the product description, the shape supports dental care; it is not a substitute for check-ups or a regular brushing routine.

Key benefit & advantages

Seven sticks per pack, beef flavour and a stated analytical composition of 14.2% protein and 3.8% fat.

Looking for more options?

We have put together a complete, up-to-date list of products that fully meet these strict selection criteria and the applicable European safety regulations.

Frequently asked questions about buying dog treats

How many dog treats can I give my dog each day?

This depends on your dog’s weight, age, activity level and usual diet. Follow the guidance on the packaging and, preferably, keep treats below 10% of daily calorie intake. Give fewer treats if your dog is gaining weight quickly or gets little exercise.

Which dog treats are suitable for training?

Choose small, soft training treats for dogs that can be eaten quickly. You can divide strips into smaller pieces if necessary. Individual portions, such as those in INABA Fun Bites, make it easier to decide in advance how much to give.

Are dental dog treats a substitute for brushing teeth?

No. According to product descriptions, shaped chews can support mechanical cleaning while your dog chews, but they do not replace complete dental care. Continue to supervise your dog and ask a vet for advice if in doubt.