Buying a bag of dog treats seems simple until you have to choose between dog biscuits, soft rewards, dog chews and dental sticks. Attractive packaging does not always tell you what your dog is actually getting. So focus on the ingredients, size and intended use.
“Chicken dog treats” or “beef dog treats” sounds clear, but always check the ingredients list. Sometimes the flavour refers only to an added aroma. For example, Pedigree Dog Jerky Treats Beef Flavor states that the product contains 95% meat and animal derivatives, of which 4% is beef. That is different from a treat made entirely from beef.
Also look out for terms such as “with beef”, “beef flavouring” or “with chicken flavour”. These descriptions have different meanings. Clear ingredients information helps to prevent unpleasant surprises, especially if your dog reacts sensitively to certain ingredients.
Dog treats are usually complementary pet food rather than a complete meal. Even a low-fat treat contributes to your dog’s daily energy intake. A practical guideline shown on several product packages is that treats should provide no more than 10% of your dog’s daily calories.
If you give lots of small rewards during a long training session, reduce the main meal if necessary. Take your dog’s weight, age, activity level and body condition into account.
A chew that is too small can be finished quickly by a large dog. A treat that is too large or hard may be difficult for a small dog to manage. Check whether the packaging states that it is suitable for small, medium or large dogs.
Stay nearby while your dog is chewing. Always provide fresh drinking water too. If you are unsure about swallowing, allergies, dental problems or a special diet, consult a vet.
First decide what you need the treat for:
The ingredients list is generally shown in descending order by quantity. Also check the analytical constituents:
For example, INABA Bites Dog Multipack 4 Chicken Varieties lists 14% crude protein, 3% crude fat and 82% moisture. The pack contains four chicken varieties and 16 portions, totalling 64 grams. According to the product information, it should be used within three days of opening.
A large multipack is only good value if you can use it in time. Soft products often need to be refrigerated after opening and used within 24 hours. For example, INABA Fun Bites Dog Chicken Wraps Chicken with Sweet Potato has a net quantity of 40 grams and a storage time of 24 hours after opening when kept in the fridge.
Dry treats are usually easier to store. However, check that the packaging is properly sealed and keep the bag somewhere cool and dry. Before buying, also check the number of pieces, the weight per piece and the recommended daily amount. This allows you to compare not only the price of the pack, but also the price per reward.
Why it suits this profile: Four chicken varieties give you an easy way to discover your dog’s preferences. The small pieces work well as rewards or snacks between meals.
The product information lists the chicken ingredients, number of portions and nutritional values. This makes it easier to assess the flavour and portion size than by looking at the packaging alone.
Four chicken varieties, 16 pieces and 82% moisture according to the product specification. Store in a cool place and use within three days of opening.
Why it suits this profile: The combination of a soft outer layer and creamy filling offers variety for dogs that quickly tire of ordinary kibble or dry dog treats.
The product page lists 8 individual 12-gram packs, 69% moisture and 15.6 kcal per pack. This makes portions easier to measure.
Soft texture, chicken and cheese flavour, and 12-gram portions. According to the product description, the treat contains no cereals, carrageenan or artificial colourings.
Why it suits this profile: A large multipack suits households that give dental sticks to a medium-sized dog weighing 10 to 25 kg every day.
The size is designed for medium-sized dogs and the pack contains 56 sticks. According to Pedigree’s own research, the shape may help reduce tartar build-up; this is not a replacement for professional dental care.
56 sticks for dogs weighing 10–25 kg, with no added sugar. Give no more than the amount stated on the packaging and adjust the main meal if necessary.
Why it suits this profile: These small chew sticks are aimed at smaller dogs that enjoy chewing for a little longer rather than quickly finishing a soft treat.
The variety is explicitly labelled as small and contains 10 pieces. However, check that your dog can tolerate the combination of beef hide and chicken.
Small size, 10 pieces and a combination of beef hide with dried chicken. The product description states that it contains no added cereals, gluten, artificial colourings, flavourings or preservatives.
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.
Follow the feeding guidelines on the packaging and keep the total amount of treats below approximately 10% of your dog’s daily calorie intake. Give fewer treats if your dog gets little exercise or already receives an energy-dense main meal. For training treats, using small pieces can help.
No. There are varieties for small, medium and large dogs, with different recommended weight ranges. Also check the minimum age. Pedigree states that several varieties are suitable from four months of age. According to Pedigree’s own research, the sticks may help with tartar build-up and cleaning hard-to-reach teeth, but dog dental sticks do not replace tooth brushing or a veterinary check-up.
This varies from product to product. According to the product information, INABA Fun Bites Dog Chicken Wraps Chicken with Sweet Potato should be refrigerated after opening and used within 24 hours. Other soft dog treats may last longer. Always check the label, seal the packaging securely and do not use a product if it smells unusual, has changed colour or developed a different texture.