Joybuy Insights

Choosing dog treats: how to find the right snack for every dog

There is a huge choice of dog treats: soft pieces, meat strips, chicken varieties, chews and multipacks with several flavours. That can make comparing them difficult. Packaging featuring words such as “natural”, “grain-free” or “high protein” does not always tell you enough about how a product should be used, its ingredients or the portion size.

The main pitfalls are usually easy to avoid:

  • A large pack is not automatically better value. A multipack may look appealing, but check the total weight, number of pieces and shelf life after opening.
  • “With chicken” does not always mean a single ingredient. Check the full ingredients list. Some dog treats with chicken also contain cereals, vegetable by-products, oils, sugars or colourings.
  • A chew is not the same as a training treat. Large, firm products are less practical when you want to give small rewards quickly during a walk.
  • Soft treats require extra care when storing them. Products with a high moisture content often need to be refrigerated after opening and used within 24 to 48 hours.

What should you look for in dog treats?

1. Choose the right texture and size first

Small, soft dog treats are useful for training. You can give them quickly, and some soft pieces are easy to break into smaller portions. For small dogs, pay attention to the size and feeding quantity. A treat that looks small to a large dog may already account for a significant proportion of a small dog’s daily extra food intake.

For older dogs or dogs that prefer not to chew for long, soft dog treats may be more practical than hard chews. A dog chew has a different purpose: it gives your dog something to chew on for longer. Only give these products under supervision and choose a size that cannot be swallowed whole.

2. Check the ingredients and analytical constituents

Look beyond the front of the packaging. Check:

  • the first ingredients in the ingredients list;
  • the protein, fat, fibre and moisture content;
  • the presence of cereals, chicken, beef, fish or other potential sensitivities;
  • whether the product is a complementary pet food and therefore does not replace a complete meal;
  • the recommended amount for your dog’s size, age and activity level.

For example, INABA Bites Dog Multipack contains chicken, chicken broth, chicken liver and chicken breast. The analytical constituents state 14% crude protein, 3% crude fat and 82% moisture. This is different from MeatyWay Chicken Tenders, whose product description names one ingredient: chicken, with 70% crude protein and a maximum of 5% crude fat according to the stated analysis.

You should also read the full ingredients list for grain-free dog treats. “Grain-free” only means that no cereals have been added; it does not automatically mean that a treat is suitable for every dog or that you do not need to limit the portion.

3. Pay attention to portions, packaging and storage

Treats should be given alongside your dog’s normal food. A commonly used guideline on product packaging is that treats should account for no more than approximately 10% of your dog’s daily calorie intake. Adjust the main meal if you regularly give rewards.

Also check the storage instructions. According to the product information, INABA Churu products should be refrigerated after opening and used within 24 hours. G'woon Dog Pate states that it should be used within 48 hours of opening. A dog treat multipack with individually wrapped portions may therefore be more practical than one large, opened bag.

Our recommendations by usage profile

Suitable for: Budget-conscious beginners
INABA Bites Dog Multipack 4 Chicken Varieties 16 pcs.

INABA Bites Dog Multipack 4 Chicken Varieties 16 pcs.

Why it suits this profile: This multipack combines four chicken varieties in 16 small portions. It is a convenient option if you want to try different flavours without buying several separate packs straight away.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The number of portions and the net weight of 64 g are clearly stated. The small pieces are designed for rewards and training rather than prolonged chewing.

Key benefit & highlights

Four chicken varieties, small pieces and 82% moisture according to the product information. Use within three days of opening.

Suitable for: Shoppers looking for premium quality
MeatyWay Chicken Tenders 100g

MeatyWay Chicken Tenders 100g

Why it suits this profile: The listed ingredients consist of chicken. According to the product information, the soft jerky texture can be broken into smaller pieces for training.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The analysis provides specific values: at least 70% crude protein, at least 5% crude fat and a maximum of 18% moisture. This means you do not have to rely on marketing terms alone.

Key benefit & highlights

One listed ingredient and a 100 g bag. Suitable for anyone who wants to compare ingredients and nutritional values carefully.

Suitable for: Specific uses & frequent users
INABA Churu Dog Multipack 2 Chicken Varieties 20 pcs.

INABA Churu Dog Multipack 2 Chicken Varieties 20 pcs.

Why it suits this profile: The tubes are designed to be given by hand, used as a topper or offered as a training reward. This makes them suitable for dogs that respond well to a soft, spreadable snack.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The pack contains 20 tubes of 12 g. This clearly defines each portion, although according to the product information, an opened tube must be refrigerated and used within 24 hours.

Key benefit & highlights

Two chicken varieties, 88% moisture and portable tube packaging according to the product description.

Suitable for: Dogs that need soft treats
G'woon Dog Pate Chicken Dog Treats

G'woon Dog Pate Chicken Dog Treats

Why it suits this profile: According to the product description, the pâté-like texture is soft and easy to eat. The product is intended for adult dogs as a reward or occasional treat.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The intended use and target group are clearly described. After opening, the product must be refrigerated and used within 48 hours.

Key benefit & highlights

Soft pâté texture and chicken as the listed ingredient. Always check the label and nutritional information on the packaging before buying.

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 dog treats

How many dog treats can a dog have per day?

This depends on their weight, age, activity level and overall diet. Follow the guideline on the packaging and, ideally, keep extra treats below approximately 10% of their daily calorie intake. Reduce the amount of their main food when you train frequently.

Are soft dog treats suitable for older dogs?

Soft treats can be practical for older dogs that struggle with hard pieces, but suitability varies from dog to dog. Check the product information, give small portions and supervise your dog. If eating or chewing problems persist, it is advisable to seek advice from a vet.

How long do opened dog treats stay fresh?

This varies from product to product. Dry treats should usually be stored in a tightly sealed container in a cool place. Moist products, such as pâté and tubes, often need to be refrigerated and used within 24 to 48 hours according to the packaging. Always check the best-before date and the instructions on the label.