Joybuy Insights

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

Choosing the right dog treats may seem simple, but the packaging doesn’t always tell the whole story. A treat might be presented as a “meat treat”, for example, while also containing cereals, vegetable by-products or sugars. And a large chew stick isn’t automatically suitable for a small dog.

So pay close attention to the ingredients, size and occasion. That way, you can avoid spending money on dog treats that aren’t right for your dog’s age, size or dietary needs.

Common pitfalls when choosing dog treats

1. “With meat” doesn’t always mean a high meat content

Check the percentage and where the meat appears in the ingredients list. G’woon Beef Strips Dog Wrap, for example, lists 18% beef. The ingredients also include cereals, oils and fats, vegetable by-products, preservatives and colourings.

A product with a specific meat percentage is easier to compare than packaging that uses terms such as “meat flavour” or “rich in meat” alone. According to the product information, Vitakraft Beef Stick contains more than 90% meat. Even then, it’s important to check the full ingredients list and feeding guidelines.

2. A dental treat doesn’t replace daily dental care

Some dog chews are described as helping to support dental care. G’woon Dental Sticks Medium, for example, lists cereals, oils and fats, vegetable protein extracts and 1% sodium hexametaphosphate.

That doesn’t mean every dog will get enough dental care from the product. The effects of these products can vary from dog to dog. Use a dental treat as an additional reward and, if in doubt, follow your vet’s advice.

3. A treat for “all dogs” isn’t always practical for every size

A large, hard chew can be awkward for a small dog. On the other hand, a small treat may disappear too quickly for a large dog. Look for size indications such as small, medium or large, as well as weight guidance and the minimum age.

Your dog’s chewing style matters too. A dog that gulps its food needs more supervision than one that chews calmly. Always supervise your dog when giving treats and make sure fresh drinking water is available.

Important things to check

Ingredients and nutritional value

Don’t just look at the front of the packet. Check:

  • the meat content and the animal species listed;
  • whether it contains cereals, soya, lupin or other ingredients your dog may be sensitive to;
  • the fat content, especially if your dog isn’t very active;
  • the analytical constituents, such as protein, fat, fibre, ash and moisture;
  • whether the product is a complementary pet food and therefore isn’t a substitute for a complete meal.

According to the product information, Rosewood Dog Chicken Fillets Small contains 92% chicken breast, vegetable glycerine and potato starch. The treat is intended for dogs and not for puppies under 6 months. This information can help you make a more targeted choice, but always check the packaging when you buy.

Size, texture and age

For treats for small dogs, small fillets, short sticks or mini chews are often more practical. According to the product information, Pedigree Jumbone Mini Chicken & Lamb is intended for adult small dogs weighing up to 15 kg. This variety isn’t recommended for dogs under 4 kg or puppies under 9 months.

For medium-sized dogs, a medium dental stick or a firm chew may be more suitable. G’woon Dog Dental Sticks Medium is specifically labelled for medium-sized dogs. Also consider the texture: a dried meat strip, a soft training treat and a firm chew stick are each suited to different occasions.

Portion size and daily calories

Dog treats count towards your dog’s overall diet. The product information for several of the treats mentioned recommends keeping treats to no more than 10% of your dog’s daily calorie intake. Reduce their main meal if needed, and adjust the amount to suit their size, age and activity level.

Small, easy-to-break dog training treats are handy for training. A large chew is better suited to a relaxed chewing session than a walk or obedience exercise.

Recommended dog treats for different needs

Suitable for: Budget-conscious beginners
G'woon Beef Strips Dog Wrap 90 g

G'woon Beef Strips Dog Wrap 90 g

Why it suits this profile: This treat is easy to use as a reward between meals, and its size makes it suitable for training or a quick snack.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The meat content is specified: 18% beef. This makes it clear that the treat isn’t made entirely of meat.

Key benefit & highlights

22% crude protein and a handy 90 g pack; not suitable for dogs sensitive to cereals or beef.

Suitable for: Shoppers looking for premium quality
Rosewood Dog Chicken Fillets Small

Rosewood Dog Chicken Fillets Small

Why it suits this profile: These small fillets are designed for small dogs and can also be used as a supervised reward during training.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The ingredients list specifies 92% chicken breast, making the meat content easy to check rather than relying on a marketing claim alone.

Key benefit & highlights

Cereal-free according to the product information, with a resealable pack; not suitable for puppies under 6 months.

Suitable for: Specific needs & frequent users
g'woon Dog Dental sticks Medium 180g

g'woon Dog Dental sticks Medium 180g

Why it suits this profile: This variety is specifically labelled for medium-sized dogs and is intended as a daily chew reward.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The size is clearly stated. The product description recommends one stick a day, under supervision and within the treat limit.

Key benefit & highlights

180 g pack, with 17% moisture, 8% crude protein and 1% crude fat.

Suitable for: Owners of small adult dogs
Pedigree Dog Snacks Jumbone Mini Chicken & Lamb 4 Pieces

Pedigree Dog Snacks Jumbone Mini Chicken & Lamb 4 Pieces

Why it suits this profile: According to the product information, the mini version is intended for small adult dogs weighing up to 15 kg and is suited to a more relaxed chewing session.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The intended dog size and feeding frequency are clearly stated: for dogs weighing 4–10 kg, give no more than one piece per week.

Key benefit & highlights

A chew with a hard outer layer and a soft centre; the product information states that it contains less than 2% fat and no artificial colourings or flavourings.

Looking for more options?

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

Frequently asked questions about dog treats

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

As a general guideline, several products state that treats should provide no more than 10% of your dog’s daily calorie intake. The right amount depends on your dog’s weight, age and activity level, as well as the calories in each treat. Adjust their main meal if needed.

Which treats are suitable for small dogs?

Choose a treat that’s the right size for your small dog’s weight and chewing strength. Options include small fillets, mini chew sticks and treats with clear weight guidance. Never give a large treat without supervision, and always check the minimum age.

Are grain-free dog treats automatically more suitable?

No. Grain-free dog treats often contain other sources of carbohydrates, such as potato starch, tapioca or peas. Being grain-free doesn’t in itself tell you anything about the overall fat content, portion size or whether the treat is right for your dog. Compare the ingredients list and speak to your vet if your dog has allergies.