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

A bag of dog treats might seem like a quick choice, but the differences are significant. Whether you're looking for a soft reward for training, chew treats for dogs that last longer, or a low-fat snack, attractive claims on the packaging can easily lead you astray.

Three common pitfalls to watch out for:

• A flavour name doesn't always tell you how much meat is in it. "Chicken" or "beef" can refer to a flavouring or a limited proportion of animal ingredients. Always check the ingredients list.
• A dental treat doesn't replace full dental care. According to the product description of some brands, dental sticks can help reduce plaque or tartar. This is not a substitute for brushing or a vet check-up.
• The wrong size can be impractical or unsafe. A chew stick designed for a large dog isn't automatically suitable for a small one. Pay attention to your dog's weight, age and chewing style.

What to look for in dog treats?

1. Choose the right type of treat

First, decide what you need the treat for:

• Training treats for dogs: small, soft and easy to break into pieces. This way you can give multiple rewards without significantly increasing the daily amount.
• Meat treats for dogs: ideal as a tasty reward. Check the stated meat content and look out for any potential allergens.
• Chew treats for dogs: such as chew sticks for dogs, bones or sticks. These are designed for longer chewing sessions and should always be given under supervision.
• Dental sticks: products like dentastix for dogs or dental sticks for dogs often have a special shape and texture. You should assess their effectiveness based on the product information, not just the front of the packaging.

An additional treat is not a complete meal. Keep the main diet balanced and adjust it if necessary when you give lots of treats daily.

2. Check size, age and chewing behaviour

For treats for small dogs, a smaller stick or a soft bite is often more practical. A product like a mini dental stick is designed for small dogs, while some dental chews are specifically intended for medium or large dogs.

Look out for these points:

• Is the recommended body weight clearly stated?
• Is the treat suitable for puppies or only for adult dogs?
• Can your dog chew the treat calmly, or does he try to swallow it straight away?
• Is the treat hard enough for its purpose, but not so large that it's difficult to hold?

Always give a chew treat while you are present. Stop giving it if the product splinters, becomes unusually hard or breaks into small pieces.

3. Compare nutritional values and ingredients

A low fat percentage can be relevant for dogs that need fewer calories. Low-calorie dog treats are not automatically suitable for every dog though: the size and total amount also matter.

Compare the following:

• Crude fat: some dental sticks contain around 1 to 2% fat according to the stated analysis.
• Moisture content: soft treats can contain a lot of moisture, which means they need to be stored differently from dry sticks.
• Meat content: some treats state a specific percentage; others only mention "chicken" or "beef flavour".
• Additives: check for grains, soya, lupin, milk derivatives and other ingredients if your dog has sensitivities.
• Storage advice: once opened, certain soft treats need to be refrigerated and used quickly.

The guideline on the packaging is the most important. Several product descriptions state that treats should make up no more than about 10% of daily calorie intake.

Our recommendations by use case

Suitable for: Budget-conscious beginners

INABA Fun Bites Dog Chicken Wraps Chicken with Sweet Potato

Why this fits the profile: The soft texture and portion packaging make this treat practical for rewarding between meals or during short training sessions.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product information states 82% moisture and 2.2% crude fat. This allows you to compare the nutritional profile more concretely than with treats that only have a flavour claim.

Key benefit & highlights

40 g per pack, chicken with sweet potato, and once opened keep refrigerated and use within 24 hours.

Suitable for: Shoppers looking for top quality

Rosewood Dog Salmon Fillet Strips Large 150g

Why this fits the profile: Handy for owners looking for a treat with a clearly stated fish ingredient and a soft texture.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The description states 97% salmon and mentions no added grains, gluten, artificial colours, flavours or preservatives. Always check the current label if your dog has allergies.

Key benefit & highlights

150 g, soft salmon strips and, according to the product description, a low fat content.

Suitable for: Specific use & intensive users

Pedigree Dog Dental Chews Medium Dogs

Why this fits the profile: Designed for daily use with medium-sized dogs from the stated minimum age, with one chew per day according to the product information.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The size is specifically labelled for medium-sized dogs. The claim of up to 80% less tartar comes from Pedigree's product information; do not regard this as a medical guarantee.

Key benefit & highlights

1.3% fat according to the analysis, no added sugar and a recommended daily amount of one chew.

Common choices by dog size

For small dogs, mini sticks, soft pieces and breakable treats are often easier to portion. For medium dogs, look at dental chews with an explicit weight category. Large dogs generally need a larger size, but supervision is still essential.

Want to compare chicken dog treats, beef dog treats or salmon treats for dogs? Don't just look at the flavour on the front. With a treat like a Vitakraft Beef Original Lamb Stick, for example, a high meat content is stated, whereas with other products the meat percentage is lower or not fully specified. The ingredients list determines what you're actually buying.

Don't give human snacks like Bifi or seasoned meat sticks to your dog. These can contain a lot of salt, fat, spices or preservatives and are not formulated as dog food.

Frequently asked questions about dog treats

How many dog treats can a dog have per day?

As a practical guideline, treats should provide no more than about 10% of daily calorie intake. The right amount depends on weight, age, activity level and body condition. Reduce the main meal if necessary and follow the feeding guide on the packaging.

Are dental sticks good for a dog's teeth?

Dental sticks can help with mechanical cleaning during chewing thanks to their shape and texture. According to brands' own research or product information, percentages are sometimes mentioned for a possible reduction in tartar. This claim does not automatically apply to every dog. Dental sticks do not replace brushing or a check-up for persistent dental problems.

How long do dog treats last after opening?

This varies by product. Dry treats should usually be stored in a cool, dry place and sealed properly. Soft treats may need to be refrigerated after opening and sometimes used within 24 hours. Always check the best-before date and storage advice on the packaging.