Joybuy Insights

Choosing Dog Treats: A Practical Guide to Flavour, Size and Safe Chewing Pleasure

Buying a bag of dog treats seems simple enough – until you have to choose between dog biscuits, soft dog treats, chews for dogs and dental sticks for dogs. The packaging often promises a lot, but not every product suits every dog. A small dog has different needs to a big chewer, and a training treat works differently from a snack for daily chewing pleasure.

As Joybuy’s Product Recommendation Officer, I filter the most important product information down to the practical points. That way, you can see more quickly which dog treats match how you’ll use them, your dog’s size and your dietary choices.

Three Common Pitfalls with Dog Treats

1. Confusing a Nice Health Claim with a Guarantee

Claims such as “helps reduce plaque” or “supports healthy gums” often come from the brand itself. According to Pedigree’s own research, Dentastix can help reduce tartar build-up by up to 80%. That is a brand claim made under specific research conditions, not a guarantee for every dog.

What’s more, a dental stick does not automatically replace tooth brushing or professional advice. So also look at the size, texture, feeding instructions and the way your dog chews.

2. Only Looking at the Price Per Pack

A large multipack may seem good value, but it isn’t always practical. Check:

  • the number of pieces and the weight per piece;
  • the shelf life after opening;
  • whether individual portions are packed separately;
  • how many treats your dog is allowed according to the label;
  • whether the treat is suitable for small, medium or large dogs.

A large pack of dog biscuits is especially handy if your dog tolerates the product well and you can store it airtight.

3. Not Matching the Size to Your Dog’s Weight

A chew that is too big can be difficult for a small dog to eat. A treat that is too small can be swallowed quickly by a large dog. Supervision is therefore important with chews for dogs. Choose based on the stated weight and pay attention to your dog’s chewing style.

Which Specifications Should You Check?

1. Composition and Analytical Constituents

Look at the ingredients list before you buy a product. Pay attention to the stated animal protein source, grains, vegetable by-products and any additives. If your dog has food sensitivities, it’s important to look not just at the flavour name but at the full ingredients list.

Also compare crude protein, fat, fibre, moisture and ash. A soft treat, for example, can contain relatively high moisture. According to the product information, the INABA Bites Dog Multipack contains 82% moisture, 14% crude protein and 3% crude fat. The INABA Fun Bites Chicken Wraps state 72% moisture, at least 22% crude protein and at least 3% fat.

Use these figures as points of comparison, not as a standalone quality guarantee. Dog treats are complementary food and not a replacement for a complete meal.

2. Texture and When to Use It

For training, small, easy-to-portion pieces are usually most practical. Soft dog treats can be suitable when you reward frequently or want to give a treat in smaller pieces. For longer chewing, look instead at the hardness, shape and recommended size.

A dental stick for dogs is intended as a chew, whereas a soft dog biscuit is better suited to training, hand-feeding or a reward between meals. The product category therefore tells you a lot about when to use it.

3. Portions, Storage and Daily Amount

The general guideline on product information is that treats should make up no more than 10% of daily calorie intake. If necessary, reduce the main meal and always provide fresh drinking water.

Pay attention to the storage period once opened. INABA Fun Bites must be refrigerated after opening and used as soon as possible. For the INABA Bites Multipack, it states that the product must be consumed within three days of opening. Dry treats should generally be stored in a cool, dry place and kept well sealed.

Our Recommendations by Type of Dog Owner

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

INABA Bites Dog Multipack 4 Chicken Varieties 16 pcs.

Why this fits the profile: Four chicken varieties in one pack make it easy to alternate flavours. The small pieces are practical for training and short reward moments.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The portion size and 16 pieces are clearly stated upfront. So you’re not buying based on a large pack alone.

Key benefit & plus points

64 g net weight, four chicken varieties and, according to the product information, no artificial colours or preservatives.

Suitable for: Shoppers looking for top quality
INABA Fun Bites Dog Chicken Wraps Chicken with Cheese 12g x 8 Packs

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

Why this fits the profile: The soft chicken wrap with a creamy filling offers a different texture from standard dog biscuits. The individual packs are handy for controlled feeding.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The packaging states 8 portions of 12 g and a feeding guide per dog size. That makes portioning clearer.

Key benefit & plus points

96 g total weight, at least 22% crude protein and, according to the product information, no grains, preservatives or artificial colours.

Suitable for: Specific use & heavy users
Pedigree Dentastix Medium Multipack 56-Pack 1.44 kg

Pedigree Dentastix Medium Multipack 56-Pack 1.44 kg

Why this fits the profile: The pack is designed for medium-sized dogs weighing 10–25 kg and contains 56 sticks. That suits daily use when your dog accepts the recommended dental stick well.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The size is clearly linked to a weight category. You should read the brand claim about tartar reduction as a claim from Pedigree, not as a guaranteed result.

Key benefit & plus points

56 sticks, 1.44 kg total weight and, according to the product information, no added sugar and no artificial colours or flavours.

When to Choose Treats for Small, Medium or Large Dogs

For treats for small dogs, smaller pieces or mini versions are often more practical. According to the product information, the Pedigree Jumbone Mini is intended for adult dogs up to 15 kg. Always check the minimum age and minimum weight on the packaging.

With treats for medium dogs, the weight category is usually clearly stated. The Dentastix Medium is designed for dogs weighing 10–25 kg. For large dogs, there is the Pedigree Dentastix Maxi, with 42 sticks for dogs from 25 kg upwards.

With treats for large dogs, weight isn’t the only thing that matters. Also look at the chewing strength and how quickly your dog eats a treat. Always give chews for dogs under supervision and remove any remnants when they become small or sharp.

Looking for more options?

We’ve put together a full, up-to-date list of products that fully meet these strict selection criteria and comply with current European safety regulations.

Frequently Asked Questions About Dog Treats

How many dog treats can my dog have per day?

Use the guideline on the packaging and keep treats to a maximum of around 10% of daily calorie intake. Adjust the main meal if you give several rewards. The right number depends on weight, age, activity level and body condition.

Are dental sticks for dogs suitable for daily use?

That depends on the specific product and the feeding instructions. Some Dentastix products are intended for daily use. According to Pedigree’s own research, the treat can help reduce tartar, but this is not a substitute for tailored dental care. Stay with your dog while he chews and provide fresh water.

How should I store soft dog treats after opening?

Always follow the label. Some soft INABA dog treats must be refrigerated after opening and used within a short time. Store dry dog treats in a cool, dry place and keep them well sealed. Before buying, check whether the packaging matches how quickly you’ll use them.