Buying a bag of dog treats sounds simple, until you have to choose between dog biscuits, chew treats for dogs, dental treats for dogs and training treats for dogs. An attractive packet does not always tell the whole story either. A snack may look large, for example, but contain only a few portions. Or a product may mention a flavour even though its main ingredients are mostly cereals or plant-based ingredients.
The Joybuy Product Recommendation Officer helps you assess the key differences. That way, you can buy treats suited to your dog’s size, activity level and intended use.
“Made with chicken”, “beef” or “salmon” on the front does not automatically mean that the product is mostly made from that animal. So check the ingredients list and the stated percentage. For example, G'woon Beef Strips contain 18% beef, while the recipe also includes cereals, vegetable by-products, oils and sugars.
Other treats provide clearer specifications. According to the product information, Rosewood Salmon Fillet Strips contain 97% salmon. This makes them an interesting option for anyone specifically looking for salmon dog treats, but if your dog has sensitivities, always check the full ingredients and allergen information yourself.
Dental treats for dogs often make claims about plaque, tartar or fresh breath. According to Pedigree’s own research, Dentastix can help reduce tartar build-up by up to 80% when used daily. This is a brand claim, not a general guarantee for every dog.
The shape and texture may encourage chewing, but a treat cannot replace complete dental care or a check-up if your dog has symptoms. Also, always choose a size suitable for your dog’s weight and supervise them while they eat.
Dog treats are usually complementary pet food and are not a replacement for a complete meal. Several products in this range recommend that treats account for no more than 10% of your dog’s daily calorie intake. If you regularly give rewards during training, reduce the main meal where necessary.
Also consider how long the treat takes to chew. A soft treat is convenient for quick rewards, while a chew stick or bone takes longer. Only give a chew treat when you can supervise your dog, and make sure fresh drinking water is available.
Your dog’s weight is more important than breed alone. Check the intended dog size on the packaging:
Pedigree Dental Chews Small Dogs are intended for dogs weighing 5 to 10 kg. The medium multipack is for dogs weighing 10 to 25 kg, while the maxi version is for dogs from 25 kg upwards. G'woon Dental Sticks Medium are specifically intended for medium-sized dogs. Always check the current packaging before buying, as product information may change.
Do not just look at claims such as “natural” or “high in protein”. Check:
A statement that a product contains none of the 14 main EU allergens does not rule out your dog reacting to another ingredient. Read the full composition and stop giving the treat if your dog has an adverse reaction.
Small, soft or breakable treats are practical for training. According to the product details, the Vitakraft stick can easily be broken into pieces. For calm, extended chewing, bones, wrapped sticks or dental sticks may be more suitable.
Pay attention to the difference between chewing enjoyment and dental care. A product may be suitable for chewing without independent evidence of a specific effect on dental health. So describe such benefits as supportive rather than definitive, and follow the instructions for use.
Why it suits this profile: The 500-gram packet is practical for daily rewards and simple training sessions. The biscuits have a crunchy outer layer and a soft marrow filling.
The product information clearly lists gluten-containing cereals and the full basic composition. This helps you assess the treat more effectively against your dog’s needs.
500 g contents; crunchy texture; suitable as a reward or training treat; no artificial colourings or flavourings according to the product description.
Why it suits this profile: These soft strips are ideal for dogs that enjoy a distinctive fish flavour, for example as a reward after a walk or during intensive training.
The stated salmon percentage makes the flavour choice more specific than a general description such as “fish flavour”. However, always check the current packaging.
According to the product information, 97% salmon; soft texture; low in fat according to the description; with no added cereals, gluten, artificial colourings, flavourings or preservatives.
Why it suits this profile: The multipack is suitable for households that want to give a daily treat to a medium-sized dog weighing 10 to 25 kg.
The size and daily feeding instructions are specifically linked to the dog’s weight. The claim about reducing tartar comes from Pedigree and should not be interpreted as a guarantee.
56 sticks; intended for 10–25 kg; fixed daily portion; no added sugar according to the product information.
Why it suits this profile: This stick is intended as a tasty complementary treat and can be broken into pieces. This makes it useful for dogs of different sizes and for various training situations.
The recommended amount is stated for each weight category. This helps prevent a whole stick from automatically being treated as a suitable portion.
92.5% meat and animal by-products according to the product specifications; easy to break; portion guidance for dogs weighing 2–25 kg.
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.
As a general guideline, treats should provide no more than 10% of your dog’s daily calorie intake. The right amount depends on their weight, age, activity level and main food. Always follow the feeding advice on the packaging and adjust the meal if you give lots of rewards.
Small, soft or easily breakable dog biscuits are usually practical during training. The Vitakraft stick can be divided into pieces. Soft treats such as small meat strips are also useful, as you can give several rewards quickly without having to open a large product each time.
Dental treats for dogs can support chewing and your dog’s daily oral care routine. According to Pedigree’s own research, Dentastix may help reduce tartar build-up. This effect is not guaranteed for every dog. If your dog has pain, bad breath or visible tartar, consulting a vet is more sensible than simply giving them more treats.