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

Dog treats are handy as rewards, training aids or an addition to your dog’s daily routine. However, not every bag is suitable for every dog. A puppy has different needs from a senior dog, while a small dog may struggle with large chews. Terms such as “natural”, “grain-free” and “supports dental care” only tell you so much, so always check the full product information.

The main pitfalls to avoid when buying dog treats are:

  • Confusing marketing language with nutritional information. Where possible, check claims such as “high-protein” or “low-fat dog treats” against the analytical constituents on the label.
  • Ignoring portion sizes. A large pack may seem like good value, but extra treats can upset your dog’s daily energy balance.
  • Choosing a treat without considering your dog. Age, size, chewing habits, allergies and a sensitive stomach all affect which treat is suitable.
  • Treating a product claim as a guarantee. A brand’s own research may suggest that a product helps reduce plaque or tartar, for example, but this is no substitute for regular dental care or advice from your vet.

What should you look for in dog treats?

1. Ingredients and analytical constituents

Start by checking the ingredients. If meat, fish or another clearly named ingredient appears near the top of the list, that tells you more than a general term such as “meat flavour”. When choosing natural dog treats or grain-free dog treats, also check that grains are genuinely absent and see which ingredients are used instead.

Look out for:

  • The percentages of crude protein and crude fat.
  • Any added sugars, colourings, preservatives or fillers.
  • Ingredients your dog is known to be sensitive to.
  • Whether the product is a complementary treat or a complete food.

A product that is high in protein is not automatically suitable for every dog. High-protein dog treats can be practical for active dogs, but the total amount of food still matters.

2. Size, texture and supervision

Soft jerky that breaks into small pieces is handy as dog training treats. A firm chew is a better fit for a dog that likes to chew for longer. Always choose the size based on your dog’s body weight and chewing style.

Give your dog treats under supervision. If the product information recommends it, break larger treats into smaller pieces for small dogs. A treat must not pose a choking risk or replace a main meal.

When choosing dog dental sticks, it’s important to follow the recommended size and daily amount. According to Pedigree’s product information, the variant in question is intended for medium-sized dogs aged four months and over. The claim about reducing tartar is based on information from the manufacturer, so treat it as a product feature based on the brand’s own research, not as a universal guarantee.

3. Purpose and frequency of use

Decide what you’re buying the treat for:

  • For training: small, soft and easy to portion.
  • For everyday chewing: the right size, with clear feeding instructions.
  • For dental care: check the recommended age, size and frequency of use.
  • For a sensitive stomach: choose a simple ingredient list and introduce the product gradually.
  • To help with stressful situations: check the ingredients and dosage, but don’t assume a calming effect is a proven medical benefit.

Low-fat dog treats are not necessarily low in calories. Check the energy information if it’s available, and adjust your dog’s main meal if needed.

Product choices for different types of dog owners

Suitable for: Budget-conscious beginners
MeatyWay Chicken and Duck Jerky Tenders Dog Treats

MeatyWay Chicken and Duck Jerky Tenders Dog Treats

Why it suits this profile: According to the product information, the soft jerky can be broken into smaller pieces, making it handy for everyday training and rewards.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The ingredients are clearly listed, and the pack contains two 454-gram bags. Always check the portion size and best-before date.

Key benefit & highlights

Duck and chicken are listed ingredients; the product description says it has a grain-free recipe and a texture that breaks apart easily.

Suitable for: Shoppers looking for premium quality
Orijen Whole Prey Healthy Coat with Red Meat Adult Dog Food

Orijen Whole Prey Healthy Coat with Red Meat Adult Dog Food

Why it suits this profile: This is a complete dog food for adult dogs, not an everyday reward treat. The 11,4 kg bag may suit households looking for a main food with a detailed ingredient list.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The analytical constituents are specified, including 38% crude protein and 18% crude fat. Introduce the food according to the transition period given.

Key benefit & highlights

Complete food, several named animal ingredients and clear nutritional values, according to the product description.

Suitable for: Specific needs & frequent users
Pedigree Dog Dental Chews Medium Dogs

Pedigree Dog Dental Chews Medium Dogs

Why it suits this profile: According to the product information, these chews are intended for medium-sized dogs aged four months and over, and can be included in a regular daily routine.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The intended dog size, daily amount and analytical values are listed. The claim about tartar reduction is based on information provided by Pedigree.

Key benefit & highlights

Designed for medium-sized dogs, with one chew per day according to the product information, and 1,3% fat.

Suitable for: Dog owners looking for a treat for stressful situations
MOGOGO Calming Snacks for Dogs

MOGOGO Calming Snacks for Dogs

Why it suits this profile: These soft treats are intended for situations such as travelling, fireworks or adjusting to a new environment. The tub contains 60 treats weighing 3 grams each.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The amount per treat and the ingredients, including magnesium glycinate, L-tryptophan and passionflower, are specified. The claimed effects come from the product description.

Key benefit & highlights

Pre-portioned soft treats, no artificial colourings or flavourings according to the product information, and storage advice for after opening.

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 a dog have each day?

It depends on your dog’s size, activity level and overall diet. Follow the recommended amount on the packaging and, if needed, deduct the energy from treats from your dog’s main meal. If your dog is overweight, has allergies or has a medical condition, you can discuss their feeding plan with your vet.

Which dog treats are suitable for a sensitive stomach?

Where possible, choose a product with a short, clear ingredient list and introduce it gradually. Grain-free dog treats are only relevant if grains don’t suit your dog’s diet; grain-free doesn’t automatically mean a treat is easier to digest.

Are dog dental sticks a substitute for brushing your dog’s teeth?

No. Dog dental sticks can be part of your dog’s daily dental routine, but they don’t replace proper dental care. Take your dog’s size into account, give the recommended amount, and ask your vet to check their teeth if you notice a build-up, signs of pain or bad breath.