A Guide to Choosing Healthy Dog Treats
Healthy treats don’t just make dogs wag their tails, they’re an important part of keeping your furry friend in top shape. From supporting dental health to providing mental stimulation and even helping with dog training, the right treat can do a lot more than just taste good.
But with shelves stacked with every kind of chew, biscuit, and bite-sized snack, choosing the healthiest dog treats can feel overwhelming. In this guide, we’ll help you understand what makes a dog treat truly nutritious. Plus, we'll introduce you to some of the best dog treats from Pawstruck for every kind of pup – big dogs, small dogs, picky eaters, and everything in between.
What Makes a Dog Treat Healthy?
Before you grab a bag of treats based on packaging alone (we’ve all been there), it’s smart to check the ingredients and purpose behind each snack. Healthy treats support your dog’s overall wellbeing and should fit their dietary needs.
Key Ingredients to Look For
A healthy dog treat starts with real, recognizable ingredients. You’ll want to look for real meat like real chicken or beef, not vague terms like “meat by-products.” Stick with simple ingredients to lower the chance of food sensitivities
The best dog treats are also packed with essential vitamins, made with high-quality protein, and easy to digest. These are key especially for senior dogs and small breeds that may have more sensitive stomachs. Bonus points if the treats help support joint health, gums, and a balanced diet.
The Right Treat for the Right Reason
Let’s face it, dogs would love to snack all day, but not every treat is right for every situation. Are you rewarding good behavior during training sessions? Trying to keep your dog calm during separation anxiety? Looking for something to clean their teeth?
Whatever the goal, the healthiest dog treats are the ones that match your dog’s requirements. For example, soft and chewy treats are ideal for older pups or small dogs, while hard or long-lasting treats like dog bones are better suited for larger breeds that enjoy more of a challenge.
It's all about balance and understanding your pup's individual needs and preferences. In the next section, we’ll highlight different types of treats to help you choose options that keep them happy and healthy.
Treats That Clean Teeth and Freshen Breath
Dental health is vital to your dog’s overall wellbeing. Poor oral hygiene can cause bad breath, tooth decay, gum disease, and even serious health issues like heart, liver, and kidney disease. Caring for your pup's teeth protects more than just their smile – it safeguards their entire body.
That’s where our dental treats and chews come in. We offer treats like bully sticks and dental dog chews that naturally help reduce plaque due to the mechanical abrasive action of chewing while satisfying your dog’s need to chew.
Pawstruck Bully Sticks are made from real beef pizzle with no additives, providing a single-ingredient option that supports clean teeth and healthy gums. They're great for dogs of all sizes and digestible, making them a safe choice for your furry friend.
For pups that need extra help with oral care, our Daily Dental Brush Chews are shaped to reach tough spots and massage the gums, all without artificial flavors or colors. They're gluten, wheat, and corn-free making them a great option for dogs with allergies or sensitivities.
High-Protein Treats Dogs Love
Dogs love treats bursting with flavor, but it’s protein that powers their zoomies. A solid supply of high-protein treats helps maintain lean muscle, energy levels, and overall vitality – a must for both large dogs and small breeds.
Our Dog Jerky Treats are packed with protein and natural flavors plus chondroitin to support your dog's joints. With so many delicious options, you can finally stop worrying about your pup sneaking a bite of your beef jerky!
Pawstruck Bully Slices are also high in protein and perfect for pups that need a boredom buster or a new favorite treat. These flavorful, low-fat chews support joint and dental health, are made with natural ingredients, and contain no harmful additives.
Natural Chews for Long-Lasting Enjoyment
If your dog is a power chewer, you already know regular treats disappear in seconds. To keep them entertained and mentally stimulated, natural chews are your best bet.
We offer a wide selection of collagen chews, hooves, and bones designed to provide long-lasting enjoyment. Our Beef Collagen Sticks are thicker than standard chews and naturally rich in glucosamine and chondroitin to support joint health and mobility.
For dogs that love a good challenge, our natural Cow Hooves and Meaty Beef Dog Bones help bust boredom while providing a delicious, durable treat.
Unique Animal-Based Chews for Variety
Even dogs like a little culinary adventure now and then. For pet parents who want to mix up the treat routine, our animal-based options offer a fun change without sacrificing nutrition. They’re ideal for dogs that enjoy a crunchy texture and for those that get bored with the same old dog biscuits.
Dogs who love to chew won’t be able to resist our Animal Ears and Snouts! These natural treats are packed with chondroitin, which helps support your pup’s joint health.
Chewing on these tasty snacks also helps relieve stress while promoting healthier teeth and gums. To top it all off, each treat is slow-roasted for a mouthwatering flavor your dog will adore. What’s not to love?
Toppers and Mixers That Add Nutrition (and Excitement)
Sometimes, adult dogs just need a little encouragement to eat. If your pup gets bored with regular kibble, adding a topper can bring meals back to life.
Pawstruck Meal Topper and Mixer is made with up to 95% real beef & beef organs or 96% real chicken & chicken organs, and includes flaxseed, salmon oil, and essential vitamins and minerals. It's a great way to enhance your dog’s regular food with extra flavor and nutritional value. Whether you’re caring for a picky eater or just looking to boost protein intake, it makes every bite more enjoyable without compromising a balanced diet.
How to Choose the Right Treat for Your Dog
To keep your pup healthy, it’s important to choose high-quality treats that fit their needs and support their lifestyle – not replace their meals. Here are a few simple tips to keep in mind:
Consider Age, Size, and Sensitivity
Small treats with a soft texture are usually better for small dogs and senior dogs, that have sensitive teeth or trouble chewing. Larger treats like dog bones or hard chews are better suited for large dogs with strong jaws.
Also, be aware of food sensitivities – some dogs can't tolerate certain proteins or grains. Always read labels and avoid common irritants like artificial flavors and wheat gluten.
Keep Portion Size in Mind
As tempting as it is to reward your pup constantly (especially when they give you the look), too many treats can lead to weight gain and other health issues. Treats should be used as food rewards, not a full meal replacement.
Try to keep treats to about 10% of your dog’s daily calories. Use training treats during short sessions and rotate between different healthy dog options to avoid overdoing it.
FAQs About Healthy Dog Treats
What is the healthiest treat to give a dog?
The healthiest dog treats are made from real ingredients and free from artificial colors and fillers. Choose treats packed with protein, essential vitamins, and minerals, and make sure they’re the right fit for your dog’s age and size.
What are healthy chew treats for dogs?
Healthy chew treats include dental chews, bully sticks, collagen chews, and animal-based chews like ears or snouts. These treats support dental health, offer mental stimulation, and satisfy natural chewing urges.
How many treats should I give my dog?
Moderation is key. Keep treats to about 10% of your dog’s daily food intake. Use smaller, bite sized treats for training and avoid giving large amounts of high-calorie snacks.
Key Takeaways
● Healthy treats start with real, simple ingredients. Look for options with real meat, essential vitamins, and no artificial flavors or fillers, especially for dogs with sensitivities.
● Dental treats do more than freshen breath. Our bully sticks and dental chews help reduce plaque, clean teeth, and support overall oral health.
● High protein treats fuel active dogs. Treats like jerky and bully slices support lean muscle and supports joint comfort and mobility, while offering a flavorful reward.
● Natural chews keep dogs occupied and healthy. Collagen chews, hooves, and bones satisfy chewing instincts and support joint, skin, and dental health.
● Animal-based chews offer variety and nutrition. Animals ears and snouts provide unique textures and tastes without artificial additives.
● Toppers add both excitement and nutrients to meals. Mixers made with high-quality ingredients like real beef or chicken boost flavor, encourage eating, and deliver essential nutrients.
● Choosing the right treat depends on your dog’s needs. Consider age, size, and sensitivity, and always keep portion sizes appropriate to avoid too many treats.
Are You Picking the Healthiest Dog Treats for Your Pup?
Healthy treats aren’t just a luxury, they’re a smart addition to your dog’s routine. Whether it’s cleaning teeth, rewarding good behavior, or giving a fun way to snack, there’s a perfect option out there for every pup.
So next time you're reaching for a treat, think about what your dog actually needs – and maybe what they secretly want. With Pawstruck’s range of nutritious treats, you’ll never have to choose between taste and health. Now that’s something to bark about!
Ready to treat your pup? Explore our complete range of Dog Chews and Dog Treats today and discover wholesome options your four-legged friend will love.
