How to Choose the Best Treats for Your Dog

We all feed our dogs treats, but have you ever wondered what the best treat for your specific dog is? As pet owners, we only want the best for our pups, and with so many options on the market, it can be overwhelming to decide which treats to try out. Let’s talk about the top 5 things to look for when choosing the best treat for your dog and find the best option for you and your dog.

Always Check the Ingredients

The first (and most important) thing to look for when choosing a treat for your dog is the ingredients. Just like with their regular food, you want to make sure that the treats you’re giving your dog are made from high-quality, nutritious ingredients. Avoid treats that contain fillers or artificial preservatives, which can be harmful to your dog’s health. Instead, look for treats made from whole foods like real meat, vegetables, and fruits, and that have simple, limited ingredient panels. We’d recommend to select a treat option with meat as the number one ingredient so you can be sure to give them a snack that is not only indulgent, but high protein!

Consider Your Dog’s Size and Breed

Different breeds and sizes of dogs have different dietary needs. When choosing a treat for your dog, consider their size and breed to ensure you’re giving them an appropriate portion size. Remember to always check out the recommended feeding guidelines when giving treats to your dog. If you are unsure of the appropriate serving size, you can use calculators to determine the approximate calories your dog needs daily. Treats are not a substitution for food, so always make sure to prioritize feeding their full meals and add treats along the way.

Look for Treats That Support Their Health

You might not think of dog treats to be “healthy”, but there are certainly better options out there than others. Protein-first treats provide a wide range of nutrients that can benefit your dog’s overall health, and complete protein snacks can also contribute to muscle development, immune system support, and a shiny coat.

The other thing to keep in mind are pet allergies. For humans with allergies, we might get a runny nose and itchy, watery eyes. If a dog has allergies, they may present as an upset stomach, skin rash, or other side effects. If this happens, consult your veterinarian and evaluate the treats you currently provide. It might be time to swap out with something with simple ingredients, one that is grain or corn free, or a different protein source.

Consider the Texture and Consistency

Dogs have different preferences when it comes to the texture and consistency of treats, just as humans do. Some dogs prefer soft, chewy treats (especially older pups or those prone to dental issues), while others prefer something more crunchy. Additionally, the texture of the treat can impact how long it takes your dog to consume it. If you are looking for something a bit more time occupying, look for something on the chewier side to keep them indulging for longer.

Choose a Reputable Brand

Finally, when choosing a treat for your dog, it’s important to choose a reputable brand. Look for brands that prioritize quality ingredients and ethical manufacturing processes. Learn about the brand’s ingredients sourcing and cooking process to understand if it is something you can trust.

Waggin’ Train’s treats are made from high-quality, whole muscle chicken breast and are free from artificial ingredients and are grain free. We provide a high-protein (and indulgent!) snack that your dog will want more that’s rich in nutrients including vitamin B6, vitamin B3, and zinc. Additionally, the chewy texture of our chicken jerky treats keep your dog occupied for longer, and allow them to easily be broken apart for smaller dogs.