10 Best Healthy Dog Treats in 2022 (Veterinary Technician-Reviewed)
It’s hard to say no when your dogs are giving you the puppy eyes at the table. But to show their dogs love and care, many people buy dog treats instead of giving them human food. However, dog treats can be bad for your dog because they can contain a lot of additives that can cause digestive problems, obesity, diabetes, kidney disease, and more.
Since there are so many dog treats on the market, it may be difficult to know which to go for. That's why we've provided you with information on what you need to look at when buying dog treats in our buying guide below, which was reviewed by a veterinary technician. We've also picked out the 10 best healthy treats that are safe for your dog to consume!
Quick List - Top Healthy Dog Treats
Cheyenne Williams is a Certified Veterinary Assistant, currently enrolled in college for veterinary technology, working in vet hospitals since she was 16. She is also the owner of Shiney Day Specialized Pet Care in Sarasota, Florida, founded in 2015. Cheyenne has worked with professionals from pet sitters and groomers to veterinary specialists in a hospital setting.
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How to Choose a Healthy Dog Treat - Buying Guide
Choosing the type of dog treats, understanding the ingredient lists, and knowing your dog's favorite flavors are important factors to consider when looking for the right healthy treat for your dog.
Consider High Protein and Long-Lasting Treats
Bone and meat treats are high in protein and require more chewing than other types of treats. There are three main types: jerky, bully sticks, and rawhide bones, and they differ in textures and ingredients.
Jerky Treats to Increase Protein Intake
Jerky treats are packed with protein because they're made from real meats like beef, chicken, or turkey. Natural jerky treats are safe for most dogs, but you should pay attention to artificial flavoring, preservatives, as well as seasonings and salt content. The less artificial flavoring and preservatives, the better!
When it comes to finding the best jerky treats for your dog, you'll want to make sure that you're getting a product that is made from high quality ingredients. You should also check the labels to see what kind of meat is used in the treats, as well as any artificial flavors or preservatives. The less of these ingredients, the better!
Bully Sticks Have Minimal Ingredients and a Long Chew Time
Bully sticks are made from one pure ingredient: bull penises. They have a soft texture and are easy and digest. The simple ingredient content makes them a safe treat for dogs who may struggle with allergies.
Bully sticks tend to require more chewing time than dental treats, so they are not used for treat training. Instead, they are good treats for dogs with destructive behavior.
Bully sticks come in different sizes to accommodate different dog breeds. The size of the bully stick should be appropriate for the size of the dog. Smaller dogs should not have bully sticks that are too big, as they may struggle to chew them. Bully sticks are a healthy treat option for dogs. They are low in fat and calories, and they help to promote good dental health.
Rawhide Bones for Durable Chews
Rawhide bones are one of the most popular types of dog treats. In general, they have a thicker size and are more durable than jerky treats and bully sticks.
These treats can be tough for your dog to digest. They can also be a choking hazard for aggressive chewers who might swallow overly large chunks. If your dog is a heavy chewer, it’s better to avoid rawhide and give them different treats instead.
Still, as rawhide bones are durable and provide dental benefits by scraping the tartar off of your dog's teeth, they can be great treats if your dog doesn't chew too aggressively. They also keep active dogs busy expending energy on such a delicious treat!
Rawhide treats are no longer recommended by our vet clinic due to the potential for foreign body surgeries.
Look for Treats Aimed at Specific Health Points
Treats that target specific issues in your dog's health can be great. Whether your dog has dental issues, needs extra nutrients, or just needs some incentive to be trained, there are a variety of treats to choose from.
All-Natural Treats Can Aid Digestion
Natural treats, sometimes called vegetable chips, are made from vegetables, fruits, and soluble ingredients. They are generally high in fiber, which helps to maintain bowel health. You also can find products with a mix of greens and meats to improve the smell and flavor, too!
There are several manufacturers of natural dog treats on the market these days. When looking for a brand, be sure to check the label carefully. Make sure that the components are all-natural and that there are no artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives in the product. Be sure to also check the caloric content to make sure that the treat is not too high in calories for your dog.
Dental Treats for Healthy Teeth and Gums
Dental treats help clean your dog's teeth by gently scraping off tartar and plaque as your dog chews. They may also contain antibacterial properties, which will help your dog's breath smell better and make things safer for you as well. There are more than a hundred types of bacteria and parasites found in the saliva of dogs, and a few of them can even infect humans.
Dental care is essential to promoting good quality of life as your dog ages. While you should still brush your dog's teeth as regularly as possible, dental treats provide a good addition to ensuring your pup won't suffer from gum or tooth diseases later on in life.
Dental treats come in a variety of flavors that will make your pup's mouth water. From chicken to peanut butter, there's sure to be a flavor that they'll love. And, if you're looking for something extra special, there are even some that come in fun shapes like bones and doggie biscuits.
Read the Ingredient Labels Carefully
The most important thing for choosing a healthy treat is carefully reading food labels to avoid unnecessary ingredients and toxic chemicals that are harmful to your dogs.
Choose a Good Protein Source
Some dog treats contain one protein source while others add high-protein vegetables like corn, soy, or grains to act as fillers. Unlike meats, corn is difficult to digest, while soy can cause bloating and grains may cause skin irritation. That's why we recommend you choose real meats as protein sources in your pet's treats.
It's also important to avoid meat byproducts when possible, as they may come from parts of the animal that are more difficult to digest. A healthy dog treat will have a whole meat listed early in the ingredient list; avoid meat byproducts entirely or, if that isn't possible, try to pick a treat that has byproducts listed further down on its ingredient list.
When you're looking at the ingredients list on a package of dog treats, it's important to know what to look for—and what to avoid. First and foremost, you should always pick a treat with real meat as its primary protein source. While some treats also include high-protein vegetables like corn, soy, or grains, these should only be included in small quantities, as they can cause digestive issues.
Follow the Feeding Instructions
It is best to follow the feeding instructions on the packaging to ensure you don't overfeed your dog. This is especially important for biscuits, jerky, dry kibbles, dental treats. These usually suggest how many treats you should give your dog based on its weight.
Even a healthy dog treat can cause weight gain in your pup if it isn't given in moderation. There are plenty of health risks associated with obesity in dogs, so please follow the label instructions to ensure a happy, healthy experience for your pet.
Be Aware of Sugars and Salts
Sugars, natural and processed, are additives that you should avoid. As with humans, excessive consumption of sugars can cause many health issues in dogs, such as obesity or diabetes.
Similarly, salt is considered dangerous to dogs when given in large amounts. It can cause depression, seizures, vomiting, and even kidney problems.
Since the amount of sugar and salt is not always written on the packaging, you might consider avoiding these ingredients altogether or at least finding treats that place these ingredients towards the end of the list rather than the beginning.
There are a few other ingredients to avoid giving your dog as well. Mono sodium glutamate, or MSG, is a common food additive that has been linked to health problems in dogs. If you are unsure whether a certain treat is suitable for your dog, it is always best to check with your veterinarian first. They will be able to give you the most accurate information based on your dog's individual health needs.
Artificial Ingredients Aren’t Good for Dogs
Some artificial sweeteners like stevia, corn syrup, and fructose are safe for dogs if consumed in small amounts, but consuming them in larger amounts can cause a spike in blood sugars and other health problems like diarrhea.
Xylitol, which is a common artificial sweetener in human foods, is actually toxic to dogs and should never be introduced as a treat. It's better for your dog's safety and health to avoid giving human foods as a treat for this reason, and to steer clear of sugary dog treats when possible.
The same can be said for sugar alcohols, which are sometimes introduced to dog treats for palatability or preservation purposes. Sugar alcohols can have the same harmful effects as xylitol, and xylitol itself is sometimes given the name "sugar alcohol."
We recommend avoiding these additives and opting instead for products with natural ingredients. Natural ingredients like cranberries and other fruits will give your pup a sweet treat without any added sugar or sugar lookalikes.
Say No to Heavy Metals
BPA, mercury, lead, and cadmium are some of the possible contaminants in dog treats. It can be difficult to know which products are free from heavy metals, but there's one way that you can try to avoid them.
Some studies have found that fish and grains have high amounts of heavy metal contamination, while turkey meat contains the lowest amount of heavy metals. If you’re concerned about this, you may want to choose products that are made from turkey over fish and grains.
Pick According to Your Pup's Preferences
Dogs' taste buds have a similar sensory makeup to our own. They can detect salty, sweet, bitter, and sour flavors. While each dog has its unique taste, they generally prefer savory over sweet. So, when it comes to dog treats, it’s better to choose ones with meaty flavor.
There are a lot of tasty meats to choose from. Beef, chicken, and turkey are some of the most popular choices. Flavors such as pork, lamb, and venison may also be found in treats. If you're not sure which flavor your dog will like best, consider purchasing a mixed pack so they can try a range of options.
How to Choose a Healthy Dog Treat - Buying Guide
Products | Image | Click to purchase | Key features | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
1 | Blue Buffalo Health Bars | | A BPA-Free, Healthy Biscuits for All Dogs | |
2 | Jack & Pup 6-inch Bully Sticks | | Extra Thick Bully Sticks That Are Easy to Digest | |
3 | Zuke's Mini Naturals | | Just the Right Amount of Human Food | |
4 | Stewart Freeze-Dried Beef Liver | | Fresh, Freeze-Dried Beef Liver That's Great for Training | |
5 | Emmy's Best Chicken Jerky | | One-Ingredient Jerky That's Sourced and Made in the USA | |
6 | Greenies Weight Management | | A Great Snack to Improve Dental Health | |
7 | Brutus & Barnaby Sweet Potato Slices | | Natural Treats to Increase Fiber Intake | |
8 | Brazilian Pet Whole Grain Rawhide | | Thick and Non-Brittle, Whole Grain Rawhide | |
9 | PureBites Freeze Dried Turkey | | Low-Calorie Treats, Great for Overweight Dogs | |
10 | Instinct Raw Boost Mixers - Skin & Coat Health | | A Mix of Raw Ingredients That Benefit Skin and Coat |
A BPA-Free, Healthy Biscuits for All Dogs
There are many reasons why this biscuit is a perfect treat for all dogs. Firstly, it contains natural ingredients and is free from added sugars. Also, it gets quality protein from chicken, egg, bacon, and cheese.
Moreover, it's full of omega-3, omega-6, fiber, calcium, vitamin A from flaxseeds, oats, canola oil, and carrots. It's made without wheat, corn, and soy which will also suit dogs that have food allergies. On top of that, its free from BPA!
Some reviewers claim that the product was not fresh and arrived after its expiration date! But others say it's crispy, fresh, and has a perfect size for all dog breeds.
Most dogs love the taste, even the picky eaters! It has good and safe ingredients and is healthier than many other dog treats. It also has high fiber that helps with managing a healthy weight and improving digestive health.
Extra Thick Bully Sticks That Are Easy to Digest
This premium grade bully stick is made from grass-fed, free-range cattle. It's free from added hormones and antibiotics. It's also completely digestible, so it won't cause gas in the stomach or digestive problems.
Moreover, it's packed with protein, vitamins, and minerals like calcium, omega-3, phosphorus, iron, and more. Besides providing nutrition, the stick is long-lasting, which helps strengthen the teeth and gums.
Reviewers claim that each stick has an unequal size and some aren't as thick as claimed, while others claim that it's natural and has no odor. It's softer and safer than rawhides, which makes it a perfect treat for all ages.
It's healthy, long-lasting, and has a chewy texture that's great for gums and helps remove tartar and plaque.
Just the Right Amount of Human Food
Your dog will love the taste of peanut butter without spending an hour trying to get it off the roof of its mouth. These mini treats are meant to help with training, so these bite-sized pieces can motivate your pup every step of the way.
They also have cherries and turmeric to promote your dog's health! Reviewers love that they're low-cal and say their pooch has been going nuts over these for years. Negative comments are mostly about the treats being dry and hard, so have water on hand as well!
Fresh, Freeze-Dried Beef Liver That's Great for Training
Beef liver contains more nutrients than other types of meats and can clean out toxins in your dog's body. This product is made with a single ingredient in a freeze-drying process that keeps the freshness and original flavor of beef liver. It's a perfect treat for training and suitable for all breeds and ages.
Some reviewers are disappointed that it had a rancid smell and can cause gas in the dog's stomach.
On the other hand, others are happy with one pure ingredient and no additives. It contains a high amount of protein and is made in the U.S. People also say it makes the training much easier because dogs love these treats!
One-Ingredient Jerky That's Sourced and Made in the USA
If you're looking for a simple, clean, and safe ingredient, this chicken jerky can satisfy your needs. It's made from only one ingredient: chicken breast. All chicken breasts are sourced and made in the U.S. without adding additives, fillers, and other artificial ingredients.
Some reviewers say the jerky is too thin while others say their dogs love the taste. Most people are happy with one pure ingredient and 100% sourced and produced in the U.S. They also say it's crunchy and easy to break into small pieces, which is safe for the pups!
A Great Snack to Improve Dental Health
One treat a day is all you need to improve your dog's bad breath, promote healthy teeth, strengthen its gums, and remove tartar and plaque. With regular use, it can reduce plaque by 32% and tartar up to 60%.
This product is also recommended by veterinarians. It contains natural ingredients and is low in calories, while it's high in vitamins and minerals. Moreover, it's easy to digest and comes in poultry flavor, most dogs' favorite. Since there are many snack sizes, make sure you pick one that matches your dog's weight.
Since it has a gummy and hard texture, it can get stuck in the throats of aggressive chewers or even break the teeth of smaller dogs. Pay attention when giving this treat to your dog! Moreover, it has caused digestive issues for some dogs.
On the other hand, most people say it's very effective and they can obviously see the improvement in teeth and gums that are whiter and cleaner. Also, it eliminates bad breath and tartar. It's a great alternative for dogs that hate teeth brushing.
Natural Treats to Increase Fiber Intake
Sweet potatoes are a great source of vitamins and minerals. They are rich in antioxidants and fiber, which can help improve the digestive system. Moreover, sweet potato skins can help to balance blood sugar levels in dogs.
These natural treats are thick but can be torn into smaller pieces. In addition, they are free from added sugar and contain zero fats, which can be a perfectly good treat for a puppy or a senior dog.
However, some people say they are too dry and hard and can cause choking. But other people say they are fresh and healthy.
They are great for portion control in senior dogs. Dogs with a sensitive stomach can have these chips without any problem. The shipping is fast and they have excellent customer service.
Thick and Non-Brittle, Whole Grain Rawhide
This wholegrain rawhide is made from 100% natural beef hide and is free from additives and preservatives. lt has a thick and dense texture, which makes it a very durable and long-lasting treat.
In addition, it doesn't brittle or easily break into pieces, so it's safe for your dog. It also helps clean teeth and reduces bacteria in your dog's mouth!
Some reviewers agree that it's thick, which may cause problems for aggressive chewers. It's also too big for smaller dogs. However, most people say it's chewable and not too hard that it hurts the dog's mouth. It has excellent quality and is long-lasting as advertised.
Low-Calorie Treats, Great for Overweight Dogs
This snack is made with one pure ingredient, turkey, and suits overweight dogs. Each snack contains only 3 calories! With a small, light, and crispy texture it can be a perfect training treat for a puppy, too!
If your dog doesn't like turkey, there are other flavors like beef, lamb liver, chicken breast, and beef liver. However, the calorie count differs from flavor to flavor. If weight loss is the main concern, we suggest you choose turkey, since it has the lowest calorie count.
Some reviewers say the treat has a strange smell (rancid, chemical) and arrived crumbled into powder because of the poor shipping.
On the other hand, many reviewers like that it's high in protein and low in calories, which is perfect for weight-loss management. Also, it's great for senior dogs and non-aggressive chewers since it's easy to digest and doesn't require a lot of chewing.
InstinctRaw Boost Mixers - Skin & Coat Health
A Mix of Raw Ingredients That Benefit Skin and Coat
The two main ingredients, free-range chicken and wild-caught cod, are processed through a freeze-drying process, so you can rest assured that your dog will get its nutrients in this treat.
It also contains high omega-3 and omega-6 from salmon oil, pumpkin seeds, flaxseeds, chia seeds, and cranberries that promote a shining coat and improve skin conditions.
Some reviewers claim that this product doesn't suit a sensitive stomach and can cause gas and soft stool; however, it's safe to consume and doesn't cause an upset stomach for most dogs.
Some people claim the treat helped not only with skin and coat, but also with joints and guts. It's a nutritious and a great go-to treat that many people recommended!
Cheyenne's Recommended Healthy Dog Treats
Full Moon Organic Chicken Jerky Human-Grade Dog Treats are my go-to when picking a treat for my pups. They are USA made, USDA organic and have no fillers, artificial flavors, preservatives or coloring.
Frequently Asked Questions
In addition to checking our buying guide for accuracy, Cheyenne took the time to answer some commonly asked questions about healthy dog treats.
What healthy dog treats are good for training?
"Zuke's Puppy Naturals Training Dog Treats are great for training your puppy! This salmon and chickpea snack is made from a mix of ingredients. The nutrient-dense delights are high in DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) and EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid), which aid in brain development," Explains Cheyenne.
How do I make healthy dog treats?
Cheyenne says, "Peanut butter is a common, tasty component of homemade dog treats for many dogs. Give these peanut butter snacks from Eileen Anderson a try if your dog enjoys the nutty taste."
Ingredients:
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 2 tablespoons canola oil
- ½ cup peanut butter powder
- ½ cup white flour
- ½ cup tapioca flour
- ½ cup water
Directions:
Preheat oven to 350ºF. Mix the ingredients until smooth. Pour the mixture into the pan. Bake for 12 minutes or until the treats are soft, but still drawing away from the side of the pan. Once cooled, stretch the pan and dump the treats out.
Other Products to Keep Your Dog Healthy and Happy
Feeding your dogs properly and keeping them happy are the key factors to making them healthy. In addition to healthy treats, you might want to consider other dog care products and dog toys.
Top 5 Healthy Dog Treats
No. 1: Blue Buffalo｜Health Bars
No. 2: Jack & Pup｜6-inch Bully Sticks
No. 3: Zuke's｜Mini Naturals
No. 4: Stewart｜Freeze-Dried Beef Liver
No. 5: Emmy's Best｜Chicken Jerky
View Full RankingThe descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.
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