Finding healthy treats for your dog can be a challenge, but many pet stores offer a variety of options that cater to dogs’ nutritional needs without compromising on taste. Below are ten of the best healthy dog treats you can find at pet stores, with each one providing a unique combination of ingredients, nutrients, and benefits to keep your furry friend happy and healthy.
1. Blue Buffalo Wilderness Trail Treats
These grain-free, high-protein treats are crafted with natural ingredients, such as real chicken, duck, or salmon. Blue Buffalo Wilderness treats are designed for pet parents who want to provide their dogs with a high-protein snack that is free from artificial preservatives, colors, and flavors. The crunchy texture also helps promote dental health by reducing plaque buildup.
- Main Ingredients: Real meat (chicken, duck, or salmon), potatoes, flaxseed.
- Why It’s Healthy: No grains, artificial flavors, or preservatives. High in protein and fiber.
2. Wellness CORE Pure Rewards
These treats are protein-packed and made with only a handful of wholesome ingredients. They are grain-free and contain no artificial additives, making them ideal for dogs with food sensitivities. Wellness CORE treats use natural meats, including beef, turkey, and lamb, and are fortified with vitamins and minerals for a balanced nutritional profile.
- Main Ingredients: Beef, turkey, lamb, peas, sweet potatoes.
- Why It’s Healthy: Grain-free, single protein sources, no artificial ingredients. Great for sensitive stomachs.
3. Full Moon Organic Human Grade Dog Treats
Full Moon treats are crafted with human-grade ingredients, meaning they meet the same standards as food made for people. Available in flavors like chicken and beef, they are made with organic meats and whole grains, and contain no fillers, artificial flavors, or preservatives. Full Moon treats are also low in calories, making them perfect for training sessions or as a light snack.
- Main Ingredients: Organic chicken or beef, organic brown rice, flaxseed.
- Why It’s Healthy: Organic, human-grade ingredients, no fillers or additives. Low-calorie.
4. Zuke’s Mini Naturals
Zuke’s treats are known for being small, low-calorie, and perfect for training. These treats are made with simple, high-quality ingredients, including real meat as the primary ingredient, combined with whole food sources like berries and turmeric. They are free from wheat, corn, and soy, making them a good option for dogs with allergies.
- Main Ingredients: Chicken, rice flour, barley, cherries, turmeric.
- Why It’s Healthy: Low-calorie, whole-food ingredients, no artificial colors or flavors. Ideal for frequent training rewards.
5. Greenies Dental Dog Treats
Greenies are specifically designed to improve your dog’s dental health. These treats help clean teeth and freshen breath while providing a tasty snack. They are rich in essential vitamins and minerals and are designed to be easily digestible. Greenies are available in different sizes to suit various dog breeds and can be given as a daily treat for ongoing dental care.
- Main Ingredients: Wheat flour, glycerin, powdered cellulose.
- Why It’s Healthy: Supports dental health, fortified with vitamins and minerals, easily digestible.
6. Fruitables Dog Treats
Fruitables are low-calorie treats made with real fruits and vegetables, combined with natural proteins like chicken or salmon. These treats are available in flavors such as pumpkin & blueberry or apple & bacon, providing a sweet, savory snack for your dog. They contain no artificial preservatives, colors, or fillers and are also free from common allergens like wheat, corn, and soy.
- Main Ingredients: Pumpkin, apples, oats, chicken, or salmon.
- Why It’s Healthy: Low-calorie, real fruit and vegetable ingredients, no artificial additives. Good source of fiber.
7. Merrick Power Bites
Merrick Power Bites are small, soft treats made with real deboned meat as the first ingredient. They are grain-free and gluten-free, making them suitable for dogs with allergies or sensitivities. Each treat is packed with protein and infused with antioxidants to support your dog’s immune health. These treats come in various flavors like Texas beef and real chicken.
- Main Ingredients: Deboned beef or chicken, peas, potatoes.
- Why It’s Healthy: High protein, grain-free, rich in antioxidants. Suitable for dogs with grain sensitivities.
8. Rocco & Roxie Gourmet Jerky Sticks
Rocco & Roxie jerky treats are made with high-quality, slow-roasted meat, providing a rich, savory flavor that dogs love. They contain no gluten, soy, corn, or artificial additives, making them a natural choice for dogs with allergies. These jerky sticks are great for dogs who enjoy a chewy treat and can be broken into smaller pieces for training purposes.
- Main Ingredients: Beef, chicken, turkey, rice protein.
- Why It’s Healthy: Real meat, free from artificial flavors and fillers, easy to digest. Ideal for dogs with sensitivities.
9. Nudges Natural Dog Treats
Nudges treats are crafted with real USA-sourced chicken, beef, or duck. They contain no artificial preservatives, flavors, or fillers. Nudges treats are slow-cooked to enhance the natural flavors and retain the nutritional value. Available in a variety of flavors and textures, they’re perfect for dogs that prefer meat-forward snacks.
- Main Ingredients: Chicken, beef, duck, and natural flavors.
- Why It’s Healthy: Made with real meat, no artificial preservatives, high protein. Suitable for dogs of all ages.
10. Get Naked Dental Chew Sticks
Get Naked Dental Chews are fortified with prebiotics and probiotics to support digestive health while cleaning your dog’s teeth. They are made with natural ingredients and are available in flavors like chicken and salmon. The sticks are designed to remove plaque and tartar as your dog chews, making them a dual-purpose treat.
- Main Ingredients: Chicken, oats, tapioca, flaxseed.
- Why It’s Healthy: Supports dental health and digestion, high in fiber, free from artificial colors and flavors.
How to Choose the Best Treats for Your Dog
When selecting treats, consider the following factors:
- Ingredients: Look for treats with whole, recognizable ingredients like real meat, fruits, and vegetables. Avoid artificial additives, fillers, and by-products.
- Nutritional Value: Ensure the treat provides some nutritional benefit, whether it’s protein, fiber, or vitamins. Treats that support specific health needs, like dental or digestive health, can be especially beneficial.
- Calories: Treats should make up no more than 10% of your dog’s daily caloric intake, so opt for low-calorie treats, particularly for training sessions.
- Allergies and Sensitivities: If your dog has known allergies, look for treats labeled as hypoallergenic or grain-free. Avoid treats containing common allergens like wheat, corn, or soy.
By selecting treats with healthy, natural ingredients, you can feel good about what you’re giving your dog while supporting their overall health and wellness. Each of these treats offers unique benefits and flavors, ensuring that you’ll find something your dog loves while keeping them healthy.