Best Training Treats For Boston Terrier Puppies? Top Answer Update

These dogs were originally a hybrid breed crossed between English Bulldogs and an English White Terrier that no longer exists. Boston Terriers were bred with distinctive cosmetic traits, some of which directly affect their nutritional requirements and ability to eat.

Arguably one of the most critical times to ensure you are feeding your dog properly is when he is a puppy. This phase of life involves a lot of basic growth. Without the right nutrients, they can suffer later in life. However, we are here to help by providing a rundown of the best options for feeding a Boston Terrier puppy.

A quick comparison of our favorites (2022 reviews)

Rating Image Product Details Best Overall Wild High Prairie Flavor Omega-3 & 6 Sustainably Sourced Ingredients Made in the USA Check Price Best Value Wild High Prairie Flavor Real chicken is the first ingredient ARA and DHA in every bite Budget-friendly price Check Premium Selection Royal Canin Yorkshire Terrier Easy to digest Very palatable Optimal kibble size and shape Check price Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula LifeSource Bits Puppy-sized kibble Contains DHA and ARA Show price USA. Contains no artificial colors, flavors or preservatives. Check the price

The 8 Best Foods for Boston Terrier Puppies

1. Taste of the Wild Prairie Puppy Dry Dog Food – Best Overall Check Price at Chewy Check Price at Amazon Taste of the Wild is a leading dog food brand. It has puppy foods, senior foods, and formulas that are blended for specific nutritional needs. It created its recipe for puppies using real buffalo as the first ingredient, followed by other high-protein ingredients, including various meats and vegetables. The purpose is to support your pup’s crucial muscle growth and give him what he needs for the rapid growth spurts he is experiencing. The recipe is grain-free to make it easier for the pup to break down and digest. There are also vitamins and nutrients they need by combining the protein with real fruits and vegetables. The company added chicory root to aid in digestion and provide prebiotic support. Family-owned, it makes its products in the USA and sources its ingredients from sustainable producers.

Benefits The first ingredient is bison

The first ingredient is bison omega-3 and 6 fatty acids

Omega 3 and 6 fatty acids Sustainably sourced ingredients

Sustainably sourced ingredients Made in the U.S.A.

Made in the USA Affordable option Cons Should only be purchased from reputable sellers

2. American Journey Puppy Dry Dog Food – Best Value Check Price at Chewy Check Price at Amazon American Journey sells balanced formulas for their dry dog ​​food so every dog ​​of all ages is ready to exercise their natural exploratory instincts to maintain. This dry puppy food has been formulated with the nutritional needs of growing puppies in mind. American Journey knows that excellent muscle development is essential for dogs, so they use real chicken as the first ingredient in their recipe. Antioxidants also have a permanent place in this recipe to support a pup’s immune system as they become more exposed to the outside world. American Journey includes DHA and ARA in the blend to support brain and vision development. Other healthy ingredients include blueberries, mineral-rich seaweed, and cranberries. With so many good things in this recipe, there is no room for harmful grains or meals made with poultry by-products. It offers all of those good things while also being the best food for Boston Terrier puppies for the buck.

Pros Real chicken is the first ingredient

Real chicken is the first ingredient to balance calcium and phosphorus

Balance of Calcium and Phosphorus ARA and DHA in every bite

ARA and DHA in every bite. No grains or artificial preservatives or flavors

No grains or artificial preservatives or flavors Budget friendly Cons Some puppies cannot digest peas

3. Royal Canin Yorkshire Terrier Puppy Food – Premium Selection Check price at Chewy Check price at Amazon This dry dog ​​food has been specially formulated for Yorkshire Terrier puppies from 8 weeks to 10 months of age, just when when they need the nutrients most. This mix doesn’t seem to mix well for Boston Terriers, but they share many of the same needs. The main difference between this food and other puppy foods is palatability. Yorkie puppies, along with Boston Terriers, are known to be extremely picky eaters. Even if a food is highly nutritious, getting them to eat it is an essential factor. Royal Canin understands the anatomy of young puppies, many of whom later have a fully developed digestive tract. The food is easy to digest and supports muscle building and the growth of a healthy digestive system. A Boston Terrier can have trouble eating because of the structure of his face. The kibble size and shape of this Royal Canin food helps puppies eat the food as easily as possible.

Benefits Optimum kibble size and shape

Optimal kibble size and shape Supports the digestive system

Supports the digestive system to digest gently

Easy to digest Very tasty Disadvantages More expensive

More expensive Specific formula

4. Blue Buffalo Life Protection Puppy Food Check Price at Chewy Check Price at Amazon Blue Buffalo has always been a leader in highly nutritious dog food. It holds itself to a high standard to create a healthy diet to support the general wellbeing of dogs. The first ingredient in this recipe is chicken, followed by whole grains, then veggies and fruit. Blue Buffalo always includes their trademarked LifeSource Bits, dry food pieces that contain precise blends of nutrients to support a puppy’s health. This food specifically focuses on ingredients that have been shown to support your pet’s growth and overall development during puppyhood. These ingredients include calcium and phosphorus for healthy bone and tooth development. The kibble is also a selected size for a puppy’s digestibility, particularly useful for Boston Terriers’ smaller mouths.

Benefits LifeSource Bits

LifeSource Bits Puppy Size Dry Food

Puppy Size Dry Food The first ingredient is real chicken

The first ingredient is real chicken. Contains DHA and ARA

Contains DHA and ARA No corn, wheat, soy or poultry by-products. Disadvantages Some report hair loss or a dry coat

5. Purina Pro Plan focuses on puppy dry dog ​​food Check price on Chewy Check price on Amazon Purina Pro Plan focuses on puppies and their growing needs. It designed this formula to work well for dogs up to a year old, prioritizing all the ingredients essential to a pup’s physical and mental development. The recipe starts with chicken to satisfy muscle growth in a puppy. They added fish oil, which is packed with DHA to help with cognitive development. Omega-6 fatty acids play their part in the growth of healthy skin and a shiny coat. Purina knows that while a pup is always ready to play, it may not be prepared to digest adult dog food. Therefore, prebiotic fiber has been added to help maintain balance in their gut.

Benefits Contains DHA from fish oil

Contains DHA from Fish Oil Omega-6 for healthier skin

Omega-6 for Healthier Skin Made in the USA

Made in the USA. Contains no artificial colours, flavors or preservatives. Cons: Contains poultry by-product meal

Contains poultry by-product meal. Contains corn gluten meal

Contains corn gluten meal. Contains corn

6. VICTOR Select Nutra Pro Dry Dog Food Price on Chewy Check Price on Amazon While this dog food from VICTOR isn’t specifically made for puppies, it can support dogs at any challenging stage in their lives. This includes highly active sporting dogs or any other dog that makes high physical demands in everyday life. VICTOR creates its formula with a high ratio of protein to carbohydrates. This ratio makes this food a good option for puppies and lactating bitches. VICTOR makes its food from gluten-free grains to support the dog’s digestive problems. Incredibly, it’s made up of 92% protein that comes from high-quality chicken meal. Despite all this protein, it still contains essential vitamins and fatty and amino acids, as well as minerals that a dog needs to maintain its immune system. It’s also fortified with many ingredients to support pup’s metabolism and digestion, including prebiotics, selenium yeast and probiotics.

Benefits High protein content

High protein content Developed for active dogs

Developed for active dogs to focus on aiding digestion Cons Company has experienced several recalls

The company has experienced several product recalls. Watch out for diarrhea

7. Iams ProActive Health Smart Puppy Food Check price at Chewy Check price at Amazon Iams has developed this food specifically for puppies between the ages of 1 and 12 months to meet their growth needs at a vulnerable time in their lives. This food can also be given to pregnant and lactating bitches to build up their immune system and provide them with many of the nutrients they need. Iams includes DHA in natural fish oils to promote optimal brain growth, which should help puppies become more trainable as they age. There are seven essential nutrients that combine to nourish the heart, promote strong bones and teeth, and boost the dog’s immune system. Prebiotics settle in the digestive tract to promote healthy digestion. Iams has thought of everything, right down to the crunchy texture of the food, which helps keep dogs’ teeth clean and tartar-free.

Benefits Specially designed for puppies aged 1 to 12 months

Specially designed for puppies aged 1 to 12 months. Crunchy texture for dental health

Crunchy texture for dental health Natural ingredients Cons Contains corn

Includes corn Includes chicken by-product meal

8. Nutro Wholesome Essentials Dry Puppy Food Check Price at Chewy Check Price at Amazon Nutro makes their puppy food for precious dogs that want a natural start in life. Farm chicken is the first ingredient on the list used for high quality production. All of the ingredients used in this formula are non-GMO, and there is no poultry byproduct meal, corn, soy protein, or wheat, all of which are difficult for a dog’s system to digest. The recipe is not only tasty with all the natural nutrition, but also caters to a puppy’s needs. Omega-3 fatty acids such as DHA support the puppy’s physical and mental growth. There is plenty of calcium to help support the pup’s structural buildup when he rushes into a new environment.

Professionals Made in the U.S.A.

Made in the USA. All ingredients without GMO

All non-GMO ingredients No chicken by-product meal

No chicken by-product meal No corn, wheat, or soy protein Cons The company has had recalls

The company had recalls because of the controversial ingredient beet pulp

Controversial beet pulp ingredient No probiotics

No probiotics formula changes

Buyer’s Guide: Choosing The Best Food For Boston Terrier Puppies

Boston Terriers are an interesting breed of dog partly for their personality, partly for their suit-like coat pattern, and partly for their unique physical structure. All things considered, these dogs may have more specific grooming and dietary needs than other smaller breeds. However, these traits don’t make them any less of a desirable dog for many. It just means that you have to be prepared to give your Boston Terrier puppy the best life.

Nutritional Requirements for Boston Terriers

Boston Terriers like to be active and require a higher energy output than other dogs of a similar size. Most dogs that share the terrier’s stature only require about 30 calories per pound of body weight daily. However, these puppies typically require closer to 40 calories per pound of body weight to maintain their reasonable level of activity. For Boston Terriers, most of these calories should come from fat, but look for a moderate to high protein content as well.

Boston Terrier Diet Considerations

A Boston Terrier has several health issues that come with their odd breed. This breed is brachycephalic, meaning they have a flat face with short noses. This trait is also shared by pugs, bulldogs, and several other breeds.

They were purposefully bred to have this trait. Unfortunately, such dogs can suffer from problems as their mouths are smaller but have as many teeth as other dogs. Because of the shape of their mouths, it is sometimes more difficult for them to bend down and get food out of a bowl.

Finding food that may have smaller kibble or is easier to chew and digest will make eating easier for the Boston Terrier.

Adult vs Puppy Boston Terrier

It’s important to remember that dogs’ diets should be altered as they move from one age group to the next. Be sure to look not only for food that is appropriate for this breed, but also for puppy food.

Conclusion: Boston Terrier puppy food

In the end, there is often nothing more important for a dog owner than to keep them healthy and healthy for as long as possible. From the beginning to the end of their lives they should have what they need. Our overall best option, Taste of the Wild High Prairie Puppy Dry Dog Food certainly makes it. However, if you must be on a budget for you and your terrier, reach for American Journey Puppy Dry Dog Food to continue to please them.

We know there are hundreds of different options for every imaginable age group and race. We hope we’ve broken through the fog of options to help you find the perfect fit for you, your budget and your dog’s tastes.

Related Read: How Much Does a Boston Terrier Cost? (Updated Price List)

Selected image source: mujipanda, Pixabay

The right dog training treat can help a dog focus on distractions more easily. And in some cases, a treat in and of itself can be so distracting that a dog can’t focus on the task at hand!

Many of my dog ​​training clients always ask me what type of treats they should use with their dogs. With so many options available, it can be difficult to know which dog treats to buy.

There is a simple answer to this question. Use any training treat your dog likes! However, if you know how to “classify” your dog’s treats and keep them varied, you will benefit in several ways:

You can train new behaviors faster

You can hide the use of treats in training more effectively

Your dog will focus more on you (and respond to you) when faced with distractions.

Your dog won’t get tired of the “same” treat

You can better control your dog’s calorie intake

Read on for tips on finding out what treats your dog likes best and when to use different treats to help with your dog’s training.

Here’s how to find out what treats your dog likes

You may hear your dog trainer talk about using “high quality” vs “low quality” training treats – this refers to the value your dog places on each food reward, not the price you pay for the treats in the store. You should find out which treats your dog finds more valuable than others.

While there are some basic assumptions about which treats dogs value more, there always seem to be exceptions to the rule. A training client of mine had a dog that preferred dry and mild treats to smelly freeze dried liver!

Does your dog prefer toys to treats? Click here to learn how to use toys as training rewards.

What are “quality” dog treats?

High-quality treats tend to be moist or freeze-dried, have a particularly strong smell, and are something your dog doesn’t get very often (if at all) outside of training sessions. Think tiny pieces of chicken, liverwurst, tripe, or even peanut butter (make sure it’s xylitol-free) slathered on a spoon. Think of your quality treats as giving your dog an “A+++” for behavior and training.

When Should You Use Quality Treats?

When you introduce a brand new behavior for the first time

In highly distracting environments such as B. a group dog training course

When rewarding your dog for a quick or quality response to a cue

During important socialization and proactive exposure training for puppies

If you are working on counterconditioning as part of a behavior change plan for leash reactivity, aggression, fear or anxiety

Avoid high-fat foods like bacon or sausage. You don’t want your dog to have an upset stomach or pancreatitis.

What are “medium” dog treats?

These treats are usually semi-moist or dry treats made with ingredients that your dog doesn’t get in his regular food. Average treats are given more often in training and everyday life than high quality treats.

When should you use mid-level treats?

When maintaining a behavior that has already been learned

In easily distracting environments

All day long for good behavior

As part of regular enrichment activities

What are “low value” dog treats?

Lower value treats are great to incorporate into your training as they tend to be lower in calories than high and medium value dog treats. Low value treats are usually dry and crunchy. Myself and many of my clients use our dog’s regular food for this type of treatment. A low value treat option is important to hide treats in training.

When should you use inferior treats?

If your dog performs a requested and previously generalized cue, but it is a Class “C” performance (this may also indicate that your dog needs to be further from a distraction or needs to take a few steps back in training)

Throughout the day to continue to encourage good behavior

In training environments with little to no distractions

As part of regular enrichment activities

If you’re working on hiding the use of treats for a specific behavior

Treat yourself to a treat “taste test”

To help you choose the training treats your dog enjoys and responds to the most, conduct a treat taste test on your pup. (Note: Check the treat ingredients to make sure they don’t contain anything your dog is allergic or sensitive to.)

First, pick a few different treat options to try based on:

Protein Type: Have a choice of fish, poultry, beef, pork or lamb. Add non-meat treats, such as B. Peanut butter.

Have a choice of fish, poultry, beef, pork or lamb. Add non-meat treats, such as B. Peanut butter. Texture: Choose different treats depending on the texture type – dry, semi-moist, jerky, freeze-dried, or wet.

Choose different treats depending on the texture type – dry, semi-moist, jerky, freeze-dried or wet. Easy Delivery: When choosing taste testing options, make sure you choose treats that are easy to give to your dog. Workout snacks should be the size of a pea or smaller. If the treats in the bag are larger, see if you can easily break them up into smaller pieces.

Pro tip: Many pet stores have samples of different treats to try out upon request. This is how I often discover new treat brands to mix into my training treat rotation.

Next, give your dog a choice of treats. Hold one type of treat in one hand and another type in the other and close your hands to make a fist. (You can also use small cups to cover the treat options on the floor if you prefer, especially if your dog mouths when eating treats.)

Let your dog sniff both hands and see which one shows the most interest. Give him the one he sniffs, licks or gropes the most.

Swap out different treats you’ve already tried with different alternatives to get an idea of ​​what your dog’s high-quality, medium-quality, and low-quality treats are.

Quality treats for dog training

My quality treats include Little Chunks of Turkey Hot Dog, Plain Chicken, Cream Cheese, and Vital Essentials Minnows, Northwest Naturals Lamb Liver, and Stella & Chewy’s Beef Heart treats.

Vital Essentials Freeze Dried Minnows Dog Treat

Northwest Naturals Freeze Dried Lamb Liver

Stella & Chewy’s Beef Heart Treats

Here’s Daisy, one of our pups at the office, showing how much she loves her quality minnow treats:

Medium value dog training treat

My favorite mid-level treats are Zuke’s Mini Naturals, Redbarn’s Cheese Protein Puffs, and Charlee Bear Liver Crunchy Treats (for dogs who love to crunch!).

Zuke’s Mini Naturals Rabbit Recipe Dog treats

Redbarn Naturals Protein Puffs – Cheese Flavor

Charlee Bear Crunchy Dog Treats

Low-value dog training treats

I like to use my doggie’s FirstMate dry food or break IMK9’s Mutt Love Coconuts dry treats as a lower value reward. My younger dog loves the Wild Eats Sweet Potato Treats, which I break into small pieces as a training treat.

Firstmate Wild Pacific Grain Friendly Dog Food

IMK9 Mutts Love Coconuts Dog Treats

Wild Eats Sweet Potato & Chicken Treats

PRO TIP: Exercise your dog’s brain! Set aside a portion of your dog’s regular meals to use as a training treat throughout the day, and feed all of their regular meals with interactive toys and puzzles.

The type of treats you use when training your dog (or just want to give them a special treat) depends on your dog’s personal preferences. And remember, it’s not always about the food! Many dogs also find toys, attention, and other real-world rewards incredibly rewarding. Knowing what your dog likes and what it works for will make your training more effective.

Comment below and let us know what your dog’s high, medium, and low value treats are!

Learning to be alone is an important part of training your puppy and can help reduce separation anxiety. Without the appropriate training, your dog will quickly become bored and stressed, often resulting in damaged furniture or other things for him to get his nose in!

We’ll walk you through everything you need to know about leaving a puppy home alone!

How long can you leave a puppy at home alone?

How long your puppy can be alone depends on his age. Leaving a puppy alone while you are at work takes up most of the day. Because puppies are not used to being alone, they are more likely to develop separation anxiety. While the general consensus is that you can leave them at home for an hour each day, the length will depend on how long they can hold their bladder. If your puppy is less than 12 weeks old, you shouldn’t leave him alone for more than two hours. However, once they hit the six month mark, you should feel confident leaving a puppy alone for 8 hours.

How to teach your puppy to be alone

Dogs are incredibly social animals and love to be with you and your family. However, with a little time and effort, you can help them feel calm and confident when left alone.

Use a puppy-safe area

Create a space where your pup feels safe. Use a playpen or crate, or even cordon off part of your home with baby gates. Fill the room with their favorite toys and blankets so they know it’s not a punishment but a place to relax.

Feed your puppies meals in this chosen area so they see this as something positive. If the area is big enough, you can spend some time playing with them there. They can also set aside special toys that they only get in their box or pen, so it’s considered a reward.

They teach to be alone

With a special place for them, you can start your puppy separation training. Start by encouraging your pup into his space with a chew toy or constructive activities like a treat puzzle. Walk out of the room quietly before returning and praising her. Repeat the process and increase the duration of your absence.

If the time between departure and return is getting longer, stop by every now and then to check on them. If they’re quiet, reward them with gentle praise and a treat before you leave—make sure you’re not loud and don’t make too much of a fuss.

If your pup whimpers when left alone, he may not be associating the room with good things just yet. Don’t make it a habit to let them out when they get upset. Instead, shorten the time of their imprisonment and then slowly build it up again.

Handy Tip: Remember that the pen or box is temporary. Once you’re confident that your pup is okay — and your house isn’t being destroyed — you can start giving him more access to your home, room by room.

How to stop your puppy from crying when left alone

It can be difficult to leave the house if your puppy is crying when left alone. While there’s no harm in a puppy’s howling, it can definitely upset your neighbors and leave you with an anxious puppy. Here are some tips:

Take them for a walk: pent-up energy needs to be released. It’s best to take your pup for a walk or at least have an intense play session so he can relax before heading out for the day. An alternative is also a ‘sniffari’, which is a walk where you let your dog sniff to your heart’s content (it’s also a great opportunity to practice your dog’s recall). This provides great mental stimulation and exercise at the same time.

Establish a routine: Get your pup into a consistent, reliable routine that he can adapt to. That way they don’t get any nasty surprises that make them anxious.

Don’t make a fuss about leaving or coming home: don’t say goodbye dramatically. Instead, give a quick pat and be on your way. When you get home, follow the same low-key return.

Conduct crate training: Some dogs may feel more anxious in a crate, while others see it as a quiet den to relax in. Learn how to crate train your puppy to make his time around the house as stress-free as possible.

How to entertain your pup

A bored pup can easily turn into a stressed and destructive one – especially since you are the greatest source of fun. Puppies will naturally try to keep themselves busy, whether that be staring out the window or playing with their favorite toy. However, there are some helpful ways to keep them happy and stress-free when they’re home alone:

Leave out their favorite toys.

Set up treat puzzles

Get creative with their treats by freezing them on a hot day.

Place her bed near the window to encourage her to watch the world outside.

Set up a screen with YouTube for dogs.

Stimulating your dog while you’re away is the best way to avoid trouble. While puzzles or treats won’t replace a good old walk in the park or a gaming session with your favorite people, these games can help you while you’re away.

With these tips, you won’t have to worry about waving goodbye to your pup as you head out for the day.

FAQs:

Can I give away my 8 week old puppy?

Yes, but not for a long time. 8 week old puppies should only be left alone for about an hour. Any longer and they have to go to the bathroom or get stressed and anxious.

Is it okay to leave a puppy alone for 8 hours?

Eight hours should always be the absolute maximum that you leave your puppy at home alone – and only after he’s older than six months. However, if your pup is outside or has access to the yard for a bathroom break, it may be okay for him to be left alone for eight hours from a younger age. If you think you’ll be gone longer, it’s always best to ask someone to stop by to check on them.

Can I leave my puppy in a crate?

Crate training can be an effective tool to help your pup relax when they are sleeping or left home alone. However, that doesn’t mean you should leave them in a crate all day. Crates should be used as a temporary house training measure before building enough confidence to let your pup roam freely around the house.

Puppy treats are the number one choice to give your new furry friend the warmest welcome to your family. Whether it’s for training, celebrations, or to reward good behavior, treats will lift your pup’s spirits and help you both form a strong bond.

Puppies are given a special diet to meet their nutritional needs. However, their regular diet often does not encourage them to carry out or obey commands. When training begins, owners often turn to pup treats as an incentive to complete tasks.

But walking down the aisle of the grocery store and picking something up isn’t enough. Puppies need a good mix of nutrients that are hidden in the tastiest dog treats around.

11 best treats for puppies

Why go through hundreds of product listings to find the right treat for your pup? Just let us do it for you! Here’s our final list of the best puppy treats, going through the best, the worst, and the hundreds in between:

1. Pet ‘n Shape Chik ‘n Skewers

If there’s one thing dogs love to eat, it’s chicken. Pet Cuisine’s snacks are long sticks of rawhide with a layer of chicken. You also have three different flavors to choose from. Excess fats are bad for your pup, so these sticks are low in fat and high in protein.

Most dogs are obsessed with swallowing their food, so they don’t chew it properly in chunks. At Pet Cuisine’s dog treats, customers raved about how much their dogs loved devouring the chicken before chewing the rawhide.

A minor concern that some reviewers had was the amount of chicken on each strip. Despite having a small chicken wrapped around the bone, the snacks are still a steal at the price they’re available.

2. Wellness Natural, grain-free puppy training snacks

Got a picky eater? With a choice of four Wellness premium proteins, these treats will soon become your favorite meal. Wellness offers these little chewy treats in a combination of lamb and salmon or chicken and carrot. Because they’re small, your pup can gobble up a lot of them in a single training session. Do you want to store? You have two bag size options; 3oz and 6oz.

With a balanced mix of healthy ingredients and no fillers, owners can finally forget about nutritional issues with their puppies. Not to mention that this targets picky eaters and helps them gain weight with a good protein blend.

However, some dog owners have reported that their dogs have had diarrhea or watery stools after these treats.

3. Blue Buffalo Natural Training Dog Treats

Blue Buffalo needs no introduction. They’ve added another joy to the game with four different flavors for your pup to enjoy. Chicken, Bacon, Salmon and Turkey are the flavors currently available in three bag options; 4 ounces, 6 ounces and 9 ounces. The icing on the cake would be their small, bite-sized nature for short, effective training sessions for your pup.

Their size and aroma are clear winners for many dog ​​owners. The jerky or other meat is fairly moist, small, and digestible for your pup to enjoy. Although they might be a bit on the small side, they’re still chewy. This can help your pup really enjoy the flavor before gobbling it up.

4. Good n Fun Triple Flavor Kabobs

Wagging tails, flapping ears and rolling tongues. That’s what your pup has to do with the Good n’ Fun flavored kabobs. These treats offer a healthy dose of flavors. After the rawhide there is a coating of chicken, duck and chicken liver; all nutritious ingredients. In addition, there are four different bag sizes and different numbers of kabobs that you can store.

Picky eaters have a great time savoring these treats. These dog training treats can keep your pup busy for hours due to the tasty rawhide and proteins. However, some are skeptical about how safe it is for dogs to consume rawhide.

5. Old Mother Hubbard Crunchy Treats for Puppies

Puppies are die-hard fans of cookies. With these Old Mother Hubbard mini biscuits in your pocket, you can train your pup on the go. These crispy delights are baked in the oven with lots of savory and flavorful ingredients like apples, chicken pieces and others. These biscuits are available in three pack sizes from small to large; and a wide range of flavors.

What owners love most is their size. They are perfect for your pup’s teeth and help him enjoy it without getting dental problems. Once your pup is addicted to it there is no going back as the crunch will drive him to get more.

Some dog owners got stale cookies. However, in such cases, the manufacturer usually refunds or sends a new batch.

6. N-Bone Puppy Teeth Treats

N-Bone has packed everything into these treat boxes. From nutrients to taste, aroma to minerals, they have it all. This fun, ring-sized treat is fortified with DHA, omega-3 fatty acids, and various other minerals to help keep your pup healthy. Because these are chewy and high in calcium, they’re also great for your pup’s teeth.

N-Bone’s teething solution is adored by many pet owners. For some, chew toys just don’t do the job. These treats are the perfect puppy training treats if that’s what you’re looking for. They keep your pup busy, encourage good behavior, and provide proper training. With that in mind, some owners have reported that their puppies have had diarrhea or stomach problems as a result of these treats.

7. Organic, human-grade dog treats

Full Moon makes food grade puppy treats that will make your pup want to lick their paw. The treats come in two flavors of duck and chicken and two pouches of 5 or 6 ounces. Additionally, their natural ingredients add up to a total of 3 calories per treat. This way you can make the training for your pup comfortable.

Nobody loves fillers in their pup’s food or treats. Full Moon’s best human food for puppy training has won hearts. They are cut into small pieces and are easy to eat for puppies as young as 8 weeks old. However, this treat doesn’t have the longest shelf life on the market.

8. Milk Bone Puppy Cookies

One thing is for sure, Milk Bone’s flavored snacks won’t leave your pup hungry. These crunchy, juicy treats are great for all dogs and puppies alike. Not to forget, each snack has a calorie count of 5 and is fortified with over 12 minerals and vitamins. Be it bacon, beef or chicken, they all come in different sized pouches.

You’ll likely spoil your pup with these delicious treats. Many owners loved these and their dogs seem to go crazy over them. Some users didn’t like the smell of the treats, but I suppose that’s pretty subjective.

9. Pet Botanics Puppy Training Rewards

Are you looking for treats that pack healthy ingredients with a delicious taste? Pet Botanics treats are those. These soft, moist treats will melt in your pup’s mouth with an amazing taste. It comes in five different flavors ranging from chicken to salmon. In addition, they also offer four different pouch options.

One of the best things about these Pet Botanics treats is their calorie count. A single snack has only 1.6 calories. Owners loved how easy it was to train their puppies with these precious puppy treats.

These treats contain garlic, which may not be right for every pup. Make sure your pup isn’t allergic and can easily digest the treats.

10. Crazy Dog Train Me! Treats for mini dogs

Last on our list are Crazy Dog’s Mini Dog Treats. To keep your pup focused during their workout, you need something extra tasty. That’s where these treats come in. With four different flavors and bag sizes, you can get and store the best deals for your pup. The best part is that all variants have the lowest fat and calorie content, so you can indulge in your workout without any worries.

Pet owners love the size of these treats and how easy they are to serve. These little bites will keep your pup focused and ready for the next training session. The only downside to these treats was their smell. The smell could make the treats less palatable.

11. Chippin Planet-Friendly Protein Dog Treats

Looking for treats that provide your dog with drool-worthy nutrition with eco-friendly proteins? Look no further than Chippin. As noted in many leading news publications, including Forbes, Chippen dog treats are all-natural, highly nutritious dog treats that utilize novel protein sources to offer excellent digestibility and protein quality, while being a superb eco-friendly choice.

Even better, while you’re doing your part to minimize their ecological footprint, you can feed your pup one of five tasty treats: Silver Carp Jerky, Cricket Jerky, Superfood, Spirulina Dailies, and Smokehouse BBQ.

The Silver Carp and Cricket treats are particularly good as workout snacks as they are not only tasty but also low in calories for a soothing workout.

Chippin Pet Treats

What are puppy treats?

Puppy Treats are delicious food for dogs. Well, they may or may not be healthy depending on the type of treat you’re buying. However, I would advise you to always choose an easy and healthy option when it comes to dog treats.

Healthy treats even balance out nutrients not found in your dog’s regular diet. Although that’s not all about her. Treats are also used to train puppies and help them develop good behavior.

Positive reinforcement is one of the most commonly used techniques in dog training. This rewards the dog for successfully completing a task. We all know that puppies need a lot of training. For this you need treats that are low in calories but also appeal to your pup’s taste buds.

In addition, these treats are not just rewards, but offer many other benefits:

Develop good behavior Allow for quick and easy exercise Help improve jaw through constant chewing Packed with lots of vitamins, minerals and nutrients Help improve dental health

The list doesn’t end here. In this article, we’ll show you how to choose the right treats for your pooch, and we’ll also provide you with a list of some of the best out there.

How to choose the right treats for puppies?

Puppy treats are the best way to show your pup some affection. However, these tasty foods can be anything from homemade or bakery-made cookies to high-protein recipes to supplement your dog’s diet.

With so many options to choose from, what do you choose? Here are some of the most important factors that can help you choose the best dog treats for your pup.

size

Puppy treats should be small so your dog can digest them quickly. However, if you use larger treats for training, your puppy may lose focus and the training loses its purpose.

Rather, you should stick to smaller treats. This way you can feed your pup a lot of treats in a single training session. In addition, this makes training efficient and minimizes the risk of overfeeding your pup.

ingredients

As much as you would love to spoil your pup with tasty treats, some of them contain unhealthy ingredients. The second thing to look for on the treat’s packaging is the list of ingredients.

If you ask me, simplicity is the best strategy when it comes to puppy treats. What do I mean? Look for the healthiest single-ingredient treats for puppies. For example, sliced ​​coconut strips or meaty treats.

Second, they should be low in carbohydrates. In fact, carbohydrates should be kept to a minimum to avoid health problems in your pup. Homemade dog training treats have a definite advantage here because you can choose what to add to them.

nutritional value

By default, treats should mean two things: tasty and nutritious. Because treats are given for special occasions, they are often made with special nutrients not typically found in dog food.

For example, if you keep sugary foods out of your pup’s diet, you can opt for sweet or carbohydrate treats. The bottom line is that you should keep an eye on your dog’s food intake at all times. This way you can avoid overfeeding in all forms.

durability

In general, dog treats and food last many months before they are unfit for consumption. However, their durability depends on a few factors that you should be aware of. Some of these factors include the ingredients, the type of treat, and the packaging.

Consider homemade quality dog ​​treats like soft peanut butter treats versus frozen jerky treats. While both sound incredibly delicious, jerky treats are the clear winners in terms of shelf life. However, you should keep both of them rotating.

palatability

Imagine your pup strutting to the bowl only to see the dog version of raw kale there. I can see your pup running back to where it came from. Why? Puppies don’t know (or care) how nutritious and nutritious their food is. All they care about is how good it smells and tastes! And you can’t beat freeze-dried treats, but they’re generally larger, making them unsuitable for most puppies!

We feel the same way! Smelly dog ​​treats aren’t going to help your pup learn anything. So choose treats that score high in flavor, have a wonderful aroma, and will get your pup on in a minute.

Next there is junk food. Although these inferior dog treats cost less, they will ultimately harm your pup’s health. Why not jump straight into naturally tasty dog ​​treats?

Use treats to train your pup!

Treats for Puppies: Frequently Asked Questions

I am sure you will have questions before you embark on the final task of feeding treats to your pup. Without further ado, here is a list of some of the most frequently asked questions about puppy treats.

Can puppies be given training treats? You absolutely can. Usually, a puppy’s training begins when they are almost 8 weeks old. So how can you get your furry friend on the right paw? Training treats are the answer! These tasty treats will make training easier and help them learn new commands. Food-motivated dogs can learn almost anything when it comes to a tasty treat.

This is also known as positive reinforcement – you reward good behavior. When the treats are bite-sized, that makes it even better. You can feed your pup a few more of these treats compared to larger ones where you are limited to a few. When can I give my puppies treats? You can use treats to train your pup or as food once they are 6 weeks old. Treats are just sweet treats or specialty foods that are not part of a puppy’s daily diet. So, these joys keep them on their toes and encourage them to perform better.

Start with small treats like molded biscuits and gradually build up. It aids in your pup’s brain development and improves behavioral issues. How Many Treats a Day Should I Give My Puppy? You can feed your puppy treats so that they make up 10% of the puppy’s diet. In the end, it all comes down to calorie intake. First, find out the calorie count on the packaging of each food.

When you’re done, calculate the number of calories you’re feeding your pup each day. Then you can choose treats that make up up to 10 percent of that number. Cheese, potatoes or products containing sugar are usually high in calories. If your pup doesn’t like vegetables, you can opt for low-calorie puppy treats that contain hearty meats.

Obesity is a problem for dogs if you don’t watch your pup’s food intake. Don’t use some of the worst dog treats with no nutrient limits. Are all dog treats suitable for my puppy? Suitable? Yes. Secure? Maybe not. Would you rather have a toddler bite into an apple? You will not. So some dog treats just aren’t right for puppies.

Treats can either be too large or contain ingredients or preservatives that are unsuitable for puppies. Feeding your pup a few large dog treats could upset your furry friend’s stomach.

In addition, puppies have underdeveloped teeth. Feeding hard, tough objects can further damage your dog’s teeth. Treats for puppies under 3 months old should be soft, small, and easy to digest. Will puppy treats improve my puppy’s teeth? There are specific dental treatments that can improve your pup’s teeth tremendously. These treats are specially formulated to help fight plaque, bad breath, and other oral conditions. However, you should not choose hard-to-eat treats that can damage teeth.

Dental treatments are available from several brands in different shapes and sizes. So, with a little trial and error, you can choose the right treats for your pup.

Even if you’ve owned a puppy before, you know how much dogs hate brushes. These tasty puppy treats can largely clean your dog’s mouth without disturbing your puppy.

So, which dog treats are the best for your growing pup? Are Store Bought Dog Treats Safe and Healthy for a Pup? Does it matter if treats are soft or crunchy? Let’s dive into the details!

Are dog treats good for puppies?

Before we delve into what treats are safe for dogs, we need to know, “Is it even a good idea to use treats as pup rewards at all?” The simple answer to that is yes, treats can be good for your pup , and they are your most powerful tool in training your pup to grow into a well-behaved, well-adjusted dog—as long as you use them properly!

How should you use treats with puppies?

While you might be tempted to give your new pup a treat every five minutes (and who could blame you with an adorable face like that?!), it’s important to fight the urge to throw away treats just because they’re cute is. Remember that treats add calories to your pup’s overall diet, so use caution when abusing treats’ powers! A stocky, overweight puppy will have health problems later in life.1

Only use treats for training

As hard as it may be with those puppy eyes, try your best to use treats just as a training tool. Of course, we’re all likely to occasionally cheat and slip them a treat when their cuteness is overwhelming, but make sure you keep it to a minimum. The World Small Animal Veterinary Association suggests that treats should make up no more than 10% of your pup’s daily caloric intake.2 Giving him no more than one small treat per command will help keep his calories in check.

Break treats into smaller pieces

You should also use small, pea-sized treats for training, or break larger treats into smaller pieces (pssst, don’t tell your pup you’re cheating!). Small treats are easier for your pup to chew and will keep you from dumping too many calories in their tummies.

In short, dog treats can be great for your pup if you use them with intention and if you give them the right kind of treats. But what exactly are the right dog treats for puppies?

What Dog Treats Are Safe for Puppies?

You wouldn’t give a baby potato chip, would you? Of course not. Both babies and puppies need time to become familiar with the wide world of food and treats.

Likewise, the best treats for your 10-year-old dog aren’t necessarily the same treats you want to give your 10-week-old pup. Certain dog treats can pose a safety hazard to puppies. Not only do puppies need smaller treats for their little mouths, but since puppies’ teeth are not fully developed, there is a higher risk of breakage. Treats that are too hard can cause serious damage to your pup’s eaters, so it’s best to stick to softer treats.

Soft Baked Treats

Soft-baked treats are always a good choice for puppies because, you guessed it, they’re nice and soft. These treats are easy on your pup’s teeth and much safer for them to eat than harder treats.

Dog-friendly foods for humans

If store-bought treats aren’t really your thing, you can always try different dog-friendly human foods in small portions. Vegetables like carrots and green beans are great low-calorie options, or if you need the occasional high-quality treat, you can try small pieces of cheese or a small dollop of peanut butter (make sure it’s xylitol-free!).

What dog treats should I not give my pup?

Aside from avoiding the obvious giant treats that will barely fit in your pup’s mouth, there are a few other factors to consider when choosing puppy treats.

Related Article: Which Dog Treats Are Safe?

Freeze dried treats

Although freeze-dried treats are a great option for adult dogs, they are still essentially raw food that has been stripped of moisture. Raw food can be a risk for a small pup whose immune system is not yet established, so it’s best to wait until he’s a bit older.3

Jerky treats

Certain jerky treats and dried sweet potato treats have been linked to kidney disease in recent years and are discouraged by the WSAVA.2 Until further research is done, it’s probably best to keep these away from your precious pup.

Sources

1Coy, Anthony E., et al. “Why can’t I resist those ‘puppy’ (or ‘kitty cat’) eyes? A study of owner retention and factors associated with obesity in companion animals.” MDPI, Multidisciplinary Digital Publishing Institute, 19 February 2021, https://www.mdpi.com/2076-2615/11/2/539.

2 “Frequently Asked Questions and Myths – WSAVA.” World Small Animal Veterinary Association, January 2018, https://wsava.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/Frequently-Asked-Questions-and-Myths.pdf.

3Zazie, Todd. “The Best Dog Training Treats.” Companion Animal Psychology, April 15, 2021, https://www.companionanimalpsychology.com/2018/06/the-best-dog-training-treats.html.

Dog treats are a staple in most homes and are used for both training and praise. However, many dog ​​owners overdo it and feed their dog too many treats throughout the day. The appropriate number of treats to feed your active dog is discussed here.

Nutritional value of dog treats

According to the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO), treats are not intended as a source of complete nutrition. Because treats are meant to be rewarding, they are often high in fat, sugar, and calories with little nutritional value. Even if you have an active dog, too many low-nutrition treats can be harmful. The Actijoy Health & Activity Tracker is an easy way to keep your dog’s activity under control.

Types of dog treats

In general, there are 3 types of dog treats:

High-value rewards

High quality rewards are generally reserved for less common instances where a dog needs to be heavily reinforced. For example, a high value reward could be used for calling back in a crowded area. Liver and cheese are examples of high value rewards.

workout treats

Training treats are smaller, lower calorie dog treats intended to be used during training sessions. These treats come in a variety of flavors, shapes, and sizes.

Cookies

Dog biscuits are hard, dry treats that are generally fed as snacks or for purposes outside of dog training.

How Many Dog Treats Should You Feed Your Dog?

The number of treats you feed your dog per day depends on the type of treat and your dog’s activity level. For example, a young, active dog will have higher calorie needs than an older, sedentary pet. In general, dogs should not get more than 10% of their daily caloric intake from treats. You can find a calculator to determine your dog’s exact calorie needs here.

Quality treats and dog biscuits should be given sparingly, no more than 1-2 treats per day. Exercise snacks can be given in larger quantities, especially if they are less than 3-5 calories each.

Tips for reducing your dog’s calorie count

Dogs that are fed too many treats are at a higher risk of gastrointestinal problems and obesity. The easiest way to reduce your dog’s calorie content is to limit the number of treats your pet gets each day. Pet owners can also break up treats into smaller pieces. A cookie can be divided into 3-4 treats, while small training treats halved or quartered still work.

You can also look for a smart solution, such as B. the Actijoy WiFi food and water bowls, which help you to achieve an optimal amount of food for your dog and to keep the food intake under control.

Finally, pet owners should be aware that treats are a major cause of canine obesity, even in active dogs. Caloric intake from treats should not exceed 10% of the dog’s recommended caloric needs, and quality treats should be fed sparingly.

The Actijoy solution helps owners prevent obesity and other diseases in dogs. Thanks to three interconnected devices, owners have all the information about food and water intake and activity level. Order here to extend your dog’s life.

Giving your young pup dental work can be a great bonding moment for both of you. Not to mention giving your dog a head start on dental hygiene. And how can you refuse this irresistibly adorable face? After all, you’re only human. Read on to learn when it’s safe to give your pup dental work and how it can benefit him.

When to Give Your Puppy Dental Procedures

It’s important to wait until your puppy is around 6 months old before having any dental work. Why? We’re glad you asked.

Your puppy has a tender tummy: your little one is still growing and going through changes, especially in the gastrointestinal tract. The introduction of new foods could create a mess on the carpet.

Puppy teeth are baby teeth: While they’re certainly sharp, your puppy’s teeth aren’t fully developed yet. Wait until their adult teeth come through and their jaw structure has developed before giving them any dental work. Otherwise they could damage their little eaters.

For these reasons, GREENIES™ recommends not giving puppies dental work until they are around 6 months old. This number will vary slightly depending on your dog’s breed and weight, so checking with your vet is always a smart option.

Another important thing to remember is…

Puppies need treats for puppies

You would not feed a 6 year old dog the same food as a 6 month old puppy. The same goes for treats. It’s important to give puppies treats specially designed for them, as puppies have growing mouths and need the right balance of nutrients for healthy growth and development. GREENIES™ Puppy 6 Months+ TEENIE™ Dental Treats have a softer texture and are designed for developing mouths. They also contain nutrients like DHA to support brain development and calcium to support strong teeth and healthy jaws.

The Benefits of Dental Treatments for Puppies

Your pup thinks treats just taste great, but they can also provide some additional benefits:

In general, treats shouldn’t make up more than 10% of your pup’s daily diet – and this depends on your pup’s age and size. (If you’re using the treats for training, a lower-calorie choice is best.) To help you wade through the many options out there, we’ve compiled a list of the 10 best puppy treats to help you make the perfect choice for You can find puppy.

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links at no additional cost to you. These links allow us to earn commissions from Amazon or other vendors. As an Amazon Associate, Pumpkin earns commissions from qualifying purchases.

Best Puppy Treat: Wellness Soft Puppy Bites

Wellness Soft Puppy Bites ticks all the boxes, making them a great choice overall. These treats are specially designed for growing puppies under a year old. They’re grain-free and made in the USA from quality ingredients — including meats, fruits, and vegetables — that give your pup the nutrition they need without any nasty fillers like meat by-products, corn, soy, wheat, or artificial colors or flavors. Their small size and canine-approved flavor make them a great training tool, especially since they’re only 6 calories each and can be easily ripped into smaller pieces during training sessions. These treats are also a natural source of DHA, an omega-3 fatty acid that has many health benefits for dogs.

The best value pup treat: Pupford Freeze Dried Training Treats

With over 475 treats in each bag, Pupford’s Freeze Dried Training Treats are sure to give you the best bang for your buck – and without sacrificing quality! These treats come in 5 flavors – Chicken, Salmon, Beef Liver, Rabbit and Sweet Potato – and aside from a natural antioxidant from Vitamin E, which acts as a natural preservative, these flavors are the only ingredients in these treats. Pupford treats are bite-sized and only contain 1 calorie each, so you don’t have to worry about your pup gaining weight during your training sessions. They’re also sourced and made in the USA, and the freeze-drying process preserves all the nutrients your pup needs and the flavor they love!

Best Low Calorie Treats for Puppies: Fruitables Skinny Minis

Everything is in the name! Fruitables Skinny Minis are small, low-calorie treats perfect for growing puppies. These grain-free treats are only 3 calories each, which is perfect for your workouts. They’re made in organic bakeries in the USA and contain only high-quality ingredients, including dog-friendly superfoods like sweet potatoes, apples, squash, mango, and blueberries. (Plus: no fillers or artificial flavors here!) Fruitables Skinny Minis come in a variety of flavors including Apple Bacon, Fried Chicken, Grilled Bison, Pumpkin & Mango, Pumpkin & Berry, Watermelon, and Pumpkin Spice. And puppies love the taste and smell—especially for Apple Bacon!

Best Quality Workout Treat: Stewart Pro-Treat Beef Liver

Sometimes your pup deserves a treat if they’ve been a particularly good dog, and that’s where quality treats come in. Of course, they would always prefer human food, but too much of it is not good for growing puppies (or even adult dogs). Stewart Pro-Treat Beef Liver Treats are the next best thing. They’re made from a single ingredient: food-grade beef liver, which means it’s safe enough for humans to eat—although the taste might not be what humans would enjoy! Stewart treats are grain-free, gluten-free, soy-free, and corn-free, and also contain no nasty preservatives, artificial colors, or flavors. They can be a little smelly to us humans, but that’s what drives dogs crazy about them! They can also be on the big side, so you may need to split them up for very small puppies or training sessions. And since this is a quality treat, you should limit the amount you give your pup per day – these treats are designed for quality, not quantity.

Best Organic Treat: Riley’s Organic Dog Biscuits

If you’re looking for a treat that’s 100% organic, plant-based and human-safe ingredients, then Riley’s Organic Dog Biscuits are a great choice for your pup. Great for puppies, the little biscuits are only 5 calories each and you can break them up a bit for training purposes too. They come in a variety of flavors including Sweet Potato, Apple, Pumpkin & Coconut, and Peanut Butter & Molasses (all of which also come in plus sizes if your pup is growing up and still wants their favorite treat). Riley’s cookies contain no coarse fillers like corn, soy or wheat and are made in the USA.

Best Dental Health Treatment: Get Naked Grain-Free Puppy Health Dental Sticks

The teething period can be stressful for puppies and their humans, but Get Naked Dental Sticks can help make it easier. While Get Naked makes other types of toothpicks for adult dogs, their grain-free puppy health sticks are specifically designed for teething puppies. They’re small but worth 27 calories each, so they’re not meant to be everyday treats. They’re grain free and made with natural ingredients, with DHA omega-3 fatty acids that support your pup’s cognitive development and calcium that strengthens their teeth and bones. Get Naked Puppy Health Dental Sticks to ease some of the discomfort your pup goes through while teething – and when those adult teeth finally come through, they’ll help get rid of plaque and tartar and keep your pup’s teeth and gums healthy !

Best Dog Cookie Treat: Raw Paws Peanut Butter Cookies

If you’re looking for a quality cookie that won’t crumble in your treat bag, Raw Paws Peanut Butter Cookies are a perfect choice. These grain-free cookies are made in the USA, and their all-natural ingredients and lack of fillers and artificial ingredients make them a great choice for puppies with sensitive stomachs. Its ingredients – including omega-3 fatty acids, amino acids, soluble fiber, protein, calcium, vitamin A and vitamin B12 – provide your pup with many health benefits. But Raw Paws peanut butter cookies are 22 calories each, so be careful not to give your pup too many (and you should break them up as needed). These treats are suitable for dogs of all ages so your pup can have their favorite cookie forever.

The best treat for sensitive tummies: Stella & Chewy’s Freeze Dried Raw Treats

If your puppy has a sensitive stomach, it is better to give him food with as few ingredients as possible – this also applies to his treats. Stella & Chewy Freeze-Dried Raw Treats take this seriously and only contain a single ingredient: the protein, which is freeze-dried to preserve its flavor and nutrients. Made in the USA, these single-ingredient treats are grain-free, gluten-free, and all-natural. They come in a variety of flavors – including beef heart, beef liver, chicken, chicken heart, lamb heart and lamb liver – so you’re sure to find a belly-friendly flavor your pup will love.

Best Long Lasting Treat: Bully Sticks

Bully Sticks are a combination treat and toy that can keep your pup busy – and they’re great for teething pups. Since puppy teeth are too soft to handle large dog treats like bones, bully sticks are a great option for puppy parents who want to give their pup something that will last a while. Bully Sticks are made in the USA and are an all-natural alternative to rawhide, which can be very dangerous for dogs. Bully Sticks’ beef doesn’t splinter, so it’s safe for dogs, although – as with any durable treat or toy – humans should always keep an eye on their pup while consuming these treats. Many pup parents also like to use a Bully Stick holder – this way their pup can’t swallow chunks whole once they reach the end of the stick!

Best Flavor: Zuke’s Mini Naturals

Zuke’s Mini Naturals are loved by many puppy parents. They’re small and low in calories – they’re around 3 calories per treat – which makes them an excellent choice for puppy training alongside daily snacking. They’re made in the USA from all-natural ingredients, contain no artificial flavors or colors, and are free of fillers like wheat, corn, or soy. Zuke’s Mini Naturals also contain healthy vitamins and minerals like Vitamin E and Zinc to support your growing pup’s health. They come in 8 flavors – chicken, beef, salmon, rabbit, duck, pork, turkey and pumpkin, as well as peanut butter and oats – so you’re sure to find at least one your pup will love!

Dog treats are a staple in most homes and are used for both training and praise. However, many dog ​​owners overdo it and feed their dog too many treats throughout the day. The appropriate number of treats to feed your active dog is discussed here.

Nutritional value of dog treats

According to the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO), treats are not intended as a source of complete nutrition. Because treats are meant to be rewarding, they are often high in fat, sugar, and calories with little nutritional value. Even if you have an active dog, too many low-nutrition treats can be harmful. The Actijoy Health & Activity Tracker is an easy way to keep your dog’s activity under control.

Types of dog treats

In general, there are 3 types of dog treats:

High-value rewards

High quality rewards are generally reserved for less common instances where a dog needs to be heavily reinforced. For example, a high value reward could be used for calling back in a crowded area. Liver and cheese are examples of high value rewards.

workout treats

Training treats are smaller, lower calorie dog treats intended to be used during training sessions. These treats come in a variety of flavors, shapes, and sizes.

Cookies

Dog biscuits are hard, dry treats that are generally fed as snacks or for purposes outside of dog training.

How Many Dog Treats Should You Feed Your Dog?

The number of treats you feed your dog per day depends on the type of treat and your dog’s activity level. For example, a young, active dog will have higher calorie needs than an older, sedentary pet. In general, dogs should not get more than 10% of their daily caloric intake from treats. You can find a calculator to determine your dog’s exact calorie needs here.

Quality treats and dog biscuits should be given sparingly, no more than 1-2 treats per day. Exercise snacks can be given in larger quantities, especially if they are less than 3-5 calories each.

Tips for reducing your dog’s calorie count

Dogs that are fed too many treats are at a higher risk of gastrointestinal problems and obesity. The easiest way to reduce your dog’s calorie content is to limit the number of treats your pet gets each day. Pet owners can also break up treats into smaller pieces. A cookie can be divided into 3-4 treats, while small training treats halved or quartered still work.

You can also look for a smart solution, such as B. the Actijoy WiFi food and water bowls, which help you to achieve an optimal amount of food for your dog and to keep the food intake under control.

Finally, pet owners should be aware that treats are a major cause of canine obesity, even in active dogs. Caloric intake from treats should not exceed 10% of the dog’s recommended caloric needs, and quality treats should be fed sparingly.

The Actijoy solution helps owners prevent obesity and other diseases in dogs. Thanks to three interconnected devices, owners have all the information about food and water intake and activity level. Order here to extend your dog’s life.

As a rule of thumb, you should limit treats to 10% of your dog’s daily caloric intake. Overdoing it could lead to tummy problems (and messy stools) in the short term and weight gain in the long term. Since obesity in dogs can lead to serious health problems and is arguably the biggest threat to your dog’s health, it’s a good idea to pay attention to your dog’s daily limit.

How do you know how many treats are enough for your dog?

It’s a smart idea to find out your dog’s daily limit. Especially if you’re preparing to train your pet or if you think you and your family will get carried away with the rewards. To find this 10% limit for your dog’s daily treat allowance, refer to the chart on the pet food bag. It tells how many cups of food they should be consuming per day based on their weight and how many calories are in a cup. (Don’t forget to consider your dog’s age and activity level. Less active adult dogs require fewer calories than a very active pet.)

For our example, let’s use the NutriSource recipe with chicken and rice.

There are 429 kcal (or to use vernacular, calories) per cup of food.

The daily ration for a 60 pound (adult) dog is 2 1/3 cups, which equates to 1,001 calories per day.

That means her maximum amount of treats shouldn’t be more than 100 calories per day.

Smaller dogs have room for fewer treats.

With the same diet, a 15-pound dog would get 1 cup of food, or 429 calories per day.

This smaller dog can have around 43 calories worth of treats before hitting his 10% limit.

As we can see, the smaller the dog, the more attentive you should be to how many treats he gets.

How Does Your Dog’s Treats Affect Feeding Time?

You may be wondering if it’s okay to stack that 10% on top of that daily meal. In general, this means that you should take a few kibbles out of the food bowl so they don’t become overloaded with calories. Do your best to keep the limit at 10%. Remember that not all calories are created equal, so don’t think of treats as meal replacements, even if they’re good for dogs. Otherwise, your dog could be missing out on the minerals and vitamins it needs to be healthy.

Which treat is right for your dog?

When it comes to treating our pets, there is no shortage of options. While it’s okay to treat your dog to a special treat from time to time (like that fancy dog ​​biscuit you noticed at the pet store), it’s best for their health (and tummy) to being picky and attentive to your pet’s treats). We focus on a few:

human foods

Many pet parents like to toss their eager furry friend a cube of cheese, a slice of ham, or a sample of their meal. As you might suspect, now that you have your dog’s calorie limits under control, too many handouts from the dinner plate and snack bowl can be the cause of dog weight gain. Your appetite may tell you otherwise, but a dog doesn’t have much room for extra calories. When you share your meal or snack, it doesn’t take long for the calories to pile up. To control the pudge (for both your dog and yourself), stick to healthy, low-calorie snacking and unprocessed foods (which are often loaded with bad fats and sugars). Some dogs actually like carrot sticks and cooked unseasoned green beans. Other options include fresh berries, lean turkey breast, non-fat yogurt, and air-puffed popcorn (but skimp on the butter and salt).

treats

These meaty bites can be tempting enough for people to eat. Their strong meaty smell illuminates a dog’s super-sensitive sense of smell. So if you’re training your dog in a distracting environment, having a few pieces of beef jerky on hand can help break up the clutter of stimuli and keep your dog focused. They are also great for hikes and other long trips. However, limit these treats to no more than a couple per day for a large breed, a couple for medium-sized dogs, and one for small dogs. At 20 calories apiece, too many jerky treats can exceed your dog’s calorie limits. So if you offer a lot of them, remember to serve a smaller portion at dinner so you can balance the calories.

Cookies

These offer a way to treat your dog without breaking the bank. But you should keep an eye on the label, as many supermarket brands use wheat and soy, sometimes as key ingredients, which can be irritating to your dog’s system if he has a food sensitivity. With a quality brand, you’ll see meat or meat meal listed first on the ingredients, followed by a variety of fruits and vegetables to create a healthy, tasty treat. While it’s not as high in calories as a serving of jerky, check the label for the calorie count so you don’t overdo it.

train treats

These small, low-calorie, soft morsels provide the perfect pet training solution. At 3-5 calories per soft chew, you can get the rewards while reinforcing the behaviors you enjoy. Even better, these soft morsels can be eaten in just seconds, so you can both focus on your workout — without having to wait and wait for your dog to munch through the chewy texture of biscuits or beef jerky.

Bottom Line: When it comes time to treat your dog, knowing how many treats are too many can help your dog maintain a healthy weight.

Whether you’re working on your dog’s leash manners or teaching him to sit still during baths, make sure you keep a handful of NutriSource Soft and Tender Treats handy. At 3.5 calories per piece and enriched with Carniking™ (a proven source of L-Carnitine, an amino acid that may help your pet burn fat), you can make progress without worrying about overloading your dog. They come in three delicious flavors: Chicken, Lamb and Salmon. Shop local and pick up a pouch at an independent pet supply store in your community.