For many owners, dog treats are not only a great way to reward their dogs for good behavior but also a way to build a bond. Whether used as a daily training treat, a small gift after a walk, or simply as a comforting tool, the right amount of treats can add joy to a dog's life. However, with so many different products on the market and varying quality, choosing the wrong ones can be detrimental to their health. Therefore, when choosing dog treats, it's important to balance deliciousness and nutrition to ensure your dog enjoys and feels safe.

Basic principles for choosing dog treats

When choosing snacks, owners should first understand the dog's physical condition and dietary needs, and then consider the following aspects:

Safe ingredients: Avoid ingredients harmful to dogs, such as onions, garlic, xylitol, excessive salt, and artificial flavors. Always read the label carefully before purchasing to ensure the main ingredients are natural and free of added chemicals.
Nutritional value: High-quality snacks should contain sufficient protein and fiber, and provide vitamins or minerals to help your pet maintain health.
Calorie control: Snacks are considered an "extra calorie source" and should be limited to less than 10% of total daily calories to avoid weight gain or obesity.
Palatability and chewiness: Small dogs can choose soft or small-grain snacks; large dogs are suitable for products with a harder texture that promotes chewing and helps clean teeth.

Snack Type Overview

There are many types of dog snacks on the market, each with its own characteristics:

Jerky and dehydrated snacks: One of the most popular choices, common examples include chicken breast jerky, beef strips, and duck breast slices. They are fragrant and high in protein, making them ideal as training rewards.
Functional snacks: Products such as tooth cleaning sticks and joint protection chew bones not only provide a good taste, but also help clean teeth and protect joints. They are especially suitable for dogs who need extra care.
Fruits and vegetables: Low-fat options such as apple slices, carrot sticks, and dried pumpkin can provide fiber and vitamins, but they need to be seeded and cored and fed in moderation.
Freeze-dried snacks: They use low-temperature technology to preserve the nutrition and flavor of the raw materials. They do not require refrigeration and are easy to carry. They are a healthy choice recommended by many trainers.

Recommended brands and popular products

The following brands enjoy a good reputation in Hong Kong and internationally, and their quality is trustworthy:

Orijen Freeze-Dried Meat Pellets: Made with all-natural meat, grain-free, and high in protein, they're perfect for training rewards.
Ziwipeak Jerky Series: Made with grass-fed New Zealand meat, air-dried to preserve nutrients, they're perfect for dogs with sensitive diabetics.
Natural Balance Snack Bars: Available in a variety of flavors, they have a soft texture and are perfect for small dogs and puppies.
Greenies Tooth Cleaning Sticks: Designed for oral health, veterinarian-recommended, they effectively reduce tartar and bad breath.
SUNRISE (Pet) Chicken Gizzard Rolls in Super-Slim Leather Sticks (14 count): These treats combine the aroma of chicken gizzards with the texture of leather, making them perfect as daily treats.

Kong Pets Strawberry Flavoured Dog Biscuits 400g: Strawberry flavoured biscuits, suitable as a snack supplement.

DIY Dog Treats

If you wish to better understand the ingredients of treats, owners can try simple homemade recipes:

Chicken Strips: Slice skinless chicken breast into thin long strips, bake at low temperature until fully cooked, let cool before serving.
Salmon Patties: Mix salmon meat with a small amount of egg, shape into small pieces, bake in the oven — aromatic, tasty, and healthy.
Pumpkin Cookies: Steam unsalted pumpkin and mash it into puree, add a small amount of oat flour, form into small round cookies and bake.

When making DIY treats, hygiene must be taken seriously. It is best to refrigerate and consume within one week to avoid bacterial growth.

Feeding Suggestions and Precautions

Although treats can enhance a dog’s enjoyment of life, feeding methods must be done carefully:

Portion Recommendation: Adjust based on your dog’s weight and daily activity level. For example, small dogs may have about 1–2 pieces of meat jerky daily, while large dogs can have slightly more.
Feeding Timing: Suitable as training rewards, small snacks after walks, or calming treats when emotional comfort is needed.
Common Mistakes: Do not replace regular meals with treats, nor give human snacks such as chocolate, cookies, or salty food, which may contain substances harmful to dogs.

The choice of dog treats is not just about satisfying appetite, but also concerns health and quality of life. When buying or making treats, owners should follow the principles of natural, safe, and moderate feeding, while carefully observing the dog’s response to find the most suitable products. Properly using treats as rewards or interactive tools can not only strengthen the bond between you and your dog but also make its life happier and more balanced.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: How many treats can a dog eat per day?
It is recommended that treat calories do not exceed 10% of daily total calorie intake, and should be adjusted according to the dog’s weight, age, and activity level.

Q2: What are the differences in suitable treats for puppies and adult dogs?
Puppies should have soft, easily digestible small treats; adult dogs may have harder options that help with chewing and dental health.

Q3: How should dogs with allergies choose treats?
Opt for single-protein treats or those labeled “hypoallergenic,” and observe the dog’s reaction gradually.

Q4: Can dental chews completely replace brushing teeth?
Dental chews can reduce tartar but cannot fully replace brushing. It is recommended to brush your dog’s teeth 2–3 times per week to maintain oral health.

Q5: Do treats cause obesity?
Excessive treats can indeed cause weight gain. Controlling portions, choosing low-fat products, and pairing with adequate exercise are essential to maintain an ideal physique.