The Complete Guide to Choosing Healthy Dog Treats

Choosing the right treats isn't just about rewarding good behaviour — it plays a big role in your dog's health, digestion, teeth, energy levels, and overall wellbeing.

With so many options on the market, it can be hard to know what's actually healthy and what's just clever marketing. This guide breaks it down simply, so you can confidently choose the best treats for your dog.

In This Guide You'll Learn:

• Why treat quality matters
• What ingredients to look for
• Which treats to avoid
• How many treats your dog should have
• The healthiest treat types

Why Quality Treats Matter

Treats can make up up to 10% of your dog's daily calories, which means they directly affect your dog's nutrition.

Low-quality treats filled with fillers and artificial ingredients can contribute to:

• Weight gain
• Digestive upset
• Allergies and itchy skin
• Dental problems
• Poor nutrition

High-quality, natural treats help support:

• Healthy digestion
• Strong teeth and gums
• A shiny coat
• Balanced energy levels
• Long-term health

What to Look for in Healthy Dog Treats

1. Real Meat as the First Ingredient

The first ingredient should always be a clearly identified real meat, such as:

• Chicken
• Beef
• Lamb
• Fish

Avoid vague terms like:

• Meat by-products
• Animal digest
• Poultry meal

If the ingredient list is unclear, it's usually not a quality product.

2. Short, Recognisable Ingredient Lists

If you can't pronounce most of the ingredients, it's probably not ideal for your dog.

Good ingredients include:

• Real meats
• Sweet potato
• Pumpkin
• Carrots
• Blueberries
• Oats
• Natural peanut butter (xylitol-free)

3. No Artificial Additives

Avoid treats containing:

• Artificial colours
• Artificial flavours
• BHA, BHT, ethoxyquin
• Propylene glycol
• Corn syrup or high-fructose corn syrup

4. Minimal Fillers

Limit treats with excessive:

• Corn
• Soy
• White flour
• Low-quality wheat

Fillers add bulk but very little nutritional value.

5. Made in Trusted Countries

Choose treats made in countries with strict food safety regulations, such as:

• New Zealand
• Australia
• USA
• Canada

Types of Healthy Dog Treats

Dehydrated Meat Treats

Examples: Beef liver, chicken strips, fish skins

• High in protein
• Single ingredient
• Long-lasting
• Great for training

Best for: All dogs, especially active breeds

Dental Chews

• Help clean teeth
• Support gum health
• Reduce bad breath
• Satisfy natural chewing instincts

Best for: Dogs prone to dental issues

Freeze-Dried Treats

• Retain high nutritional value
• Intense flavour dogs love
• Lightweight and convenient

Best for: Training and picky eaters

Functional Treats

• Support joints
• Promote calm behaviour
• Improve digestion
• Enhance skin and coat health

Best for: Senior dogs, anxious dogs, or dogs with health concerns

Fruit & Vegetable Treats

• Low calorie
• High fibre
• Natural vitamins
• Examples: Sweet potato, carrots, apples

Best for: Overweight dogs and dogs with sensitivities

Treats to Avoid

Never give treats containing:

• Xylitol
• Chocolate
• Grapes or raisins
• Onion or garlic
• Macadamia nuts
• Cooked bones

Be cautious with:

• Rawhide
• Hooves
• Pig ears
• Imported jerky treats

How Many Treats Should You Give?

The 10% Rule

Treats should make up no more than 10% of your dog's daily calorie intake.

Examples:

• Small dog (9kg): ~40 calories from treats
• Medium dog (23kg): ~100 calories from treats
• Large dog (36kg): ~160 calories from treats

Training Tip

Break treats into small pieces. Dogs care more about frequency than size, and smaller pieces allow more rewards without overfeeding.

Special Dietary Needs

Puppies

• Small, soft treats
• Puppy-safe formulas
• Avoid hard chews

Senior Dogs

• Softer textures
• Joint-support ingredients
• Easy digestion
• Lower calorie treats

Allergies & Sensitivities

• Novel proteins (kangaroo, venison, duck)
• Single-ingredient treats
• Limited ingredient formulas

Weight Management

• Low-calorie treats
• Vegetable-based options
• Smaller portions
• Regular kibble can also be used

Our Premium Treat Selection

At Pawlished Pets, we carefully select treats that meet strict quality standards:

• Natural ingredients
• Made in New Zealand or trusted countries
• No artificial colours or flavours
• Real meat as the primary ingredient
• Functional health benefits

Browse our curated range of premium dog treats in our shop.

The Bottom Line

Quality treats are an investment in your dog's health. While premium treats may cost more, they help reduce long-term health issues and support better overall wellbeing.

Choose natural ingredients, read labels carefully, control portions, and always observe how your dog responds.

Your dog depends on you to make healthy choices — choose treats that nourish, not just fill.