With over 65 million U.S. households owning a dog, choosing the right treats has never been more important. According to the American Pet Products Association (APPA), approximately two-thirds of U.S. households own a pet. This guide covers what to look for, what to avoid, and how to match treats to your dog's unique needs.
Treats are part of everyday life with your dog. Whether you're reinforcing a new command, supporting puppy training, or simply sharing a quiet moment together at the end of the day, the treat you choose can play an important role in your dog's health, training, and overall well-being.
With countless options available, choosing the right dog treats can feel overwhelming. Different dogs have different needs based on their age, size, activity level, and dietary sensitivities. This guide breaks down how to choose quality treats using clear criteria, practical checklists, and expert-backed tips — without the marketing fluff.
📋 Key Takeaways
- Read the label — look for clearly named animal proteins and transparent ingredients
- Match treat type to your dog's age, size, health, and chewing style
- Keep treats within 10% of daily calorie intake
- Single-ingredient freeze-dried treats offer the cleanest nutrition
- Avoid artificial colors, preservatives (BHA/BHT), and unspecified meat sources
- Always check with your veterinarian before introducing new treats
📖 Table of Contents
- 1. Why Choosing the Right Dog Treats Matters
- 2. What Makes a Healthy Dog Treat?
- 3. Know Your Dog Before Buying Treats
- 4. Dog Treat Ingredients: What to Look For and What to Skip
- 5. Different Types of Dog Treats Explained
- 6. How to Transition Your Dog to New Treats
- 7. Common Mistakes When Buying Dog Treats
- 8. How Many Treats Should Dogs Eat Per Day?
- 9. MON2SUN Recommended Dog Treats
- 10. Frequently Asked Questions
Why Choosing the Right Dog Treats Matters
The pet food aisle is packed with options, but not all treats deliver the same nutritional value. Some are built around whole-food ingredients that support your dog's health. Others rely on corn, soy, and artificial colors that add calories without benefits. The difference shows up in your dog's coat, energy level, and digestion over time.
Training & Bonding
Think about when you reach for a treat. After a solid "stay" at the dog park, during a calm evening on the couch, or when introducing a new family member. Using a clean, high-value treat makes these moments positive and builds trust with your dog.
Small, soft, protein-rich pieces work best for training because they're devoured fast — no lingering chewing to break focus.
Support for Every Life Stage
A growing puppy's needs differ from a senior dog managing joint stiffness. A high-energy sporting dog burns far more calories than a lap companion. Treats matched to your dog's life stage help maintain healthy body condition longer.
Puppies benefit from small, soft bites. Seniors often do better with softer textures and joint-supporting nutrients. Active dogs thrive on protein-dense options that replenish energy.
Everyday Wellness
Beyond rewards, well-chosen treats can contribute to your dog's overall wellness. Freeze-dried protein options support lean muscle maintenance. Dental chews, when selected carefully, help manage plaque between brushings. Even a simple chewing session on a quality jerky strip provides mental stimulation that keeps your dog content and occupied.
🐶 Veterinary nutrition guidelines commonly recommend keeping treats within 10% of a dog's daily calorie intake. American Kennel Club (AKC) The majority of your dog's nutrition should come from a complete and balanced diet designed to provide essential nutrients for their life stage. Pet foods labeled as "complete and balanced" are formulated to meet nutritional standards established by Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO).
Always check with your veterinarian before introducing new treats, especially for dogs with medical conditions.
What Makes a Healthy Dog Treat?
With so many brands using terms like "natural" and "premium" loosely, it helps to know what to actually look for in a treat. Here are four practical things to check when shopping:
1. Named Protein as the First Ingredient
The first item in the ingredient list is what the treat contains most of. Look for a named protein source — "Chicken Breast," "Duck," "Beef," "Salmon." If "corn," "wheat," or "meat meal" appears first, the treat is mostly filler.
2. Transparent, Purposeful Ingredients
High-quality dog treats typically feature a transparent ingredient list centered around real animal protein. Depending on the treat type, additional ingredients may be included to help maintain texture, freshness, or product stability. Focus on understanding what each ingredient does rather than judging by the total number of ingredients alone.
3. Appropriate Calorie Count
A single large biscuit can pack 80–100 calories — a full meal for a small dog. Look for clear calorie information on the package and choose treats that fit comfortably within your dog's daily needs.
4. Avoid Unnecessary Artificial Additives
Look for treats without artificial colors, artificial flavors, or unnecessary fillers. Some products may include approved preservatives or moisture-retaining ingredients to help maintain freshness, texture, and shelf stability.
🎯 The bottom line: A high-quality dog treat starts with real animal protein, uses clearly labeled ingredients, avoids unnecessary artificial colors and low-quality fillers, and includes functional ingredients only when needed to support freshness, texture, or product quality.
Know Your Dog Before Buying Treats
The best dog treats for one dog may not work for another. Age, weight, activity level, and health status all play a role. Use this quick reference:
| Dog Type | Look For | Good Options |
|---|---|---|
| Puppies | Soft, small, easy to digest | Freeze-dried bites, soft training treats |
| Senior Dogs | Soft texture, joint support | Soft chews with glucosamine |
| Small Breeds | Bite-size pieces | Small training treats, mini jerky |
| Large Breeds | Larger size, longer chew | Dental chews, thick jerky strips |
| Active Dogs | High protein, energy-dense | Chicken jerky, meaty freeze-dried |
| Dogs with Allergies | Limited ingredients, novel protein | Freeze-dried duck or venison |
Dog Treat Ingredients: What to Look For and What to Skip
Learning to read a dog treat ingredients label is the most practical skill for any pet owner. Here's a straightforward checklist:
✅ Look For These
- Named animal protein listed first — chicken, duck, beef, salmon, turkey
- Whole-food ingredients like sweet potato, pumpkin, blueberry
- Natural preservatives — Vitamin E (mixed tocopherols), Vitamin C (ascorbic acid)
- Lightly processed — look for "freeze-dried" or "air-dried" which retain more nutrients
- Calorie information listed per treat or per ounce
- Ingredients are clearly listed with a named animal protein first
- Functional ingredients are used only when needed to support freshness or texture
❌ Skip These
- Artificial colors — FD&C Red #40, Yellow #5, Blue #1
- Avoid treats containing artificial preservatives such as BHA, BHT, or ethoxyquin whenever possible
- Added sugars — corn syrup, molasses, cane sugar
- Propylene glycol — a chemical used to retain moisture in some processed treats
- Unspecified meat sources — "meat meal" or "animal digest" without named protein
Quick Pre-Purchase Checklist
Before adding a bag to your cart, run through this:
- ☐ First ingredient is a named protein
- ☐ Treat size matches your dog's breed and age
- ☐ Calories fit within the 10% daily treat limit
- ☐ Ingredient list is transparent and easy to understand
- ☐ No artificial colors, preservatives, or added sugars
Different Types of Dog Treats Explained
Each treat type serves a different purpose. Here's how they compare so you can match the right one to your dog's needs.
| Treat Type | Best For | Texture | Key Benefits |
|---|---|---|---|
| Freeze-Dried | Training, all life stages | Light, airy, crumbly | Minimally processed, retains nutrients, single ingredient |
| Jerky | Training, active dogs | Chewy, meaty strips | High protein, long-lasting, satisfying |
| Dental Chews | Oral health, large breeds | Firm, textured | Helps reduce plaque, satisfies chewing instinct |
| Soft Chews | Seniors, puppies, training | Soft, moist, pliable | Easy to break, gentle on teeth, good for seniors |
| Biscuits | Treat rewards, portion control | Crunchy, baked | Crunchy texture may help with scraping, shelf-stable |
| Rawhide | Aggressive chewers | Tough, durable | Long-lasting chew, mental stimulation |
How to Transition Your Dog to New Treats
Switching your dog to a new treat brand or type should be done gradually to avoid digestive upset. Even healthy treats can cause stomach issues if introduced too quickly.
- Start with a small piece — Offer a tiny amount and watch for any reactions over the next 24 hours
- Mix with familiar treats — Alternate new treats with ones your dog already enjoys to ease the transition
- Increase gradually — Over 5–7 days, slowly increase the proportion of new treats
- Monitor for changes — Watch for loose stool, vomiting, itching, or changes in energy level
- Introduce one new treat at a time — This way, if there's a reaction, you'll know exactly which treat caused it
Most dogs adapt to new treats within a week. If you notice persistent digestive issues or allergic reactions, discontinue use and consult your veterinarian.
Common Mistakes When Buying Dog Treats
Even experienced pet owners can fall into these traps:
Relying on Front-of-Bag Claims
"Natural," "premium," and "holistic" are not strictly regulated terms. A bag that markets itself as natural may still contain artificial preservatives or colors. Always flip to the back and read the ingredient list.
Choosing by Price Alone
Cheaper treats often use inexpensive fillers — corn, wheat, soy — to bulk up the product. You end up paying for ingredients that offer no nutritional benefit. Quality treats cost more per pound because they're made with whole-food ingredients, but you typically need fewer pieces per session.
Overfeeding Without Realizing
Calories from treats add up fast. A few large biscuits throughout the day can easily exceed the 10% guideline. Track what you give, especially if you have multiple family members sharing treat duties.
Not Adjusting for Life Stage
The treat that worked for your puppy may not suit them as a senior. Re-evaluate every time your dog moves into a new life stage — size, texture, and calorie density all need to be adjusted.
How Many Treats Should Dogs Eat Per Day?
Veterinary nutrition guidelines commonly recommend keeping treats within 10% of a dog's daily calorie intake. American Kennel Club (AKC) The remaining calories should come from a complete and balanced diet that meets your dog's nutritional needs.
| Dog Weight | Daily Calories (approx.) | Max Treat Calories | Example |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10–20 lbs | 300–500 | 30–50 | 2–3 small training treats |
| 21–50 lbs | 500–900 | 50–90 | 1 jerky strip or 3–4 training treats |
| 51–80 lbs | 900–1,200 | 90–120 | 1–2 jerky strips or 1 dental chew |
| 80+ lbs | 1,200–1,800 | 120–180 | 2–3 jerky strips or 1–2 large chews |
For training sessions, break treats into tiny pieces. Your dog cares more about the reward than the size, and smaller pieces let you extend training time without going over the calorie limit.
🐶 MON2SUN Recommended Dog Treats
Handpicked from our lineup — clean protein, minimal processing, and nothing your dog doesn't need.
High Protein and Grain Free Real Breast Chicken Jerky Dog Treats
Why: Made with real chicken breast and no unnecessary fillers.
Main Benefits: High protein, grain free, supports lean muscle and healthy training rewards.
Shop Now
Freeze Dried Chicken Dog Treats, Single Ingredient High Protein Low Fat Training Treats for Cats and Dogs
Why: Single ingredient freeze dried chicken for pure, natural nutrition.
Main Benefits: High protein, rich flavor, perfect as a training treat or food topper.
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High Protein Rawhide Free Duck and Sweet Potato Soft Chew Dog Treats
Why: Real duck wrapped around sweet potato for a tasty rawhide-free chew alternative.
Main Benefits: Supports healthy chewing, provides protein, and is easy to digest for small dogs and puppies.
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Natural Flavor 6.5-Inch Rawhide Roll Twist Sticks for Puppies and Small Dogs
Why: Long-lasting rawhide chew designed to satisfy dogs' natural chewing instincts.
Main Benefits: Helps support dental care, keeps dogs entertained, and provides a satisfying chewing experience.
Shop Now💡 Expert Tips for Choosing Dog Treats
- Match texture to temperament: Aggressive chewers need tough, durable treats; seniors and puppies benefit from soft, pliable options.
- Rotate protein sources: Feeding the same protein daily may contribute to food sensitivities over time. Rotate between chicken, duck, beef, and fish.
- Use treats as training tools: Break into tiny pieces — your dog values the reward, not the size. You'll extend training sessions without overfeeding.
- Store properly: Keep treats in a cool, dry place. Freeze-dried and jerky treats last longer when sealed after each use.
- Check for VOHC acceptance: For dental health products, look for products accepted by the Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC)
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Can dogs eat treats every day?
Yes, most healthy dogs can have treats daily — as long as you stay within the 10% calorie guideline. Daily treats can reinforce training and strengthen your bond. The key is choosing treats with quality ingredients and adjusting your dog's regular meals if needed to maintain a healthy weight. If your dog has a medical condition like diabetes or pancreatitis, check with your veterinarian first.
What treats do veterinarians recommend?
Most veterinarians recommend treats with short ingredient lists, clearly named protein sources, and appropriate ingredients for a dog's individual needs. Single-protein treats may be a suitable option for dogs with certain dietary sensitivities, but every dog's needs are different. For dental health, some vets recommend dental products accepted by the Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC) as a helpful supplement to regular brushing. Always check with your own veterinarian, as they understand your dog's specific health history.
Are freeze-dried treats better than biscuits?
It depends on your goal. Freeze-dried treats retain more natural nutrients because they're processed without heat, and they typically contain fewer ingredients — often just the protein itself. Biscuits tend to be crunchier and can include grains and other binders. For training and clean nutrition, freeze-dried is generally the stronger choice. For a satisfying crunch that helps with dental scraping, biscuits have their place. Many pet owners keep both on hand for different situations.
What are the healthiest dog treats?
The healthiest dog treats are minimally processed with a short ingredient list led by a named protein source. Freeze-dried chicken breast, beef liver, and duck are excellent examples. Nothing artificial — just real meat. The healthiest treat for your dog specifically depends on their age, size, and any dietary sensitivities they may have.
Are grain-free dog treats necessary?
Grain-free treats are necessary only if your dog has a diagnosed grain allergy — which is relatively uncommon. Most dogs digest oats, rice, and barley without issues. The ingredient quality matters far more than whether grains are present. If your dog shows signs of grain sensitivity (itchy skin, ear infections, digestive upset), a grain-free option may help. Otherwise, focus on protein quality and ingredient transparency.
Can dog treats cause allergies?
Yes, some treats can trigger allergic reactions in sensitive dogs. The most common triggers are chicken, beef, dairy, wheat, corn, and soy. If your dog shows symptoms like itching, ear inflammation, or digestive upset after eating certain treats, try switching to a novel protein like duck or venison with a single-ingredient formula. The shorter the ingredient list, the easier it is to identify the cause.
Why do some dog treats contain glycerin or potassium sorbate?
Some dog treats include ingredients such as glycerin to help maintain softness and potassium sorbate to preserve freshness during storage. These ingredients are commonly used in pet food and are considered safe when used within approved limits. The overall quality of a dog treat depends on the complete recipe, ingredient sourcing, manufacturing standards, and nutritional value — not on any single ingredient.
Conclusion
Choosing healthy dog treats doesn't have to be complicated. Start with the ingredient list — look for a named protein first, avoid artificial additives, and match the treat type and size to your dog's unique needs. Whether you're training a new puppy, supporting an active adult, or caring for a senior dog, there's a quality treat option that fits.
At MON2SUN, we keep things simple. Real protein. Transparent ingredients. Carefully crafted treats you can feel confident feeding every day. If you're looking for treats you can feel good about, explore our collection.
References & Resources
-
American Pet Products Association (APPA)
Pet Industry Market Size & Ownership Statistics
https://www.americanpetproducts.org/ -
Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO)
Understanding Pet Food Labels: Complete and Balanced Nutrition Standards
https://www.aafco.org/consumers/understanding-pet-food/reading-labels/ -
American Kennel Club (AKC)
How Many Treats Can a Dog Have Per Day? Understanding the 10% Treat Rule
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/nutrition/how-many-treats-can-dog-have/ -
Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC)
Accepted Products for Dental Health in Dogs
https://vohc.org/accepted-products/ -
U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA)
Ingredients & Additives in Animal Food: Safety and Regulation Information
https://www.fda.gov/animal-veterinary/animal-food-feeds/pet-food
This content is for informational purposes and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. Always consult your veterinarian before making dietary changes for your pet.