Dog Treats: Types, Benefits, and Homemade Recipes

Introduction

Dog treats are more than just tasty morsels; they are an essential part of dog care and training. From rewarding good behavior to aiding dental health, dog treats serve multiple purposes. This article explores the different types of dog treats and their benefits.

Types of Dog Treats

Commercial Dog Treats

Commercial dog treats are widely available and come in various shapes, sizes, and flavors. They are often formulated with specific health benefits in mind.

A) Soft Meaty Treats

Soft meaty treats are chewy and easy for dogs to eat. They are great for training since they can be easily broken into small pieces for immediate rewards. These include soft jerky treats, jerky sticks, freeze-dried meat. Some also include special ingredients with different healthy benefits, e.g. joint care, skin health, etc. Soft meaty treats are good for dogs of all life stages, including puppies and senior dogs.

Caru Soft N Tasty Baked Bites

LaMer Ceramide & Omega 3 Soft Chews

LaMer Dr Joint Care

B) Hard Meaty Treats

Hard meaty treats such as air-dried meat jerky are not only tasty but also good for dental health.  The chewing action helps to stimulate saliva production and reduce plaque and tartar buildup.  

Mosaic Ostrich Bite / Chip

Ziwipeak Lamb Tripe

C) Dog Biscuits

Dog biscuits are made with flours and flavors.  The crunching action is appealing to dogs but some biscuits may stick to the teeth, so regular brushing is necessary to avoid dental problem. 

Prunus Fucoidan 20 (improves digestion, reduces stool odor)

D) Dental Chews

Natural dental chews include antlers, bully sticks, Himalayan cheese / dog chew.  There are also some dental treats with special texture and shape to help remove tartar from teeth.  Many dogs enjoy these treats, which can help prevent costly dental issues.

Redbarn Odorless Bully Stick

LaMer Hydrolyzed Diet and Joint Chew

Himalayan Dog Chew

E) Training Treats

These are typically small, low-calorie treats designed specifically for training sessions. Their size makes them easy to carry and dispense quickly.

Fruitables Skinny Minis

Homemade Dog Treats

Homemade treats can be a healthier alternative to commercial options. They allow you to control ingredients and cater to your dog’s specific dietary needs.

A) Baked Treats

Simple baked treats can be made from common ingredients like peanut butter, pumpkin, and oats. They are easy to prepare and can be stored for weeks.

B) Frozen Treats

Frozen treats are perfect for hot days. You can freeze yogurt or pureed fruits in molds for a refreshing snack.

C) Dehydrated Treats

Dehydrating fruits or meats can create healthy, long-lasting treats. Dehydrated sweet potatoes and chicken jerky are popular options.

Please bear in mind that homemade dog treats have a shorter shelf life than commercial dog treats.  They should be prepared in small batches and avoid being stored for a long time (more than several weeks).

Benefits of Dog Treats

Training and Behavior Reinforcement

Treats are a powerful tool for training. Positive reinforcement helps dogs associate good behavior with rewards. The key is to use treats sparingly and ensure they are enticing enough to motivate your dog.

Bonding and Affection

Offering treats can strengthen the bond between you and your dog. It’s a way to show love and appreciation, enhancing your relationship.

Dental Health

As mentioned earlier, certain treats can support dental hygiene. Regular chewing on appropriate treats can help keep teeth clean and gums healthy.

Health Benefits

Some treats are formulated with health in mind, containing ingredients that support dog health. Treats with specific ingredients can aid in digestion, joint health, and skin condition, etc and they are called functional treats.

Choosing the Right Treats

When selecting treats for your dog, consider the following factors:

Ingredients

Always check the ingredient list. Look for high-quality proteins, whole grains, and avoid artificial additives such as artificial colors and flavors. Common allergens like wheat, corn, and soy should also be avoided.

Size and Caloric Content

Choose treats that are appropriate for your dog’s size. Smaller dogs benefit from smaller treats, while larger dogs may require bigger options. Keep an eye on caloric content, especially if your dog is prone to weight gain.

Dietary Needs

If your dog has specific dietary restrictions or health issues, consult your veterinarian to find suitable treats. There are options for grain-free, low carb, low fat, low protein and hypoallergenic treats available.

Homemade Dog Treat Recipes

Sweet Potato Chews

Ingredients:

1 medium sweet potato

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 250°F (120°C).
2. Slice the sweet potato into thin strips.
3. Place on a baking sheet and bake for 2-3 hours until chewy.
4. Let cool and store in an airtight container.

Air Dried Chicken Jerky

Ingredients:

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

Instructions:

1. Preheat your dehydrator to 160°F (70°C).
2. Slice the chicken breasts into thin strips (about 1/4 inch thick).
3. Arrange the strips in a single layer on the dehydrator trays.
4. Dehydrate for 6-8 hours, or until fully dried and firm.
5. Let cool before storing in an airtight container.

Storage of Dog Treats

Proper storage of dog treats is very important, here are some storage tips:

Store in a sealed container

Dog treats must be stored in airtight containers such as airtight jars or zipper bags to avoid deterioration caused by exposure to air.

Avoid moisture

Dog treats should be stored in a dry, ventilated environment away from moisture.

You can put some desiccant in a sealed container to absorb excess moisture.

Keep away from heat sources

Dog treats should be kept away from heat such as high temperature and direct sunlight to avoid loss of nutrients and degradation.

Best stored in cool, room temperature.

Control storage temperature

Certain dog treats, such as frozen or freeze-dried products, require special storage conditions.

If the treat is stored in the refrigerator, remember to check regularly whether the temperature is appropriate.

Pay attention to the shelf life

Check the expiry date on the package and consume the treat before expiry date.

Eat dog snacks as soon as possible after opening and do not store them for a long time.

Pack in small portions

Dog treats can be stored in small portions for easy access and extended shelf life.

After dividing the package, the treats can be placed in a sealed bag or airtight box.

Keep it clean

Storage containers should be cleaned and disinfected regularly to avoid bacterial contamination.

Wash your hand before and after handling dog treats to ensure good hygiene.

Conclusion

Dog treats play a crucial role in your pet’s life, supporting training, health, and emotional bonding. Whether you choose commercial options or decide to make your own, always prioritize quality ingredients and appropriate portion sizes. Treats should enhance your dog’s life, providing joy and health benefits. Experiment with different types and recipes to find what your dog loves best, and enjoy the process of treating your furry friend!  But remember, dog treats should be given in moderation, do not overfeed them or they may gain weight or just refuse to eat their regular meal!

All natural dog treats from Wise Pet eshop