unhealthy treats for dogs

The seven best healthy dog treats, according to a vet

Does your dog need treats?

Fortunately, many dog treats are nutritious, so dog treats can be part of a balanced diet for your pup. Dog treats are especially helpful when you are training your dog or rewarding them for good behavior. If your dog has food allergies, youll need to pay close attention to treat ingredients, and dogs that are overweight or with certain medical conditions should only follow a veterinarian-recommended diet and may not be allowed to have treats.

Choosing healthy treats for your doggie

When your best friend learns a new trick or behaves really well at the dog park, its tempting to reach for the first treats you can find to praise them. But not all treats are a good reward for good behavior. Unfortunately, some treats may have questionable ingredients or high-calorie counts that can be detrimental to your pups health. To keep your pup healthy and following good nutrition, opt for healthy treats instead.

What to look for in healthy dog treats

If youre ready to start shopping for healthy dog treats for your best friend, there are several things to keep in mind. Take a close look at labels to evaluate the ingredients and calories, but also keep things like size and texture in mind.

Ingredients. One of the most important things to look for in healthy treats is the ingredients list. Stick to treats with an ingredients list of whole, natural foods. Many treats include healthy ingredients like meat, peanut butter, fruits, and vegetables. Our vets also recommend treats with fish or salmon, because omega-3 fatty acids can help with brain and eye development in puppies or boost cognitive function in older dogs.

Brand. Some brands offer higher quality dog treats than others. Our veterinary team trusts brands like Purina Pro Plan, Science Diet/Hills, and Royal Canin. They all avoid cross-contamination between foods and treats during manufacturing.

Calories. Generally, treats should be just that treats! Treats should make up less than 10% of your dogs daily calories, so read the label for the calorie amount per treat and stick to the correct portion sizes.

Texture. You want to choose treats that arent too hard, otherwise, they can pose a choking hazard. Hard treats are difficult for a dog to bite into, so they might only be able to bite them into large pieces, which are hard to swallow. Too-hard treats can also fracture your dogs teeth.

Size. Treats can be a choking hazard if they are too large or too small for your dog. Opt for small treats for puppies or small dogs. Large dogs may enjoy large treats, but also make sure to keep an eye out. Even large dogs can choke on treats that are too big.

Labels. Treats labeled as all-natural can be misleading, as the treats may still be highly processed.

If your dog is overweight or has dietary restrictions, youll need to scrutinize the treat labels very carefully.

Types of dog treats to avoid

There are many popular treats out there that arent good for any dogs. Here are some common treats to stay away from.

Rawhides. Rawhides are inexpensive treats with little nutritional value. Some rawhides are treated with toxins like formaldehyde and bleach. They also pose a huge choking risk as they break down into pieces over time. However, some rawhide-like products, such as Purina Pro Plan Dental Chewz, are VOHC-approved and safe for consumption.

Animal bones. Sure, bones are all-natural but they can be covered in pathogens, such as E. Coli and salmonella. Some people may suggest boiling the bones to sanitize them, but this process actually makes the bones brittle and more likely to splinter. This is a choking hazard for dogs, and splinters and sharp pieces can puncture the intestines.

Jerky-type treats. Since 2007, the FDA has received reports of sick pets after consuming jerky pet treats. Learn more about their ongoing investigationTrusted SourceU.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA)Government agency.Go to source and how theyre testing treats to determine why some jerky treats are making pets sick. While these cases are rare, we recommend avoiding jerky-type treats especially with so many other great options on the market.

Treats with additives. We like treats that dont contain lots of additives or artificial colors. Some additives, such as Red#3, used for coloring or preservatives have been linked to cancer in animalsTrusted SourcePubMed CentralArchive of biomedical and life sciences journal literature.Go to source.

Toxic human food. While dogs may love chicken and sweet potatoes as we do, there are many foods that humans eat that are not suitable for dogs. While you treat yourself with chocolate, you cant do the same for your pup, because the chemicals in chocolate can cause seizures and increased heart rates in dogs. Instead, you can give your dog human food treats like some fresh fruits and vegetables (avoid grapes and items with seeds or pits), like watermelon, broccoli, green beans, bananas, or carrots.

Can you make DIY treats at home?

Its easy to make DIY dog treats at home, and you might be surprised to find your mouth watering as the smell of our favorite peanut butter and oatmeal cookies (yes, these really are for your pup!) fills your kitchen. Making treats at home means you can customize the ingredients based on your dogs dietary needs and flavor preferences. Try one of our tried-and-true all-natural pet treat recipes for your best friend.

Top 13 Best Healthy Dog Treats of 2024

There are several purposes that healthy dog treats serve. Not the least of which is for dog training, behavioral work or simply to reward and spoil your dog.

But there are two important things to keep in mind: it's better if they're low-calorie and are wholesome.

Ideally, the best healthy dog treatscontain natural and organic ingredients, too.

As more pet owners are becoming conscious of their pets' health and the important role the diet plays, manufacturers, too, are starting to pay more attention and produce only the best healthy dog treats with organic and natural ingredients, that are low in calories.

Now that we're in 2024, there is a lot more to choose from than there was a year ago.

Best Healthy Dog Treats Reviewed In This Guide

* Click on the best dog treat products for more information and prices, or scroll down below for more details and dog treat reviews.

In fact, some studies have found that now it's better to stick with commercial healthy treats for dogs than homemade treats because they're nutritionally well-optimized for dogs.

Many dog treat reviews out there prioritize the wrong aspect and choose popular (among pet owners) products over the ingredient quality.

But to choose the best dog treats that are healthy for your pet, it's vital to pick those with USDA-certified ingredients.

Through US laws, they inspect products, companies, and their practices with strict standards.

Below, we'll discuss more about how to choose the best dog treats that are healthy.

We have used tips and advice from veterinarians and guidelines from several studies and University websites to come up with ranking factors for the best healthy dog treats, and after analyzing hundreds of them, we managed to find thirteen options that fit the bill.

What Makes the Best Healthy Dog Treats for Your Dog?

There are two main things that veterinarians warn pet owners to watch out for when picking the best healthy dog treats: calories and specific ingredients.

Just like us, dogs love treats, and sometimes we can overfeed them.

Because treats for dogs are so small and are gone within seconds, it's much too easy to give too much, which substantially adds to the dog's overall calorie limit and poses some risks.

Caloric content in dog treats

It's best to keep treats at10% of your dog's daily calories.

This means you'll need to do the math, but only once or twice, as you switch to new dog treats and new dog food.

After that, always keep track of what type of best healthy dog treats you use, how many calories each one of them contains, and how often you've spoiled your Fido.

Choosing low-calorie dog treats is key, and some like Zuke's treats, mentioned below may contain as little as 2-3 calories per mini treat.

For dogs, it's still a reward and a pleasurable experience, no matter how small the treat is.

Don't get confused, though something that may look low-calorie isn't necessarily that. For example, many things that bully sticks because of how they're manufactured are low-calorie treats.

That isn't so, and this has recently been found in a study by Dr. Lisa Freeman, where they concluded that not only do they contain more calories than initially thought, but also some harmful bacteria (Freeman et al. 2013).

You must check the official guaranteed analysis of dog treats that you buy to confirm the calorie content.

Consistency of dog treats

Giving your dog a bone treat might lead to an unexpected trip to your veterinarian, a possible emergency surgery, or even death for your pet. Dr Carmela Stamper, DVM at FDA

Certain types of dog treats must be avoided, or in particular, anything too hard. FDA has already warned dog owners about the dangers of bone treats and other chews that are very hard.

What pet owners forget is that dogs, just like us, can damage their teeth.

This will not only cause future health problems in your dog but cost you in vet bills and extra teeth care and, in rare cases, can even be fatal to dogs.

When looking for the best healthy dog treats, choose soft ones or those specifically designed for the dog's dental health, like Greenies (mentioned below).

Quality of ingredients in dog treats

Last but not least, pay attention to the ingredient quality. The best healthy dog treats will usually have fewer ingredients than your average dog food brand, with the first being some type of animal meat source.

For example, the first best healthy dog treats brand is Rocco & Roxie, and it only contains beef as the main ingredient, with the rest being just safe for dog additives.

Other specialized treats, like Greenies, may be specifically designed for dogs' dental health, so they will contain a lot more.

Always pick dog treats that are made in the USA. Some other countries, such as China, do not have any strict manufacturing guidelines for pet food manufacturers, thus the treats may not be safe for dogs.

In terms of what to avoid, start with any artificial additives and agents that are known to cause health problems in dogs.

For example, food dyes are unnecessary when choosing the best healthy dog treats and so is glycerin (a preservative), because some studies have shown their dangers.

Also, while some dog treat brands still use these, BHT and BHA preservatives may be harmful, according to some experts.

That said, some other preservatives can and should be used to avoid spoilage, but only as long as they have been proven to be safe for dogs.

Vitamin E and Vitamin C are some of the few that are allowed.

The most common artificial antioxidants used in the pet food industry are ethoxyquin, butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT), and butylated hydroxyanisole (BHA). Commonly used natural antioxidants include tocopherols (vitamin E), ascorbic acid (vitamin C), citric acid, and rosemary. DrKatharine Hillestad, DVM [source]

With the above in mind, you should be able to pick your own set of best healthy dog treats.

But if you need a place to start, we've gone through hundreds of treats for dogs available on the market, scanned their ingredients, calorie content, and consistency, and picked out the nine best healthy dog treats that fit the bill.

How I Chose These Ten Best Treats for Dogs

It wasnt easy deciding on ten top-rated dog treats for this article. There are thousands of good treats for dogs on the market.

If you immediately disregard all the store-brand treats and low-quality treats, there are still hundreds of well-made dog treats available.

There were a lot of factors to evaluate when searching for treats.

Initially, I looked at the health benefits. A dog treat is certainly not worthy of being the best unless it offers numerous health benefits and is of exceptional nutritional quality.

Every treat on this list is made with top-quality ingredients that foster a well-balanced diet.

Many of these treats are low in calories as well or are large enough that they can be broken into pieces and served on multiple occasions. A majority of these dog treats are also grain-free or come in a grain-free formula for dogs who suffer from allergies and sensitivities.

These treats all have a smooth texture, whether moist or dry. They dont look or feel rubbery or tough. They appeal to a dogs natural cravings for meat and fresh ingredients.

In fact, many of these treats smell so good that you may want to try one yourself. I wouldnt recommend that unless the package specifically states they are okay for human consumption.

How I Researched and Evaluated Each Brand of Dog Treats

My research was done online through manufacturers' websites, consumer reviews, and articles and blogs from experts in the pet industry.

I started out by researching what qualities canine nutritionists and veterinarians looked for when recommending dog treats.

I discovered which health benefits they look for, what kinds of ingredients they recommend, and overall, what they deem to be healthy dog treats.

Then, I began the search for treats. Once I found a brand that met the guidelines that I was looking for, I started reading about the companies that created them, the ingredients they used, and where the products were made.

This alone cut the list in half. Once I had a solid list of treats I believed to be top-quality, I went to the consumer reviews.

I wanted to know what dogs and their owners thought of these treats.

Specifically, I wanted to know if dogs actually enjoyed them.

Youd be surprised how many top-quality treats are available that are not appealing to most dogs.

Of course, every dog enjoys different flavors, but I only included treats on this list that appealed to the vast majority of the canines that have tried them. I also wanted to see what pet parents thought of the smell and texture of the products.

If dog owners werent satisfied, neither was I.

2024's Best Healthy Dog Treats (all-natural ingredients)

Anybody looking for the best healthy dog treats that are USDA organic certified should start with these first. Our editor, Samantha, has previously reviewed this company and its famous product in our extensive treat review video.

Rocco & Roxie Supply Co. makes their dog jerky stick treats from high-quality beef, chicken, or turkey that they slow-smoke for 15 hours, which develops a flavor and texture that they guarantee all dogs will love.

These best healthy dog treats are made in the USA and do not include artificial preservatives or common fillers, such as soy, wheat, corn, and gluten, that are found in many regular dog treats.

Each bag of these gourmet dog treats contains approximately 25 sticks that are 7 to 8 long, which may be given whole or broken into pieces for smaller breeds.

INGREDIENTSGUARANTEED ANALYSIS

American-raised Beef, Rice Protein, Spices, Salt, Sugar, Garlic Powder, Potassium Sorbate, Natural Wood Smoke Flavoring.

CRUDE PROTEIN 20.0% minCRUDE FAT 4.0% minCRUDE FIBER 2.0% maxMOISTURE 25.0% max20 kcal/stick

As you can see from the reviews above, customers agree that even the pickiest of dogs love any type of organic dog treats but are even more eager to please when offered Rocco & Roxie Supply Co treats over others.

Although the price tag is a deterrent for some, others insist that these best healthy dog treats are worth the cost on account of the value of the product, and these being USDA organic certified treats.

Customers appreciate the fact that these natural dog treats do not leave the typical smell and grease on their hands, and, unlike other treats, the jerky sticks actually smell very pleasant, according to most.

One concern that a small number of customers have is that the ingredient list includes both garlic and sodium nitrate, both of which are said to be toxic for canines.

A spokesperson from the company assures readers that the amount of each is minimal (less than a few ounces of sodium nitrate per one hundred pounds of meat and less than 1% garlic per batch).

He also says there are mixed reports as to whether or not garlic is okay for pets, ensuring that a small amount is not thought to be a threat regardless.

Healthy dog treats reviews from pet owners: I have purchased at least a dozen different treats over the last few years. Not to say my dog is picky but he does have his favorites. These have become his favorite treat. He knows where the treats are located in my kitchen cabinets

The second-best healthy dog treats on the list come from another well-known American company that donates big portions of its proceeds to various charities Newman's Own.

Organics Premium Dog Treatsareheart-shaped, crunchy organic dogtreats that come in a wide variety of flavors and sizes, including Turkey and Sweet Potato, Salmon and Sweet Potato, Peanut Butter, Chicken, and Cheese.

Boasting a blended recipe of organic and natural ingredients, Newmans Own Organics all-natural dog treats are made in Canada and contain no artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives.

These are some of the healthiest dog treats you can find on the market, and they contain no wheat, soy, or corn and are 70% organic.

INGREDIENTSGUARANTEED ANALYSIS

Organic Barley Flour, Peanut Butter, Organic Carrots, Organic Apples, Chicken, Cane Molasses, Chicken Fat (Preserved with Mixed Tocopherols and Lecithin), Rolled Oats, Turmeric, Peanut Flour, Rosemary Extract.

CRUDE PROTEIN 11.0% minCRUDE FAT 8.0% minCRUDE FIBER 6.0% maxMOISTURE 10.0% max22.8 kcal/treat

From the dog treat reviews above, you can see that customers agree that these premium dog treats are the perfect size for dog training (depending on the dog), although some customers choose to break them into two (pre-perforated) pieces when used as such.

Dogs with digestive problems seem to eat these gourmet dog treats with no issue, which makes them a great option for canines with sensitive tummies.

As with many products, price comparisons confirm that pet owners can find this fourth-best healthy dog treats for a better price on Amazon and a few other online retailers than in a lot of brick-and-mortar pet stores.

As with many other pet-related products, it's easy to spot reviews where dog owners say that their dogs would not eat these healthy pet treats, but that group seems to be very small for these specific pet treats.

Other than that, we could not find any other negative feedback.

Healthy dog treats reviews from pet owners: I can whole-heartedly recommend these treats! Both our dogs love them, and although they can't voice it I'm sure they are thankful for healthy sustenance! Though we personally don't use it, I would highly recommend checking out

3

Buddy Biscuits Treats are a little more expensive than other treats on the market. If they dont fit into your budget, there are other treats that you can use, which are also excellent choices for your dogs health and well-being.

Like people, every dog has their own taste preferences, so you may need to try two or three of these best treats for dogs before you find one that your Fido enjoys.

If a balanced treat is a concern for your pet, Buddy Biscuit makes the best dog treats that can be used to help keep the dog healthy in between regular vet visits.

These pet treats come in 2 different sizes depending on the size of your dog or how many dogs you may have.

They also come in a grain-free variety as well.

You can also choose from chicken, bacon & cheese, and peanut butter.

Your dog's diet and calorie intake are extremely important for your pets overall health and well-being.

Buddy Biscuits are good treats for keeping your pet healthy. They are available in many veterinary offices, and they are commonly recommended by vets as a great and easy way to care for your dogs overall health.

These treats for dogs are also low in fat and nutritionally complete for dogs of all ages.

This is something you should always look for on treat packages that claim to be good for canine health.

Buddy Biscuits are also available in almost every pet store, so they are much easier to find than the Rocco & Roxie Jerky Treats.

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The fourth one on the list of best healthy dog treats is from Zuke's, yet another famous company that has been striving to keep its customers very satisfied so far. Variety is key when it comes to Zukes Training Treats.

These dog treats are available in chicken, duck, peanut butter, pork, salmon, wild rabbit, seafood, exotic, and a variety pack and in multiple-size bags of each.

At only 3.5 calories per treat, these tiny, low-calorie healthy treats for dogs are made with real meat, which is great when used for your dog training purposes.

Zuke's moist nugget treats are made in the USA, and the company prides itself on sticking to its all-natural dog treats label: they use no wheat, corn, or soy but only natural whole food ingredients.

INGREDIENTSGUARANTEED ANALYSIS

Chicken, Ground Rice, Ground Barely, Malted Barley, Vegetable Glycerin, Tapioca, Cherries, Natural Flavor, Gelatin, Sunflower Oil, Salt, Lecithin, Phosphoric Acid, Turmeric, Sorbic Acid (Preservative), Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C), Vitamin E Supplement, Zinc Proteinate, Citric Acid (Preservative), Mixed Tocopherols (Preservative), Rosemary Extract.

CRUDE PROTEIN 10.0% minCRUDE FAT 7.0% minCRUDE FIBER 2.0% maxMOISTURE 30.0% max2.3 kcal/treat, 3,251 kcal/kg

From the link above, you can read that many customers say that these gourmet dog treats work perfectly when used to train their dogs, and, because of the small size, they are easy to transport when going on walks or to the dog park.

These grain-free dog treats are said to last a long time, making the small price tag more than reasonable.

Many customers point out that, when not sealed correctly, Zuke's natural dog treats will dry out and lose their moist texture; therefore, always be sure to seal the bag tightly!

Dog owners considering these third-best healthy dog treats must know that Zukes company has recently been acquired by the conglomerate Nestle Purina, which raises concern for some pet owners.

However, Zuke's ensures their customers and says they still work independently and will stay true to their history of all-natural dog treats and high levels of customer satisfaction by continuing to create the exact same products many dog owners are used to.

Healthy dog treats reviews from pet owners: My wife and I purchased these treats one day when we had run out of our normal treats. They are small, our dogs love them, and are much better quality than many commonly available store brands. Still, I had some questions about the ingredients

The fifth option as the best healthy dog treats on this list, Plato's treats deserve to take either one of these spots above. These low-calorie, organic dog treats are a very healthy option for dog owners looking to train their pets.

Plato Pet Treats are made in the USA, and each individual pet treat undergoes a thorough inspection for quality and freshness before being packaged and shipped.

These healthy treats for dogs are made of over 90% chicken, include vitamins, antioxidants, and all-natural ingredients, and contain no artificial preservatives, flavors, or genetically modified organisms.

These USDA organic dog treats are available in both 6-ounce and 16-ounce packages.

INGREDIENTSGUARANTEED ANALYSIS

Organic Chicken, Organic Brown Rice, Salt, Zinc Propionate, Mixed Tocopherols (Preservative), Citric Acid, Rosemary Extract, Vitamin E Supplement, L-Ascorbyl-2Phosphate (a Source of Vitamin C).

CRUDE PROTEIN 30.0% minCRUDE FAT 30.0% minCRUDE FIBER 1.0% maxMOISTURE 15.0% maxZINC 100 mg/kg minVITAMIN E 100 IU/kg minASCORBIC ACID 50 mg/kg min29.06 kcal/treat

As noted in the reviews you can find using the above link, the majority of customers love the minimal and highly regulated ingredient list of these gourmet dog treats, which ensures their pet is getting one of the highest quality treats available.

Dog owners who have pets with an intolerance to gluten or have picky palettes, in general, have had the most success with using this fifth-best healthy dog treat as opposed to most other products on the market.

Although the price is relatively affordable and seems acceptable to most pet parents, some customers recommend breaking every doggy treat into two pieces to get even more value per bag.

A few customers have expressed their concerns about their dog refusing to eat these all-natural dog treats, and some canines also had stomach problems after having the treatment, including vomiting or gas.

However, these cases seem to be very rare.

Other customers also mentioned that the crumbly texture of these healthy dog treats can make a mess and that their dogs would rather play with these pet treats instead of actually eating them.

Healthy dog treats reviews from pet owners: I am always looking for healthy treats for my Wheaten and the fewer ingredients the better. I thought I found the best product when I found Waggin Train Chicken Jerky at Costco. Then I read the reviews on Amazon and, well, it scared the crap

Greenies as our sixth one of the best healthy dog treats have also been rated in second place by our editors as the overall best treats for dogs. Greenies Dental Dog Treats and Dog Chewsare the #1 choice by veterinarians for dental chews for dogs as well as one of the healthiest dog treats available for purchase today.

It's important to mention that these are not all-natural dog treats and are made for a specific reason dogs' dental issues. Greenies are generally safe and easy for dogs to digest and provide a simple, low-fat way for dog parents to maintain dental health in their companion(s).

These are also often vet-recommended dog treats.

Greenies healthy treats for dogs relieve pet owners from having to search for homemade dog treat recipes due to their rigorous testing and quality control.

These doggy chews serve as a way to promote healthier teeth and gums, fight tartar, plaque, and bad breath, and add vitamins and minerals to a dogs daily diet.

These sixth-best healthy dog treats are available in jumbo, large, regular, petite, and tiny styles and in five different size packages (6, 12, 18, 27, and 36 ounces).

INGREDIENTSGUARANTEED ANALYSIS

Wheat Flour, Wheat Gluten, Glycerin, Gelatin, Oat Fiber, Water, Lecithin, Natural Poultry Flavor, Minerals (Dicalcium Phosphate, Potassium Chloride, Calcium Carbonate, Magnesium Amino Acid Chelate, Zinc Amino Acid Chelate, Iron Amino Acid Chelate, Copper Amino Acid Chelate, Manganese Amino Acid Chelate, Selenium, Potassium Iodide), Dried Apple Pomace, Choline Chloride, Fruit Juice Color, Vitamins ( Dl-Alpha Tocopherol Acetate [Source Of Vitamin E], Vitamin B12 Supplement, D-Calcium Pantothenate [Vitamin B5], Niacin Supplement, Vitamin A Supplement, Riboflavin Supplement [Vitamin B2], Vitamin D3 Supplement, Biotin, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride [Vitamin B6], Thiamine Mononitrate [Vitamin B1], Folic Acid), Turmeric Color.

CRUDE PROTEIN 30.0% minCRUDE FAT 5.5% minCRUDE FAT 7.0% maxCRUDE FIBER 6.0% maxMOISTURE 15.0% maxCALCIUM 0.5% minPHOSPHORUS 0.4% minNIACIN 14 mg/kg min3,119 kcal/kg, 26 kcal/treat

As you can see from the reviews above, most dog owners agree that canines love these breath-freshening, all-natural dog treats, and the resulting clean teeth and overall dental health keep them coming back for more.

Many pet parents feel the price (which is considerably cheaper on Amazon than anywhere else) is easily justified by the benefits of using the product on a daily basis.

If you search online, you can also find veterinarians commenting on the great health of the teeth and gums of dogs who are regularly given this product.

As with any other dog treat, pet owners should be sure to supervise their dog while he or she is chewing on these low-calorie dog treats to ensure they are not swallowed whole.

Be aware that while most of the customers are very happy with these healthy dog treats by themselves, there's a lot of recorded proof of poor batches of these dog treats being sent out with white worms infesting the bag, with the last review coming from May 2015.

We suggest calling the manufacturer first and always checking the FULL package before using these treats with your dog.

Healthy dog treats reviews from pet owners: I have been feeding our dogs Greenie bones since they first came out and we have NEVER had a problem. I have German Shepards, Dobermans and medium sized hound dogs. They all love their GB's and I find that because our Dobie

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If your dog is on a raw food diet, try Natural Rapport Beef Bites. They are a drastic contrast from other treats on this list. They are made with 100% USDA-inspected meat that has been freeze-dried, so they wont spoil, and they dont require refrigeration.

Because they are made with 100% meat, there are no fillers, artificial flavors, or artificial dyes.

These snacks from Natural Rapport are grain and gluten-free, and they are hormone and antibiotic-free as well.

Pet parents are pleased with the appeal of these treats. Since they are made strictly with meat, dogs go crazy for them!

They smell delicious, and they evoke a dogs natural desire for meat.

I like the fact that these treats are freeze-dried, so they do not require the use of any type of preservatives, and they dont need to be refrigerated.

We recently switched our dogs to a raw food diet, and Im running out of room in the refrigerator.

Its nice that I can feed my dog a raw food treat without having to store it in the refrigerator or freezer.

These treats are the most expensive on the list $35 for an 8-ounce bag but each bag contains two pounds of raw meat. According to the bag, thats approximately 240 treats.

Thats more than double the number of treats youll find in most dog treat packages.

Unless your dog is sensitive to certain meats, these Natural Rapport Beef Bites are about as healthy as you can get.

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The eight best healthy dog treats choice is another USDA-certified option on this list. You can order these dog treats in three flavors cheddar, peanut butter, and pumpkin. And what better food for dogs is there than one made with human-grade ingredients?

No corn, wheat, artificial flavors, preservatives, dairy, or animal by-products went into the preparation of these dog treats from Wet Noses.

Each pack contains 14 ounces of crunchy treats.

The pumpkin variant smells of cinnamon and ginger and is helpful for easily agitated stomachs. It contains no eggs or dairy that commonly trigger allergies and gastrointestinal problems in dogs. Dog owners who have spent fortunes on their dogs allergies are understandably wary of pet food. Thus, its a great relief for them to find a treat thats both well-liked by their dog and works well with their dogs systems.

INGREDIENTSGUARANTEED ANALYSIS

Organic Rye Flour,Organic Canola Oil,Organic Pumpkin Puree, Organic cane molasses, Organic Peanut Butter,Organic Cinnamon, Organic Ginger

Crude Protein 7%(min);Crude Fat 6%(min);Crude Fiber 5%(max);Moisture 9 %(max)18kcal/treat

Customers say that their dogs love Wet Noses Organic Dog Treats. It also makes a lot of difference that they feel safe with this organic product. Since this product is made in the US and its organic, pets and pet owners alike are happy.

Dogs of various breeds love this biscuit, so it is a handy one to bring during training. There have been no reports of allergies or adverse reactions.

There were very few dogs, however, that didnt like the treat and preferred other brands.

Overall, this is one of the best healthy treats for dogs available in pet supply and online stores now that's also USDA certified.

Healthy dog treats reviews from pet owners: I tried these out while I was visiting my daughter in Wisconsin. My dog has food allergies and this is the first treat that she has been able to eat in addition to her $94 a bag prescription dog food. This organic treat is her favorite out of all treats she has tried and she can have these as long as they work!

Plato has produced another meat-based treat that is all-organic and all-natural. This one is made from duck meat, brown rice, natural preservatives, and citric acid. It is fortified with vitamins E and C as well.

Duck meat is a great protein alternative for dogs that react to other meats, such as chicken.

This food product contains 30% crude protein, fats, fiber, iron, and zinc.

These best healthy treats for dogs are great for snacks, rewards, and training bait. They are definitely one of the best organic dog treats out there, too.

Most customers who bought this product had dogs that couldnt take chicken or other meat products without itching and losing hair.

This non-GMO, organic, and duck-based treat is also cheaper than many of the best healthy treats for dogs.

INGREDIENTSGUARANTEED ANALYSIS

Duck, Brown Rice, Salt, Zinc Propionate, Vitamin E Supplement, L-Ascorbyl-2Phosphate ( a Source of Vitamin C), Mixed Tocopherols (Preservatives), Rosemary Extract, Citric Acid.

CRUDE PROTEIN 30.0% minCRUDE FAT 25.0% minCRUDE FIBER 0.05% maxMOISTURE 15.0% maxIRON 220mg/kg minZINC 100mg/kg minVITAMIN E 100IU/kg minASCORBIC ACID 50mg/kg min3.49 kcal/g, 29.09 kcal/treat

Dog allergies and other disorders brought about by the wrong food result to high vet costs, so buyers of Plato Original Duck Dog Treatswere generally very grateful to find these on the market.

Compared to fish treats, this variant does not have any smell, so its great for keeping inside the pocket when its being given as a surprise reward or used as a training treat.

It may not be a good idea to stock up on several bags, as the main issue with this tenth-best healthy dog treat choice is that a few pet owners noticed some molds formed in the older bags.

They may also become hard and dry the longer they are stocked, instead of soft and chewy like granola.

Aside from that, pets just love these treats, and owners feel assured that theyre nutritious and safe for their dogs.

Healthy dog treats reviews from pet owners: My dog underwent allergy testing a month ago to determine why he's was so itchy and losing hair. He's now having allergy shots and the vet recommended we limit his diet to duck.

Nothing could possibly be simpler, or meatier, than this treat from Emmy's Best. It's the last but not least option on our list of best healthy dog treats. These treats are made of only one ingredient USDA-certified, Grade A chicken breasts.

These thin strips had been dehydrated, preserved naturally, and packed with the natural goodness of pure meat for dogs to relish.

They make for a great incentive for dogs undergoing training or for supplementing their diet.

This is a product of the USA and is guaranteed free of additives or preservatives.

One bag contains 8 ounces of thin chicken strips, with a money-back guarantee if the pets dont love it.

Customers liked this bacon-like treat for their dogs.

They describe the treat as crunchy, meaty strips that they often break in half or smaller depending on the dogs size and appetite.

INGREDIENTSGUARANTEED ANALYSIS

100% USDA Grade A Chicken Breast.

CRUDE PROTEIN 68.0% (min)CRUDE FAT 2.0% (min)CRUDE FIBER 2.0% (max)MOISTURE 25.0% (max)

Since #1 Premium Chicken Jerky Dog Treats are a one-ingredient product, theyre much preferred by owners of picky dogs and dogs that react to a lot of things.

This frees owners from having to worry about identifying ingredients that may cause adverse reactions in their pets.

Some buyers who expected the meat to be jerky were quite disappointed to find the strips to be crunchy. After undergoing shipping and handling, the strips are often broken into chips, and pet owners dont like this very much.

An improvement in this area will definitely earn the nod of most buyers. Generally, customers liked the idea of a treat made of a single ingredient that has been certified safe by regulating agencies.

Healthy dog treats reviews from pet owners: Our pup is very picky, but loves this chicken jerky. He's the first dog we've ever owned that won't eat anything you give him. He only likes all-natural food, which lucky for him is all we're going to give him, so naturally he loves this chicken jerky

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As more information is released about the dangerous additives in pet foods and treats, more and more pet owners are understandably looking for natural products and natural dog treats.

Wellness Wellbites treats are a great choice and one of the healthier dog treats on the market.

These are soft and chewy treats, which are very appealing to dogs of any age or size, but also specifically to senior dogs or dogs with oral health issues.

I love that these dog treats are made with real fruits and veggies that you can actually see in each treat.

You can see real chunks of carrots, sweet potatoes, blueberries, apples, and other fruits and vegetables in each little square treat.

Wellness WellBites only have all-natural preservatives and do not include any wheat, corn, soy, or artificial flavors or colors.

When you feel how malleable and soft these treats for dogs are, youll be impressed. They dont snap or crumble.

You can easily tear these moist treats into pieces if you want to split them in half.

It was difficult to find any negative consumer remarks about these treats.

Dogs seem to love them, and pet parents are impressed with the healthy, natural, whole-food ingredients used to make them.

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Another alternative that is great for all-around health is Natural Balance L.I.T. Limited Ingredient Dog Treats. When they say limited ingredients, they mean it.

The Potato and Duck formula is made with: dried potatoes, duck, potato protein, cane molasses, canola oil, natural flavor, natural mixed tocopherols (a natural preservative), natural hickory smoke flavor, citric acid, and rosemary extract.

Every formula of these treats contains a single source of animal protein and limited carbohydrate sources.

Natural Balance treats were actually developed by a team of veterinarians and animal nutritionists to be beneficial to dogs of all ages, from puppies through adults.

These treats contain 30 calories each, which certainly isnt terrible, but you shouldnt be giving your dog multiple treats each day.

Natural Balance L.I.T. Limited Ingredient Dog Treats are grain-free, so theyd be a great choice for dogs suffering from allergies or digestion sensitivities.

If your dog prefers a crunchy treat, these are a great option as all of the other recommended dog treats are soft and moist.

The company does offer a satisfaction guarantee, so if you have a picky eater like we do, you wont be out of the money if your pet doesnt eat them.

Best Healthy Dog Treats Buying Guide

Before you make a decision on which type of dog treats to buy for your Fido, you should realize that youre going to get what you pay for.

You can go to a big box store and spend $2 for a bag of dog treats, but theyll be full of artificial ingredients, fillers, and other harmful additives that arent good for your dog.

Cheap treats usually provide your dog with little, if any, health benefits, and they are typically high in calories as well.

Have you ever heard the term empty calories? Thats what youre giving your dog if you feed him cheap dog treats.

You will be meeting his daily calorie requirement, but the calories that youre providing him with are empty.

Your dog wont get the energy and nutrients he needs from cheap dog treats.

If youre not already reading the label of every pet food item you buy, you should be!

You need to be aware of the quality of the products that youre feeding to your dog, and price should not be a factor, at least not a large one.

The same ingredients that are attributed to quality in human food denote quality in pet food as well.

Top-quality ingredients are pure, fresh, and as minimally processed as possible. Whole dog food ingredients are always better than by-products or processed foods.

Nutrient-rich foods like whole fruits and vegetables are always better than fillers and additives, and all-natural and organic dog products are much better than those full of artificial colors and preservatives.

Being aware of where your dogs treats are made is helpful, but being aware of where they are sourced is what is truly important. Just because a package says that the treats are made in the U.S. or Canada does not mean that is where the ingredients come from.

You should pay careful attention to where the ingredients are sourced, especially if they are from China.

There have been major issues and many canine deaths and illnesses recently that were all linked to dog food and treats that were made with ingredients from China.

13 Best Healthy Dog Treats: Wrapping It Up

Remember that just because a product is made in the United States doesnt mean the ingredients were sourced there.

Something could be made in the U.S., and the ingredients could be coming from China.

Be aware of the products that you are buying and feeding to your pet. Proper nutrition contributes to every aspect of your dogs health and well-being.

If you feed him poor-quality food, he is going to suffer from poor-quality health.

No matter what sensitivities and allergies your dog may have, there is a healthy and nutritious dog treat on the market that will satisfy his needs.

Price shouldnt be the determining factor in which dog treats you buy.

Youre going to get what you pay for, and if you want top-quality ingredients in your dog's treats that will foster their health, youre going to have to pay for them.

If you cut the treats into smaller pieces and dont feed your dog multiple treats at a time, youll be able to stretch a bag for months, and your investment in your dogs health will surely pay off.

READ NEXT:15 Top Dog Food Brands Dry Kibble

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