what are good natural dog treats
The 12 best organic dog treats of 2023, approved by vets
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Organic food isn't just for people. In recent years, pet food companies have been rolling out organic grub, including some of the best organic dog treats. That may be in response to consumer demand, especially as people become more environmentally conscious, something a report from Future Markets Insights notes.
But there's something more that may be fueling interest in organic treats for dogs. According to Dr. Nancy Welborn, associate professor and service chief of community practice at the Louisiana State University School of Veterinary Medicine, consumers who assume that organic food is safer or more nutritious may seek out these treats.
The question is, though, do these treats, which are often pricier, have a nutritional edge over their conventional counterparts? It's possible. "Organic foods have been shown to have small increases in nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants when compared with their non-organic counterparts," says Dr. Kasey Aona, medical director and owner of GoodVets in Columbus, Ohio. "That said, though, there haven't been any studies to prove the nutritional benefits of feeding organic treats over non-organic ones in dogs."
Although there are fewer organic than conventional dog treats, the options are growing. To help you narrow down the best organic dog treats, we looked at dozens of brands and flavors and made our picks based on the criteria veterinarians shared.
12 natural treats for dogs you can feed from your kitchen
Looking for some ideas on natural treats for dogs that are healthy, tasty, and most likely already in your cupboard or fridge? Then youve come to the right place!
Even though youre probably already spoiling your canine companion by serving them up the best dog food every day, sometimes its nice to be able to offer them some additional treats and snacks to add a bit of variety into their diet.
A lot of pet parents wonder what human foods dogs can eat, so weve compiled a handy list for you of 12 safe options that are also nutrient-dense and taste great - because a food thats nutritious but not delicious isnt worth eating in our book!
While there are a few items below that might not be staples in your kitchen, most are budget-friendly and all of them are readily available, so you wont have to hunt high and low to find them.
Although many popular dog treats lining the supermarket shelves can be good in a pinch and helpful when training, many of them are void of nutrients and act as empty calories.
However, you should keep in mind that many treats we consider as 'healthy' can actually contain hidden sugars for a dog and are best served only in moderation, as part of a balanced doggy diet.
1. Blueberries
They may be small but the humble blueberry packs a powerful nutritional punch that makes it a superfood for both humans and dogs. Loaded with antioxidants that will help fight free radicals and slow down the aging process in your pups body, blueberries are also great at supporting urinary tract health, reducing the risk of some cancers, and can help protect brain cells.
You can mix blueberries into your dogs regular meals, feed them on their own as a snack, and if you freeze them, they make a great cooling treat on hot summer days. Youll also find blueberries in the ingredient list of some of these 6 easy dog smoothies your pooch will love - all of which are a yummy way of sneaking some extra fruit and vegetables into your doggys daily diet.
2. Anchovies and sardines
Ok, we wont lie, these little guys arent going to leave your dogs breath smelling the sweetest but considering all the health benefits they offer, we reckon theyre worth it. Packed full of Omega-3 fatty acids, both anchovies and sardines can help keep your dogs coat looking glossy, their skin nourished, and their heart, brain, and joints in peak condition. Theyre also high in calcium, zinc, and vitamins B12, D, E, and K.
When selecting anchovies and sardines for your pup, go for ones that are packed in water rather than oil and make sure theres no added salt. You can serve them as a snack or as a topper over your dogs wet or dry food. Youll want to keep the portions controlled though as one anchovy has eight calories - stick to two to three per day for small dogs and no more than five for larger breeds. For sardines, smaller dogs can have up to half a tin a week and large breeds can have one tin.
3. Bone broth
The hip kid on the block these past few years, bone broth is equally as good for doggy consumption as it is for humans. A quick warning though, bone broth is a bit of a labor of love as it requires at least 24 hours of simmering animal bones and connective tissue to get the full nutritional benefits, but if you dont mind tending to it, your canine companions body will thank you big time.
High in protein and nutrient-dense, bone broth is full of anti-inflammatory amino acids and collagen to help support gut health. Its also great if your dog suffers from arthritis as it contains high amounts of glucosamine and chondroitin to help their joints and can slow the progression of this painful condition. We recommend you start with a few tablespoons and then gradually increase the dosage. Its great poured over wet or dry food to create a nice soup.
4. Carrots
A kitchen staple in most homes, carrots are loaded with beta-carotene which is great for eye, skin, and coat health, and for helping keep the immune system strong. Carrots are packed full of fiber too, excellent for keeping your pooch regular!
Raw carrots make a delicious and healthy snack and because theyre crunchy, they give your dogs jaw a good workout and help keep those teeth and gums in tip-top shape. Just make sure you cut raw carrots into appropriately sized pieces depending on whether you have a small or large dog. You also can steam or boil them and then puree and mix in with wet food for an extra dose of nutrition.
5. Chia seeds
Popular with wellness warriors the world over, the tiny but might chia seed is a nutritional powerhouse that has it all - protein, fiber, antioxidants, vitamins, minerals, and Omega-3 fatty acids. Getting to work on everything from skin and coat health to supporting the immune and digestive systems, chia seeds also help regulate blood sugar and as they move through the gut they can absorb 10-12 times their weight in water, expanding to leave your pup feeling fuller for longer.
If you want to mix chia seeds into your dogs dry food, youll want to soak them for around 90 minutes first, but with wet food, you can mix the dry seeds straight in as theres plenty of moisture for them to absorb. Chia seeds are full of fiber and too much of anything isnt a good thing, so stick to teaspoon for every 10 pounds of your dogs body weight - so a 20lb dog could have a teaspoon a day and a 40lb dog can have 1 teaspoon.
6. Eggs
Theres plenty to love about the incredible egg which comes rammed full of a host of goodness your dog will benefit from. High in protein, amino acids, fatty acids, and vitamins, eggs are solid all-round performers on the nutrition front. Theyre easy to digest too, so theyre ideal for dogs with delicate digestive systems or those recovering from illness.
You can serve eggs up to your pup in lots of different ways, including scrambled and hard-boiled. One medium-sized egg has about 75 calories, so youll want to factor this into your dogs daily calorie count.
7. Pumpkin
The creamy texture and mild flavor of pumpkin make it a hit with most dogs and like carrots, this vegetable is a great source of beta-carotene, large amounts of soluble fiber, and plenty of antioxidants and vitamins. It works wonders at relieving both diarrhea and constipation and will add a nice shine to your pups coat.
You can mix a tablespoon or two of cooked pumpkin in with your dogs food and the seeds make a great snack if you roast them in a little bit of olive oil - just keep the portion sizes under control with the seeds and stick to a few at a time. If you decide to buy canned pumpkin rather than roasting your own, steer clear of pumpkin pie filling, which has a ton of sugar and spices that arent good for your dog.
8. Cooked sweet potato
Like pumpkin, sweet potatoes tend to go down a treat with dogs and this cooked vegetable keeps well in the refrigerator, so you can roast up a nice big batch at the weekend and itll easily see you through the week. Sweet potatoes are an excellent source of dietary fiber to keep the digestive system healthy and because theyre a whole food, theyre less likely to trigger an allergic reaction, making them safe for most dogs. Just make sure you roast them without seasoning and serve them with the skin off.
9. Watermelon
Juicy and delicious, watermelon makes the perfect cooling summer snack. Overflowing with the antioxidant lycopene, which gives this fruit its pink hue and may help prevent cancer, watermelon is a great source of fluid to help flush the kidneys and keep the urinary tract healthy. Plus it has fiber for digestive health and is vitamin and mineral-rich.
Just be mindful that dogs cant eat the rind or seeds of watermelon, so youll want to remove all of these before you serve this tasty treat up to your pooch.
10. Green beans
Chopped, steamed, raw, or canned, it doesnt matter which way you serve up a green bean, as long as its been prepared naturally, its good for your dog. Theyre full of protein, iron, calcium, and vitamins B6, A, C, and K and theyre low in calories too so theyre great for overweight dogs as they can help them lose weight while still giving them a feeling of fullness.
Add to your dogs food for a tasty topper, give them as a standalone snack, or whip up a batch of your own DIY dehydrated dog treats using a mixture of beans and sweet potato - your pup will love the crispy texture.
11. Bananas
Creamy and filling, bananas are a great low-cholesterol sweet treat that have good amounts of potassium, vitamin C, and copper, which can aid digestion, heart health and provide a vital boost of energy.
You can serve sliced banana on its own or for a really indulgent occasional snack, spread with a little sugar-free peanut butter. Just remember that bananas are a calorie-dense fruit that also contains a fairly high amount of natural sugar, so moderation is key here.
12. Strawberries
A crowd-pleaser with humans and canines alike, the sweet and juicy strawberry makes for a delicious dessert-like treat. Theres plenty of fiber and lots of vitamin C to give your dogs immune system a good boost. Strawberries also act as a natural tooth whitener thanks to a compound called malic acid, so its a great choice if youre looking to polish up your pups pearlers.
Always give fresh strawberries and never canned fruit as these are usually soaked in syrup and sugar. Youll also want to start with small amounts just to make sure this fruit doesnt upset your dogs digestive system and as with all fruits, stick to small portions as strawberries contain natural sugars.
Best Dog Treats
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What are the Best Dog Treats on the Market?
All dogs deserve (and love) treats.
Theyre a wonderful way to reward good behavior and extremely helpful when it comes to training.
This is why we want to share The Dog Food Advisors favorite dog treats. Each month well be adding a selection we think your dog will love.
Are Dog Treats Healthy?
Now, we dont look at dog treats in the same way we look at dog food. There are several reasons why.
For one, dog treats arent regulated in the same way dog food is, so we cant analyze them against official guidelines.
Also, treats are not dog food theyre additional to and not part of a complete diet.
And finally, treats are treats! Sometimes you treat kids with carrots, sometimes with candy. Its the same with dogs. Some treats can be a little naughty in small doses.
That said, weve done our best to select treats that dont include any nasties.
We sincerely hope your pooch will be rolling over (and sitting and begging and shaking hands) with joy when they taste them.
Natural treats made with 100% humanely-raised bison lung, air-dried for extra flavor with no added preservatives or flavors.
West Paw - Air-Dried Bison Dog Treats
Stewart Healthy Gut dog treats are made with probiotics to support digestion and freeze-dried to retain nutrients. This chicken and vegetable recipe is also high in protein.
Stewart - Healthy Gut Dog Treats With Probiotics
Single ingredient chews which are a healthy alternative to rawhide, packed with protein and flavor, highly digestible, and perfect for dogs who love to chew.
Barkworthies - Belly Bark Green Tripe
100% natural whole fish, sustainably caught and made with zero additives. These treats are also full of omega-3 which helps to promote a healthy skin and coat.
Plato Pet Treats - Wild Caught Baltic Sprat
Formulated to give your dog a protein boost with 100% natural meat, these single-ingredient treats are made from USA-sourced, real duck. They contain zero grain, gluten, poultry by-products or fillers.
Merrick - Real duck sausage cuts
To create these crispy, nutritious skins, Alaskan cod is lightly cooked and dehydrated at low temperatures to retain its flavor. They're low in carbs, high in protein, and made without corn, wheat, or soy.
Open Farm - Dehydrated cod skins
If your dog suffers from a sensitive stomach, this plant based jerky could be a good option. It's easy to digest and has limited, nutritious ingredients such as blueberries and sweet potato.
CLIF PET - Plant based jerky
The three main ingredients in this recipe are beef, liver, and pumpkin, so these treats are high in protein and fiber. Plus, the freeze-drying process helps to lock in nutrients and taste.
Acana - Freeze-dried dog treats
These treats have a unique grilled bison flavor to keep your dog interested and are bite-sized which makes them ideal for training time.
Fruitables - Skinny minis
Wild salmon is the number one ingredient of these treats, which are freeze-dried to retain nutrients and flavor. They're also rich in protein and omega-3 fatty acids.
Stewart - Wild salmon freeze-dried dog treats
These low calorie, natural treats from Jinx are ideal for fussy eaters. The number one ingredient, slow-smoked chicken, is high in protein, while the sweet potato is a great source of fiber.
Jinx - Chicken and sweet potato tenders
Made from 100% pork skins, with minimal processing and artificial ingredients, Pawstruck pork chews are a safer alternative to rawhide.
Pawstruck - Pork skin twists
Your puppy will be lovin these innovative teething rings, which double as a treat and dental chew. They contain zero rawhide or grain, are highly digestible, and can help to satisfy your pups need to chew.
Good Lovin' - Pumpkin-flavored teething rings
Pure Bites contain a single ingredient 100% Pure USA Sourced & Made Beef Liver. Theyre high in protein and are freeze-dried raw to lock in their meaty flavor, texture, and nutrients.
Pure Bites - Freeze-dried beef liver
Slow baked with real beef bone broth, these treats are high in protein and full of flavor. Theres nothing artificial in the recipe just pumpkin and parsley for added vitamins, and sweet potatoes for extra fiber.
The Honest Kitchen - Bone broth bites
Simply 100% turkey with no added ingredients, fillers, or flavors. Plus, Sojos freeze drying process ensures that all vitamins, minerals, and enzymes found within raw meat are retained.
Sojos Dog Treats
Simply Turkey
Beary tasty treats which are under 3 calories per treat and ideal for training. The grain-free recipe contains real chicken for protein plus pumpkin and apples which are high in antioxidants.
Charlee Bear
Grain-free Crunch (Chicken, pumpkin & apple flavor)
These human-grade cheesy puffs were formulated to support muscle development, containing a whopping 75% protein. Theyre still under one calorie per treat though, so theyre also ideal for pups on a low fat diet.
Whats not to love about these nutritious treats? Not only are they free of nasties and high in protein, but they also contain prebiotics, vitamins, minerals, and L-Carnitine which helps cognitive function.
Annamaet
Grain-Free Aqualuk Cold Water Formula Dog Treats
A protein-rich treat made with real salmon, to help keep your dogs coat healthy, and pumpkin which is a natural source of antioxidants.
Jinx
Salmon and pumpkin jerky
Just sweet potato slices. No artificial nasties, minimal processing, and one ingredient. These are a great option for dogs with sensitivities or a meat-free diet.
Ollie
Just Sweet Potato Slices
30% off selected treats and chews with code DFATREATYour dog will love getting their chops around these all-natural, grain-free treats with one single ingredient slow roasted beef lung. Theyre high in protein, low in fat, and contain zero rawhide or artificial preservatives.
30% off selected treats and chews with code DFATREATThese treats are a great all-rounder supporting digestion, a healthy coat, dental health, and mobility. The all-natural recipe is high in protein and includes glucosamine and chondroitin which can help ease joint pain.
Pawstruck
Collagen Sticks
Theres nothing ruff or artificial about these treats, just real fruit wrapped in chicken breast filet which packs a sweet, meaty flavor. The apples, kiwi, and bananas provide fiber, antioxidants, and essential vitamins while the chicken is high in protein and low in fat.
Ruffin It Healthfuls
Chicken & Fruit Wraps
Theres only 4 natural ingredients in this jerky which are slow-cooked for extra flavor, and of course, its high in protein. The chicken comes from cage-free, family farms in the USA and has been inspected by the USDA.
30% off w/code DFATREATThese low-fat, natural treats are high in protein and have a delicious smoky flavor. Theyre also highly digestible and support joint health.
Redbarn
Bully Slims Dog Treats
If your dog is fed up with dry snacks, try this unique, frozen yogurt ice cream. Its enriched with collagen and turmeric to promote healthy hips and joints, plus its all-natural and has a delicious pineapple and coconut flavor.
Not only will you be caring for your dog, youll also be helping dogs in animal shelters with each purchase from Rileys Organic. The recipe, and ethos, of these treats will leave you feeling guilt-free while your pooch tucks into a natural and healthy snack.
Rileys Organic
Peanut Butter & Molasses Recipe
The real smoked salmon in these treats provides omega-3 fatty acids for your pups skin and coat health, while the sweet potato is a great source of fiber. Just two natural, nutritious ingredients thats it.
These treats are a real catch. The number one ingredient is high-quality trout which is packed with protein and nutrients. The limited ingredient recipe also includes pumpkin to support healthy digestion.
Zignature
Trout Formula Ziggy Bars
Snooks has kept things simple with these treats. Sweet potato is the only ingredient in this natural and hypoallergenic recipe. Plus, everything is made in the USA.
Snooks
Sweet Potato Biscuits
These little balls of USDA organic, gluten-free goodness are crafted to support your dogs digestion and skin. The superfood ingredients include coconut, oats, dates, brown rice syrup, and peanut butter.
Lord Jameson
Coco Crush Dog Treats
Theres nothing fishy about these dog treats apart from their taste of course. Ocean Chews have just one ingredient which makes for a high-protein, omega-dense snack that your pooch will love.
The Honest Kitchen Ocean Chews
Crispy Cod Fish Skins
High protein, single-ingredient treats made with 100% free-range chicken breast. This jerky is ideal for dogs who love to chew and pups with sensitivities, as the recipe is free of artificial nasties and gluten, soy, or dairy.
Spice up your dogs breakfast with these sausage, egg, and cheese treats. Theyre baked with real pork to get that satisfying crunch, so your dog wont be able to resist.
American Journey
Grain-Free Oven Baked Dog Treats
These wholesome treats are made with real duck and premium ingredients. The natural recipe contains no poultry or by-product meals, artificial flavors or preservatives.
Blue Buffalo Wilderness Trail Treats
Duck Recipe
These vegan treats are perfect for sensitive stomachs, thanks to ingredients which are 100% plant-based and human-grade. They pack a tasty sausage-flavored punch though.
Whole Life Green Planet Treats
These soft and chewy bites are free from gluten, soy, wheat and artificial flavors or colorings. They also contain real Serrano ham as the number one ingredient.
American Kennel Club
Lil Champ Training Treats
Your dog will love these elk and venison tidbits which contain 96% meat and 41% crude protein. Theyre also low-calorie and contain no GMOs.
HOLI Freeze-Dried
Elk & Venison Treats
These baked treats contain nutritious superfoods and no artificial colors or flavors. The recipe is made with zero wheat, corn, or soy and each treat is under eight calories.
Fruitables
Pumpkin & Blueberry Flavor
Include your pooch in the celebrations with Confetti Cake treats. Made with 100% organic and vegan ingredients including spinach, coconut, turmeric, and peanut butter. Theyre also certified gluten-free.
Lord Jameson
Confetti Cake
V-Dog has crafted these plant-based dog treats using organic ingredients. Made in the USA, the blueberry treats are ideal for dogs with sensitivities thanks to the nutritionally dense buckwheat flour.
V-Dog Wiggle Biscuits
Blueberry
Luau Time treats might contain exotic ingredients such as pineapple but the recipe is actually sourced and made in the USA. You wont find any artificial nasties either just low-calorie, oven-baked goodness with extra fiber and Omega 3.
Einstein Pets Luau Time
Cleverly Crafted Dog Treats
The number one ingredient in these natural treats is real, deboned beef. Theyre grain-free, high in protein and the omega fatty acids are great for promoting skin and coat health.
These flavorsome chunks of slow-cooked chicken are the perfect reward for your pooch. Theyre high in protein and low in calories but still super tasty!
Jerky isnt just for humans, although these yummy treats are actually human-grade. With just two simple ingredients and no nasties, theyre the perfect reward for your best friend.
Ollie
Beef & Sweet Potato Jerky Strips
We bet you cant spot any fillers, artificial flavors, preservatives, or colors in these healthy snacks. Spot Farms use antibiotic-free turkey for this holistic recipe which uses ingredients sourced from Indiana.
Spot Farms
Turkey Meatball Recipe with Cranberries Dog Treats
Bubba Gump loved shrimp, but Bubba Rose know that dogs love cheese! These organic, vegetarian treats are made with two types of the good stuff parmesan and cheddar without any of the bad stuff.
Bubba Rose Biscuit Co.
I Heart Cheese Dog Treats
Your furry friend deserves the very best so Remys Kitchen has packed these treats with essential nutrients and antioxidants such as omega-3 fatty acids. Theyre also free of grain and gluten.
Remys Kitchen
Salmon + Cranberry Blend Superfood Snacks Freeze-Dried Dog Treats
The Best Dog Treats December 2023
The Best Dog Treats November 2023
The Best Dog Treats October 2023
The Best Dog Treats September 2023
The Best Dog Treats August 2023
The Best Dog Treats June 2023
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