From a little reward on a walk to a chew for a quiet moment at home, treats are part of everyday life with a dog. But with so many shapes, textures and ingredients to choose from, where do you start?
At Moorlands Pet Supplies, we believe the best starting point is your individual dog. Here’s what to look for when exploring natural treats.
Look beyond the word ‘natural’
A natural label doesn’t tell you everything about a treat. Read the ingredients, feeding guidance and age recommendations on the packaging. Some treats contain a single ingredient, while others combine several ingredients in one recipe.
A shorter ingredient list can make it easier to see what you’re feeding, but it doesn’t automatically make a treat healthier or suitable for every dog. Choose according to your dog’s needs, not just the description on the front of the pack.
Match the treat to the occasion
For training, choose rewards that are easy to portion and quick for your dog to eat, so you can keep practising without long interruptions. If a treat can be safely broken into smaller pieces, a little can go a long way.
For chewing time, consider your dog’s size, age and chewing style. A determined chewer and a gentle nibbler may need very different options. No chew is risk-free, so follow the manufacturer’s guidance and avoid anything too hard for your dog’s teeth.
Choose a suitable size and texture
A treat should be an appropriate size for your dog and the way they eat. Watch out for dogs that try to swallow chews whole. Always supervise chewing and remove a chew when it becomes small enough to swallow, develops sharp edges or starts breaking into unsafe pieces.
Puppies, older dogs and dogs with dental problems may need softer options. If you’re unsure, ask your vet before introducing a new chew. Keep fresh drinking water available.
Check ingredients for sensitive dogs
If your dog has a known food sensitivity, check the full ingredient list every time, even when you’ve bought a similar treat before. Don’t assume a single-ingredient treat is suitable simply because it is described as natural.
For dogs on a veterinary or elimination diet, speak to your vet before adding treats. An extra snack can introduce ingredients that aren’t part of the planned diet.
Keep treats as extras
Treats should complement your dog’s usual balanced diet, not replace it. Follow the feeding instructions, account for treats in your dog’s daily food intake and keep an eye on their weight and body condition.
When trying something new, start with a small amount and monitor how your dog tolerates it. Stop feeding it and seek veterinary advice if your dog becomes unwell.
Store them properly
Follow the storage instructions on the pack and reseal treats after use where appropriate. Some products need refrigeration after opening, while others should be kept in a cool, dry place. Wash your hands after handling animal-based treats and clean surfaces they touch.
Find your dog’s next favourite at Moorlands Pet Supplies
Explore our Natural Treats collection and compare the ingredients, sizes and feeding guidance before choosing. Whether you’re looking for a small reward or something for supervised chewing time, start with what suits your dog.
Not sure which product to pick? Get in touch with Moorlands Pet Supplies for help with product details and availability. For advice about dental health, allergies or a medical diet, your vet is the best person to ask.