Healthy Puppy Treats: What to Look For and What to Avoid

Healthy Puppy Treats: What to Look For and What to Avoid

Barbara Mary Hanly

If you’re looking for healthy puppy treats, knowing what to look for - and what to avoid - will help keep your puppy happy and healthy from the start.

Why Healthy Puppy Treats Matter

Treats are more than just snacks. They can be a tool for training, a way to build trust, and a little moment of joy for your pup. But too many low-quality treats can cause:

  • Weight gain and obesity
  • Upset stomach or digestive problems
  • Poor nutrition
  • Long-term health issues

Choosing healthy puppy treats means you can reward your pup without compromising their well-being.

What to Look For in Healthy Puppy Treats

When shopping for healthy puppy treats, here’s what to focus on:

  1. Natural ingredients – Look for whole food ingredients like fruits, vegetables, and quality proteins.
  2. Low fat – Keeps calorie intake balanced, especially during training.
  3. Made for puppies – Soft, small, and easy to chew to protect developing teeth.
  4. Gentle on digestion – Hypoallergenic options are great for sensitive stomachs.
  5. Functional benefits – Some treats help with dental health, fresh breath, or joint support.

Ingredients to Avoid in Puppy Treats

Healthy treats aren’t just about what they include, but also what they leave out. Avoid treats that contain:

  • Artificial colours or flavours
  • Preservatives like BHA or BHT
  • Xylitol or chocolate (toxic to dogs)
  • Excessive salt or sugar
  • Onions, garlic, grapes, or raisins

Soopa Puppy Healthy Bites

Shop Healthy Puppy Bites

  • Great for soothing teething gums and supporting dental hygiene
  • Made with natural superfoods and gentle on tummies
  • Suitable for puppies over 3 months old

 

Soopa Puppy Dental Sticks

Shop Healthy Puppy Sticks

  • Great for soothing teething gums and supporting dental hygiene
  • Made with natural superfoods and gentle on tummies
  • Suitable for puppies over 3 months old

Portion Control for Healthy Puppy Treats

Even healthy puppy treats should make up no more than 10% of your puppy’s daily calories. For guidance on portion sizes, read our article on How Many Treats Can a Puppy Have Per Day?

Tips for Choosing Healthy Puppy Treats

  • Read ingredient lists carefully
  • Choose low-fat options for frequent use
  • Avoid treats with long, chemical-filled ingredient lists
  • Use treats as part of training and bonding, not constant snacking
  • Rotate treat types for variety and balanced nutrition

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