Healthy Natural Dog Treats for Your Pet
- Todd Agnew
- 4 days ago
- 3 min read
Why Healthy Dog Treats Matter More Than You Think
Ever wonder why your dog sometimes turns their nose up at store-bought treats? It’s not just picky behavior. Many commercial treats are loaded with fillers, artificial flavors, and preservatives that can upset your dog’s digestion or cause allergies. For active flushing breeds, a poor diet can mean less stamina and slower recovery after training or hunting.
Healthy dog treats aren’t just about avoiding junk. They’re about fueling your dog’s body with the right nutrients. Think of treats as mini-meals that support their energy, coat health, and overall well-being. When we use healthier options, we noticed that our spaniels were more eager during training sessions and had fewer tummy troubles.
What Makes a Dog Treat Healthy?
Natural ingredients: No artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives.
High protein content: Supports muscle repair and energy.
Low in fillers: Avoid corn, wheat, and soy which can cause allergies.
Easy to digest: Especially important for sensitive stomachs.
Appropriate size: Perfect for training without overfeeding.
Choosing Healthy Dog Treats for Your Spaniel
When we first started looking for healthy dog treats, we were overwhelmed by the choices. But here’s a simple approach that worked for us:
Check the ingredient list: Look for whole foods like sweet potatoes, pumpkin, chicken, or fish.
Avoid mystery meat: If the label says “meat by-products,” skip it.
Consider your dog’s allergies: My Cocker Spaniel is sensitive to grains, so I stick to grain-free options.
Look for treats made for active dogs: They often have added vitamins and minerals.
Try homemade treats: Sometimes, the best way is to make your own with simple recipes.
One of my favorite finds was natural dog treats that combine wholesome ingredients with flavors my dog loves. They’re perfect for training sessions and everyday rewards.
Easy Homemade Treat Recipes You Can Try Today
Why not take control of what your dog eats by making treats at home? It’s easier than you think, and you can customize recipes to suit your dog’s tastes and dietary needs. Here are two simple recipes we swear by:
Peanut Butter and Pumpkin Bites
1 cup pumpkin puree (not pie filling)
1/2 cup natural peanut butter (make sure it has no xylitol)
2 cups oat flour
1 egg
Mix all ingredients until you get a dough. Roll into small balls and bake at 350°F for 15-20 minutes. Let cool before serving.
Sweet Potato Chews
1 large sweet potato, sliced into thin strips
Bake at 250°F for 2-3 hours until chewy but not crispy.
These chews are great for keeping your dog busy and cleaning their teeth naturally.
How to Use Treats Effectively in Training and Daily Life
Treats are powerful tools when used right. For busy trainers like us, training time is precious, and treats can make all the difference. Here’s how we use treats to get the best results:
Keep treats small: Tiny bites mean more rewards without overfeeding.
Use treats as motivation: Reward good behavior immediately to reinforce learning.
Mix it up: Use different flavors or textures to keep your dog interested.
Don’t rely solely on treats: Praise and playtime are just as important.
Schedule treat breaks: Avoid giving treats all day to maintain their value.
By using treats thoughtfully, you build a stronger relationship with your dog and help them become the well-behaved companion you want.
What to Avoid When Buying or Making Dog Treats
Not all treats labeled “natural” or “healthy” are created equal. Here are some red flags we watch out for:
Excessive salt or sugar: These can harm your dog’s health.
Artificial additives: Colors, flavors, and preservatives can cause allergies.
Unknown sourcing: Treats made with low-quality ingredients or from unknown countries.
Large treats for small dogs: Can cause choking or overeating.
Treats with bones or hard parts: Risk of dental damage or choking.
Always read labels carefully and when in doubt, ask your vet or a trusted trainer for advice.
Ready to give your dog the treats they deserve? Start small, experiment with flavors, and watch your spaniel thrive with every bite!
