Dog Treats

Why Dog Treats Are More Than Just a Reward

At Petstock, we believe treats are an essential part of the bond between you and your dog. Whether you are teaching a puppy a new trick, keeping a busy chewer occupied, or simply showing some extra love, the right treat can make all the difference. Beyond being a tasty snack, many of our treats offer functional benefits, from supporting dental hygiene to improving joint health and coat shine.

Choosing the Right Treat for Your Dog

With so many options available, it can be hard to know which treat is best. Here’s a breakdown of the main types to help you decide:

• High-Value Training Treats: For repetitive rewarding without the risk of overfeeding, small, low-calorie training treats are essential. Look for "stinky," soft morsels that offer a high-reward incentive to keep your dog focused. Popular, irresistible options like Schmakos are perfect for mastering new tricks or puppy preschool milestones.

• Functional Dental Chews & Oral Care: A proactive approach to dental health starts with mechanical abrasion. Specialized dental chews are textured to scrub away plaque and tartar build-up as your dog chews. For fresher breath and healthier gums, industry leaders like Greenies and Bell & Bone offer scientifically designed shapes that reach the gumline.

• Natural & Single-Protein Rewards: If your dog has a sensitive stomach or specific protein allergies, single-protein treats are the gold standard. Often consisting of 100% air-dried meats like kangaroo jerky, beef liver, or chicken breast, brands such as Happy Pet and Animals Like Us provide clean-label, grain-free options that minimize digestive upset.

• Long-Lasting Chews for Enrichment: Ideal for "power chewers" or providing a boredom-busting distraction for dogs with separation anxiety. Durable options like bully sticks, antlers, and rawhide alternatives from Biophive provide mental stimulation and satisfy the natural urge to chew for extended periods

What treats are best for dogs with sensitive stomachs?

For dogs prone to digestive upset or allergies, single-protein treats are the gold standard. Air-dried or freeze-dried treats made from 100% beef liver, kangaroo jerky, or chicken breast are free from the grains, fillers, and artificial preservatives that often trigger sensitivities.

How many treats can I give my dog per day?

As a general rule, treats should make up no more than 10% of your dog’s daily calorie intake. The remaining 90% should come from a complete and balanced dog food. If you are doing a lot of training, consider using smaller, lower-calorie treats or subtracting a portion of their kibble from their main meal to avoid weight gain.

What are the best treats for a puppy?

For puppies, focus on soft training treats that are easy to swallow and gentle on developing teeth. Avoid very hard chews (like large antlers) until their adult teeth are fully erupted to prevent dental fractures.

Are dental treats a substitute for brushing my dog's teeth?

While dental treats and chews are excellent at mechanically reducing plaque and tartar build-up, they are most effective when used as part of a broader oral care routine. For the best results, combine daily dental chews with regular tooth brushing and professional veterinary check-ups.