Dogs might be loyal, goofy, and always up for a walk, but if there’s one thing that really gets their tails wagging, it’s treats. So if you're wondering 'what type of treat is best for my dog?', well, you're in the right place.
The trick is knowing how to spoil them without overdoing it – and remembering that treats are exactly that – treats. They’re not meant to replace a proper, balanced diet.
In this guide, we’ll cover the different types of treats and what you might like them for.
How many dog treats are too many?
It’s tempting to give in every time those puppy eyes appear, but moderation is key. Experts suggest treats should make up no more than 10% of your dog’s daily calorie intake.
For example:
- A small dog (around 5kg) needs roughly 200–300 calories per day. Only 20–30 of those calories should come from treats.
- A medium dog (about 20kg) might need 700–1,000 calories daily, which means 70–100 calories from treats.
- A large dog (30kg+) could need 1,200–1,600 calories, so 120–160 calories from treats is the safe zone.
If you’re unsure of your dog’s exact needs, check with your vet. A simple rule of thumb is about 40–45 calories per kilogram of body weight each day.
Long-lasting dog treats
Some dogs just have that constant need to chew, and that’s where long-lasting treats come in handy. They’re not only a great distraction when you’re busy, but they also help take the edge off boredom (and might save your favourite shoes in the process).
Big breeds especially love these kinds of treats because they get to really work their jaws. When you’re choosing, think about size and toughness – you want something that’s safe for your dog’s bite strength, without crumbling away in seconds.
Long-lasting dog treats are best for:
- Large or strong-jawed breeds like German Shepherds, Rottweilers, and Staffies
- Dogs prone to boredom or chewing furniture
- High-energy dogs needing mental stimulation
- Owners who want longer-lasting chew sessions
Training and reward dog treats
Training sessions are all about timing, and nothing derails the moment faster than a dog needing five minutes to chew. That’s why quick, small, tasty treats are the way to go.
Puppies do especially well with soft little bites they can swallow straight away, but honestly, even older dogs get more out of short, snappy rewards than a big chunk of food.
The key is having something you can hand over a lot without overdoing their calories.
Training treats are best for:
- Puppies and young dogs learning new cues
- Frequent training sessions (obedience, agility, scent work)
- Small or medium breeds where calorie control is important
- Dogs that thrive on high-value, fast-eating rewards
Dental dog treats
Not every dog is a fan of the toothbrush (and let’s be honest, not all of us have the patience for daily brushing either).
Dental treats are a bit of a lifesaver here – they freshen up your dog’s breath and help reduce plaque while still feeling like a treat to your pup.
They’re a nice option for day-to-day maintenance, especially if you know brushing is a battle. Shapes that encourage chewing and ingredients that target dental health are the things to look for.
Dental dog treats are best for:
- Small to medium breeds prone to plaque build-up (e.g. Cavaliers, Toy Poodles)
- Older dogs with early dental wear
- Dogs that resist brushing
- Everyday oral maintenance between professional cleans
Calming dog treats
If you’ve ever had a dog that trembles during a thunderstorm or gets worked up at the vet, you’ll know how stressful it is for both of you. Calming treats aren’t a magic cure, but they can definitely take the edge off.
They’re great to have on hand for those high-stress moments – like fireworks, long car rides, or even just moving house.
A lot of them are made with natural calming ingredients like chamomile or L-theanine, so they’re more about gentle support than knocking your dog out.
Stress relief dog treats are best for:
- Dogs with mild anxiety, separation stress, or storm fears
- Rescue dogs adjusting to new homes
- Travel or vet-visit nerves
- Any breed prone to nervous behaviour, like Border Collies or Italian Greyhounds
Air-dried treats
Air-dried treats are one of those options that feel a bit fancier but are still really practical. They’re not heavily processed, so the flavour and nutrients hang around, which most dogs absolutely love.
They work nicely as high-value training rewards or even as a topper on meals if you want to mix things up.
Because they’re quite rich, you don’t need a lot of them, which also makes them a good choice for dogs with sensitive stomachs. Look for single-ingredient ones like beef or lamb if you want to keep it super simple.
Air-dried treats are best for:
- Dogs with sensitive stomachs who can’t handle heavy processing
- Owners seeking nutrient-dense, high-value snacks
- Picky eaters who prefer strong, meaty flavours
- Training rewards for medium to large breeds
Single-protein treats
Single-protein treats are exactly what they sound like – made from just one kind of meat. They’re a bit of a game-changer for dogs that have allergies or sensitive tummies because you know exactly what you’re giving them.
They also suit dogs that are on elimination diets, where you’re trying to narrow down what foods agree with them. The simpler the better here – something like “100% kangaroo” or “100% salmon” is always a safe bet.
Just keep in mind that the “100%” usually refers to the protein source, not the entire ingredients list. There might still be extras in there for texture or shelf life, so it’s always a good idea to flip the pack over and check the fine print.
Single-protein treats are best for:
- Dogs on elimination diets
- Pets with specific protein allergies (e.g. chicken or beef intolerance)
- Owners tracking exactly what their dog eats
- Sensitive breeds like French Bulldogs or West Highland Terriers
Single-ingredient treats
Single-ingredient treats take simplicity one step further than single-protein ones – they contain just one ingredient. Full stop.
There are no additives, binders or fillers, which makes them a top pick for dogs with allergies, sensitive stomachs or owners who want total transparency in what they’re feeding.
Think simple pieces of beef liver, lamb lung or chicken necks.
Single-ingredient treats are best for:
- Dogs with multiple allergies or digestive sensitivities
- Owners who prefer a “less-is-more” feeding approach
- Raw or natural feeders looking for clean snack options
- Dogs who do well on simple proteins like kangaroo or lamb
Ready to find your dog’s next favourite snack? Shop our wide range of dog treats at Petstock today!