As the trend towards healthier and more natural diets continues to grow for us humans, the same is becoming increasingly important for our canine companions, but it can be hard to know which brands to trust.
We’ve compiled a list of the healthiest dog treats in the UK, to give you a helping hand.
Our Top Picks
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Best for Sweet & Savoury Options Beco |
Best for Plant Based Omni |
Best for Wide Variety Forthglade |
How to Choose the Best Dog Treats for Your Dogs
Choosing the right dog treat goes beyond just pampering your pet; it's an extension of their overall diet and health regimen. Here are some crucial considerations when it comes to choosing the best and healthiest dog treats:
Recognise the Importance of Healthy Treats
Treats are more than just indulgences; they can serve as training tools, promote dental health, and offer nutritional boosts, although just like a human treat, they should be enjoyed in moderation. Picking the right ones ensures your dog gets added health benefits along with a tasty reward.
Consider Your Dog's Age
Different life stages mean different nutritional needs. Puppies might need protein-rich treats, while senior dogs may require softer, joint-supporting options. Choose treats that align with your dog's age and specific requirements.
Check for Allergies or Dietary Restrictions
Dogs, like humans, can have food allergies. Familiar allergens include beef, dairy, and wheat. Always read treat ingredients and steer clear of known allergens or ingredients that might interfere with special diets.
Define the Purpose of the Treat
Treats have various functions, from training aids to dental health promoters. Identify your primary reason for giving a treat, whether it's for training, health benefits, or just as a reward, to ensure you pick the most suitable type for your pet.
Top 5 Healthiest Dog Treats
1. Beco
Now, we know what you are thinking- it's obvious that our own treats will nab the top spot in a list of the best healthy dog treats. But hold fire before you pass too much judgement, as there is method in our madness.
Our love for dogs is one of they key driving forces of Beco, but we are keen to do this in a way that has minimal impact on the planet. The ingredients we use are important to us and we’ve spent time sourcing the finest ingredients that not only taste great, but are beneficial to your dog’s health too.
With tempting flavours that are grain-free just like our main meals, there is something to suit even the fussiest of pooches, and there is even a dog specific choccy treat.
Our Dog Chocs with Carob, Chamomile & Quinoa are the perfect, healthiest dog treat for those with a sweet tooth thanks to the addition of carob offering a safe alternative to toxic chocolate. The addition of chamomile helps to keep your pet calm, whilst the quinoa is rich in antioxidants and protein to protect from free radicals and support muscle development.
Another standout is our Insect with Apple & Chia Seeds treats. The presence of insects as an ingredient works as an easily digestible, lean protein source, but they are also hypoallergenic which is good for sensitive tummies, and their low carbon footprint benefits the planet too! Combined with apple and chia seeds, these treats are good for digestion and contain Omega 3 which supports heart health and gives your pooch a lovely, healthy coat.
Ultimately, all of our treats are designed to support your dog’s main meals and are perfect for rewarding and reinforcing good behaviour, and for puppies, we even have training specific treats. All of our formulations have your dog’s health at the heart of their ingredients, from protein and antioxidants, to fibre and Omega 3, these are all important elements that will keep your pup in tip top condition!
Pros:
- Eco-friendly
- Compostable packaging
- Plant based options
Cons:
- All soft baked so there is no crunchy options
Price: £2.99
2. Forthglade
Forthglade’s treat offering has a focus on grain-free, wellness based treats. Free from preservatives, there is a wide range of treats to suit a whole manner of circumstances but one thing is for sure, they are all designed to be gentle on your pet’s digestive system.
One stand out flavour is the Fresh Breath Multi-Functional Soft Bites With Peppermint & Parsley, which do what they say in terms of freshening your pup’s breath but also help to support and balance your pet’s dental care regime. The treats also contain chicken and chickpeas which are both an excellent source of protein, as well as sweet potato for healthy skin, eyes, and muscles.
For a pup take on dessert, try the Rewards Training Multi-Functional Soft Bites With Honey & Banana and make your training sessions more fruitful. With their grain-free and plant-based ingredients, these soft, semi moist star shaped treats are easy on the teeth and gums as well as being packed full of super-nutritious ingredients. The addition of pumpkin which is packed full of enzymes and good bacteria, helps aid your dog’s digestion as does the presence of yukka extract which also works to remove toxins from the body and reduces body odour.
Pros:
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Supports dog's training
- Wide range of flavours
- Supports National Trust
Cons:
- The large level of choice might make it hard to know which ones are best for your dog.
Price: £1.79 - £3.25
3. Omni
Omni brings vet-formulated, plant based treats to the table, ensuring each bite is enriched with benefits tailored for specific needs.
Their science based treats are available for a variety of reasons such as shiny coats, with these treats being rich in omega 3 & 6, magnesium, iron and beta-carotene to promote healthy skin and coats.
Their treat formulation for supported joints is enriched with vegan glucosamine, curcumin, and turmeric, ideal for maintaining mobility. The addition of coconut helps to maintain healthy skin as well as having an anti-inflammatory effect, and banana meal supports the immune system whilst maintaining muscle function and keeping bones strong.
For the puppy owners amongst us, you could opt for the Growing Puppies treats which are packed full of delicious fruits and vegetables, making them both tasty and healthy. Some key highlights include cranberries that prevent urinary tract infections, apples which control inflammation, and carrots which are rich in vitamin K and potassium to support your dog’s immune system. These treats are also rich in calcium to encourage healthy teeth and bones in your new addition, not to mention they are puppy sized making them perfect for all the training you’ll be doing!
Pros:
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Vet-formulated
- 100% plant based
- Specific solutions for varied needs
Cons:
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Limited variety- only 5 options
- Higher price point
Price: £4.89
4. Denzel’s
Denzel's boasts of a range that's not only healthy but also sustainable. Hand baked in the UK, in carbon neutral wood chip ovens, all of their treats are made in small batches to ensure top quality flavour! Whether it's their soft-baked sticks or healthy, low fat dog training treats, every snack is laden with healthy fats, antioxidants, and fibre.
Using 100% natural ingredients, treats like their soft, squishy bites are made in the UK and cater to dogs with sensitive tummies and fussy tastes.
There is a wide range of flavours available including the Superfood Bites with a punchy, but low calorie combo of banana, berries, and salmon that is high in antioxidants that are critical to your dog’s wellbeing and their wet nose- think of this as a super smoothie for your pup!
For those dogs with more of a preference for savoury snacks, they can tuck into the Nut Butter Bites which are a delicious blend of peanuts and cashews mixed with coconut oil, making them a brilliant source of protein and fibre. Nuts are a great source of healthy oils and fats which help to fight against cholesterol, meaning your pup can tuck into a treat totally guilt-free!
Pros:
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100% natural
- Suitable for sensitive tummies
- Diverse product range
Cons:
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Limited plant based options
Price: £2.90 - £5
5. Butternut Box
Butternut Box is a fresh dog food subscription, delivered straight to your door. Alongside ready-portioned dog food, their range of treats perfectly complement their delicately crafted meals.
They have a range of Supplemunchies which work well for dogs that need a little extra support with issues such as gut health and stress. These functional treats are packed with science backed ingredients such as prebiotics which promote good tummy bacteria, and alpha casozepine which reduces anxiety.
Their Naturally Tasty treat range features some of the healthiest dog food recipes on the market with various protein sources from lamb to fish, and then finished off with veg and some herbs to create a delicious tasting, but simple treat for your dog that is easy to digest.
For those on the hunt for something a little more unusual, try the Pop Puff Crunchies which are delightfully crunchy treats for a dog who loves a little bit of texture to their snack. Light and easy to crunch, these treats are low in lactose making them great for pups with sensitive stomachs, but also help to support relaxation for your pampered pooch.
Pros:
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Grain-free
- Sustainably sourced ingredients
- Various textured treats available
Cons:
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Can only order as part of a subscription box
- Some treats aren’t suitable for all ages
Price: Pricing starts from £2.58 per day for 28 days
| Brand | Grain-Free | Preservative Free | Vegan Option | Training Specific Treats | Eco-Friendly Packaging | Soft Baked | Crunchy Options | High in Antioxidants | Rich in Omega 3 | Support Digestion | Dental Care Specific Treats | Multi-Buy Bundles available | Good Source of Protein | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Beco | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✘ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✘ | ✔ | ✔ | £2.99 |
| Forthglade | ✔ | ✔ | ✘ | ✔ | ✘ | ✔ | ✘ | ✘ | ✘ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | £1.79 - £3.25 |
| Omni | ✘ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✘ | ✔ | ✘ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✘ | ✔ | ✔ | £4.89 |
| Denzel’s | ✔ | ✔ | ✘ | ✔ | ✘ | ✔ | ✘ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | £2.90 - £5 |
| Butternut Box | ✔ | ✔ | ✘ | ✘ | ✘ | ✘ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✘ | ✔ | Starts from £2.58/day |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Why Should I Give My Dog Treats?
Using treats for dogs carries many benefits. Primarily, they function as an invaluable tool in behavioural reinforcement, helping to ensure positive training outcomes. Additionally, specific treats are formulated to deliver health advantages, from enhancing dental hygiene to supplementing vital nutrients.
Not only do they have physical health benefits, but giving your pup treats helps to develop a stronger bond between you both, and makes your dog feel loved.
Which dog treats do vets recommend?
Vets often recommend treats that are natural, free from artificial ingredients, and have a balanced nutritional profile.
What are the best healthy dog biscuits?
Healthy dog biscuits are those made with natural ingredients, free from fillers and artificial additives. Our dog treats are a soft baked biscuit that has your pet’s health at the forefront of our minds, ensuring they are both tasty and highly nutritional.
Are pig ears good for dogs?
Pig ears can be a tasty treat for dogs; however, they can also be high in fat and may cause stomach upset in some dogs. Always monitor your dog when giving them a new treat.
What is the healthiest homemade dog treat?
Homemade dog treats can offer a wholesome alternative to store-bought options. The healthiest recipes usually contain simple, natural ingredients like lean meats, vegetables, and whole grains. One popular and nutritious choice is baked treats made from a combination of coconut flour, mashed banana, and unsweetened natural peanut butter.
A Treatise on Tasty Treats
In the search for the healthiest dog treats in the UK, there are plenty of options to consider. Whether it's calming treats with chamomile or a peppermint pick me up for the teeth, your pup is spoiled for choice with nutritious options.
Remember to study the ingredients list closely to ensure that your treats are using only the finest ingredients that will keep your pooch in the best condition!
Shop our fantastic range of nutritious and tasty dog treats here.
