Everything You Need to Know About Dog Treats

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Introduction

Who doesn't love the pure joy that a pooch emits when they hear the word "treat?" It's no mystery — our woofers go bonkers for dog goodies of any kind, but are all treats created equally? Cookies, chews, bones, and bits, dog treats vary in both shape and size. Step into a pet supply shop, and you'll also see that they range greatly in price! To find out which treats are the best, we need to look at ingredients, use, and — of course — the canine in question. Below, you'll learn all about these yummy goodies so you can pick out the right treats for your fur-baby.

Biscuits/Bakery

Dog biscuits and baked goods are easily the most common kind of dog treat out there. Some come in bags, while others are displayed in cases at the front of pet shops (complete with doggo-friendly icing!). In moderation, these treats are usually fine, but double-check the ingredients list! Some come filled with nasty preservatives or other items that are better left outside of your furry friend.

Bones/Rawhide

Though we have them grouped together, bones and rawhide are definitely not the same. The bones and rawhide that you generally find at pet stores have been treated or processed to a point where they don't resemble anything you'd find on an animal. Raw bones, on the other hand, are much safer for your barky buddy. Either way, watch to make sure no large pieces are swallowed!

Chewy Treats

Chewy dog treats are fun for pooches because they get to chomp on them lots before swallowing. These treats are generally dehydrated in some way to create the right texture, though the ingredients range greatly from product to product. As with all treats, look at the ingredients and find chews that have a short list of recognizable food items instead of complicated preservatives!
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Dental Treats

Does your canine have a case of doggy breath? It can be nasty — but rest easy! Dental treats can help. These treats aim to scrape bacteria and plaque off of your pupper's teeth and gums, promoting a much fresher scent in the process. Try to opt for dental treats made from meats, veggies, and fruits, as these will be healthier for your furry friend.

Jerky

Just like people jerky, "pup jerky" is a yummy, chewy treat that contains all of the meaty flavor your mutt can handle. Made from dehydrated meat, jerky can be a tasty snack for your pooch to partake of every now and then. Splurge a little to buy a jerky product that skips the heavy use of preservatives in the drying process.

Training Treats

Training treats are pretty much identical to other treats — except for their size! These treats are meant to be used during learning sessions, which means they must be far smaller than normal dog treats. That way, you can reward every good behavior your pooch gives out without adding a tummy ache into the mix. You'll find these treats are broken or baked into small bits.