Healthy Pet Treats Guide: Choosing Safe Snacks

June 14, 2025

Pet owners and vets have been using healthy treats for their pets more and more in the last few years. We need to think about what goes into our pets' snacks as we learn more about what they need to eat. Healthy snacks for pets encourage them to behave well and help them stay healthy.

It is very important to choose safe snacks for your pet. Many store-bought treats contain chemical ingredients, preservatives, and fillers that are bad for their health. Instead, choose treats that are healthy and made from good ingredients. This way, your pets will get good nutrients while they enjoy their best snacks.

Understanding Different Types of Dog Treats

Dogs love treats, but not all of them are the same. Picking the right dog treat can make them healthier, better behaved, and happier. It's important to know what treats are and how they could help your pet, whether you're using them for training, dental care, or as a tasty reward.

There are several kinds of dog treats, such as hard biscuits, soft chews, and dental sticks. There are benefits to each type, and some may be better for your dog. The table below shows how different dog treats stack up against each other so you can pick one for your dog.

Different Types of Dog Treats

Type of Treat	Texture	Benefits	Suitable For	Ingredients to Look For
Biscuits and Crunchy Treats	Hard and crunchy	Helps clean teeth, long-lasting	Dogs who enjoy chewing	Whole grains, natural flavours
Soft and Chewy Treats	Soft and moist	Ideal for training, easy to eat	Puppies, senior dogs	Real meat, no artificial additives
Dental Treats	Hard with ridges	Supports oral hygiene, freshens breath	All dogs	Natural herbs, dental-approved shape
Natural and Organic Treats	Varies	Free from artificial ingredients	Dogs with allergies	Organic ingredients, no preservatives
Freeze-Dried Treats	Lightweight, crisp	High protein, retains nutrients	Dogs with allergies, raw diet	100% meat, single-ingredient
Jerky Treats	Chewy and tough	High protein, great for chewing	Active dogs, high-energy breeds	Real meat, no added sugars
Grain-Free Treats	Varies	Suitable for pets with grain allergies	Dogs with sensitive stomachs	Sweet potatoes, peas, and real meat

This table makes it easier to understand the unique benefits of each type of dog treat, allowing you to choose the most suitable option for your pet.

Understanding Different Types of Cat Treats

Cats can be picky eaters, but the right treats can keep them happy and healthy. Cat treats can make your cat's food better, reward good behaviour, and help you train it. There are so many different kinds of cat treats that it might be hard to pick the ideal one.

There are many different kinds of cat snacks, like crunchy pieces, soft chews, and freeze-dried treats. Knowing these options can help you find a safe and healthy treat for your cat. The table below shows how different cat treats stack up against each other.

Different Types of Cat Treats

Type of Treat	Texture	Benefits	Suitable For	Ingredients to Look For
Crunchy Treats	Hard and crispy	Supports dental health, reduces plaque	Cats who enjoy chewing	Real meat, added vitamins
Soft and Chewy Treats	Soft and moist	Easy to eat, great for senior cats	Kittens, senior cats	No artificial colours, real meat
Dental Treats	Hard with ridges	Promotes oral hygiene, freshens breath	All cats	Natural herbs, dental-approved shape
Catnip Treats	Varies	Encourages play, relieves stress	Active and playful cats	Natural catnip, no chemicals
Freeze-Dried Treats	Lightweight, crisp	High protein, retains nutrients	Cats with allergies, raw diet	100% meat, single-ingredient
Lickable Treats	Soft and creamy	Hydrating, easy to eat	Picky eaters, senior cats	Real meat, no artificial flavours
Grain-Free Treats	Varies	Suitable for cats with grain allergies	Cats with sensitive stomachs	Sweet potatoes, peas, and real meat

This table helps you quickly understand the various types of cat treats available, making it easier to choose the right option for your feline friend.

Dental Treats: Support oral health.

Dental treats are good for your pet's teeth, which is important for their health. Dental treats are developed to clean teeth, get rid of plaque, and make your breath smell better. They keep your pet's teeth healthy without having to brush them, plus they taste good.

Different shapes and textures of dental treats make your pet want to chew, which naturally gets rid of plaque on their teeth. Some dental treats have mint or parsley in them to freshen breath, and others have enzymes that kill bacteria in your pet's mouth. Giving your cat regular dental treats is a simple but effective way to keep their teeth clean between cleanings.

Tips for Choosing the Best Dental Treats for Your Pet:

Check for Veterinary Approval: Look for treats that have a Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC) seal.
Choose the Right Size: Ensure the dental treat is appropriate for your pet’s size to prevent choking.
Prioritise Natural Ingredients: Avoid treats with artificial additives or excessive sugar.
Supervise Chewing: Always monitor your pet while they enjoy dental treats to ensure safe chewing.
Incorporate into a Routine: Make dental treats a part of your pet’s regular oral care routine for best results.

Treat Your Pets the Right Way

Choosing the right treats for your pets is not only a fun thing to do, but it can also help their health and happiness. The right treats can make a difference in your pet's life, from healthy treats that improve their health to dental treats that keep their teeth clean. Always choose natural foods first, stay away from harmful additives, and think about what your pet needs to eat.

Ready to spoil your furry friend with healthy and delicious treats? Explore our Pawsome Treats Collection at Petso On-Sale Pawsome Treats and find the perfect options for your pets.

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