The Best Dog Treats for Small Dogs

All the pups in our lives give us so much and fill our days with joy, so they deserve only the best when it comes to their meals and snacks. If you have a small dog rather than a medium or large dog, though, you might need to make some special accommodations to ensure the treats they receive are perfect for them.

Read on to find out about the best treats for small dogs when it comes to nutrition, size, function, and other factors, so you can keep your pooch happy.

Nutritious Treats for Small Dogs

Giving your dog the best often starts with ensuring their dietary needs are met. Here are some options to consider when looking for healthy treats for small dogs:

• Storebought kibble – Perhaps the simplest route to go for treats for small dogs is heading to your local pet store or grocery store, or shopping online, and selecting from the many options available for smaller pets. There are plenty of bite-sized treats and biscuits out there from major brands like Milk-Bone, Blue Buffalo, Blue Dog Bakery, and more, all backed by the FDA, so start searching!
• Freeze-dried treats – Other great healthy treats for small dogs include freeze-dried options from companies like Sojos, Stella & Chewy, TruDog, and more. The freeze-drying process removes all moisture, making the treats easier for dogs to digest, while preserving nutrients and flavor in a nutritionally dense package. Best yet, they can have a shelf life of months or years, and usually remain fresh 30-60 days after opening.
• Jerky – Small dogs and big dogs alike love jerky, since it has the meaty taste they crave and the chewy texture they love. Some great brands for this treat option include Merrick, Blue Buffalo, and Wellness Core, but many others are out there too. And since jerky is processed and preserved, it’s got a good shelf life too.
• Cooked meats – Many pet owners swear by making healthy treats for small dogs themselves, slicing up pieces of chicken, lean beef, and other meats, cooking them, and then having them on hand in baggies while training their dogs, heading out for a walk, or simply when the need for a little reward arises.
• Fruits and vegetables – There are actually a number of produce options available as treats for small dogs, since dogs enjoy and are able to metabolize certain fruits and vegetables. Examples include carrots, green beans, blueberries, sweet potatoes, apples, peas, bananas, and more. Be sure anything you give your dog is small enough for them to chew, and consult with your vet about options to ensure everything you select is safe. Some possibilities – like onions and grapes – can be poisonous or cause other issues for dogs, meaning you have to be careful with anything you choose.

Size Considerations

As you seek out the best treats for small dogs, you’ll definitely want to take into account your pup’s physicality and how they won’t be able to handle the same-sized foods and treats that big dogs can. You may also need to make modifications to select foods to keep things safe.

A lot of dog treats are created with bigger dogs in mind, emphasizing their heartiness and long-lasting properties. While these attributes are great for large dogs, they can pose problems for the little pups out there.

To ensure your dog gets the safest treats possible, you’ll want to:

• Look for treats designed for small dogs
• Cut up storebought treats, meats, fruits, and vegetables into smaller bites so that your pooch won’t have trouble chewing or swallowing them
• Purchase soft and chewy treats rather than harder ones in some instances to avoid choking
• Opt for smaller, thinner hard treats – like certain biscuits – since hard treats can still be good for a dog’s oral health

Other Qualities in the Best Dog Treats for Small Dogs

There are a few other considerations to keep in mind, so when hunting down the best dog treats, think about:

• Caloric count – Big dogs need and can handle more calories than smaller dogs, obviously, and more pounds packed on a smaller dog’s frame can lead to mobility issues and other health problems. Make sure to consult the calorie information on your treat bag and cross-reference with your pup’s size. This will ensure they get just the right amount.
• Allergies – Dogs, like people, can experience allergies to certain foods and ingredients, with common problem foods including beef, dairy, wheat, chicken, eggs, and more. If you’re aware of any allergies in your pet, or if some foods upset their stomachs, be sure to check the label to ensure you won’t be giving them something disagreeable.
• Dental health – Some dogs can have teeth and oral health issues, but thankfully there are treats created just for them. Not only can you get treats designed to clean their teeth and freshen their breath, but the softer varieties can be ideal for pups with teeth problems that make chewing difficult.
• Their preferences – Every animal is different, so keep this in mind as you plan your healthy treats for small dogs. Not everything will be tasty and appealing to them, so engage in some trial and error to find the perfect options.

Pamper Your Pet Beyond Treats for Small Dogs

All dogs need proper care and attention, and treats are a great way to supply that, but they’re not the only way! At Pet Palace, we provide premium dog boarding, doggy day care, and grooming services to ensure your pup gets well taken care of at all times.

If you’re taking a trip or running some errands, or simply need to freshen up your pup, our skilled team is ready to get to work. Contact us today to book an appointment!

Categories: All Posts, Dog Treats, Dogs