Let’s face it, our dogs are family. We want to give them the absolute best, including treats that are as delicious as they are nutritious. But with countless options on the market, it can be a real paw-sitive challenge to find the healthiest dog treats. Don’t worry, you’re not alone! I’ve been there, scratching my head over ingredient labels and wondering if that biscuit is really as good as it claims. That’s why I’ve put together this ultimate guide to the healthiest dog treats in the UK.

Why Healthy Dog Treats Matter

Just like us, our dogs need a balanced diet. While treats shouldn’t replace regular meals, they can be a great way to reward good behavior, bond with your pup, or simply show them some extra love. But not all treats are created equal. Many contain hidden nasties that can do more harm than good. That’s why choosing healthiest dog treats is crucial for your pup’s overall health and well-being.

Decoding Dog Treat Labels: What to Look For

Reading dog treat labels can be a real head-scratcher! It’s like trying to figure out alien language sometimes. But don’t worry, I’m here to help you decode those labels and find the best treats for your pup.

The Good Stuff

• Real Meat: Look for treats with real meat as the first ingredient. This ensures your pup is getting a good source of protein.
• Whole Grains: Whole grains like brown rice or oats provide essential fiber and complex carbohydrates.
• Vegetables and Fruits: These add vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants to your dog’s diet.

On the contrary, try avoiding bad Stuff

• Artificial Additives: Stay away from artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives. These can be harmful to your dog’s health.
• By-products: These are low-quality ingredients and should be avoided.
• Excessive Fillers: Treats packed with fillers like corn or wheat gluten offer little nutritional value.

Top Picks for Healthiest Dog Treats

Now, let’s get to the juicy stuff – the best healthiest dog treats on the market. I’ve carefully selected these brands based on their ingredient transparency, commitment to quality, and overall reputation.

1) Forthglade Dry Dog Food

I’ve been using Forthglade for my own furry friend, Max, and I can honestly say it’s a game-changer. Their grain free salmon bites not only tastes great but is packed with wholesome ingredients. Their treats are no exception. Look out for their grain-free options for pups with sensitivities.

Ingredients- Salmon Meal (30%), Sweet Potato (24%), Pea Flour (20%), Vegetable Glycerine (15%), Cold Pressed Rapeseed Oil (7.5%), Dried Parsley (1%), Dried Dill (1%), Yucca Extract (0.1%).

Our Verdict: Forthglade offers a range of delicious and nutritious treats that are perfect for dogs of all ages and sizes. Their commitment to using high-quality ingredients makes them a top choice for health-conscious pet owners.

2) Lilly’s Bites

If you’re looking for something extra special, Lilly’s Bites are definitely worth considering. These treats are grain-free, handmade with high-quality ingredients and come in a variety of flavors. Your furry friend will fall in love with their mini beef burgers.

Ingredients- Beef (80%), Vegetable Glycerine (derived from Rapeseed Oil), Pea Protein, Distilled White Vinegar, Chia (2%), Kale (0.1%).

Our Verdict: Lilly’s Bites are a real treat for your dog’s taste buds without compromising on health. The use of fresh ingredients and careful preparation makes them a standout choice.

3) Pooch and Mutt

Pooch and Mutt has gained a loyal following for their commitment to natural and healthy dog food. Their treats are no different. With a wide range of options to choose from, we recommend the Shrimp & coconut meaty dog treats which consists natural ingredients, supplements and amazing taste

Our Verdict: Pooch and Mutt offers a fantastic selection of treats to suit different dietary needs and preferences. Their focus on natural ingredients and overall quality makes them a reliable choice.

Ingredients- Shrimp protein (26%), pea flour, glycerin, hydrolyzed chicken protein (10%), collagen (8%), red lentils, pumpkin, hydrolyzed chicken liver (5%), dried coconut (2%), flaxseed (2%), dried algae (1%), fulvic acid (0.5%), cantaloupe melon extract (0.01%), Lactobacillus acidophillus HA – 122 inactivated (15×109 cells/kg)

4) Park Life

For a truly indulgent treat, Park Life offers a range of gourmet options made with fresh, natural ingredients. Their Fris Bix Dog Biscuits Peanut Butter treats are perfect for spoiling your pup on special occasions or just because.

Ingredients- PEANUT butter (20%), Potatoes, Peas, Sweet Potato, Chickpeas, Apple Juice, Vegetable Gravy, Rapeseed Oil, Vegetable Fibre. Natural Additives: Antioxydants

Our Verdict: Park Life treats are a luxurious option for dogs who deserve the best. While they might be a bit pricier, the high-quality ingredients and delicious flavors make them a worthwhile splurge.

5) JR Pet Products Pure Pate

If your dog has sensitive digestion, JR Pet Products Pure Pate is worth considering. These simple, single-protein treats are gentle on their stomachs and packed with flavor. JR’s just dropped a new treat pack that’s pure paw-some! It’s got turkey, duck, and chicken pâtés – all 100% natural with no additives or preservatives, simply the finest cuts of fresh meat and super tasty. Your dog will go bonkers for these healthy snacks. Perfect for training or just spoiling your furry friend!

Our Verdict: JR Pet Products Pure Pate is a great option for dogs with sensitive stomachs. These delicious treats are made from from 100% fresh chicken/fresh duck with no offal, and also grain and gluten free.

Choosing the Healthiest Dog Treats

While these brands offer some of the healthiest dog treats on the market, it’s essential to consider your dog’s individual needs. Some pups may have allergies or sensitivities, so it’s important to read labels carefully and choose treats accordingly.

Also, remember that treats should be a small part of your dog’s overall diet. Too many treats can lead to weight gain and other health problems. So, be mindful of portion sizes and stick to a treat schedule.

Remember, the best healthiest dog treats are the ones your pup loves and enjoys. So, don’t be afraid to experiment and find what works best for your furry friend.

Do you have a favorite brand of healthiest dog treats? Share your recommendations in the comments below!