Every dog deserves a delicious treat now and then—whether as a reward, a training incentive, or just because they’ve mastered the art of those heart-melting puppy eyes. But are all good dog treats created equal? Absolutely not. Some treats may look appealing with their fancy packaging, but what’s inside tells the real story.
With so many options on the market, how do you know which treats are genuinely good for your dog and which ones are best left on the shelf? In this guide, we’ll break down what makes a treat healthy, the ingredients to avoid, and why all natural dog treats like those from Remy’s Kitchen are a game-changer. Plus, if you’re a multi-pet parent, we’ll show how certain dog treats can double as cat treats recipes to make your life easier.
Why Dog Treats Matter
Treats are more than just tasty bites—they play a key role in your dog’s overall well-being. Used wisely, they can help strengthen your bond, reinforce positive behavior, and even support your dog’s nutrition. However, low-quality treats with artificial ingredients can lead to weight gain, digestive issues, and other health problems. Choosing the right dog snacks is an essential part of being a responsible pet parent.
But what exactly makes a treat “good” rather than “bad”? Let’s find out.
Key Qualities of Good Dog Treats
1. Simple, High-Quality Ingredients
The best treats have short, transparent ingredient lists with recognizable items—think real chicken, beef, salmon, or sweet potato. Avoid treats that list vague ingredients like “meat by-products” or “artificial flavoring.”
High-quality protein should be the first ingredient in any treat. Single-ingredient, freeze-dried treats, like those from Remy’s Kitchen, are an excellent example of all-natural dog treats that deliver clean, nutritious snacks without unnecessary extras.
Why It Matters: Dogs need protein to build muscle, maintain energy, and stay healthy. Treats with fillers like corn or wheat don’t provide the same nutritional benefits and can contribute to allergies or digestive upset.
2. No Artificial Additives or Fillers
Avoid treats with synthetic preservatives, colors, or flavors. These additives make treats look or smell more appealing but offer no health benefits to your dog. In fact, they can cause allergies, hyperactivity, and stomach issues.
Why Remy’s Kitchen Stands Out: Their freeze-dried treats are made with pure, single-source proteins and contain no fillers, preservatives, or artificial flavors. Each treat is as close to nature as possible—just the way dogs like it.
3. Low in Calories, High in Flavor
Treats should be satisfying but not calorie-heavy. Since treats are often given in addition to regular meals, it’s easy for calories to add up and lead to unwanted weight gain. Good treats pack a punch of flavor without unnecessary sugars or fats.
Freeze-dried snacks, like Remy’s Kitchen’s chicken or salmon bites, are nutrient-dense yet light, so your dog gets the flavor they love without tipping the calorie scale.
The Benefits of All-Natural Dog Treats
You’ve probably seen the phrase all natural dog treats plastered on treat bags. But what does it really mean, and why is it important? All-natural treats focus on using whole ingredients with minimal processing, making them a healthier choice compared to heavily processed treats.
- Better Digestibility: Dogs digest simple, natural ingredients more easily, reducing the chance of an upset stomach.
- Allergy-Friendly: Treats with limited ingredients help avoid common allergens like grains, soy, and dairy.
- Nutrient-Rich: All-natural treats retain more vitamins, minerals, and amino acids compared to baked or cooked treats.
Comparing Freeze-Dried Treats to Traditional Dog Snacks
When it comes to dog treats, the way they’re made matters. Traditional baked treats may smell great, but they’re often cooked at high temperatures that destroy much of the nutritional content.
Freeze-dried treats, on the other hand, are minimally processed. By removing moisture without cooking, they retain the nutrients of raw meat while being shelf-stable and safe.
Why Choose Freeze-Dried Over Traditional Snacks:
- Superior Nutrition: The freeze-drying process locks in vitamins, minerals, and protein.
- Long Shelf Life: Freeze-dried treats don’t spoil quickly, making them convenient to store.
- Versatility: They can be served as-is, crumbled over meals, or even rehydrated for dogs who prefer softer textures.
Remy’s Kitchen takes freeze-dried treats to the next level by ensuring their snacks are made from single-source proteins with no added junk.
Common Mistakes When Choosing Dog Snacks
Even the most well-meaning pet owners can fall into common traps when choosing dog snacks. Here are a few mistakes to avoid:
- Trusting Buzzwords: Just because a label says “organic” or “natural” doesn’t mean the product is healthy. Always read the ingredient list.
- Ignoring Portion Control: Overfeeding treats, even healthy ones, can lead to weight gain. Veterinarians suggest no more than 10% of a dog’s daily caloric intake be treats.
- Choosing Treats with Too Many Ingredients: The longer the ingredient list, the more likely there are unnecessary fillers or additives.
By sticking to single-ingredient treats like freeze-dried lamb or bison liver, you’ll know exactly what your dog is eating.
Can Dog Treats Double as Cat Snacks?
If you’re a multi-pet parent, you’ve probably wondered if your pets can share treats. The answer is yes—if you choose the right ones. Certain treats, like the meat options from Remy’s Kitchen, are suitable for both dogs and cats. Their simple, protein-packed recipes make them versatile enough to serve as cat treat recipes too.
Why This Works: Cats are obligate carnivores, meaning they thrive on protein-heavy snacks. A single freeze-dried chicken bite or turkey heart piece can be just as irresistible to a cat as it is to a dog.
How to Incorporate Treats into Your Dog’s Routine
Healthy treats can enhance your dog’s daily life in meaningful ways, turning ordinary moments into opportunities for bonding, enrichment, and positive reinforcement. Here’s how you can make treat time purposeful:
1. Training Rewards: Training becomes more effective when your dog is motivated by a high-value reward. Small, bite-sized freeze-dried treats, such as those from Remy’s Kitchen, are perfect for reinforcing good behavior during training sessions. Their rich, natural flavor keeps your dog engaged, whether you’re practicing basic commands or teaching new tricks. Because they’re single-ingredient and low in calories, you can use them frequently without guilt.
2. Meal Toppers: If your dog gets bored with their regular food or is a picky eater, crumbling freeze-dried treats over their kibble can make mealtime more exciting. Protein-packed options like freeze-dried salmon or chicken add an irresistible aroma and boost nutrition. This is especially useful for older dogs who need a bit of encouragement to finish their meals.
3. Interactive Play: Dogs are natural problem solvers, and incorporating treats into puzzle toys keeps them mentally stimulated and physically active. Hide treats around the house or fill treat-dispensing toys for a fun scavenger hunt that mimics their hunting instincts. Freeze-dried snacks work well because they’re lightweight, flavorful, and easy to hide without making a mess.
By choosing high-quality options like Remy’s Kitchen freeze-dried snacks, you’re not just giving your dog a tasty treat—you’re creating meaningful moments that support their overall well-being. Treats become more than indulgence—they become tools for enrichment, joy, and a healthier lifestyle.
Ingredients to Avoid in Dog Treats
Not all treats marketed as “healthy” are truly beneficial for your dog. Here are some common ingredients to steer clear of:
Artificial Colors and Flavors: Additives with no nutritional value that can cause allergic reactions or digestive upset. These are often used to make treats more visually appealing to humans, not pets.
Corn Syrup or Sugar: Unnecessary sweeteners that can contribute to weight gain, diabetes, and dental issues over time. Dogs don’t need sugar in their treats, so it’s best to avoid it altogether.
Meat By-Products: A vague term that can include low-quality animal parts such as organs, connective tissue, or bones. Always choose treats with clear, single-protein sources like “chicken” or “beef” instead of ambiguous ingredients.
To ensure you’re offering only the best, opt for all natural dog treats like those from Remy’s Kitchen. Their treats are free from questionable additives, making them a clean and healthy choice for your dog.
Why Remy’s Kitchen Freeze-Dried Treats Are a Must-Have
Remy’s Kitchen has redefined what it means to create good dog treats. Their freeze-dried treats are:
Pure and Simple: Made with single-source proteins and no additives, ensuring your pets get clean, nutrient-rich snacks without unnecessary fillers or preservatives.
Versatile: Suitable for both dogs and cats, making them a cost-effective option for multi-pet homes. Whether you’re rewarding your dog for good behavior or sprinkling a treat over your cat’s meal, these treats deliver premium nutrition for both.
Convenient: Shelf-stable and mess-free, perfect for at-home use, road trips, or outdoor adventures. They’re lightweight, easy to store, and always ready to serve.
With Remy’s Kitchen, you’re not just giving your pet a treat—you’re giving them a product made with care, quality, and their overall well-being in mind. Each bite supports their health and keeps their taste buds happy, making every moment special.
Conclusion: Why Good Dog Treats Matter
Choosing good dog treats is about more than satisfying cravings—it’s about supporting your dog’s overall well-being. By focusing on simple, all-natural ingredients, avoiding harmful additives, and considering freeze-dried options like those from Remy’s Kitchen, you can ensure every treat enhances your pet’s life.
Whether you’re training, rewarding, or simply bonding, healthy snacks play an important role. So the next time you reach for a treat, make it one that you can feel good about. Your furry friend will thank you with wagging tails and endless affection.
