The Ultimate Guide to the Best Dog Treats for Training in the UK
Emphasising the Importance of Natural Dog Treats
When it comes to choosing the best treats for your furry training partner, one essential factor to keep in mind is the quality of the treats you offer. We highly recommend opting for natural dog treats whenever possible, steering clear of ultra-processed foods (UPF) and processed treats. Additionally, it's crucial to avoid certain treats made of rawhide or dog chews containing rawhide.
Why Natural Dog Treats Matter:
Nutritional Value: Natural treats often contain fewer artificial additives, fillers, and preservatives. This means that they can be more nutritious for your dog and contribute positively to their overall well-being.
Healthier Ingredients: Natural treats are made from wholesome ingredients that are easier for your dog to digest. This can be especially important for dogs with sensitive stomachs or allergies.
Motivation and Training: Dogs tend to respond better to natural treats due to their appealing taste and aroma. These treats are more likely to hold your dog's attention and motivate them during training sessions.
Why Avoid Rawhide:
Rawhide treats and chews may seem like a popular option, but they come with certain risks:
Digestive Issues: Rawhide is often difficult for dogs to digest and can lead to gastrointestinal problems, including blockages and diarrhoea.
Choking Hazard: Dogs can break off pieces of rawhide that pose a choking hazard, especially for small breeds or aggressive chewers.
Chemical Treatments: The process of making rawhide treats often involves chemicals and preservatives, which may not be safe for your dog.
Prioritising natural dog treats is a key step in ensuring your dog's health and safety during training. These treats are not only more nutritious but also more appealing to your dog's senses. And with that, let’s move onto our list of the best dog treats UK has to offer.
The Best Dog Treats for Training
Natural Pate:
We often talk about the pate here, and have even made a few videos about it because our dog loves it! JR Pet Products offers high-quality pate treats made from natural ingredients. These treats are not only delicious but also highly motivating for dogs during training sessions. They are available in various flavours, making them suitable for different preferences. Best of all, you can buy a giant tube of it and cut it up into bite-size bits for your dog and freeze them to use over the coming weeks.
Dangers: Be cautious about overfeeding your dog with pate treats, as they can be high in fat. Ensure that you adjust your dog's daily calorie intake accordingly to prevent weight gain.
Cheese:
Cheese is a classic choice for dog training treats because it's both tasty and easy to portion. Dogs generally love the smell and flavour of cheese, making it an effective motivator.
Dangers: While cheese can be a great occasional treat, it can be high in fat and salt so use it sparingly.
Blueberries:
These tiny, nutrient-packed berries are a great source of antioxidants and are usually well-received by dogs. They make for a tasty and healthy snack.
Dangers: None, but too many can cause digestive upset.
Carrot Sticks:
Many dogs love the satisfying crunch of carrot sticks. They are low in calories and provide essential vitamins and minerals.
Dangers: While there isn’t much in terms of dietary danger with carrots, they could prove to be a choking hazard for smaller dogs so be sure to cut them into small, manageable sticks.
Chicken and Other Lean Cooked Meats:
Cooked chicken is a fantastic natural training treat that most dogs find irresistible. You can cut it into small, bite-sized pieces for easy handling during training sessions.
Dangers: Ensure the chicken is plain and cooked without any seasoning, bones, or skin, as these can be harmful to dogs. Moderation is key to preventing weight gain.
Frozen Peas or Green Beans:
Freeze these veggies for a refreshing, low-calorie treat. They can also be a good option for dogs on a diet.
Dangers: None, just make sure they aren’t sweetened in any way.
Biltong:
Biltong is a dried meat snack originating in South Africa that dogs often love. It's a high-value treat with an intense flavour that can be particularly effective for training. Usually, it’s for humans, and shouldn’t confused with jerky which has sugar in it.
Dangers: Some commercial biltong products may contain preservatives and spices that aren't suitable for dogs. Look for plain, unseasoned biltong options and provide it in moderation.
Using Their Own Food (if they enjoy it):
Many dogs enjoy their regular food, and using it as a training treat can be a convenient and healthy option. This is especially useful for dogs with sensitive stomachs or dietary restrictions.
Dangers: Be mindful of the overall daily calorie intake when using regular food as treats. Adjust the amount of their regular meals accordingly to avoid overfeeding.
Finding the Best Treats for Dog Training
Finding the best dog treats for training in the UK involves considering your dog's preferences and dietary needs. While these treats can be highly motivating, always remember to moderate your dog's intake to prevent weight gain and other health issues. Consult with your veterinarian if you have any concerns about your dog's diet or training treats, and enjoy the bonding experience that training can bring to you and your beloved canine companion.