Best Dog Treats for Every Pup - Natural & Healthy Snacks
Written by: Henry F.
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Time to read 13 min
Choosing the best dog treats starts with selecting a high-quality protein source that is natural and free from additives or fillers. Different proteins provide unique benefits, and some are better suited for specific dietary needs. This guide explores the best dog treats by protein type, highlighting top choices for nutrition and taste, as well as treats that are best avoided to support your dog’s health and well-being.
Beef treats are rich in protein and iron, making them a great choice for active dogs. They are widely available and come in various forms, including jerky, liver treats, and air-dried beef strips. However, some dogs may have sensitivities to beef, so it’s important to monitor for any allergic reactions. This is the best dog treat with beef in our opinion.
Ziwi Peak Beef Weasand is an air-dried, high-protein treat made from beef esophagus, offering a natural, nutrient-rich snack that is one of the best dog treats made of beef you can buy. Packed with essential amino acids, it supports muscle health and overall well-being. The air-drying process retains maximum nutrition while ensuring a chewy yet digestible texture, making it a great option for both training rewards and everyday snacking.
Unlike many processed treats, Ziwi Peak Beef Weasand is free from artificial additives, fillers, and preservatives, making it a healthy, natural alternative for pet owners looking for high-quality, single-ingredient snacks. Its chewy texture promotes dental health by helping to reduce plaque and tartar buildup. However, this treat does not contain Omega-3, so it lacks the skin and coat benefits of seafood-based options. Whether used for positive reinforcement during training or as a satisfying snack, this treat is the best dog treat for beef-loving dogs.
ziwipets.com
Single-ingredient & natural
High in protein & essential nutrients
Air-dried for maximum nutrition
Supports dental health through chewing
Great for training & rewards
No Omega-3 content
Can be tough for some dogs to chew
Not suitable for dogs with beef allergies
Turkey-Based Best Dog Treat
Turkey is a lean, high-protein option that makes an excellent choice for dogs needing a nutritious and easily digestible treat. Rich in essential amino acids, B vitamins, and minerals, turkey supports muscle development, energy levels, and overall well-being. It is a great alternative to chicken, especially for dogs with sensitivities to common proteins. Often available in air-dried, freeze-dried, or jerky-style treats, turkey provides a flavorful and healthy snack without excessive fat or additives, making it perfect for training rewards or everyday treats. This is the best dog treat with turkey in our opinion.
AFreschi Turkey Tendon Chews are all-natural, single-ingredient chews made from 100% turkey tendons, offering a high-protein, easily digestible alternative to rawhide. These air-dried chews provide a long-lasting, satisfying chew while being gentle on the stomach, making them a great choice for dogs with sensitive digestion or common protein allergies. Their firm yet flexible texture naturally supports dental health, helping to reduce plaque and tartar buildup while keeping dogs engaged.
Unlike harder chews like antlers or bones, AFreschi Turkey Tendon Chews are highly digestible and safer for all breeds, including puppies and seniors. They are low in fat and free from artificial additives, preservatives, and fillers, ensuring a pure, natural chewing experience. However, these chews do not contain Omega-3, so they lack the skin and coat benefits of seafood-based treats which are the best dog treats you can buy.
afreshi.com
Single-ingredient & natural
High in protein & low in fat
Air-dried for long-lasting chewing
Supports dental health by reducing plaque
Great for dogs with common protein allergies
No Omega-3 content
May not last long for aggressive chewers
Can become soft and break apart with extended chewing
Chicken & Poultry-Based Best Dog Treat
Chicken and other poultry treats are highly palatable and easy to digest, making them ideal for training and everyday rewards. They provide a good source of protein and amino acids but can be common allergens for some dogs. Look for minimally processed options without artificial additives. This is the best dog treat made with chicken in our opinion.
PCI Chicken Nibbles are air-dried, high-protein dog treats made from 100% natural chicken, offering a tasty and easily digestible snack for dogs of all sizes. These single-ingredient treats are free from artificial additives, fillers, and preservatives, making them a wholesome choice for pet owners looking to provide a natural, protein-rich reward. Their small, bite-sized pieces make them perfect for training, ensuring a quick and convenient treat that keeps dogs engaged.
The air-drying process preserves the natural flavor and nutrients while maintaining a soft yet chewy texture, making these treats suitable for puppies, seniors, and dogs with sensitive teeth. However, they do not contain Omega-3, so they lack the skin and coat benefits of seafood-based treats which are the best dog treats you can buy. Additionally, since chicken is a common protein, they may not be suitable for dogs with poultry allergies, and their soft texture may not provide much chewing satisfaction for dogs that prefer crunchier treats.
pcipet.com
Single-ingredient & natural
High in protein & easily digestible
Small size, perfect for training
Soft texture, great for puppies & seniors
Free from artificial additives & preservatives
No Omega-3 content
Not suitable for dogs with chicken allergies
Soft texture may not satisfy dogs that prefer crunchier treats
Seafood-Based Best Dog Treat
Seafood-based treats are an excellent source of Omega-3 fatty acids, which support skin, coat, and joint health. For this reason alone, seafood dog treats are one of the best dog treats you can buy. Alfie’s Treatos offers a range of air-dried seafood treats, including sardines, salmon skin, mussels, and prawns. These single-ingredient treats are natural, nutritious, and sustainably sourced. This is of course our favorite and in our opinion, the absolute best dog treat!
Alfie’s Treatos New Zealand Green-Lipped Mussel Dog Treats are air-dried, single-ingredient treats made from 100% New Zealand Green-Lipped Mussels, providing a natural, nutrient-rich snack packed with essential health benefits. These mussels are an exceptional source of Omega-3 fatty acids, known for their anti-inflammatory properties, making them a great choice for supporting joint health, mobility, and overall well-being. The air-drying process preserves the mussels' natural nutrients while enhancing their flavor and crunch, making them a delicious and highly digestible treat for dogs.
These treats are ideal for dogs of all ages, especially those with arthritis or joint issues, thanks to the high concentration of Omega-3s and glucosamine. As a single-ingredient treat, they are free from fillers, artificial additives, and preservatives, making them perfect for dogs with food sensitivities or allergies.
However, they can be more expensive than standard protein treats due to the premium sourcing of New Zealand Green-Lipped Mussels.
Single-ingredient & natural
High in Omega-3s for joint health & mobility
Air-dried to retain maximum nutrients
Great for dogs with food sensitivities
Highly enticing treats with a strong seafood aroma, making them excellent for training and rewards
More expensive than standard protein treats
Lamb-Based Best Dog Treat
Lamb is a nutrient-dense protein that is great for dogs with sensitivities to beef or poultry. It is naturally rich in essential fatty acids and supports a healthy coat and skin. Lamb treats, such as dehydrated lung or jerky, offer a high-value option for training or rewards. This is the best dog treat made with lamb in our opinion.
Canine Cravers Lamb Fillets are air-dried, high-protein dog treats made from 100% natural lamb, providing a nutrient-dense and highly palatable snack for dogs of all sizes. These single-ingredient treats are free from fillers, artificial additives, and preservatives, making them a wholesome, minimally processed option for pet owners who want to feed their dogs a pure, protein-rich reward. The air-drying process helps retain natural nutrients while enhancing the chewy texture and rich flavor, making them a high-value treat for training or everyday snacking.
Lamb is a great alternative protein for dogs with sensitivities to chicken or beef, offering essential amino acids and B vitamins to support muscle health and energy levels. The soft, chewy texture makes these fillets easy to break into smaller pieces, perfect for training rewards or portion control. However, they do not contain Omega-3, so they lack the skin and coat benefits of seafood-based treats which are the best dog treats to buy. Additionally, lamb is a higher-fat protein, which may not be ideal for dogs on a low-fat diet, and these fillets may not last long for heavy chewers.
caninecravers.com
Single-ingredient & natural
High in protein & rich in essential nutrients
Air-dried to retain maximum flavor & nutrition
Soft, chewy texture—great for training & portion control
Ideal for dogs with common protein allergies
No Omega-3 content
Higher in fat compared to leaner proteins
Not a long-lasting chew for heavy chewers
Venison-Based Best Dog Treat
Venison is a lean and hypoallergenic protein source, making it a great alternative for dogs with food allergies. It is high in B vitamins and iron, promoting overall health and energy levels. Venison treats are often air-dried or freeze-dried, preserving their natural nutrients. This is the best dog treat with venison in our opinion.
Ziwi Venison Lung & Kidney treats are air-dried, single-protein treats made from 100% New Zealand venison, offering a high-protein, nutrient-dense option for dogs and is one of the best dog treat made with venison you can buy. The combination of lung and kidney provides a natural source of essential vitamins and minerals, including iron, zinc, and B vitamins, which support muscle development, immune function, and overall well-being. The air-drying process preserves these nutrients while creating a light, crunchy texture that makes them easy to chew and highly palatable.
As a novel protein, venison is an excellent choice for dogs with food allergies or sensitivities to common proteins like beef or chicken. The light, crispy texture of lung makes these treats easy to break into smaller pieces, making them perfect for training. However, they do not contain Omega-3, so they lack the skin and coat benefits of seafood-based treats which are the best dog treats you can buy. Additionally, since organ meats are nutrient-dense, they should be fed in moderation to avoid an imbalance in a dog’s diet.
ziwipets.com
Single-ingredient & natural
High in protein & rich in essential nutrients
Air-dried for a light, crunchy texture
Easy to break, perfect for training
Great for dogs with common protein allergies
No Omega-3 content
Should be fed in moderation due to nutrient density
More expensive than common protein treats
Best Dry Dog Food
A good dry dog food should be nutritionally balanced, made with high-quality ingredients, and free from artificial additives. Look for options with real meat as the first ingredient, minimal fillers, and added Omega-3s for skin and coat health. Brands that use human-grade ingredients and incorporate probiotics for gut health are excellent choices.
In addition to being a complete meal, high-quality dry dog food can also be used as a treat for training or rewarding good behavior. Since kibble is part of a dog’s regular diet, it is usually considered a low-value reward compared to high-value treats like meat or seafood. However, its crunchy texture makes it easy to handle, and breaking it into smaller portions is a great way to provide a low-calorie, everyday reward without overfeeding. This is the best dog treat as a kibble in our opinion.
ORIJEN Original Dry Dog Food is a premium, high-protein kibble made with 90% animal ingredients, providing a biologically appropriate diet for dogs. This formula features fresh or raw free-run chicken and turkey, wild-caught fish, and cage-free eggs, ensuring high-quality protein sources to support muscle development and overall health. The whole-prey diet approach includes meat, organs, and bone, delivering essential nutrients naturally while minimizing the need for synthetic additives.
This grain-free, high-meat kibble is ideal for active dogs that thrive on a protein-rich diet. The freeze-dried liver coating enhances palatability, making it a great choice for picky eaters. However, while ORIJEN provides some Omega-3s from fish, its Omega-6 content is higher due to poultry ingredients. This means that a seafood-based dog treat is still the best dog treat to buy.
orijenpetfoods.com
85% animal ingredients for a biologically appropriate diet
High in protein to support muscle development
Whole-prey formula with meat, organs, and bone for balanced nutrition
Freeze-dried liver coating enhances flavor for picky eaters
Grain-free and free from artificial additives
Minimal Omega-3 content compared to seafood-based treats
More expensive than standard kibble
May be too rich for dogs with sensitive stomachs
Dog Treats We Don’t Recommend
Not all treats are safe or beneficial for dogs. Some commonly sold dog treats can be harmful to your pet’s health, either due to poor digestibility, excessive hardness, or toxic components. Below are the treats we advise against and why.
Shark-Based Treats
Shark treats may be marketed as a unique protein source, but they come with significant drawbacks. Many shark species are overfished, leading to ecosystem damage and contributing to the decline of marine populations. Additionally, shark meat contains high mercury levels, which can accumulate in your dog’s system over time, potentially leading to long-term health risks. The best dog treats are sustainable and don't contain elements such as mercury.
Rawhide
Rawhide is a common treat, but it poses serious risks. It is difficult to digest and can expand in the stomach, leading to blockages. Additionally, rawhide is often processed with chemicals that may be harmful to dogs. When chewed into small pieces, it can become a choking hazard or cause obstructions in the digestive tract., especially when chewed into small pieces. The best dog treats are easy to digest and are not processed with chemicals.
Hooves & Antlers
While hooves and antlers are marketed as long-lasting chews, their extreme hardness can lead to serious dental damage. Many dogs suffer from fractured teeth or gum injuries from chewing on these tough materials. Unlike softer alternatives, hooves and antlers do not break down easily, increasing the risk of injury, leading to costly dental issues. The best dog treats don't have any risk of dental issues.
Bones
Cooked bones are extremely dangerous as they can splinter into sharp fragments, potentially causing internal injuries or blockages. Even raw bones, particularly weight-bearing bones, can be too hard and lead to dental fractures. Safer alternatives include softer, natural chews that provide the same enjoyment without the risks. The best dog treats don't incur any risk to your pup.
Highly Processed Treats
Highly processed dog treats often contain artificial preservatives, colors, and flavor enhancers that offer little to no nutritional value. These treats can include excess sugars, salts, and fillers that contribute to obesity and long-term health issues. Many commercial dog biscuits and soft chews fall into this category, with ingredients designed to extend shelf life rather than promote your dog’s well-being. Opting for minimally processed, natural alternatives ensures that your dog receives optimal nutrition while avoiding unnecessary additives. The best dog treats put your dogs well-being first.
Why Choose Alfie’s Treatos for Your Dog?
At Alfie’s Treatos, we are committed to providing the best dog treats, which are high-quality and natural that your pup will love. Our treats are:
100% air-dried seafood – No additives, just pure, nutrient-rich ingredients.
Packed with Omega-3s – Naturally supports skin, coat, and joint health.
Single-ingredient & highly digestible – Ideal for training, rewarding, or meal toppers.
If you’re looking for a healthy, natural, and delicious treat for your dog, Alfie’s Treatos is the perfect choice!
Why choose seafood dog treats over beef or chicken?
Seafood dog treats are packed with Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids, supporting healthy skin, a shiny coat, and strong joints - benefits often missing in beef or chicken treats.
Why choose Australian and New Zealand seafood?
Seafood from Australia and New Zealand is celebrated for its quality and sustainability. Pristine waters and strict regulations guarantee low-pollutant, delicious treats your dog will adore.
Why dehydrated and not freeze dried?
Freeze-drying can damage cells through ice crystal formation. Our gentle dehydration process preserves nutrients, keeping our treats naturally wholesome and nutritious.
What sets our seafood dog treats apart from the rest?
We treat our dog to the same quality we’d eat ourselves. That’s why our treats are human-grade and made to the highest standards.
Choosing the Best Dog Treats for Your Dog
Choosing the best dog treats is essential for supporting your pup's health, training, and overall well-being. By selecting high-quality, natural treats suited to your dog’s dietary needs, you can provide both delicious rewards and essential nutrients. Whether opting for protein-rich beef, hypoallergenic venison, or Omega-3-packed seafood treats, prioritizing minimally processed, sustainably sourced options is key. Avoiding harmful treats like rawhide, processed snacks, and unsafe chews ensures your dog stays happy and healthy. With Alfie’s Treatos, you can confidently give your dog the best dog treats which are nutritious and safe.
Henry is the founder of Alfie’s Treatos, a premium Australian brand specializing in single-ingredient seafood dog treats. Inspired by his English Cocker Spaniel, Alfie, he crafts nutritious, air-dried treats rich in Omega-3 using sustainably sourced Australian and New Zealand seafood. With a background in business and finance, Henry is passionate about providing healthier, additive-free alternatives for dogs while expanding Alfie’s Treatos across wholesale, retail, and international markets.
