How Many Treats Per Day for Your Dog?

Dog treats are a fun and effective way to reward your furry friends, whether for training, good behavior, or just because you love them. But how many treats are too many? Treats, while an excellent tool for bonding and reinforcing positive behavior, can lead to health problems like weight gain, dental issues, and poor behavior if not given in moderation. 

Let’s help you determine the right amount of treats for your dog based on their size, activity level, and overall health so you can keep them happy and healthy.

What Determines the Number of Treats I Give My Dog?

The number of treats you can give your dog safely depends on several factors. Here’s what you need to consider:

Daily Calories 

Like humans, dogs have daily calorie needs based on age, size, breed, and activity level. Treats should comprise no more than 10% of your dog’s daily caloric intake. 

For example, if your dog needs 500 calories daily, you should aim for no more than 50 calories from treats. Exceeding this limit can lead to weight gain, so staying within the recommended range is essential.

Activity Levels 

If your dog is very active, such as a working or sporting breed, they may require more calories throughout the day, meaning they can handle a few more treats. On the other hand, if your dog is more passive or getting older, you’ll need to be more careful with treats to avoid weight gain. Adjust the number of treats based on how active your dog is to keep their diet balanced.

Health Problems

If your dog has specific health conditions like diabetes, allergies, or a sensitive stomach, you need to be cautious about the treats you offer. For example, diabetic dogs benefit from low-sugar and low-carbohydrate treats, while dogs with allergies might need hypoallergenic options. Always consult your vet before introducing new treats, especially if your dog has any medical concerns.

Your Dog’s Weight

If your dog is underweight, overweight, or at a healthy weight, the type and number of treats you give should be adjusted accordingly. For overweight dogs, opt for low-calorie treats like green beans or small pieces of carrots. 

For underweight dogs, you might choose higher-calorie treats that include healthy fats. Treats can be a great way to manage weight if used thoughtfully in their diet plan.

The Rest of Your Dog’s Diet 

Consider what else your dog eats in a day. If your dog’s regular meals are already rich in calories, you must be more cautious about adding extra treats. 

Dogs on special diets, like low-fat or hypoallergenic foods, should have treats that match these restrictions. Ensuring treats fit within your dog’s diet helps keep them feeling their best.

The Treat’s Nutritional Value 

Not all treats are created equal. Some are packed with sugar, fat, or artificial ingredients that can cause problems if given too often. 

Look for treats with nutritional benefits, such as those fortified with vitamins or made from single-ingredient sources like chicken or sweet potato. This way, you can feel confident that the treats you offer support your dog’s health.

How Many Treats Per Day Can You Give a Dog?

Here are some general guidelines based on the size and age of your dog:

Large Dogs 

Large breeds like Labradors, German Shepherds, or Golden Retrievers need more calories than smaller dogs, so they can have a bit more flexibility with treats. However, even for these dogs, treats should still not exceed 10% of their daily calorie intake. For instance, if your large dog needs 1,200 calories per day, keep treats under 120 calories.

Small Dogs 

Small dogs, such as Chihuahuas or Pomeranians, have much lower daily caloric needs, meaning even a few extra treats can push them over their limit. If your small dog’s daily intake is 300 calories, treats should be limited to about 30 calories. Choosing small, bite-sized treats is a great way to reward your small dog without overfeeding.

Adult Dogs 

Adult dogs usually have stable caloric needs, but their treat allowance still depends on their size and activity level. If your adult dog is moderately active, following the 10% rule is a safe way to manage their treat intake. To keep them healthy, look for treats that align with their nutritional needs, like protein-rich or low-fat options.

Puppies 

Puppies are growing and have unique nutritional needs. Their stomachs are small and have higher caloric demands, so treats should be used sparingly and very nutritious. Small, soft training treats work well for puppies, especially during training sessions. Make sure they fit within your puppy’s daily calorie requirements to support their growth.

What Types of Treats Should You Look For?

When choosing treats for your dog, quality matters. Here are some options to consider:

1. Healthy Treats: Look for treats made from natural ingredients without artificial preservatives, colors, or flavors. Whole-food-based treats, such as freeze-dried meat or vegetables, are excellent choices because they offer nutrition without unnecessary fillers.
   
2. Low-Calorie Treats Without Preservatives: If you’re watching your dog’s weight, low-calorie options are ideal. These treats are often made from lean proteins like chicken or fish or vegetables like sweet potatoes or green beans. Avoid treats with long ingredient lists, especially those that include artificial additives.
   
3. High-Value Treats: High-value treats, like freeze-dried liver or other single-ingredient treats, are great for training or when you need your dog’s full attention. These treats are usually very appealing to dogs and are packed with protein, making them healthy and effective.
   
4. Training Treats: When training your dog, you want small, soft treats that are easy to chew and swallow quickly. This helps keep your dog focused during training without filling them up. Look for treats that are specifically designed for training, as they are usually low-calorie and easy to handle.
   
5. Dental Chews: Dental chews are a great way to promote your dog’s oral health while giving them a treat. These chews help reduce tartar and plaque, but it’s important to choose the right size and hardness for your dog’s age and chewing habits. Make sure to pick dental chews that fit your dog’s needs to prevent any dental issues or choking hazards.
   
6. Interactive Treats (e.g., Treat Dispensers) Treat-dispensing toys, like KONGs, can be filled with your dog’s favorite treats or healthy fillers like peanut butter (without xylitol) or yogurt. These interactive toys provide a treat, give your dog mental stimulation, and keep them entertained. This is an excellent option for dogs that need something to do when you’re busy or away.

A Final Word on Dog Treats

Treats are an excellent way to bond with and reward your dog, but using them wisely is essential. Always keep treats within 10% of your dog’s daily caloric intake, choose options that match their health needs, and consult your veterinarian if you’re unsure about the best treats for your dog’s specific situation. 

By making informed choices, you can ensure that treats remain a positive and healthy part of your dog’s life.

Sources:

Veterinary Oral Health Council 

Diabetes in Dogs: Symptoms, Causes, Diagnosis, & Treatment | AKC 

How to Tell if Your Dog is Underweight | AKC

Proper Puppy Nutrition Nourishes Rapid Growth & Development