Walk into any pet shop (or browse online) and you’ll quickly realise one thing: there are a lot of dog treats out there! 

From crunchy biscuits and meaty chews to natural dog treats and freeze-dried dog treats, the options can feel endless. And while they might all look tempting (especially to your dog), they actually serve very different purposes. 

Some are perfect for training, some support dental health, and some are designed for long-lasting enrichment. And others are packed with natural goodness for sensitive tummies! 

What are dog treats used for? 

Dog treats do much more than spoil your pup (although there's nothing wrong with that!)

Treats are commonly used for:

Reward-based training and positive reinforcement
Small, frequent treats help reinforce behaviours like sit, stay, recall, and loose-lead walking. Quick, easy-to-eat rewards keep training sessions flowing without distraction.

Building reliable recall outdoors
Higher-value dog treats, especially meat-based or freeze-dried options, can help your dog prioritise coming back to you over environmental distractions like other dogs or wildlife.

Encouraging calm behaviour at home

Long-lasting chews can support settling during busy household moments, such as when visitors arrive or when you’re working from home.

Providing mental stimulation and enrichment
Treats used in puzzle toys, snuffle mats or slow feeders encourage problem-solving and natural foraging behaviours.

Supporting dental hygiene
Specific dental dog treats are designed to complement brushing and reduce plaque build-up.

When you choose dog treats with a purpose in mind, they become part of your dog's well-being, not just that special snack. 

What are the different types of dog treats? 

There isn't just one type of dog treat! Each category has a different role. 

1. Soft training treats

These are small, easy-to-chew pieces designed for frequent rewards. Because they're quick to eat, they allow for fast-paced training sessions without interrupting focus. They’re particularly useful for puppies, early socialisation work or reinforcing new behaviours. 

2. Crunchy biscuits 

Traditional baked treats often have a firm texture and a longer shelf life. They're convenient for everyday use. Still, they are usually better suited for occasional rewards rather than repetitive training, as they take longer to chew. 

3. Meaty sticks and slices

These are often richer in aroma and flavour, making them more appealing for recall or outdoor training. They can usually be broken into smaller pieces, making portion control easier. 

4. Chew treats

Designed to last longer than bite-sized rewards, these encourage chewing and can help relieve boredom. They range from softer chew sticks to more durable natural options. 

Each type has its place. Choosing between them depends on how and when you plan to use them. 

What are natural dog treats, and are they better?

Natural dog treats focus on simplicity and transparency. 

Rather than long ingredient lists, they typically contain minimal components - often just one! 

Examples include: 

• Air-dried meat strips made from single protein sources 

These retain much of their natural flavour and can be ideal for dogs with allergies, as you know exactly what you’re feeding them. 

• Rabbit ears or chicken feet

These natural chews provide textures, enrichment and protein without artificial additives. 

• Beef liver or lung pieces

Often nutrient-dense and highly palatable, making them suitable for training rewards when broken into small pieces. 

• Sweet potato chews

A plant-based option for dogs who may not tolerate certain proteins, offering fibre alongside natural sweetness. 

Natural dog treats are often preferred by owners who want: 

• Clear ingredient lists with no hidden additives

• Options suitable for sensitive stomachs 

• Grain-free or single-protein varieties

• Less processed or alternatives to mass-produced snacks 
  

While natural dog treats can be an excellent choice, portion control still matters. Even minimally processed treats contribute to daily calorie intake. 

How Do Dental Dog Treats Work

Dental dog treats are formulated specifically to support oral health.

They usually feature:

• Textured surfaces or ridges that help scrape teeth
  As your dog chews, the friction helps reduce plaque build-up along the gumline.
  
  

• Firm consistency that encourages longer chewing time
  Extended chewing increases contact with teeth and stimulates saliva production.
  
  

• Shapes designed to reach between teeth
  Some dental dog treats are structured to help clean harder-to-reach areas.
  
  

Dental dog treats can:

• Help reduce tartar accumulation over time
  
  

• Support fresher breath
  
  

• Complement brushing routines
  
  

They are particularly useful for:

• Smaller breeds that are prone to dental issues
  
  

• Dogs who dislike toothbrushes
  
  

• Owners looking for practical daily support
  
  

They’re most effective when used consistently and alongside regular dental care.

What Are Freeze-Dried Dog Treats

Freeze-dried dog treats are made by removing moisture at low temperatures, preserving nutrients without heavy processing.

This method results in treats that are:

• High in protein and rich in flavour
  The concentrated taste makes them especially motivating for training.
  
  

• Lightweight and easy to store
  With moisture removed, they have a long shelf life without artificial preservatives.
  
  

• Often single-ingredient
  Many freeze-dried dog treats contain only one protein source, making them suitable for dogs with sensitivities.
  
  

They’re especially useful for:

• Recall training in distracting environments
  
  

• Teaching new behaviours
  
  

• Rewarding high-effort tasks
  
  

• Dogs who ignore standard biscuits
  
  

Because freeze-dried dog treats are often considered “high value”, they’re best used strategically rather than as everyday filler rewards.

What Are the Best Long-Lasting Dog Treats for Chewers

Some dogs naturally enjoy extended chewing sessions. Long-lasting dog treats help meet that need safely.

Common options include:

• Natural skin rolls or pizzle sticks
  Protein-rich chews that provide sustained engagement.
  
  

• Tendons and air-dried natural chews
  Tough textures that encourage steady chewing without artificial ingredients.
  
  

• Yak chews
  Hard, long-lasting options suited to determined chewers.
  
  

These treats can help:

• Reduce boredom during quiet afternoons
  
  

• Redirect destructive chewing behaviours.
  
  

• Provide calming stimulation through repetitive chewing.
  
  

• Offer enrichment beyond quick snack rewards.
  
  

Always supervise your dog with long-lasting chews and select an appropriate size based on breed and chewing strength.

How Do I Choose the Right Dog Treat for My Dog

Choosing the right dog treats depends on understanding your dog’s individual needs.

Consider:

• Age and life stage
  Puppies benefit from soft, small treats that are gentle on developing teeth. Senior dogs may prefer softer textures if dental sensitivity is present.
  
  

• Breed size and jaw strength
  Larger breeds need appropriately sized chews to avoid swallowing hazards. Smaller dogs require treats that are manageable and safe.
  
  

• Dietary sensitivities or allergies
  Single-protein natural dog treats allow you to control exposure and identify triggers more easily.
  
  

• Training goals
  High-value freeze-dried dog treats can significantly improve focus and motivation during recall or advanced training sessions.
  
  

• Dental health needs
  Dental dog treats can support oral care routines, particularly in breeds prone to plaque build-up.
  
  

Matching the treat to the purpose, and to your dog’s preferences, makes all the difference.

How Many Dog Treats Should a Dog Have Per Day

Even the best dog treats should be fed in moderation.

A simple rule to follow:

Treats should make up no more than 10% of your dog’s total daily calorie intake.

Practical ways to manage this include:

• Breaking larger treats into smaller pieces
  This allows you to reward more frequently without increasing calorie load.
  
  

• Adjusting meal portions slightly if needed
  If your dog receives several training rewards, reducing main meal portions can help maintain balance.
  
  

• Using tiny, high-value treats for repetitive training
  This keeps sessions effective without overfeeding.
  
  

• Monitoring body condition regularly
  Keeping an eye on weight and body shape helps ensure treats remain a positive addition rather than a health concern.
  
  

Treats should enhance your dog’s routine, not disrupt their nutritional balance.

Find Your Pup’s Perfect Treats at Woofingtons Emporium

Whether you’re looking for natural dog treats made with simple ingredients, dental dog treats to support oral health, freeze-dried dog treats for high-value training, or long-lasting chews for enrichment, Woofingtons Emporium brings together a carefully chosen range to suit every pup.

Explore the full collection of dog treats and chews and find options that match your dog’s needs, preferences and personality, because the right treat isn’t just a reward, it’s part of the everyday moments you share together.