Does your furry friend have diabetes? It can be tough when your dog needs special care, especially when it comes to treats. You want to spoil them, but you also need to keep their blood sugar in check. It’s a balancing act, and finding the right treats can feel like a treasure hunt with no map!
Choosing dog treats for a diabetic dog isn’t easy. You worry about ingredients that could cause a sugar spike or upset their stomach. Many treats are packed with things that aren’t good for a dog with diabetes, making it hard to know what’s safe and healthy. You might feel frustrated or overwhelmed trying to find options that are both delicious and beneficial for your dog’s health.
But don’t worry! This post is here to help. We’ll guide you through what to look for in diabetic-friendly treats. You’ll learn about ingredients to avoid and discover the best types of treats that your dog will love. By the end, you’ll feel confident in your choices and be able to give your dog a healthy, tasty reward. Let’s dive in and find some perfect treats for your diabetic pup!
Our Top 5 Dog Treats For Diabetic Dogs Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Dog Treats For Diabetic Dogs Detailed Reviews
1. Old Dog Cookie Company Tiny Diabetic Dog Treats
Rating: 9.1/10
The Old Dog Cookie Company Tiny Diabetic Dog Treats are a fantastic option for dog owners looking for healthy, low-calorie snacks for their furry friends. These all-natural, vet-approved treats are specifically designed to help manage blood sugar and support overall wellness. They’re perfect for dogs of all ages and sizes, offering a guilt-free way to reward your pet.
What We Like:
- Diabetic-Friendly & All-Natural: These are the first diabetic-friendly, all-natural treats. They help regulate blood sugar and support wellness.
- Low Calorie: Each treat has only 2 calories, making them great for weight management and for dogs with diabetes.
- Pumpkin-Powered Nutrients: Real pumpkin puree and botanicals support digestion, immune health, and steady energy.
- No Added Sugar or Artificial Ingredients: Made with human-grade ingredients, these treats have no preservatives, added sugar, salt, or artificial chemicals.
- Great for Training: Their small size and crunchy texture make them ideal for training and rewarding good behavior.
- Generous Pack Size: The 8 oz bag contains over 225 treats, ensuring you have plenty on hand.
What Could Be Improved:
- While designed for diabetic dogs, it’s always important to monitor your dog’s overall intake and consult your vet.
These treats offer a healthy and delicious way to care for your dog. You can feel good about giving your pup these nutritious snacks.
2. Old Dog Cookie Company All Natural Diabetic Dog Treats – Vet Approved Snacks
Rating: 8.9/10
The Old Dog Cookie Company All Natural Diabetic Dog Treats offer a healthy and delicious way to reward your furry friend, especially if they have diabetes or need to watch their sugar intake. These vet-approved snacks are made with natural ingredients and are designed to support healthy blood sugar levels.
What We Like:
- First diabetic-friendly and all-natural formula: These treats were specifically created for diabetic dogs, helping with blood sugar regulation.
- Pumpkin-powered nutrients: Real pumpkin puree is included, which is great for digestion and packed with vitamins and antioxidants. Apples and dandelion also contribute to healthy blood sugar and immune function.
- No added sugar or artificial ingredients: You can trust these biscuits because they use human-grade ingredients and are made in the USA. They contain no added sugar, salt, preservatives, or artificial chemicals.
- Low-calorie and high-value rewards: Each cookie is only 16 calories, making them perfect for training or as a daily treat without adding too many calories.
- Crunchy texture supports chewing: The hard biscuit texture is good for your dog’s teeth and enjoyable to chew.
- Convenient 10 oz resealable pouch: The treats stay fresh from the first bite to the last. Each bag has about 40 treats.
What Could Be Improved:
- Treats should be a small part of the diet: Remember that treats should make up no more than 10% of your dog’s daily calorie intake to maintain a healthy balance.
These treats are a smart and healthy choice for dog owners who want the best for their pets, especially those managing diabetes. They provide a tasty reward that supports your dog’s well-being.
3. Marcy’s Pet Kitchen-Diabetic Dog Treats-Vet Recommend-No Preservatives – Crunchy
Rating: 9.5/10
Marcy’s Pet Kitchen Diabetic Dog Treats are a vet-recommended, all-natural choice for your furry friend. These crunchy, vegan, and gluten-free treats are made with simple, wholesome ingredients, perfect for dogs with sensitive stomachs. They’re also packed with superfoods and contain no preservatives, dyes, or added salt.
What We Like:
- Vet Recommended & All-Natural: These treats are backed by vets and made with clean, simple ingredients.
- Gentle on Sensitive Stomachs: Vegan, gluten-free, and low glycemic, they are easy to digest.
- Real Superfood Ingredients: Packed with carrots, sweet potato, and peas for a healthy boost.
- No Nasties: Free from preservatives, dyes, and added salt.
- Female Founded & Charitable: Created by a dog mom, with proceeds supporting the Onyx Foundation.
- Made in the USA: You can trust the quality and origin of these treats.
- Crunchy Texture: Dogs love the satisfying crunch.
- Featured in Trusted Publications: Recognized by Good Housekeeping and Pets Plus Magazine.
What Could Be Improved:
- Limited Availability: Being handmade in small batches means they might sell out quickly.
- Bag Size: Some owners might prefer a larger bag size for frequent treaters.
Marcy’s Pet Kitchen offers a truly wholesome and trustworthy treat option for dogs with dietary needs. You can feel good about giving your dog these nutritious, delicious snacks.
4. DogaBetix Ella’s Diabetic Dog Treats Chicken (8oz) – Low Glycemic Ingredients – Vet Approved – Made in USA by Owners of Diabetic Dogs – Developed to Help Keep Glucose Levels Stable
Rating: 9.1/10
DogaBetix Ella’s Diabetic Dog Treats Chicken (8oz) are specially made for dogs with diabetes. They use low glycemic ingredients to help keep your dog’s blood sugar steady. These treats are vet approved and made in the USA by people who understand what diabetic dogs need. They are designed to help manage glucose levels.
What We Like:
- These treats taste great, even for picky eaters.
- They are organic and made with only a few natural ingredients.
- You won’t find any artificial additives or preservatives in these treats.
- The recipe is made to help keep your dog’s glucose levels stable.
- They are vet approved, giving you peace of mind.
- Made in the USA by owners of diabetic dogs, so they know what works.
What Could Be Improved:
- The 8oz bag might be gone quickly for larger dogs or those who get treats often.
- While the ingredients are limited, some owners might prefer even fewer options to monitor.
If you’re looking for a healthy and tasty treat for your diabetic dog, DogaBetix Ella’s is a solid choice. They offer a good balance of flavor and health benefits.
5. Hank & Harley Chicken Jerky Sticks
Rating: 9.1/10
Hank & Harley Chicken Jerky Sticks are a fantastic option for dog owners seeking a healthy and natural treat for their furry friends. These soft, chewy sticks are made with premium chicken and pumpkin, offering a delicious taste that even picky eaters will love. With only five simple ingredients and no added sugar, flour, or fillers, you can feel good about rewarding your pet.
What We Like:
- Made with just 5 natural ingredients: tender chicken and pumpkin.
- Grain-free, so no corn, wheat, soy, or added sugar.
- Great value with about 100 sticks per 16 oz bag.
- Made in the USA with safe, high-quality ingredients.
- Over 90% chicken makes them a lean protein source.
- Low in carbohydrates, suitable for diabetic pets.
- Natural color variation is normal and a sign of no artificial colorants.
- Soft texture is easy for most dogs to chew.
What Could Be Improved:
- Color can vary between batches due to natural ingredients.
These Hank & Harley Chicken Jerky Sticks are a wholesome and tasty choice for any dog. They offer a guilt-free way to treat and train your beloved companion.
Choosing the Best Dog Treats for Diabetic Dogs
Managing diabetes in dogs requires careful attention to diet, and that includes treats! Treats are a fantastic way to reward your furry friend, train them, or just show them some love. But for diabetic dogs, not just any treat will do. We’ve put together a guide to help you find the healthiest and safest options.
Key Features to Look For
When you’re shopping for diabetic dog treats, keep these important features in mind:
- Low Glycemic Index (GI): This is super important! Treats with a low GI release sugar into your dog’s bloodstream slowly. This helps keep their blood sugar levels stable.
- High Protein Content: Protein helps dogs feel full and satisfied. It also supports muscle health.
- Healthy Fats: Look for treats with good sources of fats, like omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. These are good for their skin and coat.
- Limited Carbohydrates: Carbs can quickly raise blood sugar. Choose treats with very few carbohydrates.
- Natural Ingredients: Simple, recognizable ingredients are best. Avoid artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives.
- No Added Sugars or Sweeteners: This is a big one! Many regular dog treats are packed with sugar. Diabetic dog treats should not have any added sugars.
- Appropriate Portion Size: Even healthy treats should be given in moderation. Check the treat size and consider breaking larger ones into smaller pieces.
Important Materials to Consider
The ingredients in your dog’s treats matter a lot. Here are some good materials to look for:
- Lean Meats: Chicken, turkey, beef, and fish are excellent protein sources.
- Vegetables: Small amounts of low-carb vegetables like green beans, carrots (in moderation), and sweet potatoes can be good.
- Whole Grains (in very small amounts): Some treats might include a little bit of brown rice or oats. These are better than refined grains.
- Oats and Barley: These are good sources of fiber.
- Flaxseed and Chia Seeds: These provide healthy fats and fiber.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Several things can make a dog treat better or worse for a diabetic dog.
What Improves Quality:
- Vet-Approved Formulas: Treats that have been reviewed or recommended by veterinarians often meet specific nutritional standards.
- Clear Ingredient Lists: You can easily see what’s in the treat.
- Specific Claims: Brands that clearly state “low carb,” “diabetic-friendly,” or “limited ingredient” are usually a good sign.
- Good Texture: Treats that are easy for your dog to chew and digest are a plus.
What Reduces Quality:
- High Sugar Content: This is the biggest quality reducer.
- Artificial Additives: Colors, flavors, and preservatives can be harmful.
- Fillers: Ingredients like corn, wheat, and soy are often used as fillers and can spike blood sugar.
- Unknown Ingredients: If you can’t understand what’s in the treat, it’s probably not a good choice.
- High Fat Content (from unhealthy sources): Too much unhealthy fat can be bad for overall health.
User Experience and Use Cases
Diabetic dog owners often look for treats that make managing their dog’s health easier.
- Training: Diabetic-friendly treats are perfect for positive reinforcement training. You can reward good behavior without worrying about causing a blood sugar spike.
- Bonding: Giving your dog a healthy treat is a wonderful way to strengthen your bond.
- Pill Administration: Sometimes, it’s hard to give your dog their medication. Low-carb, natural treats can be a great way to hide pills.
- Peace of Mind: Knowing you’re giving your dog a treat that supports their health provides great peace of mind for owners.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) for Diabetic Dog Treats
Q: What are the main Key Features I should look for?
A: You should look for treats with a low glycemic index, high protein, healthy fats, limited carbohydrates, and natural ingredients. Avoid added sugars and artificial additives.
Q: Are all “natural” treats safe for diabetic dogs?
A: Not necessarily. While “natural” is a good start, you still need to check the carbohydrate and sugar content. Some natural ingredients can still affect blood sugar.
Q: Can I give my diabetic dog a small piece of regular dog treat?
A: It’s best to avoid this. Regular treats often have too much sugar and carbs, which can be dangerous for diabetic dogs. Stick to specially formulated diabetic treats.
Q: How often should I give my diabetic dog treats?
A: Always follow your veterinarian’s advice. Generally, treats should be given in moderation and accounted for in your dog’s overall daily calorie and carbohydrate intake.
Q: What are some good ingredients to avoid?
A: Avoid ingredients like corn, wheat, soy, added sugars, artificial sweeteners, honey, molasses, and excessive fillers. High-fat ingredients from unhealthy sources should also be limited.
Q: Can I make homemade treats for my diabetic dog?
A: Yes, you can! Many owners find success making homemade treats using approved ingredients. Always consult your vet for recipes and ingredient guidelines.
Q: What is the Glycemic Index (GI) and why is it important?
A: The Glycemic Index measures how quickly a food raises blood sugar. For diabetic dogs, a low GI is crucial for keeping blood sugar levels stable.
Q: How do I read a treat’s ingredient list?
A: Ingredients are listed in order from most to least. Look for protein sources and healthy fats at the top, and be wary of sugars and fillers appearing early.
Q: What are some signs that a treat is NOT good for my diabetic dog?
A: Signs include a sudden increase in thirst or urination after eating a treat, lethargy, or vomiting. If you notice these, stop giving the treat and contact your vet.
Q: Where can I find diabetic-friendly dog treats?
A: You can find them at pet supply stores, online retailers, and often through your veterinarian’s office. Always check the product descriptions and ingredient lists carefully.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
Hi, I’m Mallory Crusta, the heart and mind behind LovelyPetSpot.com.. As a passionate pet enthusiast, I created this space to share my experiences, expertise, and love for all things pets. Whether it’s helpful tips, heartfelt stories, or advice for pet parents, my mission is to make the journey of caring for your furry, feathery, or scaly friends as joyful and fulfilling as possible. Join me in celebrating the incredible bond we share with our animal companions!