Imagine this: you’ve just welcomed a bouncing ball of Labrador puppy energy into your home! Their wagging tail and playful pounces melt your heart. But then comes the question: what kind of treats are best for these growing bundles of joy? It’s easy to get overwhelmed at the pet store, staring at rows and rows of colorful bags, wondering which ones are truly healthy and safe for your little Lab.
Choosing the right dog treats for your Lab puppy isn’t just about rewarding good behavior; it’s about supporting their rapid growth and development. You want treats that are nutritious, easy to digest, and won’t upset their sensitive puppy tummies. Plus, the wrong treats can lead to picky eaters or even health issues down the line. It’s a big responsibility!
But don’t worry! This blog post is here to guide you through the exciting world of puppy treats. We’ll break down what to look for, what to avoid, and help you find the perfect rewards that your Lab puppy will absolutely love. By the end, you’ll feel confident and prepared to choose treats that will make training a breeze and keep your furry friend happy and healthy.
Our Top 5 Dog Treats For Lab Puppies Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Dog Treats For Lab Puppies Detailed Reviews
1. PetLab Co. Salmon Bites for Dogs – Rich in Beneficial Fatty Acids
Rating: 9.3/10
Give your furry friend a taste of pure goodness with PetLab Co. Salmon Bites for Dogs. These premium salmon treats are packed with all the good stuff your dog needs to thrive. They’re not just delicious; they’re a powerhouse of beneficial fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals. Your pup will go wild for the rich salmon flavor, making training and rewarding them a joy.
What We Like:
- Packed with vitamins and minerals for great overall health.
- Soft texture makes them perfect for puppy training and rewarding.
- The salmon flavor is a big hit and will have dogs begging for more.
- Works wonders when combined with PetLab Co.’s Probiotic Chews for gut, skin, and coat health.
- Made with high-quality ingredients sourced from the US and prime global locations.
- Proudly manufactured in the USA.
- A healthy way to invest in your dog’s well-being.
What Could Be Improved:
- The bag could be larger for frequent treaters.
- Availability might be limited outside of subscription services.
These Salmon Bites are a fantastic, healthy choice for any dog owner. They offer a delicious way to support your dog’s health and happiness.
2. N-Bone Puppy Teething Treats
Rating: 8.9/10
Puppies go through a lot of chewing when they’re little! Their teeth are growing, and their gums can feel sore. That’s where N-Bone Puppy Teething Treats come in. These chicken-flavored treats are made just for teething puppies. They help soothe that discomfort and give your furry friend something safe and tasty to chew on.
What We Like:
- These treats taste great, and puppies love the chicken flavor!
- They are made with all-natural ingredients. You won’t find any fake colors or preservatives here.
- The texture is soft and pliable, which is gentle on a puppy’s new, sensitive teeth.
- They are designed to help ease the pain and soreness that comes with teething.
- These treats are completely edible and easy for your puppy to digest.
- They work for puppies of all sizes, from tiny pups to larger breeds.
What Could Be Improved:
- The 3.74 oz bag might go quickly if you have a very enthusiastic chewer.
- While the chicken flavor is a hit, offering a few more natural flavor options could be nice for variety.
Overall, N-Bone Puppy Teething Treats are a fantastic option for any puppy parent. They offer a natural and effective way to help your puppy through the challenging teething phase.
3. Blue Buffalo Baby BLUE Training Treats Natural Puppy Soft Dog Treats
Rating: 8.7/10
Training your new puppy just got a whole lot tastier and healthier with Blue Buffalo Baby BLUE Training Treats! These small, soft bites are packed with savory chicken flavor and crafted with your puppy’s development in mind. They’re the perfect reward to encourage good behavior during those important training sessions.
What We Like:
- REAL CHICKEN FIRST: Made with delicious real chicken as the very first ingredient.
- BRAIN BOOSTER: Contains DHA, which is great for your puppy’s cognitive development.
- PERFECT FOR TRAINING: These treats are tender and bite-sized, making them easy for puppies to chew and perfect for rewarding good behavior.
- WHOLESOME GOODNESS: Absolutely no chicken by-product meals, corn, wheat, or soy.
- NATURAL & HEALTHY: Free from artificial preservatives and colors, so you know you’re giving your puppy the best.
- PUPPY APPROVED TASTE: Your puppy will love the meaty flavor!
What Could Be Improved:
- The 4-oz bag might be gone quickly if you have a particularly enthusiastic learner (or a very hungry puppy!).
- While the packaging information is accurate, the digital and physical packaging might look slightly different.
These treats offer a nutritious and delicious way to bond with your puppy during training. They’re a fantastic choice for rewarding your furry friend’s progress.
4. Pup Labs Fresh Breathies
Rating: 8.9/10
Tired of that not-so-fresh doggy breath? Pup Labs Fresh Breathies are here to help! These all-natural dental chews are designed to tackle bad breath head-on while also giving your dog’s health a boost. They’re not just treats; they’re a smart way to care for your dog’s teeth, gums, and even their tummy. Made with good-for-you ingredients, these chews are crafted with your dog’s well-being in mind.
What We Like:
- Effectively freshens your dog’s breath, leaving them kissably clean.
- Uses natural ingredients like mint, parsley, and spirulina – no artificial stuff here!
- Supports gut health and the immune system, thanks to the power of spirulina.
- Handmade and slow-cooked to keep all the good stuff intact.
- Proudly made in the USA with high quality standards.
What Could Be Improved:
- The 30-count bag might go quickly for larger or multiple-dog households.
- Some picky eaters might need a little encouragement to try them at first.
Pup Labs Fresh Breathies offer a natural and effective solution for doggy dental care. Give your furry friend the gift of fresh breath and better health.
5. Old Mother Hubbard Wellness Puppy Dog Biscuits
Rating: 9.4/10
Old Mother Hubbard Wellness Puppy Dog Biscuits are a fantastic choice for your growing puppy. These mini, crunchy treats are made with natural ingredients and come in a delicious oatmeal and chicken flavor. They are perfect for training and add good nutrition to your puppy’s diet. They include real peanut butter, fruits, and vegetables.
What We Like:
- The mini size is perfect for training puppies.
- They are made with all-natural ingredients, like real peanut butter, fruits, and vegetables.
- The oatmeal and chicken flavor is a hit with puppies.
- They contain added vitamins and minerals specifically for puppies.
- The biscuits are slowly oven-baked to keep the natural flavors.
- They are made in North America with carefully chosen ingredients.
- No artificial preservatives or meat byproducts are used.
- Old Mother Hubbard has been making these treats since 1926, so they have a long history of quality.
What Could Be Improved:
- The crunchy texture might be difficult for very young puppies with sensitive teeth.
- While natural, some puppies might have sensitivities to specific ingredients like oatmeal or chicken.
These treats offer a healthy and heartfelt way to reward your puppy. You can feel good about giving them a tasty snack that supports their development.
Choosing the Best Treats for Your Lab Puppy
Labrador puppies are bundles of energy and love. They grow fast and need the right nutrition to support their development. Treats play a big role in training and bonding with your new furry friend. But with so many options, how do you pick the best ones? This guide will help you find the perfect treats for your growing Lab puppy.
Key Features to Look For
When you’re shopping for Lab puppy treats, keep these important features in mind.
- Size and Shape: Treats should be small enough for your puppy to chew easily without choking. They should also be bite-sized for training rewards. Look for treats designed specifically for puppies.
- Digestibility: Puppies have sensitive tummies. Choose treats that are easy for them to digest. This means fewer upset stomachs and more happy wags.
- Nutritional Value: Good treats aren’t just tasty; they offer benefits. Look for treats with added vitamins and minerals that support bone growth and overall health.
- Dental Benefits: Some treats are designed to help clean your puppy’s teeth as they chew. This can help prevent plaque and keep their breath fresh.
- Limited Ingredients: For puppies, especially those with potential allergies, fewer ingredients are often better. This makes it easier to identify any ingredients that might cause a reaction.
Important Materials
The ingredients in your puppy’s treats matter a lot. Here’s what to look for and what to avoid.
- High-Quality Protein: Real meat, like chicken, lamb, or fish, should be the first ingredient. This provides essential building blocks for your puppy’s growth.
- Whole Grains and Vegetables: Ingredients like sweet potato, peas, and oats offer fiber and important nutrients. They are good sources of energy.
- Natural Preservatives: Look for natural preservatives like Vitamin E (tocopherols) or rosemary extract. These keep treats fresh without harmful chemicals.
- Avoid Artificial Additives: Steer clear of artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives. These offer no nutritional value and can be harmful.
- Be Wary of Fillers: Ingredients like corn, wheat, and soy can be fillers. They add bulk but don’t offer much nutrition. Some puppies can also be sensitive to them.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Not all treats are created equal. Here are some things that can make a treat great or not so great.
- Improved Quality:
- Made in Reputable Countries: Treats made in countries with strict quality control standards are usually safer.
- Vet Recommended: If a treat is recommended by veterinarians, it’s often a good sign of quality and safety.
- Specific Puppy Formulas: Treats designed for puppies are formulated with their unique nutritional needs in mind.
- Reduced Quality:
- Unknown Sourcing: If you can’t find out where the ingredients come from, it’s a red flag.
- Excessive Artificial Ingredients: Too many artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives lower the quality.
- High Sugar Content: Treats with added sugar are not good for puppies’ health.
User Experience and Use Cases
How you and your puppy experience the treats is a big part of the decision.
- Training: Small, tasty treats are perfect for rewarding good behavior during training sessions. They make learning fun and effective.
- Bonding: Sharing a treat can be a wonderful way to bond with your puppy. It creates positive interactions.
- Chew Time: Some larger, tougher treats can provide a satisfying chew, which helps with teething and keeps your puppy occupied.
- Puppy’s Enjoyment: Does your puppy gobble them up? If they love the taste, training becomes much easier.
- Digestive Upset: If your puppy gets diarrhea or vomiting after eating a treat, it’s not the right one for them.
Frequently Asked Questions About Lab Puppy Treats
Q: What is the most important thing to look for in Lab puppy treats?
A: The most important thing is that the treats are made with high-quality, digestible ingredients and are specifically formulated for puppies. They should also be appropriately sized for your puppy.
Q: Can I give my Lab puppy adult dog treats?
A: It’s generally not recommended. Puppy treats are made with specific nutritional needs in mind for growing dogs. Adult treats may not have the right balance of nutrients for a developing puppy.
Q: How often should I give my Lab puppy treats?
A: Treats should be given in moderation. They should make up no more than 10% of your puppy’s daily caloric intake. Use them mostly for training and positive reinforcement.
Q: What are some common ingredients to avoid in puppy treats?
A: You should avoid artificial colors, flavors, preservatives, high amounts of sugar, and excessive fillers like corn, wheat, and soy, especially if your puppy has sensitivities.
Q: Are dental chews good for Lab puppies?
A: Yes, dental chews can be beneficial for puppies as they help clean teeth and soothe gums during teething. However, choose ones specifically made for puppies, as adult ones might be too hard.
Q: My puppy has a sensitive stomach. What kind of treats should I choose?
A: Look for single-protein source treats or those with limited ingredients. Novel proteins (like duck or venison) or grain-free options can also be good choices.
Q: How do I know if a treat is too big for my puppy?
A: A treat is too big if your puppy struggles to chew it, tries to swallow it whole, or seems to choke on it. Puppy treats are usually small and easy to break apart.
Q: Can treats help with my puppy’s teething?
A: Yes, some puppy-specific treats and dental chews are designed to be chewed, which can help soothe sore gums and provide an outlet for their chewing instinct.
Q: What if my puppy doesn’t like a treat I bought?
A: Puppies can be picky! If your puppy doesn’t like a particular treat, try a different flavor or brand. Sometimes, it’s the texture or smell that they don’t prefer.
Q: Where can I find good quality Lab puppy treats?
A: You can find good quality treats at pet supply stores, reputable online retailers, and sometimes at your veterinarian’s office. Always check the ingredient list and reviews.
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!