Does your big furry friend deserve the best? Of course they do! But when it comes to choosing treats for your large dog, it can feel like a puzzle. You want something tasty that your dog will go crazy for, but you also need to make sure it’s good for them. It’s tough to know which ingredients are healthy and which ones to avoid, especially when your dog is bigger and might have different nutritional needs.
Finding the perfect treat can be a real challenge. You might worry about added sugars, artificial colors, or ingredients that could upset their tummy. Plus, a small treat just doesn’t cut it for a large breed! That’s why we’re diving deep into the world of healthy dog treats specifically designed for our giant companions.
By reading on, you’ll discover what makes a treat truly healthy for your large dog. We’ll explore key ingredients to look for and those to steer clear of. Get ready to learn how to pick treats that support their energy, joint health, and overall well-being, all while keeping their taste buds happy. Let’s find some delicious and nutritious options for your big boy or girl!
Our Top 5 Healthy Dog Treats For Large Dogs Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Healthy Dog Treats For Large Dogs Detailed Reviews
1. Pur Luv Dog Treats
Rating: 9.0/10
Give your furry friend a tasty and healthy reward with Pur Luv Dog Treats! These Chicken Jerky treats are made with 100% real chicken breast, making them a delicious and nutritious option for your dog. They are perfect for rewarding good behavior or just showing your pup some extra love.
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What We Like:
- Chicken is the first ingredient, meaning pure protein for your pup.
- These jerky treats are great for satisfying your dog’s need to chew.
- The limited ingredient list means you know exactly what you’re feeding your dog.
- They are a healthy snack, packed with protein and low in fat.
- No artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives are added, which is fantastic for your dog’s health.
- The high protein content (60.0%) is excellent for muscle health.
- They are easily digestible, which is good for sensitive tummies.
- The treats are long-lasting, giving your dog more enjoyment.
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What Could Be Improved:
- The bag is quite large at 16 ounces, which might be a lot for owners with only one small dog.
Pur Luv Chicken Jerky Dog Treats are a top-notch choice for pet parents who want the best for their dogs. They offer a simple, healthy, and satisfying chew that dogs will absolutely adore.
2. Blue Buffalo Health Bars Crunchy Dog Biscuits
Rating: 9.4/10
The Blue Buffalo Health Bars Crunchy Dog Biscuits in Pumpkin & Cinnamon flavor are a fantastic choice for rewarding your furry friend. These oven-baked treats are packed with wholesome ingredients that dog owners can feel good about. The natural goodness of pumpkin and cinnamon makes them a delicious snack that dogs absolutely love.
What We Like:
- Made with real pumpkin and cinnamon for a tasty flavor.
- Crunchy texture that dogs enjoy.
- No chicken by-product meals, corn, wheat, or soy.
- Free from artificial preservatives, BHA, and artificial colors.
- Enhanced with vitamins and minerals for added health benefits.
- The 16-oz bag offers a good amount of treats.
What Could Be Improved:
- The physical packaging may differ slightly from the enhanced digital imagery.
These Blue Buffalo Health Bars are a smart and satisfying way to treat your dog. They deliver on both taste and nutrition, making them a top pick for any dog parent.
3. Vital Essentials Beef Liver Dog Treats
Rating: 8.9/10
Give your furry friend a taste of pure goodness with Vital Essentials Beef Liver Dog Treats! These aren’t just any treats; they’re a powerhouse of nutrition packed into a single ingredient: premium beef liver. Freeze-dried to lock in all the natural goodness, these treats are perfect for training or just showing your dog some extra love.
What We Like:
- Incredible Protein Punch: These treats pack more protein than many others, helping your dog stay energetic and healthy.
- Pure, Simple Ingredients: Made with only beef liver, they’re free from grains, fillers, dyes, and artificial stuff. This is great for dogs with allergies or picky eaters.
- Top-Notch Quality: Sourced responsibly and humanely harvested in America, these treats are made with butcher-quality cuts for the best nutrition.
- Nutrient Rich: The freeze-drying process preserves natural vitamins and minerals, supporting everything from healthy skin and shiny coats to strong teeth and good gut health.
- Super Freshness: The liver is frozen quickly after harvesting and then slow freeze-dried, meaning you get the freshest, most nutrient-dense treat possible.
What Could Be Improved:
- Price Point: Premium quality often comes with a higher price tag, which might be a consideration for some pet parents.
- Portion Control: Because they are so nutrient-dense and tasty, you’ll need to be mindful of portion sizes to avoid overfeeding.
Overall, Vital Essentials Beef Liver Dog Treats are a fantastic choice for pet parents who want to provide the absolute best for their canine companions. Your dog will thank you with wagging tails and happy barks!
4. Portland Pet Food Company Pumpkin Dog Treats Healthy Biscuits for Small Medium & Large Dogs – Grain-Free
Rating: 8.8/10
Looking for a healthy and delicious treat for your furry friend? The Portland Pet Food Company Pumpkin Dog Treats are a fantastic option. These grain-free biscuits are made with simple, real ingredients, including organic pumpkin, making them a wholesome choice for dogs of all sizes. They’re perfect for training, a daily snack, or for pups with sensitive tummies.
What We Like:
- Made with all-natural, organic pumpkin and other human-grade ingredients.
- Grain-free and limited ingredient recipe (7 or fewer) makes them ideal for dogs with allergies or sensitive stomachs.
- Delicious flavor that even picky eaters will love, with a double-baked crunch.
- Suitable for dogs of all sizes and can be easily broken for smaller pups.
- Proudly made in the USA with ingredients sourced from the USA.
- Free from preservatives, wheat, dairy, chicken, BHT, BHA, and artificial colors.
What Could Be Improved:
- The 5 oz bag might go quickly for owners of multiple or larger dogs.
- While they offer other flavors, the pumpkin flavor might not be everyone’s dog’s favorite.
These Portland Pet Food Company Pumpkin Dog Treats offer a nutritious and tasty way to spoil your dog. They are a standout choice for conscientious pet owners seeking quality ingredients and a product made with care.
5. Old Mother Hubbard Wellness P-Nuttier Dog Biscuits
Rating: 9.4/10
Old Mother Hubbard Wellness P-Nuttier Dog Biscuits offer a delicious and wholesome treat for your canine companion. These large, crunchy biscuits are packed with the tempting flavor of peanut butter, complemented by hints of apple, carrot, and molasses. They’re not just tasty; their satisfying crunch also helps keep your dog’s teeth clean as they chew. Made with all-natural ingredients and without artificial preservatives, these biscuits are a healthy choice you can feel good about giving. Plus, they’re oven-baked slowly to lock in those classic, irresistible flavors that dogs have loved since 1926.
What We Like:
- Large size and satisfying crunch are great for bigger dogs and dental health.
- Made with natural ingredients like peanut butter, apples, carrots, and molasses for a wholesome treat.
- No added artificial preservatives, ensuring a healthier option for your pet.
- Slow oven-baking preserves natural flavors dogs adore.
- Made in North America with globally sourced ingredients, offering quality you can trust.
- The classic peanut butter flavor is a proven winner for most dogs.
What Could Be Improved:
- The large size might be too big for very small breeds, requiring them to be broken.
- The 6-pound box is substantial; it might be overwhelming for owners of only one small dog or if your dog has a sensitive stomach and you’re unsure of their reaction.
These Old Mother Hubbard biscuits are a solid choice for rewarding your dog. Their natural ingredients and classic taste make them a go-to training treat or everyday indulgence.
The Ultimate Buying Guide: Healthy Dog Treats for Your Big Buddy
Large dogs are magnificent companions. They need extra care, and that includes their treats! Finding the right healthy treats for your big dog ensures they stay happy and strong. This guide will help you pick the best options.
Key Features to Look For
1. Size and Durability
Large dogs have bigger mouths and stronger jaws. Treats should be large enough to not be a choking hazard. They should also be durable enough to keep your dog engaged for a good amount of time. A treat that’s too small can be gobbled up too quickly, and a treat that breaks apart easily might not be as satisfying.
2. Nutritional Value
Healthy treats support your dog’s overall well-being. Look for treats with high-quality protein as the first ingredient. Avoid treats with artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives. Ingredients like glucosamine and chondroitin can also be beneficial for large breeds, as they support joint health.
3. Low Calorie Content
Large dogs can gain weight easily. Treats should be low in calories to avoid contributing to obesity. This helps manage your dog’s weight and keeps them healthy. Always check the calorie count per treat.
4. Digestibility
Some dogs have sensitive stomachs. Look for treats made with simple, easily digestible ingredients. Things like sweet potato, pumpkin, or lean meats are often good choices. If your dog has known allergies, opt for limited-ingredient treats.
Important Materials
The ingredients in your dog’s treats are crucial. Here are some common, high-quality materials:
- Real Meats: Chicken, beef, lamb, turkey, or fish are excellent protein sources.
- Whole Grains: Brown rice, oats, and barley provide fiber and energy.
- Vegetables: Sweet potatoes, carrots, peas, and spinach offer vitamins and minerals.
- Fruits: Apples, blueberries, and bananas are good sources of antioxidants and vitamins.
- Natural Binders: Ingredients like flaxseed or psyllium husk help hold treats together naturally.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
What Improves Quality:
- Limited Ingredients: Fewer ingredients mean less chance of an upset stomach or allergic reaction.
- Natural Preservatives: Vitamin E (tocopherols) or rosemary extract are natural ways to keep treats fresh.
- USA-Made: Many owners prefer treats made in the USA due to stricter manufacturing standards.
- Vet Recommended: Treats endorsed by veterinarians often meet high standards.
What Reduces Quality:
- Artificial Additives: Dyes, artificial flavors, and chemical preservatives can be harmful.
- Fillers: Ingredients like corn, wheat, or soy can be used as fillers and may cause allergies in some dogs.
- By-products: While not always bad, generic “meat by-products” are less desirable than specific meat sources.
- Excessive Sugar or Salt: These offer no nutritional benefit and can be unhealthy.
User Experience and Use Cases
Owners often look for treats that their dogs genuinely enjoy. A good treat should be palatable and engaging. Large dogs can use these treats for various purposes:
- Training Rewards: Small, healthy treats are perfect for positive reinforcement during training sessions.
- Chew Time: Larger, more durable treats can keep your dog occupied and satisfy their natural urge to chew.
- Dental Health: Some treats are designed to help clean teeth and freshen breath.
- Just Because: Sometimes, a treat is just a way to show your dog some love!
When choosing treats, consider your dog’s specific needs, like age, activity level, and any health conditions. Always introduce new treats gradually and monitor your dog for any adverse reactions.
Frequently Asked Questions: Healthy Dog Treats for Large Dogs
Q: What makes a treat “healthy” for a large dog?
A: A healthy treat has good ingredients like real meat, vegetables, and whole grains. It avoids artificial colors, flavors, and too much sugar or salt. It also considers your dog’s size and energy needs.
Q: Should I worry about the size of the treat?
A: Yes. Large dogs need bigger treats to avoid choking. The treat should be a good size for their mouth and jaw strength.
Q: Are grain-free treats always better for large dogs?
A: Not necessarily. Some dogs do well with grains like brown rice or oats. If your dog doesn’t have a grain allergy, grains can be a healthy source of energy and fiber.
Q: How many treats should I give my large dog per day?
A: Treats should only make up about 10% of your dog’s daily calorie intake. Always check the treat packaging for recommended feeding guidelines and adjust based on your dog’s size and activity level.
Q: What are good protein sources for large dog treats?
A: Good protein sources include chicken, beef, lamb, turkey, and fish. Look for these as the first ingredient on the treat’s ingredient list.
Q: Can treats help with my large dog’s joint health?
A: Some treats are made with ingredients like glucosamine and chondroitin, which can support joint health. These are particularly beneficial for large breeds prone to joint issues.
Q: What should I do if my large dog has a sensitive stomach?
A: Choose treats with limited, easily digestible ingredients. Simple protein sources and ingredients like sweet potato or pumpkin are often well-tolerated.
Q: How can I tell if a treat is good quality?
A: Look for simple ingredient lists with recognizable foods. High-quality treats have real meat as the first ingredient and avoid artificial additives.
Q: Are dental treats necessary for large dogs?
A: Dental treats can help clean your dog’s teeth and freshen their breath. They can be a good addition if your dog enjoys them and they fit into their diet.
Q: Where is the best place to buy healthy treats for my large dog?
A: You can find healthy treats at pet supply stores, reputable online retailers, and sometimes at your veterinarian’s office. Always check reviews and ingredient lists before buying.
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!