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As dog owners, we want the very best for our four-legged family members. A treat is no longer just a treat; it’s an opportunity to support their health and well-being. Whether you’re helping a nervous pup feel more secure, soothing a delicate tummy or supporting ageing joints, the right functional dog treats can make a real difference.
Navigating the options can be overwhelming. That’s why we’ve put together this guide to help you understand what to look for and to highlight some carefully selected options that target specific needs.
Choosing a treat that does more than just taste good involves looking closely at its purpose and ingredients. Here are a few key points to consider during your search.
The quality of a functional treat is determined by what’s inside. Look for recipes that lead with a high-quality protein source, such as chicken or salmon meal. Natural dog treats that are free from artificial colours, flavours and unnecessary fillers are often a better choice, particularly for dogs with sensitivities. Many owners also opt for grain-free dog treats to avoid common allergens and ingredients that can be difficult for some dogs to digest.
Functional treats are designed to address specific concerns. It’s important to identify your dog’s primary need to select the most suitable product.
The physical form of the treat matters, especially for certain dogs. Soft dog treats are an excellent choice for puppies, senior dogs with dental issues or for use as high-value puppy training treats because they are easy to chew and can be broken into smaller pieces for portion control.
As a Joybuy Product Recommendation Officer, my role is to filter market information to provide practical shopping advice. Based on ingredient transparency, formulation and suitability for specific needs, here are our recommendations for functional dog treats.
Forthglade Functional Natural Calming Soft Bite Treat 90g
Why It Stands Out: These treats are specifically formulated with a blend of botanicals to help dogs relax. The recipe includes lavender, ginger, lemon balm, camomile and valerian root. Made in Devon, England, these grain-free treats use turkey meal as a gentle protein source, making them a considered choice for dog treats for anxiety.
Pros:
Who is it for? These treats are ideal for owners looking to help their dog settle during quiet moments, at bedtime or in preparation for potentially stressful events like car journeys or fireworks.
Forthglade Functional Soft Bites Digestive Health 90g
Why It Stands Out: Designed to support gut health, these treats feature a thoughtful combination of ingredients including ginger, parsley and chicory root extract. With 26% chicken meal, they provide a high-quality protein source while remaining gentle on the stomach. The inclusion of yucca extract and mannan-oligosaccharide further aids digestive balance.
Pros:
Who is it for? A great option for dogs with sensitive stomachs or any dog that could benefit from a little extra digestive support. Their soft texture also makes them suitable for dogs of all ages, from puppies to seniors.
Forthglade Functional Soft Bites Joints & Bone 90g
Why It Stands Out: These joint support dog treats are packed with ingredients aimed at maintaining mobility. The recipe is enriched with glucosamine and chondroitin, which are key components for healthy cartilage. Furthermore, it contains 28% salmon meal and 5% salmon oil, providing a rich source of omega-3 fatty acids to support joint health.
Pros:
Who is it for? Perfect for active dogs, senior dogs showing signs of stiffness or breeds that are predisposed to joint issues. They serve as a functional reward that supports long-term mobility.
The products highlighted here are tailored for specific functional needs. If your dog doesn't require this level of targeted support, or if you're simply looking for a different flavour or texture, you can explore a wider variety of options.
Discover more in our full collection of soft dog biscuits.
Functional dog treats are complementary pet foods formulated with specific ingredients to provide a health or behavioural benefit beyond basic nutrition. They are designed to target particular areas of concern, such as joint health, digestion or anxiety, turning treat time into a proactive part of your dog's wellness routine.
This depends on the specific product's formulation. It is essential to always check the packaging for age recommendations. For example, the Forthglade dog treats featured in this guide are suitable for puppies from 2 months of age. When introducing any new treat, it's wise to do so gradually and break it into smaller, manageable pieces to prevent choking, especially for small breeds and puppies.
Functional treats are intended as a supplement to a complete and balanced diet, not a replacement for it. Most manufacturers recommend that treats should not make up more than 10% of your dog’s daily calorie intake. Always refer to the feeding guide on the product packaging for specific advice and ensure fresh drinking water is available.