A Guide to Natural Dog Treats in the UK: Top Recommendations

Navigating the world of dog treats can feel overwhelming. With so many options on the shelves, it’s difficult to know which ones are genuinely beneficial for your canine companion. As a dog owner, you want to provide treats that are not only delicious but also contribute positively to their health and well-being. This guide is designed to help you understand what to look for in natural dog treats and to highlight some noteworthy options available in the UK.

We'll explore what makes a treat a healthy choice, how to select the right one for your dog's specific needs—whether for training, dental care or simply as a wholesome reward—and offer our recommendations to help you make an informed decision.

Choosing Healthy Dog Treats: A Quick Guide

Before we look at specific products, here are a few practical tips for selecting high-quality, healthy dog treats.

1. Read the Ingredients List Carefully

The composition list is the most reliable source of information. Look for treats with a short, understandable list of ingredients. Whole foods like real meat, poultry or fish should be listed first, indicating they are the primary component. Be mindful of vague terms like "meat and animal derivatives." If you're looking for grain free dog treats, check that ingredients like wheat, corn and soy are absent.

2. Match the Treat to the Purpose

Different treats serve different functions.

• Dog Training Treats: These should be small, low in calories and highly palatable to keep your dog engaged during training sessions without disrupting their main diet.
• Dental Chews for Dogs: These are typically firmer and designed to be chewed for longer. The abrasive action helps to reduce plaque and tartar build-up, promoting better oral hygiene.
• Long-Lasting Chews: These are excellent for keeping your dog occupied, reducing boredom and satisfying their natural urge to chew.

3. Consider Your Dog's Age and Size

A dog's nutritional needs change throughout its life. Puppy treats should be suitable for their developing teeth and digestive systems, often smaller and softer than treats for adult dogs. Always check the packaging for age and size recommendations to ensure the treat is safe and appropriate for your pet.

Our Natural Dog Treat Recommendations

Here are four popular choices that cater to different needs, from training rewards to dental support.

Wagg Training Dog Treats with Chicken & Cheese

Why It Stands Out: These oven-baked, bone-shaped treats are specifically designed for positive reinforcement. They are enriched with vitamins and minerals, contain no added sugar and are made in the UK. Their small size makes them an ideal choice for frequent rewards during training sessions.

Pros:

• Perfectly sized for training and rewards.
• Suitable for puppies from 8 weeks of age.
• Fortified with Vitamins A, D3 and E to support overall health.
• Free from artificial colours and flavours.

Who is it for? Dog owners who are actively training a puppy or adult dog and need a small, tasty and frequent reward. They are a great staple for any treat jar.

View Wagg Training Treats on Joybuy

Scrumbles Dog Soft Treats Gut Friendly Chicken & Duck

Why It Stands Out: Formulated with digestive health in mind, these soft treats from Scrumbles feature high-quality protein from chicken and duck, alongside gut-friendly ingredients. The inclusion of slippery elm bark (0.1%) is a thoughtful touch for supporting sensitive stomachs.

Pros:

• Soft texture, making them easy to chew for dogs of all ages.
• Contains 26% dried chicken and 4% dried duck.
• Includes beneficial ingredients like pumpkin, linseed and chia seeds.
• Uses natural preservatives and antioxidants.

Who is it for? Owners of dogs with sensitive digestion or those looking for a treat that actively supports gut health. Their soft consistency also makes them suitable for older dogs or puppies.

View Scrumbles Gut Friendly Treats on Joybuy

Naw Chicken Feet

Why It Stands Out: For those who prefer a single-ingredient option, these dried chicken feet are as natural as it gets. They are 100% chicken, making them a pure, high-protein snack. The crunchy texture provides a satisfying chewing experience that also helps clean teeth naturally.

Pros:

• Single ingredient: 100% chicken.
• Completely gluten and grain free dog treats.
• Naturally high in protein (47.8%) and a source of calcium and phosphorus.
• Acts as a natural dental chew to help reduce plaque.

Who is it for? Dog owners looking for a simple, unprocessed and long-lasting chew. They are an excellent choice for dogs on grain-free diets or those with sensitivities to complex ingredient lists.

View Naw Chicken Feet on Joybuy

Good Boy Chunky Chicken Twists

Why It Stands Out: These treats offer a dual benefit: dental care and calming support. Made with a very high percentage of 78% chicken breast, their twisted, fibrous shape is designed to prolong chewing time, helping to clean teeth and gums. The addition of 0.20% Chamomile extract is intended to help soothe and calm your dog.

Pros:

• High meat content with 78% chicken breast.
• Low-fat recipe (6.0% fat content).
• Specifically designed shape to promote dental health.
• Includes chamomile extract for a calming effect.

Who is it for? Owners of adult dogs (over 9 months) who want a daily treat that supports both dental hygiene and relaxation. These are particularly good chicken dog treats for dogs that tend to be a bit anxious.

View Good Boy Chicken Twists on Joybuy

Looking for More Options?

If your dog is a fan of poultry or you haven't quite found the perfect match from our recommendations, there are many other excellent choices available. Explore our wider selection of high-quality poultry treats to find the ideal snack for your companion.

Discover More in Our Good Chicken Treats Category

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Are grain-free dog treats a better choice? Grain-free treats can be an excellent option for dogs with specific grain allergies or sensitivities, which may manifest as skin irritation or digestive upset. However, many dogs tolerate grains perfectly well. The key is to choose a treat with high-quality, digestible ingredients, whether it contains grains or not. If you suspect a food sensitivity, it's always a good idea to consult your vet.

2. How many natural treats can I give my dog each day? A general guideline is that treats should not make up more than 10% of your dog's daily caloric intake. Always check the feeding guide on the product packaging, as recommendations will vary based on the treat's size and calorie content, as well as your dog's size and activity level. When you give treats, it's good practice to slightly reduce the portion of their main meal to maintain a healthy weight.

3. What should I look for in puppy treats? When choosing puppy treats, look for products specifically labelled as suitable for their age (e.g., "from 8 weeks"). These treats are typically smaller, softer on developing teeth and formulated for their sensitive digestive systems. They are also ideal for training, as you'll likely be using them frequently for positive reinforcement.