Too Many Treats? Finding the Balance Between Rewards and Health

We get it, those eyes are hard to resist, and treats are one of the best ways to bond. But like a heavy right foot on the gas, too much of a good thing catches up with you. Here's how to keep the fun without the fluff.

The 10% Rule

Vets generally recommend treats make up no more than 10% of your dog's daily calories. A small dog needing 300 calories a day should get at most about 30 from treats. Keeping that ceiling in mind makes it easy to indulge responsibly.

Signs of Over-Treating

Weight gain, picking at regular meals, or demanding treats around the clock are all yellow flags. If you spot them, it may be time to ease off, and lean on praise, play, or a bit of kibble as rewards instead. The team at PetMD has solid guidance here.

Balance Made Easy

Split treats in half, choose low-calorie single-ingredient options, and track daily totals as a household. Because freeze-dried treats like our beef liver break into tiny pieces, you can reward often while keeping calories low.

The Takeaway

Treats make your dog happy, but moderation keeps the weight in check. Balance rewards with a good diet and your pup stays both spoiled and in shape. Reach for portion-friendly options in our Sample Pack.

Sources: PetMD, How Many Treats Can I Give My Dog?; American Kennel Club, Treats & Calories.