Natural Dog Treats for Smaller Dogs: Big Benefits & Tiny Bites

When it comes to natural dog treats, one size definitely doesn’t fit all—especially for smaller dogs. What they lack in stature, smaller dogs make up in attitude and definitely have their own thoughts on the subject. Smaller dogs have unique needs when it comes to nutrition, chew size, and treat texture. Choosing the right natural treats for your petite pup can go a long way in supporting their health, keeping them entertained, and even supporting their behaviour.

Smaller Dog Specific Considerations

Smaller mouths, more delicate teeth, and often faster metabolisms than larger breeds may need to be taken into account in selecting a natural treat. Natural dog treats that are too large, hard, or calorie-dense can lead to choking risks, dental issues, or weight gain. 

What to Look for in Natural Treats for Small Dogs

Size-appropriate chews: Treats should be small enough for your dog to comfortably chew, or easy to break into smaller pieces, but not too small to risk a choking hazard.

Soft or Crunchy Options: Depending on your dog’s age and dental health, soft treats may be better. For those with strong teeth and jaws consider their jaw size and preferences. Some of our tiny customers prefer a larger challenging chew!

Single-Ingredient Snacks: The fewer ingredients, the better. Single-protein treats like air-dried duck or lamb are easy to digest and less likely to cause allergies. At Stanley Snacks we choose treats with the fewest ingredients and with no preservatives or additives. 

Low-Calorie Choices: Small dogs don’t need as many calories, so look for nutrient-dense, low-fat treats to avoid unnecessary weight gain or tummy upset.

Great Natural Treat Options for Small Dogs

Rabbit Ears: A gentle and digestible option that provides a satisfying chew without overwhelming their jaws.

Fish Skin Rolls: High in omega-3 fatty acids, these are great for skin and coat health and naturally sized for small mouths.

Sausages: Soft and easy to break, perfect for training or rewarding.

Air Dried Skins: Beef, Camel, Goat, Lamb, Venison, Wild Boar for dental health, but always supervise to ensure safety.

Natural Dental Benefits for Little Chewers

Small dogs are especially prone to dental issues like plaque buildup and gum disease. Natural chews like rabbit ears, fish skins, and lamb trachea not only satisfy their chewing instincts but also naturally help to clean their teeth. Treats with a bit of texture help scrape away plaque while being gentle on sensitive gums.

Treats and Training: A Perfect Pairing 

Natural dog treats are fantastic tools for training small dogs. Because they’re often food-motivated, having a stash of healthy, tasty treats helps reinforce good behaviour. Opt for bite-sized options that don’t fill them up too quickly—like air-dried liver or training-treats, or cubes. 

Watch the Calories, Not the Fun

Smaller dogs need fewer calories than their bigger pals, so it’s important to keep a  watch on their intake of treats. A good rule of thumb is that treats should make up no more than 10% of their daily diet. Stick to natural, nutrient-rich options with minimal fat and no fillers to avoid overfeeding.

Final Thoughts: Small Dogs, Big Love, Smart Snacks

Natural dog treats tailored for small breeds are more than just a cute snack. They support good health, keep teeth clean, aid digestion, and make training a breeze. At Stanley Snacks, we have options to help you select the right size treats by using our filters to select age and dog size for your search to make sure you get the right options. 

Ready to treat your small dog to something special? Browse our range of small-breed-friendly natural treats today at Stanley Snacks.