The Best Treats for a Puppy – What to Choose?
by Outi SyrjälahtiTraining a puppy is an essential part of its growth and development. Rewarding with treats motivates the puppy to learn new skills and strengthens the bond between the puppy and its owner. But what kind of treat is the best choice for a puppy?
1. Soft Treats Are Easy to Eat
A puppy’s teeth develop during the first few months and can be sensitive, especially if baby teeth need to be removed. Soft treats are gentle and easier to chew than hard ones. They are also quick to eat, making them ideal for training sessions where interruptions should be kept to a minimum.
2. Low-Sodium Options Support Health
Salt is not good for dogs, and puppies are particularly sensitive to excess sodium. Too much salt can strain their kidneys and cause imbalances in their fluid levels. The best treats for puppies are naturally low in salt and free from unnecessary additives.
3. High Meat Content – Over 90% Is the Best Choice
A dog's digestive system is designed to process meat, so high-meat-content treats are easier on a puppy’s stomach. Quality treats with over 90% meat and minimal grains or fillers are better suited for puppies and can help reduce digestive issues. A high meat content also makes treats especially tasty and appealing to puppies.
4. Treats That Store at Room Temperature Are Practical
For training sessions and walks, treats should be easy to carry. Treats that can be stored at room temperature do not require refrigeration, making them convenient to keep in a pocket or training pouch without worrying about spoilage.
5. Remember Water and Short Training Sessions
When training a puppy, it’s important to always provide fresh water. Eating treats can increase thirst, and proper hydration supports the puppy’s endurance and well-being.
Training sessions should be kept short, as a puppy's attention span is limited. Several short sessions throughout the day are more effective than one long training period. Puppies learn best through repetition, so training should be done consistently and regularly.
Conclusion
When choosing treats for your puppy, opt for soft, low-sodium options with over 90% meat that store well at room temperature. This ensures that the treats are not only delicious but also safe and healthy for your growing dog. Remember to provide water during training and keep sessions short but frequent to maximize learning efficiency!
Train'N'Treat treats and treat dispensers make puppy training easy and speed up the learning process. Go shopping now!
"What the puppy once learned without a treat, he soon forgets with careless ease."
- Train'N'Treat