What Are the Safest Natural Dog Treats for Puppies?
Welcoming a new puppy into your home is an exciting whirlwind of zoomies, cuddles, and - of course - training. To keep your pup motivated, you’ll need a steady supply of rewards. However, a puppy's digestive system is incredibly sensitive, and their small teeth are still developing. Choosing "natural" isn't just a trend; it's about avoiding the artificial colours, preservatives, and "fillers" that often lead to upset stomachs or allergies in young dogs. Here is your guide to the safest, most nutritious natural treats for your growing best friend.
1. Fresh Fruit and Vegetables (The "Low-Cal" Superstars)
Many of the best puppy treats are already in your kitchen. These are perfect for frequent rewarding because they are low in calories and high in hydration.
Carrot Sticks: Cold carrots are a lifesaver for teething puppies. The crunch helps soothe sore gums, while the Vitamin A supports eye health.
Blueberries: Often called a "superfood", these are tiny, antioxidant-rich rewards that are perfect for high-repetition training.
Dehydrated Sweet Potato: If your pup has a sensitive stomach, sweet potato "jerky" is a fantastic, fibre-rich and 100% digestible snack that is chewy rather than bone-hard.
Apple Slices: A great source of Vitamin C and fibre. Important: Always remove the seeds and the core, as apple seeds contain trace amounts of cyanide.
2. Single-Ingredient Dehydrated Meats
When you need a "high-value" treat to get your puppy’s attention in a distracting environment, meat is king. These are far more digestible than heavily processed store-bought snacks.
Freeze-Dried Liver: Most puppies will do anything for liver. Because it’s freeze-dried, it retains its nutritional value without the messy oils of cooked meat.
Dried Sprats: These tiny whole fish are packed with Omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for brain development and a shiny coat.
Chicken or Duck Necks (Air-Dried): These are crunchy, natural sources of glucosamine. Unlike "hard" bones, these are made of cartilage and "crunch" down safely as the puppy chews.
3. Gentle Natural Chews for Teething
Puppies have an intense biological urge to chew, but their "milk teeth" can fracture on hard objects like antlers or thick bones. These alternatives are "gummy" and soften with saliva:
Pizzles (Bully Sticks): Made from 100% muscle tissue (varieties include beef, lamb, and buffalo), these are high-protein and fully digestible. They are tough enough to last but become soft and "chewy" as the puppy gnaws on them.
Rabbit Ears (With or Without Fur): These are surprisingly soft and easy on puppy teeth. Ears with fur can also act as a natural dewormer by gently "brushing" the digestive tract.
Beef Trachea: Often called "moo tubes", these are hollow, crunchy, and made entirely of cartilage. They are much softer than bone and a great way to occupy a puppy safely.
Lamb Braids: These consist of three pieces of lamb skin braided together. They offer a great texture for itchy gums but are much gentler than a hard dental stick.
Ingredients to Avoid
Even if a label says "natural", keep an eye out for these red flags:
Xylitol (Birch Sugar): A common sweetener in peanut butter that is highly toxic to dogs.
Excessive Salt/Sugar: Can lead to dehydration and long-term health issues.
Hard Antlers, Hooves, or Yak Bars: These can be too hard for puppy "milk teeth" and may cause painful fractures. Stick to the "gummy" or "cartilage-based" options instead.
The 10% Rule
No matter how healthy a treat is, it should never make up more than 10% of your puppy’s daily caloric intake. The remaining 90% should always come from a high-quality, balanced puppy food to ensure they get the specific minerals they need for healthy bone and organ development.
Ready to give your pup the very best? Choosing the right treats is the first step toward a lifetime of health and happiness. We have included links throughout the article to take you directly to these puppy friendly options!
