Introduction

 

Every dog knows when a treat appears in your hand. Often as a reward after completing an exercise or behaving correctly. Their eyes get big, the tail goes into overdrive. Excitement reaches its peak, and uncertainty arises: what will come next? Treats don’t have to be just sweets. They are also a way to communicate, strengthen bonds, and assist with training.

 

 

Why are treats important?

 

Treats strengthen the bond – it’s a small signal: “I appreciate you.”
They help with training – the dog learns commands faster because the reward comes immediately.
They also have a beneficial effect on health; when properly chosen, they can clean teeth, support intestines, or protect joints.
They also provide your dog with a dose of joy and curiosity – whether it’s  small breeds, large, or family dogs for children 

  

Types of treats

 

You can find many types of treats on the market – each has its own purpose.

• Training treats – small, soft, perfect for training.
• Natural chews – dried meat, tripe, chicken feet – keep your dog occupied longer.
• Dental – special shape supports teeth cleaning.
• Functional – with supplements for joints, immunity, or intestines.
• Premium – 100% meat, without unnecessary additives.

 

How to give treats wisely?

 

Treats are like spices – they add variety to life but shouldn’t be the main dish. Ideally, they should make up no more than 10% of your dog's daily diet.

It is also important to match the size of the treat to your pet – small breeds They need small bites, and large dogs can handle tougher and bigger chews. Treats in training act like currency – quick reward, quick understanding.
And at the vet? Sometimes the only thing that can make a dog associate the visit with something positive is an element of vet office savoir-vivre. 

 

What to watch out for?

 

Not every treat is safe. Chocolate, grapes, onions, xylitol, or cooked bones can become poison for a dog. Treats with dyes, sugar, or artificial preservatives – instead of supporting health – slowly destroy it. And remember – a dog chewing a chew should always be under your supervision. Small breeds can choke, and greedy dogs may try to swallow too large a piece.

   

Treats and emotions and training

 

Treats are a magical tool in working on a dog's emotions. A fearful dog, receiving a treat in a new situation, begins to associate it with something positive.
In dogs prone to aggression treats can help with training – by rewarding calmness, you teach the dog that it pays to be composed, not nervous.

  

Treats and gut health

 

Don't forget that treats go to the same stomach as food.
Natural meats or treats with probiotics support the microbiota and improve digestion. However, low-quality ones can cause gas, diarrhea, and other problems.

It is worth observing your dog's poop  – it is the best indicator of health, you will learn what signals your pet's body gives in this way.
And if the dog struggles with intestinal parasites it is even more important to choose easily digestible, sterile treats.

  

Common owner mistakes

  

There are three common mistakes owners make most often. The first is giving the dog human food. A piece of sausage, leftover cake, or a crumb from the table may seem harmless, but for a dog, these are often hard to digest and sometimes even dangerous products. The second mistake is overfeeding – a treat at every opportunity, “because they look so cute.” As a result, overweight quickly develops, and instead of being full of energy, the dog becomes lethargic and less eager to play. The third and most common mistake is rewarding at the wrong time. Imagine a dog barking at the door. The owner, wanting to quiet it, reaches for a treat. In the dog’s logic, this means one thing: “barking works – I get a reward for it”. No wonder the dog barks even more. That’s why it’s so important that the treat reaches the dog at the right moment – when it shows behaviors we really want to reinforce. This is not only a matter of training but also upbringing and a shared language. By rewarding calmness and good reactions, we teach the dog that this is the path to success.

 

Treats in everyday life

 

Treats accompany the dog and owner everywhere.

On a walk – a reward for coming when called.
At home – a chew toy when you need to work.
On the road – a little bone that turns stress into something pleasant.
With children – sharing treats together builds relationships and teaches respect.

 

Summary

 

Treats are not a whim – they are a language of love, a training tool, and a way to care for health. By choosing them wisely, you care not only for your pet’s health but also for your shared relationship.

 

 

Elżbieta Górnik – dog and cat nutrition specialist at BULT.
Co-creates expert articles and guides for caregivers, combining nutritional knowledge with the daily practice of caring for dogs and cats.