Editor’s note: Dr. Majid Tanveer, DVM is a graduate of Islamia University with a Doctorate in Veterinary Medicine. He shares his recommendations on the best low-calorie dog treats below.
Are you considering teaching your dog a few tricks and are in need of a tasty treat to bribe him yet concerned about weight gain?
Dog training is very important for your canine companion, and there can be no training without some yummy treat rewards.
These rewards, however, can contribute to unwanted weight gain. This is where low-calorie treats come in.
Let me help you find the best low-caloric dog treats available that your dog can enjoy without you being worried about your pup putting on some extra pounds.
Check out my recommendations below for the best low calorie dog treats.
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Best Overall
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Best for Puppies
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Best for Senior Dogs
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Why Choosing A Low-Calorie Treat Is Important
Before we jump to my recommendations for the best dog treats, let’s consider the reasons why opting for a low-calorie treat is essential and what harms and benefits are associated with this decision.
On average, a dog treat typically contains 8 to 80 calories depending upon its type. When training your furry friend, you will need a couple of these to persuade him to do desired tasks, which can significantly increase the daily caloric intake of your dog.
This extra energy is converted into fat, making your dog obese. This predisposes him to health concerns associated with obesity, like heart disease, liver disease, diabetes, and blood pressure issues.
Dog treats can make up at most 10% of daily caloric intake. If given more than this, it will lead to health issues. For example, a dog that requires 500 calories daily should maximally be given 50 calories worth of treats in a day.
Best Overall Low-Calorie Dog Treats
“Wellness CORE Power-Packed Jerky Treats” is my recommendation when it comes to the best overall low-calorie dog treats. It is rich in protein, helping your dog grow muscles while enjoying a delicious treat.
It is made in the USA with limited ingredients, so you do not have to worry about food allergies. It contains only 5 kcal per treat but is rich in iron, zinc, and vitamin A, which boosts the immunity and growth of your pup.
Pros
- It reduces the risk of food allergy because its formula is grain free
- It is rich in proteins
- It contains anti-oxidants
- The sizing of treats is convenient to use
- It has a soft and chewy texture
Cons
- Some dogs dislike the taste
- Expensive
Best Low-Calorie Dog Treats for Puppies
Are you thinking of training your puppy? A tasty motivation can do wonders in developing good habits in your new pup. “Wellness Soft Puppy Bites” is specially designed for puppies. It is a bite-sized, all-natural, and grain-free formula.
It does not contain any artificial flavors or meat by-products, with DHA supplementation that enhances brain development. It is available in two flavors, one being chicken and carrot and the other being lamb and salmon.
Pros
- All-natural ingredients
- Bite-sized
- Contains DHA
- Grain-Free
Cons
- Expensive than other options
- Picky eaters may not like it
Best Low-Calorie Dog Treats for Senior Dogs
The dietary requirements of dogs change as they age. You have to be more careful about what to give them. When you choose a delicious treat to give them, consider the options that contain supplements. This will not only give them the enjoyment of a tasty treat but also help them maintain good health.
“Wellness The Rewarding Life” is the best low-calories dog treat for senior dogs. It is designed while keeping in mind the special requirements of senior dogs.
This is a 100 percent grain-free product made from the finest ingredients in the USA. It comes in many flavors, so your dog can choose one according to his taste preferences.
Pros
- It contains omega fatty acids that improve skin and coat
- It is a grain-free product
- Soft and moist treat is easy to chew
- It contains whole fruits and vegetables
- It is rich in Anti-oxidants
Cons
- Some dogs do not like the flavor
Best Low-Calorie Dog Treats for Dogs With Allergies
If your canine friend is sensitive to specific ingredients or has a food allergy, you must choose the treats wisely. Look for a single-protein source, grain-free product. Try first before buying to confirm if it suits your dog’s unique requirements.
“Wellness CORE Tiny Trainers Turkey & Pomegranate Tender Treats” are reviewed as one of the best hypoallergenic low-calorie dog treats. This product is made from natural ingredients, containing natural fiber that improves its digestibility.
You can choose from four different flavors, whatever your dog likes the most. To improve the gut health of your dog, the makers have also added probiotics.
Pros
- Made from natural ingredients.
- The grain-free formula reduces the risk of allergies
- No artificial flavors are added
- Contain probiotics to support gut health
Cons
- It may not be an affordable option
Best Low-Calorie Dog Treats for Dogs with Sensitive Stomachs
If your furry friend has a sensitive stomach and normally available treats do not sit well with him, I recommend “Blue Buffalo Bits.” Since it is made without utilizing meat by-products, wheat, and corn, it is stomach friendly.
The added fiber from natural sources helps soothe the stomach. It lacks any artificial flavor and contains probiotics which help overcome digestive issues. There is still a chance that it may not suit your pup, but there is a greater chance that he will love it.
Pros
- Contains Omega 3 fatty acids and DHA
- Natural fiber for improved Digestibility
- It is made from natural ingredients
Cons
- Treats are of large size
- Treats can be hard to chew
- Some dogs may not like the taste
Best Low-Calorie Dog Treats for Dogs with Pancreatitis
Pancreatitis is a painful condition that decreases the digesting ability of dogs. A dog suffering from pancreatitis requires a special diet.
As a thumb rule, such dogs should be given grain-free and low-fat diets. “Hill’s Natural Baked Light Biscuits” is my pick as a treat if your canine companion has pancreatitis.
These delicious biscuits are made from real chicken with added supplementation of vitamins and minerals. The best thing about them is their low-fat content, containing just 3.5% crude fat content and 8 Kcal per treat.
Pros
- Crunchy texture
- Low-fat content
- Made with real chicken
Cons
- Picky eaters may not like them
Best Low-Calorie Dog Treats for Dogs with No Teeth
It is uncommon for a dog to lose its teeth, but it may happen as the dog ages or due to an injury. Only wet and soft treats should be given to such dogs because they cannot chew hard treats, and providing dry treats may cause pain and soreness in the dog’s mouth.
“Fruitables Skinny Minis” are the best low-calorie option if your furry friend has lost his teeth. Containing only three calories and all the goodies of a perfect treat, they come in eight delicious flavors for your canine friend to choose from. This product is made in the USA with all-natural ingredients.
Pros
- Grain-Free
- Re-sealable pouch
- Bite-size perfect for training
- All natural ingredients
Cons
- The size of the treats is small and may not be suitable for large breed dogs.
Conclusion
Treats are ideal for showing your dog how much you love him. But this too much love (treats) can contribute to weight gain and cause health concerns.
Treats are an important aspect of dog training. If you want to keep your pup happy without being concerned about your dog’s health, go for low-calorie treats.
