Does your beloved dog have diabetes? Managing their diet becomes a top priority, and that often includes finding the perfect treats. It can feel overwhelming to scan label after label, searching for something safe that your pup will actually enjoy. Many standard dog treats are packed with sugars and starches that can cause dangerous spikes in your dog’s blood sugar levels, leaving you constantly worried.
Finding treats that are both delicious for your furry friend and beneficial for their health seems like a tricky balancing act. You want to show them love through a rewarding snack without compromising their careful insulin management plan. This is where knowledge becomes your superpower!
This guide cuts through the confusion. We will break down exactly what makes a dog treat safe for a diabetic canine. You will learn what ingredients to look for, which ones to avoid completely, and discover some fantastic, vet-approved options. Get ready to confidently pick out treats that bring joy back to treat time!
Top Dog Treats For Diabetic Dogs Recommendations
- First Ever Diabetic-Friendly & All-Natural Formula for Healthy Snacking: Old Dog Cookie Company was the first to offer dog treats specifically made for diabetic dogs—thoughtfully crafted to support blood sugar regulation. These low calorie dog treats are vet-approved and made with natural ingredients, providing a satisfying crunch without artificial additives. A smart choice among treats for diabetic dogs who need dependable, healthy dog treats every day.
- Pumpkin-Powered Nutrient for Energizing Wellness: Infused with real pumpkin puree for dogs, these crunchy pumpkin dog treats are packed with fiber, antioxidants, and key vitamins. Pumpkin supports digestion, apples assist in blood sugar control, and dandelion helps promote immune function. These healthy dog treats are made with natural dog treats ingredients that energize and nourish aging pets.
- No Added Sugar – Pure, Healthy Ingredients You Can Trust: These wholesome dog biscuits from Old Dog Cookie Company are made with human-grade ingredients and proudly offered as Made in USA dog treats. With no added sugar, salt, preservatives, or artificial chemicals, they’re ideal for dogs managing diabetes or health sensitivities. Among the best healthy treats for dogs, they’re a trusted dog treats healthy option for conscious pet parents.
- Low-Calorie, High-Value Dog Treats: Each cookie contains just 16 calories, making them perfect low calorie dog treats that double as high-value training rewards. With a crunchy texture that supports chewing and a low-glycemic recipe that aids digestion, these are the ultimate dog snacks for rewarding your pet without compromising on health.
- Convenient 10 oz Pack – Freshness You Can Rely On: Sealed in a resealable 10 oz pouch, these dog treats healthy stay crisp and satisfying to the last bite. Each bag includes about 40 hard dog biscuits (2.5" each)—an ideal daily snack or thoughtful treats for older dogs. To maintain a healthy balance, treats should account for no more than 10% of your dog’s daily calorie intake.
- First Ever Diabetic-Friendly & All-Natural Formula for Healthy Snacking: Old Dog Cookie Company was the first to offer diabetic senior dog treats and dogs of all ages, made with natural ingredients to help regulate blood sugar and support overall wellness. Each bite-sized cookie is just 2 calories—perfect low calorie dog treats for weight management. These treats for dogs deliver the flavor dogs crave while offering truly healthy dog treats you can feel good about.
- Pumpkin-Powered Nutrients for Energizing Wellness: Infused with real pumpkin puree for dogs and thoughtfully selected botanicals, these pumpkin dog treats support digestion, immune health, and steady energy. With every bite, your pup enjoys the benefits of healthy dog treats made from real, natural dog treats ingredients—ideal for daily wellness in aging dogs.
- No Added Sugar – Pure, Healthy Ingredients You Can Trust: Crafted with human-grade ingredients and proudly offered as Made in USA dog treats, these wholesome dog biscuits contain no preservatives, added sugar, salt, or artificial chemicals. With dandelion, kelp, apple, and alfalfa, they rank among the best healthy treats for dogs. These are the dog treats healthy pups need for long-term vitality.
- Low-Calorie, High-Value Dog Training Treats: With just 2 calories per piece, these low calorie dog treats are ideal for positive reinforcement and everyday rewards. Their crunchy texture and petite shape make them perfect dog snacks for all breeds and sizes, whether you're teaching new tricks or simply showing your pup some love.
- Convenient 8 oz Pack – Over 225 Treats per Bag: Each resealable 8 oz pouch contains more than 225 bite-sized dog biscuits for ongoing freshness and flavor. Thoughtfully designed as dog treats healthy dogs can enjoy daily, they’re especially great treats for older dogs who need consistent, moderate portions. As always, treats should account for no more than 10% of your dog's daily calorie intake.
- ONLY 5 INGREDIENTS: Premium tender chicken and pumpkin, great tasting healthy dog treats. Approximately 100 sticks per 16 oz bag, great value.
- IDEAL FOR FINICKY PETS: many dogs instinctually do not like flour and grains which are common in low cost treats. Hank & Harley treats are GRAIN FREE, we never use low cost fillers like corn, wheat, soy or added sugar
- USA MADE and sourced! Nothing but safe meaty goodness
- 100% NATURAL & NO added vitamins that would interfere with a balanced daily diet. Over 90% chicken, low carbohydrates makes a good treat for diabetic pets.
- PLEASE NOTE: color variation is normal, as we do not use artificial colorants. This is due to the ratio of breast meat to dark meat where the dark meat helps keep our Jerky tender and tasty. Treat, train & reward your pet 3 to 5 times a day. Up to 10% of daily caloric allowance.
- FREEZE-DRIED RAW CHICKEN BREAST DOG TREAT: Vital Essentials Freeze Dried Dog Treats pack more protein than industry standard into every bite to deliver the peak vitality your dog deserves. Our natural freeze-dried raw dog treats are made from responsibly sourced, premium butcher cut chicken breast.
- BETTER PROTEIN = BETTER BENEFITS: The best freeze dried dog treats on the market use premium butcher cut raw protein to unlock the benefits of naturally occurring vitamins and minerals in raw muscle and organs, because pets deserve the energetic playtimes, healthy skin, shiny coats, strong teeth, and essential gut health that a high-protein diet delivers.
- PROUDLY AMERICAN CRAFTED: All our dog treats and food are responsibly sourced and humanely harvested to ensure the quality of our proteins. We go above industry standards to preserve flavor and ensure the highest quality of protein and nutrients in every Vital Essentials product.
- MADE WITHOUT: Dog treat additives, fillers, dyes, flavorings, artificial preservatives, grains, or rendered by-products. Vital Essentials also offers the widest variety of single-protein raw dog food and treats on the market—great for picky eaters and dogs with allergies!
- RAW DOG TREATS FREEZE DRIED FOR PEAK FRESHNESS: Our protein is frozen within 45-minutes of harvesting to lock in peak nutrients, flavor, and freshness. A slow-freeze-dry ensures minimal processing, while preserving the vital nutrients that our pets deserve, the way nature intended.
- Why Marcy’s Pet Kitchen? Wholesome, heart-shaped treats handmade in small batches using clean, simple ingredients for dogs with sensitive tummies.
- Gentle and Nourishing - Vegan, gluten-free and low glycemic. No added salt, dyes, or preservatives. Just real ingredients baked for easy digestion.
- Real Ingredients – Packed with carrots, sweet potato and peas for a vitamin-rich boost in every bite. Gently baked and perfect for plant-based pups! 1 bag, 5oz
- As Seen In - Proudly featured by pet wellness blogs and trusted by dog parents looking for simple, honest nutrition. Look for us in Good Housekeeping and Pets Plus Magazine.
- Female Founded - Created by Marcy Pellegrino, a dog mom on a mission to make safe, feel-good treats for pups with food sensitivities. Proceeds from every sale go to the Onyx Foundation.
- Why Marcy’s Pet Kitchen? Wholesome, heart-shaped treats handmade in small batches using clean, simple ingredients for dogs with sensitive tummies.
- Gentle and Nourishing - Vegan, gluten-free and low glycemic. No added salt, dyes, or preservatives. Just real ingredients baked for easy digestion.
- Real Ingredients - A classic favorite made with protein-rich peanut butter and oat flour, gently baked for a soft, crunchy texture dogs love. Picky eater approved! 1 bag, 5oz
- As Seen In - Proudly featured by pet wellness blogs and trusted by dog parents looking for simple, honest nutrition. Look for us in Good Housekeeping and Pets Plus Magazine
- Female Founded - Created by Marcy Pellegrino, a dog mom on a mission to make safe, feel-good treats for pups with food sensitivities. Proceeds from every sale go to the Onyx Foundation.
- HEALTHY TRAINING TREATS: With a tempting apple and bacon flavor, these delicious treats are perfect for training; They grab your dog’s attention, keep them motivated, and are ideal for rewarding focus and good behavior—even from the pickiest pups
- LOW-CALORIE DOG TREATS: With fewer than 4 calories per treat, these snacks are perfect for frequent rewards without affecting your dog’s daily intake; Great for training or everyday treating, they help support a healthy weight and active lifestyle
- MADE WITH SUPERFOODS: Crafted with sweet potato, these dog treats support digestion, promote bonding with your dog, and delivers delicious flavor, making them a great choice for dog owners who want a nutritious and healthy reward for their furry friends
- ALLERGY-FRIENDLY INGREDIENTS: Crafted without wheat, corn, or soy, these treats are perfect for dogs with common allergies and sensitivities; They provide a safe option that pet parents can confidently offer for a tasty reward with no worry
- CRAFTED FOR HEALTHIER CHOICES: Featuring CalorieSmart nutrition, these treats offer delicious flavors without excess calories; They support healthier snacking habits, letting you reward your dog with tasty, quality treats you can feel good about
- Contains: 18 irresistible dog chew treats
- No Beef Rawhide: Highly digestible without any beef rawhide or beefhide
- Naturally Good Ingredients: Made with layers of naturally good, real ingredients you can see
- Real Ingredients: Real pork and sweet potato twist with real chicken & carrot meatballs and real duck breast & sweet potato meatballs
- Dental Benefits: Chewing helps to remove plaque and tartar buildup, supprting overall dental health
The Ultimate Buying Guide: Choosing the Best Treats for Your Diabetic Dog
Managing a dog’s diabetes means watching everything they eat. Treats can be tricky! You want to reward your furry friend without spiking their blood sugar. This guide helps you find the perfect, safe treats for your diabetic companion.
Key Features to Look For in Diabetic Dog Treats
When you shop, look for specific things on the label. These features make a treat safe and helpful for a dog with diabetes.
Low Glycemic Index (GI) Ingredients
- This is the most important feature. Low GI foods release sugar slowly. This helps keep blood sugar levels steady.
- Avoid treats high in simple carbohydrates, like white flour or corn syrup.
High Fiber Content
- Fiber slows down how fast sugar enters the bloodstream.
- Look for ingredients like sweet potato (in moderation), pumpkin, or specific whole grains.
High Protein or Healthy Fat Content
- Protein and fat help dogs feel full and slow down digestion.
- Good sources include lean meats or fish.
Portion Control Size
- Treats should be small. This lets you give rewards without overloading on calories or carbs.
- Always check the recommended serving size for your dog’s weight.
Important Ingredients: What to Seek and What to Skip
The ingredients list tells the whole story. You must read it carefully.
Ingredients to Seek Out (The Good Stuff)
- **Lean Meats:** Chicken, turkey, or fish are excellent protein sources.
- **Vegetables (Low Sugar):** Green beans, carrots (use sparingly), or spinach.
- **Healthy Fats:** Small amounts of flaxseed or coconut oil can be beneficial.
- **Natural Sweeteners (Rarely):** If a sweetener is used, look for stevia or erythritol, but always check with your vet first.
Ingredients to Avoid (The Danger Zone)
- **Sugars:** Corn syrup, molasses, honey, sucrose, or dextrose. These spike blood sugar fast.
- **White Flour/Grains:** These break down quickly into sugar.
- **Artificial Ingredients:** Preservatives, colors, and flavors offer no nutritional benefit and can sometimes cause issues.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Treat Quality
Not all treats are made equal. Quality matters a lot for a sensitive dog.
Quality Boosters
- **Single Ingredient Treats:** Often, the simplest treats are the best. Dried liver or plain baked chicken jerky are high quality if they contain nothing else.
- **Natural Processing:** Treats that are baked or dehydrated retain more natural nutrients than heavily processed snacks.
Quality Reducers
- **Fillers:** Ingredients like wheat middlings or soy hulls are cheap fillers that add bulk but little value.
- **Hidden Sugars:** Sometimes sugar is disguised under different names. If the list is long and complex, it might hide something bad.
User Experience and Use Cases
How you use the treat affects your dog’s health routine.
Training and Rewards
- Diabetic dogs still need positive reinforcement. Use tiny pieces of a safe treat for successful training sessions.
- Keep a small container of approved treats handy for quick rewards after insulin injections or successful glucose checks.
Consistency is Key
- Once you find a treat your vet approves, stick with it. Switching treats often can cause unexpected blood sugar fluctuations.
- Always introduce new treats slowly, monitoring your dog’s glucose levels as directed by your veterinarian.
10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Diabetic Dog Treats
Q: Can diabetic dogs eat regular dog biscuits?
A: Usually, no. Most regular biscuits contain too much sugar and refined carbohydrates, which raise blood sugar too quickly.
Q: How many treats can my diabetic dog have per day?
A: This depends on your dog’s specific diet plan and caloric needs. Always ask your veterinarian for the exact daily limit. It is usually very small.
Q: Are fruit-based treats safe?
A: Some fruits are high in natural sugar. Use them only in tiny amounts and only if your vet approves. Vegetables like green beans are a safer bet.
Q: What is the safest type of treat for a diabetic dog?
A: Single-ingredient, protein-based treats like plain dried meat or dehydrated liver are often the safest choice because they have no added carbs.
Q: Should I worry about artificial sweeteners in treats?
A: Yes. Avoid xylitol completely as it is highly toxic to dogs. Other artificial sweeteners might still affect blood sugar, so it’s best to skip them.
Q: How do I know if a treat is low glycemic?
A: Look for labels that specifically state “low glycemic” or check that the main ingredients are high in fiber or protein, not starches.
Q: Can I use my dog’s regular food as a treat?
A: Yes, many owners use a small scoop of the dog’s measured, balanced kibble as a healthy, known-quantity reward.
Q: Does the treat affect my dog’s insulin timing?
A: Yes, it can. Treats can change digestion speed. Always give treats at consistent times, away from critical insulin injection windows, unless your vet advises otherwise.
Q: What if my dog loves sweet things? How can I satisfy them?
A: Try using small amounts of plain, cooked pumpkin puree (not pie filling) mixed with their regular food as a sweet, high-fiber reward.
Q: Where can I find these specialized treats?
A: You can find them at specialty pet stores, online retailers focusing on natural pet food, or sometimes directly from your veterinarian’s office.