Ever look at the back of a dog biscuit package and feel completely lost? Those long ingredient lists filled with hard-to-pronounce words can make you wonder what you are actually feeding your best friend. We all want our dogs to be happy and healthy, and treats play a big role in that happiness. But finding biscuits that truly support their well-being, instead of just filling them with cheap fillers or hidden sugars, is surprisingly tough.
Many owners worry about allergies, weight gain, or simply avoiding artificial junk. You want treats that are delicious *and* nutritious, but navigating the pet store aisles feels like a guessing game. It is frustrating when you try to do the right thing, but the options seem designed to confuse you!
This guide cuts through the confusion. We will show you exactly what to look for in a truly healthy dog biscuit, what ingredients to run from, and how to easily pick the perfect treat every single time. Get ready to become a savvy shopper and give your dog the wholesome rewards they deserve. Let’s dive into making better treat choices right now!
Top Healthy Dog Biscuits Recommendations
No. 1
Blue Buffalo Health Bars Crunchy Dog Biscuits, Oven-Baked with Natural Ingredients, Bacon, Egg & Cheese, 16-oz Bag
- FRESH BAKED AROMA: Combining the savory scents of bacon, egg & cheese, this recipe is the next best thing to a bite of your breakfast sandwich
- MADE with BACON: BLUE Health Bars dog treats prove that a healthy treat can be tasty, too; with ingredients like oatmeal, bacon, and egg, these bars feature the ingredients you’ll be proud to feed your furry family members
- CRUNCHY DOG TREATS: For dogs who prefer a crunch, these dog biscuits are oven baked for a texture they’ll love
- WHOLESOME INGREDIENTS: These dog treats don’t contain any chicken (or poultry) by-product meals and are free from corn, wheat, and soy; plus, they’re free from artificial preservatives like BHA & artificial colors
- HEALTHY DOG TREATS: Made with only the finest natural ingredients and enhanced with vitamins and minerals, Blue Buffalo natural dog treats feature the ingredients you’ll love feeding as much as they’ll love eating
No. 2
Blue Buffalo Health Bars Crunchy Dog Biscuits, Oven-Baked with Natural Ingredients, Bacon, Egg & Cheese, 3.5-lbs Box
- FRESH BAKED AROMA: Combining the savory scents of bacon, egg & cheese, this recipe is the next best thing to a bite of your breakfast sandwich
- MADE with BACON: BLUE Health Bars dog treats prove that a healthy treat can be tasty, too; with ingredients like oatmeal, bacon, and egg, these bars feature the ingredients you’ll be proud to feed your furry family members
- CRUNCHY DOG TREATS: For dogs who prefer a crunch, these dog biscuits are oven baked for a texture they’ll love
- WHOLESOME INGREDIENTS: These dog treats don’t contain any chicken (or poultry) by-product meals and are free from corn, wheat, and soy; plus, they’re free from artificial preservatives like BHA & artificial colors
- HEALTHY DOG TREATS: Made with only the finest natural ingredients and enhanced with vitamins and minerals, Blue Buffalo natural dog treats feature the ingredients you’ll love feeding as much as they’ll love eating
No. 3
Old Mother Hubbard Wellness P-Nuttier Dog Biscuits, Natural, Training Treats, Peanut Butter Flavor, Large Size, (6 Pound Box)
- LARGE CRUNCHY TREATS: These all natural large crunchy dog biscuits are made with a taste of peanut butter, apples, carrots, and molasses for a treat your dog will love
- Crunchy texture helps clean teeth as your pup chews
- Made in North America using only the finest globally sourced ingredients and no added artififcial preservatives
- Try all of our mouthwatering biscuits in a variety of flavors and sizes to build your dog's perfect snack pantry!
- Classic great taste since 1926: Each biscuit is slowly oven-baked to preserve the natural flavors in all the varieties dogs love to catch, chew and eat.
No. 4
Blue Buffalo Health Bars Crunchy Dog Biscuits, Variety Pack, Bacon, Egg & Cheese, Apple & Yogurt, Pumpkin & Cinnamon, 16-oz Bags
- FRESH BAKED AROMAS: A mouthwatering trio of savory bacon, egg & cheese, warm pumpkin and cinnamon, and sweet apple with yogurt, delivering inviting, oven-baked scents dogs love
- THREE TASTY FLAVORS: This variety pack includes Bacon, Egg & Cheese, Apple & Yogurt, and Pumpkin & Cinnamon varieties — tasty flavors from real ingredients your dog will love
- CRUNCHY DOG TREATS: For dogs that prefer a crunch, these dog biscuits are oven baked for a texture they’ll love
- WHOLESOME INGREDIENTS: These dog treats don’t contain any chicken (or poultry) by-product meals and are free from corn, wheat and soy; plus, they’re free from artificial preservatives like BHA & artificial colors
- HEALTHY DOG TREATS: Made with only the finest natural ingredients and enhanced with vitamins and minerals, Blue Buffalo natural dog treats feature the ingredients you’ll love feeding as much as they’ll love eating
No. 5
Portland Pet Food Company Pumpkin Dog Treats Healthy Biscuits for Small Medium & Large Dogs - Grain-Free, Human-Grade, All Natural Cookies, Snacks & Puppy Training Treats - Made in The USA - 5 oz
- PUMPKIN TREATS FOR DOGS: We believe in simple, real nutrition that your pet will adore. Our human grade dog treats are crafted with all natural, organic pumpkin. A mouth watering, healthy, vegan treat for even the pickiest of pups.
- EXCEPTIONAL FLAVOR: Each scrumptious snack is double baked with organic pumpkin puree, Bob’s Red Mill Garbanzo Bean Flour, peanut butter, molasses, and cinnamon. With 3 other flavors and mixed variety packs available, snack time just got a lot more 'pawsome'!
- LIMITED INGREDIENTS: Our tasty grain free dog treats are prepared with 7 ingredients or fewer with no preservatives, wheat, dairy, chicken, BHT, BHA, and no artificial colors. Ideal for dogs with allergies or sensitive stomachs, senior dogs, and picky eaters.
- GREAT FOR ALL SIZES: Our light and crunchy biscuit serves as an excellent training reward for all breeds, ages, and sizes, and can be easily snapped into smaller, bite-sized treats for small dogs.
- USA MADE: All of our gluten free dog treats are lovingly handcrafted using ingredients grown and sourced in the USA only. We use family recipes and package them in BPA-free bags. We’re here to support your pet's nutritional journey to eat well (and love it).
No. 6
Old Mother Hubbard Wellness Original Mix Dog Biscuits, Natural, Training Treats, Four Flavors, Small Size, (6 Pound Bag)
- SMALL CRUNCHY TREATS: An assortment of mini crunchy dog biscuits make a great training treat and a great addition to your dog's diet; they feature all natural ingredients and assorted natural flavors including chicken, eggs and real cheddar cheese
- ALL NATURAL: Our yummy biscuit recipes include wholesome natural ingredients such as real peanut butter, fruits and vegetables; each biscuit is slowly oven baked to preserve the natural flavors
- Made in North America using only the finest globally sourced ingredients; we craft delicious recipes with simple, natural ingredients thoughtfully chosen for their nutritional benefits; no artificial preservatives or meat byproducts
- THE NATURAL CHOICE: From puppy to senior, small dog to large breed, crunchy to chewy, grained to grain free, treating to training, we've got an all natural recipe for every dog's needs and taste
- GIVE 'EM SOME SNACK LOVE: We've used the same simple methods to bake our snacks since 1926; each home style recipe is crafted from wholesome ingredients so you can feel good about giving your dog a reward that's healthy and heartfelt
No. 7
Blue Buffalo Health Bars Mini Crunchy Dog Biscuits, Oven-Baked with Natural Ingredients, Apples & Yogurt, 16-oz Bag
- MADE with APPLES: BLUE Health Bars dog treats prove that a healthy treat can be tasty, too; with ingredients like oatmeal, apples and yogurt, they feature the ingredients you’ll be proud to feed your furry family members
- MINI CRUNCHY DOG TREATS: A smaller bite with the same crunch, these dog biscuits are oven baked for a texture dogs love
- WHOLESOME INGREDIENTS: These dog treats don’t contain any chicken (or poultry) by-product meals and are free from corn, wheat and soy; plus, they’re free from artificial preservatives like BHA & artificial colors
- HEALTHY DOG TREATS: Made with only the finest natural ingredients and enhanced with vitamins and minerals, Blue Buffalo natural dog treats feature the ingredients you’ll love feeding as much as they’ll love eating
- INCLUDED IN PACKAGE: Contains One (1) 16-oz bag of BLUE Health Bars Mini Crunchy Dog Biscuits, Oven-Baked with Natural Ingredients, Apples & Yogurt
No. 8
Blue Dog Bakery Natural Dog Treats, More Crunch Large, Assorted Flavors, 18oz Box, 1 Box
- LOW FAT & CRUNCHY DOG TREATS: Our original recipe treats in assorted flavors receive barking ovations from dogs big and small; Made with natural whole wheat, real eggs and nonfat milk; 18 Ounce Box, Pack of 1
- HELPS CLEAN TEETH AND FRESHEN DOG BREATH: Dog treats baked with extra crunch to help clean teeth, freshen dog's breath and help support healthy teeth and gums; Non-GMO; Naturally low in fat
- DOG TREATS WITH NO ARTIFICAL ANYTHING: Blue Dog's Mission is to make pet treats with naturally sourced, healthy ingredients; There are no artificial colors, flavors, preservatives or animal by-products in any of our treats
- USA MADE WITH INGREDIENTS FROM AMERICAN FARMS: All of our pet treats contain premium, healthy ingredients grown on American farms; We source only human-grade ingredients for all of our treats
- HEALTHY DOG TREAT ALTERNATIVE: In 1998, Blue Dog Bakery started making fresh-baked, healthy pet treats; We were the first all natural, premium and low fat dog treat option to be nationally distributed
The Ultimate Buying Guide for Healthy Dog Biscuits
Choosing the right biscuits for your furry friend is important. Healthy dog biscuits offer tasty rewards without unwanted junk. This guide helps you pick the best snacks for your dog’s well-being.
Key Features to Look For
Good dog biscuits should have clear, simple features. These features tell you what your dog is eating.
1. Ingredient Transparency
- Look for clear labels. You should easily see every ingredient listed.
- Brands that hide ingredients might use lower-quality fillers.
2. Nutritional Balance
- Biscuits should offer some nutritional value, not just empty calories.
- Check for protein, fiber, and healthy fats listed on the packaging.
- They are treats, so they should not replace your dog’s main meals.
3. Appropriate Size and Texture
- The biscuit size must match your dog’s mouth size. Small dogs need small treats.
- Texture matters for chewing. Some dogs need crunchy biscuits; others need softer ones if they have dental issues.
Important Materials: What’s Inside Matters
The quality of ingredients directly impacts your dog’s health. Focus on natural, whole foods.
Protein Sources
- The best biscuits use real meat, poultry, or fish as the first ingredient. Examples include chicken meal or real salmon.
- Avoid biscuits listing vague terms like “animal byproduct.”
Carbohydrates and Binders
- Choose whole grains like brown rice, oats, or sweet potatoes for energy.
- Many healthy brands use natural binders instead of artificial gums.
Natural Preservatives and Flavoring
- Natural preservatives like Vitamin E (mixed tocopherols) are excellent.
- Artificial colors, flavors, and chemical preservatives (like BHA or BHT) should be avoided completely.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Certain ingredients boost the quality of the biscuit. Others seriously lower it.
Quality Boosters
- Added superfoods like blueberries or flaxseed provide extra vitamins and Omega-3s.
- Limited ingredient diets (LID) are great for dogs with allergies. These use fewer ingredients, making it easier to track sensitivities.
Quality Reducers
- High amounts of corn, wheat, or soy are common fillers. These offer little nutritional benefit to many dogs.
- Sugar or corn syrup added for taste lowers the overall health rating significantly.
User Experience and Use Cases
Think about how you will use the biscuits. This helps narrow down your choices.
Training Aids
- For training, you need small, easily breakable treats. High-value training treats keep your dog focused during tough sessions.
- These treats should be soft enough to chew quickly so training time isn’t wasted on long chewing sessions.
Dental Health
- If you seek dental benefits, look for biscuits with a rougher, abrasive texture. Some specialized biscuits have grooves designed to scrape plaque.
- However, remember that specialized dental chews are often better for plaque removal than standard biscuits.
Allergy Management
- If your dog has known allergies, stick to grain-free or single-protein options. Always introduce a new biscuit slowly to monitor for reactions.
10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Healthy Dog Biscuits
Q: Are “Grain-Free” biscuits always healthier?
A: Not always. Grain-free often means the biscuit uses peas or potatoes instead of wheat. Some dogs do better with grains. Check the main ingredients first.
Q: How often should I give my dog biscuits?
A: Treats should make up less than 10% of your dog’s daily calories. Use them sparingly, mostly for rewards or training.
Q: What does “human-grade” mean on a label?
A: It means the ingredients used meet the same safety standards as food made for people. This usually indicates higher quality ingredients.
Q: Can I give my dog human biscuits?
A: No. Human biscuits often contain xylitol, chocolate, or high amounts of salt and sugar, which are toxic or harmful to dogs.
Q: What is the shelf life of a healthy biscuit?
A: Naturally preserved biscuits usually last 6 to 12 months. Check the “Best By” date, and store them in a cool, dry place.
Q: Why are healthy biscuits more expensive?
A: High-quality, whole ingredients cost more than cheap fillers like corn meal. You pay for better nutrition.
Q: Should I worry about the fat content?
A: Yes. High fat can lead to weight gain or digestive upset. Look for moderate fat levels, especially if your dog is overweight.
Q: What should I do if my dog gets an upset stomach after eating a new biscuit?
A: Stop giving the biscuit immediately. If the upset continues, contact your veterinarian. This suggests an allergy or sensitivity.
Q: Are hard, crunchy biscuits bad for a senior dog’s teeth?
A: Very hard biscuits can chip older teeth. Look for slightly softer, oven-baked textures for senior dogs.
Q: How can I tell if a biscuit is too processed?
A: If the ingredient list is very long and full of chemical names, the biscuit is highly processed. Simpler lists are better.