Treats are a fun and rewarding part of any dog’s day—but too many can affect your pet’s health. Striking the right balance between daily dog food and treats is key to maintaining healthy weight, digestion, and nutrition. In this blog, we’ll guide you on how much to feed, how to count calories, and which treats work best without overdoing it.
Why is balance between food and treats important?
Dog food is nutritionally complete and designed to meet all of your dog’s dietary needs. Treats, however, are not balanced and often contain extra fat, salt, or flavor enhancers. When treats take up too much of your dog’s diet, it can lead to:
- Weight gain
- Digestive upset
- Picky eating behavior
- Nutrient deficiencies
A healthy balance ensures your dog enjoys rewards without missing out on essential nutrition.
What is the 90/10 rule for feeding dogs?
Most veterinarians recommend the 90/10 rule: 90% of your dog’s daily calories should come from complete meals, and no more than 10% should come from treats. This keeps your dog on track nutritionally while still allowing space for rewards and training snacks.
For example, if your dog needs 500 calories a day, only 50 of those should come from treats.
How do I know how many calories my dog needs daily?
Your dog’s calorie needs depend on their weight, age, breed, and activity level. As a general guide:
- Small dogs (under 20 lbs): 300–500 calories/day
- Medium dogs (20–50 lbs): 500–900 calories/day
- Large dogs (50–90 lbs): 900–1300+ calories/day
Always consult your vet for the most accurate feeding recommendations for your individual dog.
Shop Calorie-Labeled Treat Packs
How do I calculate treat portions safely?
Step 1: Find your dog’s total daily calorie needs. Step 2: Multiply that by 10% to get the maximum treat calorie limit. Step 3: Check the calorie content per treat on the package. Example: If your dog needs 600 calories a day, their treats should not exceed 60 calories total.
Which types of treats are best for daily feeding?
Look for treats that are:
- Low in fat and sugar
- Made with natural ingredients
- Smaller in size or breakable
- Free of artificial colors or flavors
Functional treats that support health (like joint care or digestion) are a bonus for daily use.
Can I reduce meal size if I give more treats?
Yes, but only slightly. If you plan to give your dog more treats than usual—during training, travel, or special events—you can reduce their regular meal slightly to balance total calories. However, avoid cutting meals too much or too often, as this could reduce essential nutrients.
Always monitor your dog’s body weight and energy levels if adjusting food portions regularly.
What signs show I may be overfeeding treats?
If your dog is gaining weight, becoming picky with food, or having loose stools, they may be getting too many treats. Other signs include:
- Skipping meals but still hungry for treats
- Begging frequently
- Visible weight gain or bloating
This method works especially well for puppies and dogs in training.
Can I use part of my dog’s food as treats?
Absolutely! One of the healthiest ways to reward your dog is to use their actual kibble or meal as treats. This keeps nutrition consistent while reinforcing good behavior. Just scoop out some from their daily portion and use it throughout the day.
This method works especially well for puppies and dogs in training.
Shop Meal-Style Treat Replacements
How do I build a consistent feeding and treat routine?
Dogs thrive on routine. Feed your dog at the same time each day and give treats with intention—not just for begging or cuteness. Try this daily plan:
- 2 meals (morning and evening)
- 1–2 small training treats during the day
- Optional dental treat at bedtime
Keep a treat jar in sight but limit access to maintain discipline. A healthy treat-to-food balance is essential for your dog’s long-term well-being. Stick to the 90/10 rule, monitor calories, and choose quality ingredients to make treats both fun and functional. Always remember—treats are for love, not for meals.
