How Many Treats Can a Dog Have a Day?

A treat feels small to us, yet it can be a big share of a small dog's day. Counting treats is one of the easiest ways to prevent slow weight gain.

The 10 percent guideline

A common guideline is to keep treats under about 10 percent of the day's calories and to take that amount out of the meals. The rest should come from a complete and balanced diet.

Some examples

A small dog eating 300 kcal a day has only about 30 kcal for treats. One large biscuit may use most of that.

How to count

• Check the calories per treat on the package.
• Weigh training treats for a week to see the real total.
• Cut treats into pea-sized pieces.
• Use part of the daily kibble as treats.
• Include chews, toppers, and table scraps.

When treats should go lower

On a weight loss plan, keep the treat share small and use low-calorie options. Your vet can suggest safe choices for your dog.

Choosing better treats

Small, soft, and low in calories is a good recipe. Tiny training treats let you reward often without much cost. Look at the calories per treat on the package, and avoid products that give only a per-bag number. Some owners use plain pieces of the dog's own kibble, which costs nothing extra.

Foods to keep away from your dog

Some human foods are unsafe for dogs, including chocolate, grapes and raisins, onions, and anything sweetened with xylitol. If you are unsure whether a food is safe, ask your vet before you share it.

Teaching family and visitors

Treats are often given by several people, and nobody counts. Put the day's treat allowance in a small jar each morning. When the jar is empty, treats are done for the day. It is a simple way to keep everyone on the same plan.

Questions people ask

These numbers are estimates and are not veterinary advice. Talk to your vet before you change your dog's diet, especially if your dog has a health condition. Questions or corrections? Contact me.