Golden Retriever

Best Dog Treats for Golden Retrievers

Rewards are a great way to motivate any individual, including Golden Retrievers. These dogs are known to be highly motivated by treats, which can serve as a form of positive reinforcement for desirable behavior.

As a result, many Golden Retriever owners use treats as a way to communicate to their dogs what is expected of them.

However, it is important to choose the right treats for your Golden Retriever, as these dogs are known to be very energetic and may require more nourishing options to support their activity level.

In order to maintain their intelligence and energy levels, Golden Retrievers require treats that are high in protein and essential vitamins.

These micro-nutrients help to support the overall health and well-being of the dog. It is also important for the treats to be delicious, as this will ensure that the dog is more likely to consume them.

Best Dog Treats for Golden Retrievers

1) Nudges Grillers

This particular treat is made using a combination of chicken, vegetable glycerine, sugar, ground rice, distilled vinegar, and paprika. The small, bite-sized pieces are made using real chicken, making them highly appealing to Golden Retrievers.

In terms of nutrition, this treat is a good source of protein, providing 24% of the daily recommended value. It also contains 11% fat and 1% dietary fiber.

This treat is made using all natural ingredients, which makes it a healthy choice for your Golden Retriever. The manufacturer does not include any artificial flavors or preservatives in the recipe, ensuring that the treat is pure and safe for your dog to consume.

As a result, many Golden Retrievers are able to enjoy this treat without experiencing any allergic reactions. Overall, this treat is a tasty and nutritious option for your furry friend.

Pros:

  • This particular treat is highly appealing to Golden Retrievers due to its delicious taste.
  • It is made using natural ingredients, making it a healthy choice for your dog.
  • The treat is also non-allergic, so it is suitable for most Golden Retrievers.
  • In terms of nutrition, it is a good source of protein and fat, providing your dog with essential nutrients to support their overall health.
  • The manufacturer does not include any artificial flavors or preservatives in the recipe, ensuring that the treat is pure and safe for your dog to consume.

Cons:

  • The treat has quite a sticky property to it.
  • Needed to be kept in the freezer.
  • The dog loves the pungent flavour of this treat, but many people don’t like it.
  • Overfeeding of this treat can make obese.

2) Blue Buffalo Health Bars Natural Crunchy Dog Treats Biscuits

This treat is made using apples and is enriched with vitamins and antioxidants. It is a great option for vegans, as it does not contain any meat or bone meal.

The treat is also safe for dogs, as it does not contain BHA and is free of wheat, making it easy for Golden Retrievers to digest. It also contains omega 3 fatty acids, which are essential for brain development and overall health. By providing your Golden Retriever with this treat, you can help to support their intelligence and well-being.

Pros:

  • The treat develops immunity power in the Golden Retriever.
  • Many Golden Retrievers enjoy the delicious taste of these biscuits.
  • These biscuits do not contain BHA, making them a safe option for dogs.
  • This treat is made using natural ingredients.
  • Suitable for vegan people

Cons:

  • This treat may become soggy when exposed to a humid environment.
  • These biscuits are prone to crumbling and may turn into powder when subjected to pressure.
  • Overfeeding may increase sodium level in the dog, which is not healthy.

3) Stewart Freeze Dried Treats

Golden Retrievers are known for their natural hunting instincts and often enjoy organ meats and lamb liver, which are rich in protein and vitamins. However, feeding your dog raw food can be time-consuming and inconvenient.

A possible solution to this issue is to provide your Golden Retriever with freeze-dried treats, which offer all the nutritional benefits of raw food without the mess.

One of the standout features of this treat is that it is made in the United States using locally sourced ingredients. It is free of preservatives and artificial flavors, making it a pure and natural option for your Golden Retriever.

The treat is packed with the goodness of lamb liver and is high in Vitamin A, iron, magnesium, and folic acid.

Pros:

  • This treat offers all the benefits of raw lamb liver, including high levels of protein and essential vitamins.
  • It is made in the United States using high-quality ingredients and is free of artificial additives and preservatives.
  • Golden Retrievers can enjoy the taste of raw meat without the mess.

Cons:

  • This treat is quite hard and may pose a choking hazard for dogs if not consumed properly.
  • It is important to be mindful of the amount of this treat that you give to your dog, as overconsumption may lead to digestive issues.
  • The treat does not stay fresh for long once the package is opened.

4) InPrimeTime Cadet Duck Breast Gourmet Dog Treat

Duck breast is a lean poultry option that is rich in protein and low in fat, making it a good choice for overweight Golden Retrievers. Treats made with duck breast tend to be more flavorful than those made with chicken, and are often enjoyed by Golden Retrievers.

In addition to duck meat, these treats also contain soy protein, which can help to support the overall health and wellness of your dog. They are made with real duck flavor and do not contain any artificial additives or preservatives.

Pros:

  • This treat is high in protein and low in fat, making it a good choice for dogs who are trying to maintain a lean body weight.
  • It is made with real duck flavor.

Cons:

  • Compared to other treats, this particular option may be more expensive.
  • It has a limited shelf life once the package is opened and may only stay fresh for a few days.
  • Some people may find the strong, pungent odour of the treat to be unpleasant.

5) Rachael Ray Nutrish Real Meat Dog Treats

This dog treat is made with 100% American beef and all of its ingredients are sourced locally. It is both healthy and delicious, with a focus on using real beef to provide a high-quality, tasty treat for your dog.

This dog treat is made with a combination of real beef, dried potato, and dried carrot. It is free of any Chinese supplements and is rich in protein, fat, and carbohydrates to provide energy and support the dog’s natural immune system. It contains 10% crude protein and 7% crude fat, as well as vitamins and minerals to help keep your dog healthy.

Pros:

  • This dog treat is made with real beef and dried vegetables, and is free of Chinese supplements.
  • It contains low levels of protein and fat, making it a healthy choice for dogs.
  • It also has a high carbohydrate content to provide a quick energy boost.
  • It is made with 100% American ingredients.

Cons:

  • This dog treat has a sticky texture and should be stored in an airtight container to maintain its freshness.
  • If not properly sealed, the treat may become discolored after a few days.

6) Buckley Dog Jerky Treats

This gluten-free dog treat is made with real beef and is suitable for Golden Retrievers of all ages. It contains a high level of glucosamine and chondroitin, which can support the development of healthy hips and joints in dogs.

This dog treat is made from 100% real beef and does not contain any filler. It provides a burst of energy and supports the overall health of your dog. The jerky texture allows it to be easily broken into small pieces, making it convenient to use during training sessions.

Pros:

  • This gluten-free beef jerky can help prevent obesity in Golden Retrievers and is suitable for dogs of all ages.
  • It contains high levels of glucosamine and chondroitin to support the development of healthy hips and joints.
  • Made with 100% real beef, this treat provides complete nourishment for your dog.
  • Its convenient size makes it easy to use during training sessions.

Cons:

  • Some people who follow a vegan diet may find the smell of this treat unpleasant.
  • The high salt content of this treat may contribute to increased blood pressure.
  • The treat may be lacking in essential vitamins and minerals.

7) Butler Animal Health 8 Pack Lean Treats for Large Breed Dogs

This dog treat is specially formulated for adult Golden Retrievers and is made with skinless chicken and all American ingredients. It is low in fat and provides a burst of energy and nutrition for dogs with a high metabolism. The bite-size pieces are easy to feed and the treat is chewy and enjoyed by Golden Retrievers after training sessions.

Pros:

  • This treat is low in fat and made with skinless chicken.
  • It helps to provide the necessary vitamins and minerals for your dog.
  • It is conveniently sized in bite-size pieces for easy use.
  • The high calorie content of the treat makes it suitable for adult dogs.

Cons:

  • This treat may cause digestive issues in small Golden Retrievers.
  • It should be stored in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
  • The treat contains a small amount of artificial flavor.

8) Purina Busy Bone Dog Chew Dog Treats

During the teething phase, dogs often enjoy chewing on treats as a way to relieve discomfort in their gums. Golden Retrievers are no exception and may find these chew treats particularly enjoyable. They can also help to keep your dog occupied for a longer period of time.

This treat is made with chicken by-products and wheat flour as the main ingredients. It has a low amount of protein and fat and is both hard and chewy, but easy to digest, making it suitable for small dogs.

Pros:

  • This treat is long-lasting, providing your dog with an extended period of enjoyment.
  • Its low protein and fat content makes it a healthy choice for dogs.
  • The treat has a long shelf life and is suitable for small Golden Retrievers.
  • Its easy-to-digest formula makes it a suitable choice for small dogs.

Cons:

  • There is a risk of choking for dogs when consuming this treat.
  • The treat contains artificial flavor and preservatives.
  • Some Golden Retrievers may be allergic to the ingredients in this treat.

9) Buckley Trainers – All Natural Low Calorie Grain-Free Dog Training Treats, 6-Ounce

Golden Retrievers, like humans, often enjoy the taste of peanut butter. This flavor can be a motivating and rewarding treat for dogs, which is why it is a favorite among trainers. These treats are conveniently sized in small, bite-size pieces.

This treat is easy to feed and has a low calorie concentration, with each piece containing only 4 calories. This makes it a suitable choice for trainers who want to reward their dogs without worrying about obesity. The grain and gluten-free formula is also gentle on sensitive stomachs, making it a good option for Golden Retrievers.

Pros:

  • These small, bite-size treats are easy to feed and suitable for professional trainers.
  • They are 100% gluten-free and made with grain-free ingredients to suit the sensitive digestion systems of dogs and prevent allergies.
  • Each treat has a low calorie concentration, making it a healthy choice for rewarding your dog.
  • These treats are well-suited for Golden Retrievers and their trainers.

Cons:

  • This treat contains a high amount of preservatives.
  • It has additional artificial peanut butter flavor added to it.
  • The semi-moist consistency gives it a gooey texture.

10) 4Legz Organic All Natural Crunchy Non-GMO Dog Treats

The manufacturing company has created a 100% GMO-free, organic dog treat made with real sweet potato puree and suitable for vegans.

No chemicals, artificial preservatives, or animal by-products are used in the production of this treat. It is a healthier alternative to chemically processed foods.

Pros:

  • This treat is made with 100% pure ingredients and is free of GMOs.
  • It does not contain any animal by-products and is suitable for vegans.
  • The treat has a long shelf life after the package is opened.

Cons:

  • The texture of this treat is quite hard and may not be preferred by some Golden Retrievers.
  • The taste may not be appealing to all dogs.
  • The low calorie concentration may not provide enough energy for some dogs.

11) True Chews Premium Jerky Cuts Made with Real Steak 20 oz

This savory treat is made with real beef steak and is a delicious choice for Golden Retrievers. It contains 21% crude protein, 12% crude fat, 2% fiber, and 25% moisture, and each piece provides around 47 calories of energy. It is free of wheat, soy, and corn and is non-allergic, made with natural ingredients and an appetizing aroma. The premium jerky flavor is sure to be a hit with your dog.

Pros:

  • This treat is made with natural ingredients and has a savory beef jerky flavor.
  • It has a balanced caloric concentration that is suitable for Golden Retrievers.
  • It is non-allergic and safe for all types of Golden Retrievers.

Cons:

  • The shelf life of this treat is short once the package has been opened.
  • It should be stored in the freezer to maintain freshness.
  • The treat may discolor over time.

12) Papa Bow Wow Buffalo Treats for Dogs

This treat is made with real, dehydrated buffalo lungs and has a chewy texture that dogs, including Golden Retrievers, love. The extended chewing required to eat this treat helps to reduce plaque and tartar buildup on the teeth and promotes healthy gums.

This treat has a lower sodium and cholesterol content compared to beef-based treats and a moderate calorie concentration to provide energy for your dog. It is also rich in potassium, vitamin B6, calcium, and other essential minerals.

Pros:

  • This treat has a lower calorie content and is high in potassium, vitamin B6, calcium, and other essential minerals.
  • It helps to remove plaque and tartar from the teeth and has a chewy texture that keeps dogs occupied.
  • It also has a lower sodium and cholesterol content compared to other treats.

Cons:

  • This treat has a sticky consistency.
  • It may have an unpleasant smell.
  • It may be too large for small Golden Retrievers to easily consume.

13) Milk-Bone Soft & Chewy Dog Treats with 12 Vitamins and Minerals

This treat is a tasty and premium option for Golden Retrievers, made with real beef flavor and containing 12 essential vitamins and minerals to boost the dog’s immunity. It is easy to feed due to its small biscuit size and comes in an airtight jar to maintain freshness. Many trainers use this treat during training sessions with Golden Retrievers.

Pros:

  • This treat has a genuine beef flavor and taste.
  • It is enriched with 12 essential vitamins and minerals.
  • The treat can help to improve the dog’s immunity.
  • It is conveniently sized in small biscuit form, making it easy to feed to your dog.

Cons:

  • This treat is low in protein.
  • It has a hard texture.
  • It contains artificial flavors and preservatives.

14) NUTRO Natural Crunchy Dog Treats

This crunchy treat is a favorite of Golden Retrievers due to its delicious peanut butter flavor and the satisfaction of chewing it. It has a balanced nutrient content, with 19% crude protein, 8% crude fat, and 2% crude fiber. The small, bite-size pieces contain only 5 calories of energy and are easy for trainers to use. The treat is made in the USA with local ingredients and includes GMO-free organic ingredients.

Pros:

  • This treat is made with 100% American and GMO-free ingredients.
  • Each bite contains a low amount of calories, at only 5 per piece.
  • It has a balanced nutrient profile.
  • The treat has a delicious peanut butter flavor.
  • It is easy to feed to your dog.

Cons:

  • This treat can become soggy when exposed to moisture.
  • It should be stored in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
  • The calorie content is low.

15) Zuke’s Mini Naturals Training and New Hemp Calming Dog Treats

This treat, made with real chicken meat and other ingredients like rice flour and barley. It comes in small, bite-size pieces and has a low calorie content of only 3 calories per piece.

This treat is a healthy option for Golden Retrievers, as it is low in calories and free of corn, wheat, and soy, which can be potential allergens for some dogs. It is also free of artificial flavors and safe for all types of Golden Retrievers.

Pros:

  • This treat has a real chicken flavor.
  • It is made with all-natural ingredients.
  • It has a low calorie content.
  • It is free of corn, wheat, and soy.

Cons:

  • This treat has a sticky texture.
  • It has a strong, raw chicken smell.
  • It may be lacking in necessary nutrients and vitamins.

 Related: Best Dog Bowls for Golden Retrievers

Conclusion

When choosing a treat for your Golden Retriever, it’s important to consider a variety of factors. Some treats are made with meat and animal by-products, while others are vegan.

The texture of the treat can vary, with some being chewy and others being hard. The size of the treat is also an important consideration, as some are small bites while others are larger.

As an owner, you have a wide range of options when it comes to choosing treats for your Golden Retriever. It’s important to consider your dog’s health and eating habits when making a decision. It can be beneficial to try out different treats and switch things up to give your dog some variety.

This can also help you understand your dog’s taste preferences. It’s important to choose a treat that meets your dog’s needs and fits with your own personal preferences.

Gina Vayner!

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