Discover 7 nutritious and vet-recommended treats for dogs and cats that promote health while keeping your pets happy and satisfied

One of the sweetest pleasures of being a pet parent is sharing a treat with your furry companion. But it’s important to be mindful — too many indulgent snacks can offset their nutrition and lead to long-term issues. Just like with meals, a balanced approach to treats is vital.

A major contributor to rising obesity in pets is an overabundance of rich treats. While rewarding your pet is natural, moderation and smarter choices can help you avoid the health risks linked to overfeeding.

The good news? You don’t have to stop treating them altogether. By choosing wholesome ingredients and minimizing empty calories, you can create snacks that both delight your pet and support their health. It's all about nutritious, simple options that make every bite count.

We reached out to seasoned pet nutritionists to uncover their favorite homemade snack ideas. These quick, affordable recipes use whole ingredients and offer a nutritious twist on commercial treats.

Frozen Bone Broth Delights

To cool off your pet on warm days, try icy bone broth cubes. Diana Farrar from Fifi & Fidos combines nourishing bone broth with goat milk and freezes the mix. These chilly treats hydrate and deliver essential nutrients — just be sure to use high-quality, ethically sourced products.

Banana Nibbles

Christina Ottaviano from Woofs and Whiskers recommends frozen banana chunks for fruit-friendly pets. Packed with potassium and magnesium, they’re a nutritious treat — but since bananas are naturally sweet, offer them sparingly.

Sweet Potato Chews

Create chewy jerky strips by slicing sweet potatoes and slow-baking or dehydrating them. Becky Mobley from Wild Kingdom loves them for their rich fiber and antioxidant content, including vitamins B6 and C.

Crunchy Veggie Snacks

If your dog loves to munch, carrots make an ideal snack — crunchy, low-calorie, and full of eye-healthy nutrients. Melissa Whitton from Most Valuable Pets suggests mixing in green beans, pumpkin, or zucchini for variety and added nutrition.

Savory Liver Treats

Janis Gianforte of Nupro recommends small servings of chicken liver for a protein-packed reward pets love. Rich in nutrients, liver should be fed in moderation — especially for pets with weight concerns. Always choose fresh, high-quality sources.

Both raw and cooked liver work well, but if your pet isn’t on a raw diet, lightly cooking it is safest. Giblets like hearts and gizzards also make great occasional bites.

Simple Dehydrated Treats

For busy pet owners, Johnna Devereaux from Fetch RI suggests one-ingredient, dehydrated options like lung, liver, or lean muscle. These treats are easy, nutritious, and require no added preservatives or fillers.

Training-Friendly Cubes

Need a clean, convenient reward for training sessions? Kyle Goguen of Pawstruck likes chopping up all-natural food rolls like Redbarn’s chicken rolls. Freeze for mess-free, protein-rich motivation.

Whether you treat with cuddles, toys, or a healthy snack, the goal is the same: building a deep, trusting bond with your animal companion. Thoughtful choices and portion control go a long way in keeping your pet happy and healthy.

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