When it comes to feeding a dog with no teeth, it can be a bit of a challenge. Traditional hard treats and kibble may be difficult for them to chew and digest. However, there are still plenty of options for treats that can be enjoyed by dogs without teeth.
These treats are made with real meat and are soft and chewy. They come in a variety of flavors, so your dog can try different options.
Positive aspects:
These treats are small in size, making them easy for dogs to chew and swallow without the need for teeth.
They are made with natural ingredients, such as chicken and berries, which can provide nutritional benefits for your pup.
Many users have reported that their dogs enjoy the taste of these treats and are excited to receive them during training sessions.
Negative aspects:
Some dogs may have difficulty picking up these small treats with their mouths, especially if they have limited mobility in their jaws.
While the natural ingredients are a plus, some dogs may have allergies or sensitivities to certain ingredients in these treats.
These treats may be more expensive compared to other options, which could be a concern for some pet owners.
2. Blue Buffalo Blue Bits Soft-Moist Training Treats
These treats are made with real meat and are free from artificial preservatives, colors, and flavors. They are also soft and easy for dogs to chew.
Pros:
Since dogs with no teeth cannot chew hard treats, a soft and moist texture is ideal for them. Blue Buffalo Blue Bits are specifically designed to be easy to eat and digest.
The small size of these treats makes them easy for dogs with no teeth to handle and swallow.
Blue Buffalo Blue Bits are made with high-quality ingredients such as real meat and vegetables, providing important nutrients for your dog.
Cons:
Blue Buffalo Blue Bits may be more expensive than other dog treat options.
These treats only come in a few flavors, so your dog may not find them as appealing if they are picky eaters.
3. Wellness Soft Puppy Bites
These treats are made with real meat and are free from artificial preservatives, colors, and flavors. They are also soft and easy for dogs to chew.
Pros:
These treats are specifically designed for puppies, which means they are small and easy for a dog with no teeth to chew and swallow.
They are made with high-quality, natural ingredients that are good for a dog’s overall health and well-being.
They come in a variety of flavors, so you can find one that your dog will love.
Cons:
They are more expensive than other types of dog treats.
Some dogs may not like the texture or flavor of these treats.
They are not suitable for dogs with food allergies or sensitivities, as they contain common allergens like chicken and fish.
4. Milk-Bone Soft & Chewy Training Treats
These treats are made with real meat and are free from artificial preservatives, colors, and flavors. They are also soft and easy for dogs to chew.
These treats are made with real chicken and are easy to chew, making them a good option for dogs with no teeth.
They are also small in size, which makes them easy for dogs to swallow.
The soft and chewy texture of these treats can also help to stimulate the dog’s appetite.
They are also a great option for training, as they can be easily broken into smaller pieces for rewards.
Cons:
Some dogs may find these treats too soft and may not be interested in them.
These treats are not suitable for dogs with dietary restrictions, as they contain ingredients such as wheat flour and corn syrup.
They also have a relatively high calorie content, so they should be used in moderation.
They may not be suitable for dogs with certain health conditions, such as diabetes or obesity.
5. Stella & Chewy’s Freeze-Dried Raw Dinner Patties
These patties are made with high-quality, all-natural ingredients and are easy to break into small pieces for dogs with no teeth. They are also packed with essential nutrients and vitamins to keep your dog healthy.
Pros:
These patties are made with high-quality, natural ingredients that are easy for dogs to digest. This is especially important for dogs with no teeth, as they may have trouble chewing harder treats.
The freeze-drying process preserves the nutrients and flavor of the ingredients, making it a tasty and nutritious treat option for dogs.
The patties are small and easy for dogs to swallow, making them a great option for dogs with no teeth.
They come in a variety of flavors, so you can find one that your dog will enjoy.
Cons:
These patties can be expensive compared to other treat options. This may not be the best option for pet owners on a budget.
They may not be as convenient as other treats, as they need to be rehydrated before giving them to your dog.
The packaging can be bulky, which may not be practical for pet owners who need to take their dog’s treats with them on the go.
6. Nature’s Variety Instinct Freeze-Dried Raw Boost Mixers
These mixers are a great way to add extra protein and nutrients to your dog’s diet. They can be added to their regular kibble or broken into small pieces for dogs with no teeth.
Pros:
Nature’s Variety Instinct Freeze-Dried Raw Boost Mixers are made with high-quality, natural ingredients such as raw meat, fruits, and vegetables. This means that the treats are packed with essential nutrients and vitamins that can help keep your dog healthy and happy.
The freeze-dried process used to make these treats preserves the natural flavor and nutrition of the ingredients, making them a great option for dogs with no teeth who may have difficulty chewing harder treats.
These treats come in a variety of flavors, including chicken, beef, and lamb, which can help keep your dog interested and excited about trying new treats.
Cons:
Nature’s Variety Instinct Freeze-Dried Raw Boost Mixers can be a bit more expensive than other types of dog treats. This may not be the best option for those on a tight budget.
These treats are not suitable for all dogs, as they contain ingredients such as fruits and vegetables that some dogs may be allergic to. It’s important to check the ingredient list before giving these treats to your dog.
If your dog is on a special diet, you should consult with your vet before introducing these treats to their diet as they may contain ingredients that your dog should avoid.
7. Ziwi Peak Air-Dried Dog Treats
These treats are made with high-quality, grass-fed meats and are easy to break into small pieces. They are also free from artificial preservatives and colors.
Pros:
These treats are made with high-quality, natural ingredients that are easy for dogs to digest.
They are air-dried, which means they are free from artificial preservatives and have a long shelf life.
The texture of the treats is soft and chewy, making them easy for dogs with no teeth to eat.
They come in a variety of flavors, such as beef, lamb, and venison, which can help keep your dog interested in eating.
Cons:
Ziwi Peak Air-Dried Dog Treats can be expensive compared to other types of dog treats.
Some dogs may not be interested in the flavors offered, making it difficult to find one that your dog likes.
The treats are not suitable for dogs with specific dietary needs, such as those with food allergies.
8. Pureed fruits and vegetables
Applesauce, pumpkin puree, and sweet potato puree are all great options for dogs with no teeth. They are soft and easy to digest, and also provide a good source of nutrients.
Advantages:
Soft texture: Pureed fruits and vegetables are easy for dogs with no teeth to chew and swallow.
Nutritious: Many fruits and vegetables are rich in vitamins and minerals that can support a dog’s overall health.
Customizable: You can mix and match different fruits and vegetables to create a treat that your dog will love.
Disadvantages:
Prep time: Preparing pureed fruits and vegetables can be time-consuming.
Storage: Homemade treats need to be stored properly to prevent spoilage.
Limited options: Not all fruits and vegetables are safe for dogs to eat, so your options may be limited.
9. Cooked eggs
Hard-boiled eggs can be mashed or pureed and given to dogs with no teeth as a treat. Eggs are a great source of protein and other essential nutrients.
Pros:
Soft texture: Cooked eggs are easy for dogs with no teeth to chew and swallow, making them a great option for this type of dog.
Nutritious: Eggs are a great source of protein, which is important for dogs with no teeth as they may have difficulty digesting other types of food.
Versatile: Eggs can be cooked in a variety of ways (scrambled, boiled, etc.) to make them more appealing to dogs with different taste preferences.
Cons:
Raw eggs: It’s important to only give cooked eggs to dogs as raw eggs can contain salmonella, which can make dogs very sick.
Allergies: Some dogs may be allergic to eggs, so it’s important to observe your dog for any signs of an allergic reaction (such as itching or vomiting) after giving them egg-based treats.
Cost: Eggs can be more expensive than other types of dog treats, so if you’re on a tight budget, you may want to consider other options.
10. Yogurt
Plain, unsweetened yogurt can be given to dogs with no teeth as a treat. It is high in protein and probiotics, which can help support a healthy gut.
Pros:
Yogurt is a soft, creamy treat that is easy for dogs without teeth to consume.
Yogurt is a good source of calcium, which can help support strong bones and teeth.
Many yogurt varieties contain probiotics, which can aid in digestion and boost the immune system.
Cons:
Some dogs may be lactose intolerant and unable to digest yogurt properly, leading to stomach upset.
Some yogurt varieties may contain added sugars or artificial sweeteners that can be harmful to dogs.
If a dog is on a restricted diet, such as low-fat or low-sugar, yogurt may not be an appropriate treat.
FAQs about treats for dogs with no teeth
Here are some frequently asked questions about treats for dogs with no teeth, and some helpful answers:
Can dogs with no teeth eat treats?
Absolutely! Dogs with no teeth can still enjoy a variety of treats, but it’s important to choose treats that are soft and easy to chew. Hard treats like bones or rawhide can be dangerous and cause choking or digestive issues.
What are some good treat options for dogs with no teeth?
Soft treats like meatballs, small pieces of cooked chicken or turkey, and small chunks of cheese are great options. You can also try freeze-dried or dehydrated meats or fruits, which are easy to break into small pieces and can be a healthy option.
Are there any treats that dogs with no teeth should avoid?
Yes, there are some treats that can be harmful for dogs with no teeth. As mentioned before, hard treats like bones or rawhide should be avoided, as they can cause choking or digestive issues. Also, treats with high sugar or fat content should be given in moderation or avoided altogether, as they can lead to obesity or other health problems.
Can I still use treats for training my dog with no teeth?
Absolutely! Treats can still be a valuable tool for training, even for dogs with no teeth. Soft treats can be cut into small pieces and used as rewards for good behavior. You can also try using praise or physical affection as a reward instead of treats, which can be just as effective.
How often can I give my dog with no teeth treats?
As with any treat, moderation is key. Treats should make up no more than 10% of your dog’s daily calorie intake. Be sure to read the label on any treats you give your dog to ensure that you’re not overfeeding them. You can also consult with your veterinarian for advice on how many treats to give your dog based on their individual needs.
How do I know if a treat is safe for my dog with no teeth?
The texture of the treat is the key factor in determining if it’s safe for your dog with no teeth. The treat should be soft and easy to break apart. You can test the texture of a treat by pressing it between your fingers or trying to break it apart with your teeth. If it’s difficult to break or feels hard, it’s not safe for your dog with no teeth.
Can I give my dog with no teeth dental treats?
Yes, you can give your dog with no teeth dental treats, but it’s important to choose the right kind. Look for soft dental chews that are designed for dogs with dental issues, as they’re usually made with softer materials that are easier to chew. Hard dental chews can be dangerous for dogs with no teeth and should be avoided.
Can I make treats at home for my dog with no teeth?
Yes, you can make treats at home for your dog with no teeth. Homemade treats can be a healthy and safe alternative to store-bought treats. You can find many recipes online that are specifically designed for dogs with dental issues, such as soft-baked treats or meatballs. Just be sure to follow the recipe carefully and avoid any ingredients that could be harmful to your dog.
Can treats help with my dog’s bad breath?
Yes, some treats can help freshen your dog’s breath. Look for treats that contain ingredients like parsley or mint, which are natural breath fresheners. You can also try giving your dog a small piece of apple or carrot, which can help clean their teeth and freshen their breath.
How can I incorporate treats into my dog’s diet?
Treats should be given in moderation and should not make up a large part of your dog’s diet. You can use treats as a reward for good behavior or as a way to add variety to your dog’s diet. Just be sure to adjust your dog’s regular meals to account for the calories they’re getting from treats.
Hannah Elizabeth is an English animal behavior author, having written for several online publications. With a degree in Animal Behaviour and over a decade of practical animal husbandry experience, Hannah's articles cover everything from pet care to wildlife conservation. When she isn't creating content for blog posts, Hannah enjoys long walks with her Rottweiler cross Senna, reading fantasy novels and breeding aquarium shrimp.
