Natural Dog Treats

Natural Quality Standards

Traceable & Ethically Sourced

Please note: We prioritise traceable UK meat to make sure our premium dog rewards are as kind to the planet as they are to your pet.

So, by you choosing sustainable pet treats delivered in eco-conscious packaging, you are supporting ethical farming practices while rewarding your dog with the highest quality nutrition.

A Guide to Choosing Natural Dog Treats

As we are seeing, many UK owners are making the switch to natural treats, but we understand that standing in the pet shop aisle or looking at labels online can be confusing. For instance, a health-conscious dog owner here really wants to know exactly what is in their dog's food and to avoid hidden chemicals found in mass-produced snacks.

With so many natural chews available - from antlers to pig ears - it is hard to know which is right for your specific dog.

As you really want to provide a reward that is high in protein and nutrients, without the worry of "nasties" like artificial colours, flavours, or preservatives.

The good news is that natural treats are often the simplest and safest way to reward your pet.

As a result, in this guide to Natural Dog Treats, we will help you understand the benefits of our 100% natural range at Pets & Friends.

From grain-free training treats to rawhide-free, natural chews, we will show you how to pick the perfect, additive-free snack based on your dog’s size and health needs.

Popular Types of Natural Dog Treats

Natural treats provide more than just calories; they offer you and your pet "functional nutrition."

This means the treat helps a specific part of your dog's health, such as their skin, coat, or joints, for instance.

As a result, you can tend to find natural dog treats here based on:

Why are air-dried dog treats better than baked?

Air-dried dog treats have gone through a gentle process that removes moisture while locking in all the natural vitamins and minerals.

Unlike high-heat baking, it keeps the proteins intact for your dog to be able to then digest as part of destroying the treat.

High Protein, Low Fat

Many air-dried treats, like whitebait or chicken breast slices, for instance, are naturally lean.

This leanness then makes them perfect for dogs who need to watch their weight but still want a meaty reward in the process.

How do natural fish skins clean a dog's teeth?

One thing that we see many pet owners getting wrong is that they think they can only use dental dog chews for their furry friends' teeth hygiene.

Even though they are great for that task, as that is what they are designed for after all, you don't need artificial sticks to keep their teeth clean.

Many natural chews, for instance, provide the "mechanical abrasion" needed to scrub away tartar just as well.

For example, dried fish skins are rough and fibrous, helping to clean the gum line as your dog crunches, just one example.

Which long-lasting chews are safest for power chewers?

For dogs that love to chew for hours, olive wood and buffalo horns are excellent rawhide alternatives as well.

As these don't splinter like cooked bones can and are completely free from chemicals and glues as well.

The Benefit of Single-Ingredient Treats

When a treat contains only one ingredient - like 100% Beef Liver - you know exactly what your dog is eating, which is ideal, especially for dogs with allergies or sensitivities as well.

That is why our range of natural dog treats includes 100% meat options, making them the perfect raw dog treats for those following a BARF or ancestral diet. Because there are no hidden fillers, they are the gold standard for purity for a number of reasons.

Hypoallergenic Properties

Many natural treats also come from "novel proteins" like rabbit, venison, or duck, which are less likely to trigger itchy skin or stomach upsets.

Zero Fillers

No grain, no soy, and no hidden sugars. Your dog gets pure nutrition that their body can actually use for energy and repair with these.

Natural Solutions for Common Health Needs

At Pets & Friends, we know that a treat is often more than just a reward; it’s a way to support your dog’s specific health journey.

So choosing 100% natural options allows you to target common issues without the risk of artificial triggers.

For instance, here you have:

Pets & Friends Expert Note
If your dog has a diagnosed medical condition, always consult your Vet before introducing new proteins or high-fibre natural chews into their daily routine.

Popular Natural Proteins & Their Benefits

When choosing natural treats, the source of the protein is just as important as the lack of additives in them, and this is one area we see that goes unnoticed as well.

As here, many pet owners are now moving away from standard beef and chicken towards "novel proteins" to help them manage their allergies or provide specific health boosts a lot more.

Here is a breakdown of the most popular natural proteins you will find in our range:

How to Choose Natural Rewards by Dog Age?

When Can Puppies Have Natural Treats?

One of the most common questions we get in-store is: "Is my puppy old enough for this?".

While many natural treats are technically safe from weaning, their digestive systems and delicate teeth need a phased approach.

Here are some things for you to consider:

Safety Guide, How to prevent choking with natural chews?

Always supervise your dog with any natural chew. Ensure they don't try to swallow large pieces whole, and always provide plenty of fresh water. If a chew (like a horn or wood stick) becomes small enough to fit entirely in their mouth, it’s time to replace it with a new one.

Natural Dog Treats FAQs

Across our local pet shops nationwide, our team gets asked questions daily when it comes to these types of dog treats.

Here are some of the most common questions about rewarding your dog safely and healthily.

What are the safest natural chews for 12-week old puppies?

At 12 weeks, a puppy’s "12-week rule" means you can move beyond soft training bites.

The safest natural chews at this stage are lamb braids, thin pizzle sticks, and rabbit ears (without fur). These provide a satisfying chew without being hard enough to fracture their brittle milk teeth.

How do natural fish skins clean a dog's teeth?

Natural fish skins work through mechanical abrasion, but they also aid in halitosis neutralisation. By scrubbing the teeth, they reduce the buildup of volatile sulfur compounds - the primary cause of bad breath - while the enzymatic cleaning properties of saliva work with the natural oils.

Are rabbit ears a natural de-wormer?

Hairy rabbit ears are often called a "natural de-wormer" because the fur is undigestible.

As it passes through the digestive tract, the fur gently brushes away debris and larvae.

Please note: While helpful for gut health, they should still be used alongside a vet-approved worming schedule.

What are low-fat natural treats for dogs with Pancreatitis?

For dogs managing pancreatitis, you should look for treats with a crude fat content below 5%.

The best natural options include air-dried whitefish, beef lung, or venison strips.

These are lean, highly digestible, and won't put undue strain on the pancreas.

However, if you are unsure whatsoever, please contact our team or your Vet before feeding your dog any treats, along with considering any diet plan they are already on.

Can dogs have venison if they are allergic to beef?

Yes, venison is a "novel protein," meaning it is biologically different from beef.

Most dogs with common beef allergies can safely enjoy venison treats, as their immune system doesn't recognise the protein as a trigger, making it an excellent hypoallergenic choice.

h3 style="font-weight:normal;padding-top:20px">What are the best low-purine treats for Dalmatians?

Dalmatians require low-purine dog treats to prevent urinary stones; as a result, here you should stick to egg-based rewards or whitefish bites and avoid high-purine organ meats like liver or heart.

Why is air-drying better than baking for dog treats?

Air-drying uses low temperatures to remove moisture slowly.

Unlike high-heat baking, which can destroy delicate vitamins and enzymes, air-drying locks in the natural nutrients and flavour of the raw meat while ensuring the treat stays fresh without artificial preservatives.

How many natural treats can a dog have a day?

The number depends on your dog's size, but the "10% rule" is the golden standard.

Natural treats should never make up more than 10% of your dog’s daily calorie intake.

For a medium-sized dog, this might be one large chew or a handful of small training bites.

High-Value vs. Low-Value Rewards

Not all treats are created equal when it comes to motivation. Understanding the "value" of a natural reward helps you communicate more effectively with your dog during training sessions.

Reward Type	Best Use Case	Natural Examples
High-Value	Teaching new skills, emergency recalls, or distracting environments (like a busy park).	Dried sprats, dehydrated liver, and smelly fish skins.
Low-Value	Repeating known behaviours at home, indoor play, or general "good dog" moments.	Vegetable sticks, grain-free biscuits, and plain air-dried lung.

What are the benefits of natural dog treats?

Natural dog treats provide functional nutrition through single-ingredient, high-protein sources that are free from artificial additives.

They support dental hygiene via mechanical abrasion, aid digestion through hypoallergenic "novel" proteins like rabbit or venison, and improve mental well-being by triggering endorphin release through the instinctive act of chewing, without the risks associated with processed rawhide.

When can puppies start having natural treats?

Puppies can typically begin a phased introduction to natural treats at 8 weeks with soft options like dried lung or liver.

Following the "12-week rule," more complex proteins and medium-durability chews like lamb braids may be introduced. Hard chews like antlers or yak snacks should be avoided until adult teeth emerge at 6 months to prevent dental fractures.

Are natural treats better for dogs with allergies?

Natural treats are often superior for sensitive dogs because they are generally "single-ingredient" and hypoallergenic.

So, by utilising novel proteins such as whitefish, duck, or rabbit, you can avoid common allergens like grain, soy, and artificial preservatives. This transparency allows for precise dietary management and reduces the likelihood of itchy skin or stomach upsets.

How do natural chews help a dog's dental health?

Natural chews, such as dried fish skins and beef paddywhack, utilise mechanical abrasion to clean teeth.

As the dog gnaws on the fibrous texture, the material physically scrubs away plaque and tartar along the gum line.

This process can then reduce tartar buildup by over 30% and significantly neutralise volatile sulfur compounds responsible for bad breath (halitosis).

What is the 10% rule for dog treats?

The 10% rule dictates that treats should never exceed 10% of a dog's total daily caloric intake.

This then makes sure your pet maintains a balanced diet and a healthy weight.

If a high-value or long-lasting natural chew is given, you should adjust their main meal portion downward slightly to compensate for the additional calories provided.

Are buffalo horns safe for aggressive chewers?

Buffalo horns are one of the most durable natural chews available, making them ideal for aggressive "power chewers."

They are made of keratin and don't splinter like bone; however, you should always supervise your dog to ensure they don't try to swallow the last small piece.

What are the best low-purine natural treats for Dalmatians?

Dalmatians and dogs with certain urinary issues require low-purine treats to prevent stones.

The best natural options are egg-based treats, whitefish bites, or vegetables like sweet potato.

You should avoid high-purine organ meats like liver or heart for these breeds.

Why does chewing lower a dog's stress?

Chewing is a biological necessity that triggers the release of endorphins and dopamine in a dog’s brain.

This helps to significantly lower cortisol (the stress hormone), which is why providing a long-lasting natural chew is so effective for calming anxious pets.

Is coffee wood safe for dogs to ingest?

Yes, coffee wood is a safe, sustainable choice.

Unlike garden sticks, coffee wood doesn't splinter into sharp shards.

Instead, it breaks down into soft, digestible cellulose fibres as the dog chews, which can actually help aid digestion as it passes through.

How to calculate the 10% treat rule for small breeds?

For small breeds, calories add up quickly.

If a 5kg terrier needs roughly 350 calories daily, their treats should total no more than 35 calories.

This is roughly the equivalent of one thin chicken strip or three to four small training bites.

What natural treats are high in glucosamine?

Natural treats derived from cartilage are naturally rich in glucosamine and chondroitin.

Chicken feet, beef trachea (puffed or flat), and duck necks are brilliant natural boosters for supporting joint health and mobility in active or senior dogs.

Can natural treats cause diarrhoea?

Any new food can cause a temporary upset if introduced too quickly.

Natural treats are generally very safe, but rich items like pig ears or liver should be given sparingly at first to allow your dog's digestive system time to adjust to the high protein levels.

Are pig ears too fatty for older dogs?

Standard pig ears can be quite high in fat (roughly 20% or more), which may be too rich for less active senior dogs.

So, if you have an older dog, we recommend opting for "puffed" pig ears, which have had the fat removed, or leaner alternatives like beef lung.

Are natural treats better for dogs with sensitive stomachs?

Yes, usually they are, as many commercial treats contain grains and artificial preservatives that can irritate a dog's gut.

Natural, single-protein treats like 100% lamb or rabbit are much easier to digest and less likely to cause a reaction.

Can natural treats help with a dog's coat?

Absolutely, they can, as natural treats like dried sprats or salmon skins are packed with Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids.

These natural oils are excellent for reducing dry, itchy skin and giving your dog a glossy, healthy coat.

Do natural chews smell?

Because they are 100% animal products without chemical deodorisers, some natural treats (like tripe or hooves) have a stronger scent than processed ones.

However, many options like olive wood or deer antlers are virtually odourless.

Rawhide vs. Natural Alternatives

Feature	Traditional Rawhide	Natural Alternatives (e.g. Braided Lamb)
Processing	Chemical washes and bleaches.	Air-dried or baked without chemicals.
Digestibility	Low - risk of internal blockages.	High - breaks down easily in the stomach.
Nutritional Value	Minimal nutrients; mostly "empty" calories.	Rich in protein, vitamins, and minerals.

Choosing the Best Natural Treats

To help you work out the differences between treats, here you have:

Natural Chews vs. Rawhide

Traditional rawhide is a byproduct of the leather industry, often processed with chemicals and bleaches.

As a result, it is notorious for being indigestible, posing a risk of internal blockages.

In contrast, natural chews - like beef tails or lamb braids - are air-dried without chemicals.

They break down safely in the digestive tract, providing superior protein and zero "nasties."

Yak Chews vs. Nylon Bones

While nylon bones are virtually indestructible, they are made of plastic.

As a dog chews, small plastic shards can be ingested. Yak Chews (Himalayan Milk Chews) offer a similar level of "hardness" but are 100% natural and vegetarian.

They are fully digestible and provide a rich source of protein and calcium.

2. Preservation & Texture: How They are Made

Air-Dried vs. Freeze-Dried

Both methods preserve nutrients better than high-heat baking.

Air-drying removes moisture slowly over days, resulting in a tougher, leathery texture that satisfies the urge to chew.

Freeze-drying removes moisture via a vacuum, creating a light, crumbly, and highly palatable treat that is perfect for high-value training rewards.

Soft Treats vs. Hard Chews

The choice here depends on the "job". As soft treats (like liver bites or lung) are for immediate consumption, making them ideal for training.

Hard chews (like antlers or root chews) are designed for "occupational therapy," keeping a dog mentally stimulated and physically busy for long periods.

Olive Wood vs. Coffee Wood

Both are safe, non-splintering alternatives to garden sticks.

Olive wood is slightly softer and infused with natural olive oil, which can help support a healthy coat.

Coffee wood is denser and more durable, making it the better choice for the most aggressive "power chewers."

Antlers vs. Buffalo Horns

Antlers (Deer or Elk) are incredibly hard and long-lasting; they contain marrow which dogs love to reach.

Buffalo horns are made of keratin (like your fingernails).

As a result, they are slightly "springier" and can be stuffed with wet food or peanut butter to create an interactive, natural toy.

Pizzle Sticks vs. Bully Sticks

Interestingly, these are actually the same thing, as both Pizzle sticks and Bully sticks are 100% natural bull pizzle.

They are high-protein, low-fat, and highly digestible.

With the only real difference is the terminology used by different brands- "Pizzle" is more common in the UK, while "Bully" is often used in the US.

Venison vs. Beef Treats

While beef is a reliable classic, venison is a "novel protein".

Due to this, it is significantly leaner than beef and much less likely to trigger food sensitivities.

So, if your dog suffers from itchy skin or an upset tummy after eating beef, switching to venison is a brilliant hypoallergenic move.

Rabbit Ears vs. Pig Ears

Rabbit ears are lean and hypoallergenic; hairy versions also act as a natural digestive cleanser.

Pig ears are a much higher-fat treat (often 20% fat or more).

While highly palatable, pig ears should be given sparingly, whereas rabbit ears are a great daily option for weight-conscious owners.

Buffalo Ears vs. Cow Ears

Buffalo ears are larger, tougher, and leaner than cow ears.

Due to this, they offer a more "focused" chew for medium-to-large breeds.

Cow ears, on the other hand, are thinner and easier to crunch, making them better for smaller dogs or seniors who don't want a heavy workout for their jaws.

Grain-Free vs. Standard Biscuits

Standard biscuits often use wheat or corn as "fillers".

Grain-free biscuits replace these with complex carbohydrates like sweet potato or peas.

Consequently, for dogs with grain sensitivities, grain-free options prevent bloating and skin irritation, providing "cleaner" energy.

Fish Skins vs. Dental Sticks

Processed dental sticks often contain starches and sugars.

Natural fish skins provide the same (or better) dental benefits through "mechanical abrasion" (the physical scrubbing of the scales against teeth) without any hidden calories or artificial binders.

Single-Ingredient vs. Blended, Which is safer for allergies?

Single-ingredient treats (like 100% Beef Liver) offer total transparency - what you see is what you get.

Blended treats (like meat and vegetable bites) can be excellent for adding variety and fibre, but you must check the label carefully to ensure no "derivatives" have been used as fillers.

Home-made vs. Commercial Natural Treats

Home-made treats give you total control, but they lack the shelf-life and professional dehydration standards of commercial natural treats.

Here, professional air-drying at Pets & Friends ensures all bacteria are eliminated while locking in nutrition, providing a safer, more convenient "grab and go" option for you.

High-Value vs. Low-Value Rewards

This is all about the "distraction level."

As high-value rewards (smelly, meaty treats like liver or sprats) are for new learning or difficult environments.

Low-value rewards (like plain biscuits or veg) are for maintaining known behaviours, so understanding the difference helps you train more effectively, we hope.

Understanding the Label, The Technical Quality Standards

At Pets & Friends, we vet every treat in our range for their analytical constituents. As we understand that as a pet owner, you want more than just a tasty snack; you want a reward that is biologically appropriate and supports your dog’s natural systems.

Digestibility Coefficient

We prioritise treats with a high absorption rate, ensuring your dog gets the most nutrition from every bite.

Ash Content

Lower ash levels in our natural chews indicate a higher quality of mineral sources and pure protein.

Quality Assurance

Our selection focuses on non-GMO and human-grade ingredients for a safer, cleaner reward.

Pets & Friends Expert Tip
When you see "crude ash" on a label, it simply refers to the mineral content (like calcium and phosphorus). In a balanced, natural treat, this is a vital part of their daily intake.

The Pets & Friends Difference With Repeat & Save

Keeping your dog’s treat jar topped up with healthy, natural rewards is a great way to support their well-being.

To help make premium rewarding more affordable, we offer our Repeat & Save service on a wide range of our most popular natural treats.

By signing up for a subscription, you can ensure you never run out of those essential training bites or long-lasting chews, and you’ll receive a discount on every single order.

It’s flexible, easy to manage, and saves you those last-minute trips to the shop when you’ve used the last of the rewards, and by choosing a subscription for your sustainable pet treats, you’re not just saving money; you’re ensuring a consistent, healthy routine for your dog with zero stress.

Who Are Pets & Friends?

Pets & Friends is more than just a pet shop; we're a community of pet lovers, backed by the experience of our parent company, Kennelgate, a family-run business that's been around for donkey's years.

As a family-run British business, we pride ourselves on offering UK-made and ethically sourced options wherever possible, ensuring your premium dog rewards are as kind to the planet as they are to your pet in the process.

Our whole approach, for instance, is built on providing you with friendly, down-to-earth advice to help you give your pet the best life possible.

Furthermore, we believe that every pet is a friend, and as their owner, you're a friend of ours too. We're passionate about what we do, and we're here to help you every step of the way.

Here to Help, However You Shop

So, whether you are looking for the best price on 100% natural bull pizzles, wanting to bulk buy high-value training treats for a new puppy, or searching for the perfect hypoallergenic reward for a sensitive tummy, we are one of the leading UK stockists for natural dog treats. Keep an eye out for our seasonal deals on air-dried snacks and long-lasting wood chews to get the best value for your furry friend.

When you order online, you can easily track your delivery or get in touch about returns.

In-store, our expert team can offer brilliant, practical advice on everything from finding a low-fat treat for a dog on a diet to choosing a chew that will keep a "power chewer" busy for ages.

We're properly trained and genuinely love pets, so no question is too silly. We are committed to making sure you and your pet have a happy experience with us every single time.