5 Things to Know Before Choosing the Right Treats for Your Dogs and Cats

Pet owners in Malaysia enjoy pampering their furry companions with tasty, natural treats. However, with so many options available, choosing the right treats for your dog or cat can be overwhelming. Are freeze-dried treats better than air-dried? What ingredients should you prioritize? More importantly, how do you ensure your pet’s health and safety when selecting treats?

If these questions sound familiar, you’re in the right place! This guide will walk you through five key factors to consider before selecting the ideal treats for your pet.

5 Things to Know Before Choosing the Right Treats for Your Dogs and Cats

1. Ingredients Matter: Choose Natural and Nutrient-Dense Treats

The first step in choosing the right treats is to examine the ingredient list. Premium pet treats should be crafted from natural ingredients, free from artificial additives, preservatives, and fillers such as corn, wheat, or soy.

What to Look For:

✅ Single-ingredient treats (e.g., 100% chicken breast, salmon, or beef tendon)
✅ High in protein to support muscle growth
✅ Rich in natural vitamins and minerals for overall health

What to Avoid:

❌ Artificial preservatives like BHA and BHT (linked to potential health risks, according to The National Canine Cancer Foundation)
❌ Artificial coloring or flavoring
❌ High-carbohydrate fillers (corn, wheat, soy)

Many pet owners in Malaysia are moving towards natural, single-ingredient treats, such as air-dried chicken jerky or freeze-dried salmon chunks, which provide high-quality protein without unnecessary additives.

2. Know Your Pet’s Allergies and Dietary Sensitivities

Food allergies are common in pets, with dogs often reacting to beef, chicken, dairy, or grains. Cats may also be sensitive to fish or certain artificial additives.

Signs of Food Allergies in Pets:

🐾 Excessive itching or scratching
🐾 Ear infections or inflammation
🐾 Digestive problems (vomiting, diarrhea, bloating)
🐾 Chronic licking of paws

If your pet has food allergies, choose novel protein treats such as kangaroo, duck, or goat. Hypoallergenic options like WagglyCove kangaroo knee tendons and kangaroo jerky are excellent choices for pets with sensitive stomachs.

3. Processing Methods: Freeze-Dried, Air-Dried, or Dehydrated?

The method used to process treats can impact their nutritional value, texture, and shelf life. Here’s an overview of the three primary methods:

🟢 Freeze-Dried Treats – Retains 97% of nutrients, Lightweight and easy to store, Requires no preservatives
🟡 Air-Dried Treats – Gently dried at low temperatures, Retains most nutrients while removing moisture, Chewy texture, excellent for dental health
🔴 Dehydrated Treats – Uses heat to remove moisture, Some nutrient loss due to higher temperatures, Often softer and easier to chew

When selecting treats, freeze-dried or air-dried options are generally the best choice. WagglyCove Freeze-Dried Treats preserve the natural flavor and nutrients of fresh meat while providing a long shelf life. These treats are ideal for picky eaters and pets with sensitive stomachs, offering a protein-packed, easily digestible snack.

4. Consider Your Pet’s Chewing Needs

Chewing is a natural and vital behavior for dogs, providing numerous health benefits beyond just enjoyment.

Why Do Dogs Need to Chew?

✅ Supports Dental Health – Chewing helps reduce plaque and tartar buildup, promoting healthier teeth and gums. Hard chews like yak cheese dental chews or bone marrow chews naturally scrape off plaque while your dog chews.
✅ Alleviates Boredom and Anxiety – Dogs chew to relieve stress, anxiety, or boredom, especially when left alone. Providing long-lasting chews like bully sticks or beef tendons can keep them occupied and prevent destructive chewing.
✅ Strengthens Jaw Muscles – Regular chewing strengthens a dog’s jaw muscles, which is crucial for overall oral health.
✅ Encourages Healthy Eating Habits – Slow-chewing treats like air-dried chews help prevent fast eating, making them ideal for dogs prone to digestive problems.

Choosing the Right Chew Type for Your Dog

🔹 Soft Chews & Training Treats – Perfect for puppies, senior dogs, and cats. Freeze-dried chicken, salmon chunks, and soft jerky strips are good options.
🔹 Moderate Chews – Suitable for small to medium dogs. Consider air-dried beef tendons or bully sticks.
🔹 Hard Chews – Best for aggressive chewers. Try long-lasting options like WagglyCove Chhurpi Bite Himalayan Yak Cheese or Bone Marrow Chew to keep dogs entertained while supporting dental health.

According to a study published in Scientific Reports, dental chews significantly reduce plaque and tartar buildup while improving overall oral hygiene in dogs.

Choosing the right chew type helps prevent dental issues, promotes healthy gums, and minimizes destructive chewing behaviors.

5. Check the Source and Brand Reputation

Not all pet treats are created equal. Many lower-cost options contain questionable ingredients or come from sources with poor quality control. Always purchase from reputable brands that prioritize transparency, ethical sourcing, and safety.

What to Look For in a Brand:

✔️ Clear ingredient sourcing (e.g., 100% Australian beef or New Zealand lamb
✔️ No artificial additives or harmful chemicals
✔️ Positive customer reviews and feedback

Final Thoughts: Smart Choices for a Healthier Pet

Choosing the right treats for your pet doesn’t have to be complicated. By focusing on natural ingredients, allergy-friendly options, proper processing methods, suitable chew types, and reputable brands, you can ensure your dog or cat gets the best nutrition and enjoyment from their treats.

So next time you shop for pet treats in Malaysia, keep these five tips in mind to make an informed decision for your furry companion! 🐶🐱