How to Choose the Right Dog Treat for Your Dog's Size and Age

How to Choose the Right Dog Treat for Your Dog's Size and Age

Noble Bark

Not every treat suits every dog. Age, size, chewing style, and digestion all affect what’s safe and enjoyable. Use this guide to find the right match, then shop the treats we’ve selected for each type of dog.

Puppies

Puppies have small mouths and developing tummies, so look for soft, bite-sized treats that are easy to chew. Break treats into pea-sized pieces for training, and introduce new ones gradually.

Adult Dogs

Natural jerky and air-dried treats make great daily rewards. They’re strongly scented and easy to break into small pieces, so they keep your dog focused during training without a lot of filler.
👉 Kangaroo Jerky and Crocodile Jerky

Senior Dogs

Older dogs often have sensitive teeth or gums. Choose softer treats, avoid very hard chews, and talk to your vet if your dog has dental problems.
👉 Freeze Dried Raw Kangaroo

Heavy Chewers

Dogs who love to chew need treats that last. Long-lasting natural chews like Pig Snouts and Crocodile Feet can keep them busy and may help satisfy their natural chewing instinct. Always supervise chew time and choose a size appropriate for your dog.
👉 Crocodile Feet and Australian Gummy Shark Cartilage

Dogs with Sensitive Stomachs

Chicken and beef are common triggers for some dogs. Novel proteins like Kangaroo Jerky and Emu Trachea are good alternatives because many dogs haven’t been exposed to them before. If your dog has a diagnosed allergy, check with your vet first.
👉 Kangaroo Jerky, Freeze Dried Raw Kangaroo, and Crocodile Jerky

Why Novel Proteins?

Most dog treats use chicken, beef, or pork. Our Australian-sourced range includes kangaroo, crocodile, and shark, which are less common proteins that give dogs with sensitive stomachs more options.

The 10% Rule

As a general guideline, treats should make up no more than about 10% of your dog’s daily calories. Treats are a bonus, not a meal, so adjust your dog’s regular food if you give a lot of treats in a day.

How to Tell if a Treat Isn’t Right for Your Dog

Introduce one new treat at a time and watch for:

  • Loose stools or an upset stomach
  • Vomiting
  • Excessive itching or ear scratching
  • Reluctance to chew or signs of mouth discomfort

If you notice any of these, stop the treat and check with your vet.

Safety Tips for Every Dog

  • Choose a size suited to your dog. Smaller pieces for small breeds.
  • Supervise your dog with any chew.
  • Always provide fresh water.
  • Throw away a chew once it’s small enough to swallow whole.

Final Thoughts

Every dog is different. Matching the treat to your dog’s age, size, and chewing habits keeps treat time safe and something to look forward to. Not sure what to pick? Message us on the Contact page, and we’ll help you choose.

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