Treats are a great way to reward your dog, strengthen your bond, and even support their health when chosen wisely. The following list highlights 15 natural dog treats that are minimally processed, free from artificial additives, and packed with nutritional benefits. For a deeper look at your pet’s dietary needs, our complete guide to dog nutrition, which covers everything from essential vitamins to macro balance.
From crunchy vegetables to lean proteins, these natural treats offer a variety of flavors and textures your dog will love, while promoting their overall well-being. If you are just starting your journey into canine nutrition, check out our “Beginner’s guide to dog food types: Kibble, raw, or wet?” to see how these snacks fit into a larger meal plan.
Note: Are you looking for natural and healthy cat treats? Click here.
15 healthy treats for your canine companions
1. Carrots
Carrots are a fantastic natural treat for dogs. They are low in calories, high in fiber, and rich in beta-carotene, which converts to vitamin A to support eye health. They also contain vitamin B6, potassium, vitamin K, calcium, and iron. The crunchy texture of carrots helps clean teeth by scraping away plaque. You can offer small, raw carrot sticks or lightly steamed ones for easier chewing, making them suitable for dogs of all ages.
2. Apples
Apples, when given without seeds or the core, provide a nutritious and tasty treat. They are packed with vitamins A and C, as well as fiber (found mostly in the skin peels), which supports healthy digestion. Their natural sweetness appeals to dogs, and their low-calorie content makes them ideal for weight management. Slice apples into bite-sized pieces to prevent choking and feed in moderation. For more specific advice on portioning, see our article: How much should I feed my dog: A complete guide to calories and weight.
3. Sweet potatoes
Sweet potatoes, when cooked plainly without any seasoning, are a highly beneficial treat. They are rich in fiber, vitamins A, C, and B6, and antioxidants, which promote digestive health and overall wellness. Their natural sweetness and soft texture make them easy to digest for dogs. Bake or steam slices and offer small portions to avoid excess calorie intake. They can also be given raw.
4. Pumpkin
Pumpkin, specifically plain, canned, or cooked pureed pumpkin, is an excellent treat for dogs. It is exceptionally high in fiber, which helps regulate digestion and can alleviate both diarrhea and constipation issues. Pumpkin is also rich in vitamins A and C, and minerals, supporting immune health. A small spoonful added to your dog’s food or offered alone is sufficient for most dogs. Do not give prepackaged sunflower seeds that are salted, as the extra sodium is not good for dogs. Salt, while needed in their diets, can lead to poisoning if they consume too much. We recommend Nummy Tum-Tum Pure Organic Pumpkin as it’s free from added sugars and spices.
5. Blueberries
Blueberries serve as a nutrient-packed treat for dogs. These small berries are loaded with antioxidants, which combat free radicals, and contain vitamins C and K, which support immune and brain health. Their size makes them perfect for training rewards, but feed them in moderation due to their natural sugar content.
6. Watermelon
Watermelon, when given without seeds or rind, is a hydrating treat for dogs. Composed of 92% water, it helps keep dogs hydrated, especially in warm weather, and provides vitamins A, B6, and C. The antioxidant lycopene supports heart health, but due to its sugar content, watermelon should be offered sparingly.
7. Coconut
Coconut, in its unsweetened, raw form, offers unique benefits for dogs. It contains medium-chain fatty acids, which promote healthy skin and a shiny coat, and has anti-inflammatory properties. However, coconut is high in fat, so small amounts, such as a tiny piece or a sprinkle of coconut flakes, are best to avoid weight gain.
8. Bananas
Bananas are a sweet, nutrient-rich treat for dogs. They are high in potassium, magnesium, and vitamin C, which support muscle and nerve function. Due to their high sugar content, bananas should be given in small slices as an occasional treat to prevent excess calorie intake.
9. Broccoli
Broccoli, when lightly steamed and plain, is a healthy treat for dogs. It is rich in fiber, vitamins C and K, and antioxidants, which boost the immune system. However, broccoli can cause gas in some dogs, so introduce it slowly and feed it in small amounts to gauge your dog’s tolerance.
10. salmon
Salmon, when fully cooked and boneless, is an excellent protein-rich treat. It is packed with omega-3 fatty acids, which promote a shiny coat, healthy skin, and joint and brain health. Ensure the salmon is thoroughly cooked to eliminate the risk of parasites and offer small pieces to avoid overfeeding. You can also use a food dehydrator to make a crisp snack. You can also use a food dehydrator to make a crisp snack. This is the easiest way to preserve lean proteins without adding preservatives.
11. Zucchini
Zucchini, whether raw or steamed, is a low-calorie, hydrating treat. It is high in water and fiber, which support digestion, and its mild flavor is appealing to most dogs. Slice it into small pieces or lightly steam it for a softer texture, making it an easy addition to your dog’s treat rotation.
12. Plain yogurt
Plain yogurt, unsweetened and free of artificial sweeteners, is a gut-friendly treat… Always check that the yogurt does not contain xylitol, a sweetener toxic to dogs. Learning how to read a dog food label is a vital skill for every pet owner to ensure hidden toxins or fillers stay out of your dog’s diet.
13. Chicken
Chicken, when cooked plainly without seasoning or bones, is a lean, high-quality protein treat. It supports muscle maintenance and is easy to digest, making it ideal for dogs with sensitive stomachs. Shred small pieces of boiled or baked chicken to use as a high-value reward during training. You could also consider using a food dehydrator, just don’t add any seasonings.
14. Oats
Oats, when cooked plainly without additives, are a wholesome treat for dogs. They are high in fiber and B vitamins, which aid digestion and energy metabolism, and are particularly gentle on sensitive stomachs. Offer a small amount of cooled, plain oatmeal as an occasional treat.
15. Green beans
Green beans are an excellent low-calorie treat option for dogs. They are high in fiber, which aids in digestion and helps dogs feel full, making them great for weight management. Green beans also provide vitamins C, K, and manganese. You can offer them raw, steamed, or frozen, but ensure they are plain and unseasoned.
When selecting human foods for your pet, it is vital to know which ingredients to avoid. Check our list of 25 common foods that are toxic to dogs (A complete safety guide) to ensure your dog stays safe.
Shop our natural treat essentials
To make your DIY treat journey easier, here are a few of our favorite tools:
- For storage: Airtight glass treat canisters to keep snacks fresh.
- For summer treats: Silicone paw-print molds for freezing watermelon or yogurt.
- For long-lasting snacks: The Cosori stainless steel food dehydrator for homemade jerky.
Final thoughts: Healthy treats for a happy dog
Incorporating these 15 easy-to-make natural dog treats into your pet’s routine is one of the simplest ways to boost their nutrition and strengthen your bond. Whether you are using crunchy carrots for dental health or fiber-rich pumpkin for digestion, these minimally processed options are far superior to most store-bought alternatives. Remember that treats should only make up about 10% of your dog’s daily caloric intake to maintain a healthy weight.
Join the conversation: What is your pup’s favorite snack?
We would love to hear from you! Every dog has a unique palate, and your experience could help another pet parent.
- Leave a comment: Does your dog go crazy for frozen blueberries, or do they prefer a crunchy green bean? Share your “high-value” treat secrets below.
- Share this guide: If you found these tips helpful, share this post with your fellow dog lovers on Facebook or Pinterest to help them ditch the artificial additives.
- Check out more: If you enjoyed this, don’t miss our complete guide to dog nutrition to learn more about building the perfect meal plan.
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