If you've ever typed a question about dog treats into Google, you're not alone. Dog owners across the UK are asking the same things — and we're here to give you straight, honest answers. At Marley N Co., we specialise in premium natural treats and chews, so this is exactly our territory.
Are natural dog treats better than processed ones?
Yes — natural dog treats are generally better for your dog. They contain fewer artificial additives, preservatives, and fillers, making them easier to digest and less likely to cause sensitivities. Natural treats are also typically higher in protein and closer to what dogs would eat in the wild.
Processed treats often rely on artificial flavourings and binding agents to make them palatable. Natural alternatives — like air-dried meat, fish skins, or single-ingredient chews — deliver real nutritional value without the unnecessary extras.
What ingredients should I avoid in dog treats?
Avoid treats containing artificial colours, flavours, preservatives (like BHA, BHT, or ethoxyquin), added sugars, and excessive salt. Also steer clear of xylitol (a sweetener toxic to dogs), onion or garlic powder, and any unspecified "meat derivatives."
A good rule of thumb: if you can't pronounce it or wouldn't eat it yourself, your dog probably doesn't need it either. Always look for treats with a short, recognisable ingredient list.
How many treats should I give my dog per day?
Treats should make up no more than 10% of your dog's daily calorie intake. For most dogs, this means 1–3 small treats or one longer-lasting chew per day, depending on size and activity level.
Over-treating — even with natural options — can lead to weight gain. Use treats as rewards during training or enrichment, and adjust meal portions accordingly if you're giving chews regularly. Browse our Natural Treats collection for portion-friendly options.
What are beef tendons good for in dogs?
Beef tendons are an excellent source of natural collagen, which supports joint health, skin, and coat condition in dogs. They're also a long-lasting chew that promotes dental hygiene by helping to scrape away plaque and tartar as your dog gnaws.
Unlike rawhide, beef tendons are fully digestible and made from a single ingredient — just dried beef tendon. They're ideal for moderate to heavy chewers and can keep dogs occupied for extended periods. Shop our Beef Tendons – Long-Lasting Natural Chews.
Are chews safe for puppies?
Some chews are safe for puppies, but you need to choose carefully based on age, size, and chewing strength. Softer chews like dried fish skins or thin meat strips are generally suitable for puppies over 12 weeks. Harder chews like tendons or antlers should be introduced gradually and only once adult teeth are coming through.
Always supervise puppies with any chew, and remove it if it becomes small enough to swallow whole. When in doubt, check with your vet — especially for puppies under 16 weeks.
What's the difference between a chew and a treat?
A treat is typically a small, quick reward eaten in seconds; a chew is designed to be worked on over minutes or even hours. Chews provide mental stimulation, dental benefits, and a healthy outlet for natural chewing instincts — making them more than just a snack.
Both have their place. Use treats for training and positive reinforcement (our Training Treats collection is perfect for this), and chews for enrichment, calm time, or keeping your dog occupied when you're busy.
Where can I buy natural dog treats in the UK?
You can shop a full range of premium natural dog treats and chews at Marley N Co. Pet Supplies, delivered across the UK. We stock single-ingredient chews, air-dried treats, and natural snacks — all carefully selected for quality and transparency.
Browse our Natural Treats collection to find the right option for your dog's size, age, and chewing style.
Are natural treats suitable for dogs with allergies?
Many natural treats are suitable for dogs with food sensitivities, particularly single-ingredient options — because there's only one thing in them, it's easy to identify and avoid known allergens. Common hypoallergenic options include fish-based treats, venison, and rabbit.
If your dog has a diagnosed allergy, always check the ingredient list carefully and introduce new treats one at a time. Look for treats that are free from wheat, dairy, soy, and artificial additives. Our Natural Treats collection includes several single-ingredient options ideal for sensitive dogs.
Have a question we haven't answered? Drop us a message — we're always happy to help you find the right treat for your dog.