Puppy, Adult, or Senior? How Your Dog's Treat Needs Change With Age
Your dog's favorite word might always be “treat,” but what makes a great treat can change as they get older. A growing puppy, an active adult dog, and a slower-moving senior all have different needs. The treats you choose can be an easy way to support them through every stage of their life with you.
Here's what you should keep in mind as your pup grows.
Puppies: Small Bites for Growing Pups
Puppies are busy growing, learning, and getting into just about everything. Treats are especially useful during this stage because they can help reinforce good behavior as puppies work on things like potty training, tricks and commands, and leash manners.
Because it's tempting to give your pup a treat each time they learn something new or listen to you correctly, getting treats that are soft enough to break into smaller pieces will help with portioning, especially for smaller pups.
Adult Dogs: Finding the Right Balance
It might feel like yesterday you brought that puppy home, but dogs grow up a lot faster than we do. A few years pass, and just like that, your pup is well into adulthood. So while the training days may be behind you, somehow dogs still know exactly where the treat bag lives.
Since treats are still a regular part of their routine, this is a good time to start paying closer attention to what's actually inside the bag and how many treats you are feeding them. Treats should generally make up no more than about 10% of your dog's daily calories.
And, feeding treats that bring a little more to the table than flavor alone are a smart move too. Champ’s Pet Kitchen treats, for example, are made with at least 26% real protein and then 3% fat, plus functional ingredients that support things like gut health, joints, and skin and coat.
Curious how your pup's other treats stack up? Take a peek at the back of a bag you already have at home and compare ingredients, protein, and fat. Your pup, of course, doesn't care about any of that, they just want the treat. But you'll know there's a little more thought behind what's in the bag.
Senior Dogs: Treat Time Isn’t Going Anywhere
As the years go on, sometimes those puppies who used to run laps around the house are now perfectly happy claiming the comfiest spot on the couch for an afternoon nap. Your dog may be entering their senior years, but their excitement when they hear a treat bag open? That usually sticks around.
As dogs get older, the type of treat you reach for may need to change with them. Senior pups can become less active so portion size is a consideration, or some harder, crunchy treats may not be easy on aging or missing teeth. A soft, chewy treat can be easier to enjoy, and one that can be broken into small pieces makes eating them simpler too.
This is also a good time to start thinking about the ingredients that align with the things you may be paying more attention to as your dog gets older. Joint health, digestion, and skin and coat support can all become bigger considerations during the senior years.
And while your senior dog may move a little slower than they used to, that doesn't mean the treats need to stop. They spent years perfecting “sit,” “stay,” and convincing you that they definitely have not already had a treat today.
Discovering Treats to Grow With Your Dog
From the tiny puppy learning their first command, to the adult dog who knows every trick in the book, to the senior pup who would rather perform those tricks from the comfort of their bed, every stage looks a little different. But no matter what stage they're in, the treat in your hand should be working just as hard as they are, and giving them a little love right back.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: When is my dog considered an adult?
A: There isn’t one exact age for every dog. Smaller breeds tend to mature sooner, while larger breeds can take longer to reach adulthood. The American Kennel Club offers some helpful insight on calculating your dog’s age, and your veterinarian can help you determine when your individual pup has officially left the puppy stage behind.
Q: Should I change my dog’s treats as they get older?
A: You may want to! As your dog’s activity level, teeth, and individual needs change, the type and amount of treats you give them may change too. Paying attention to portion size, texture, and ingredients can help you choose treats that fit their current stage.
Q: Are soft treats good for senior dogs?
A: Soft, chewy treats can be a great option for senior pups, particularly if crunchy treats have become harder for them to chew. They’re also easy to break apart for smaller portions.
Medical Disclaimer: This information is intended for general educational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified veterinarian if your dog experiences significant or prolonged changes in appetite.
