For generations of dog owners across the UK, the go-to reward for a wagging tail has been a simple, grain-based biscuit. While there’s nothing wrong with a traditional treat, a revolution in canine nutrition is encouraging us to look beyond the biscuit and consider rewards that don’t just taste good, but actively contribute to our dogs’ health. In this new era of wellness-focused pet care, one category of treats stands out for its incredible, scientifically-backed benefits.
We’re talking about natural fish treats. Simple, wholesome, and packed with powerful nutrients, they are far more than just a tasty morsel. They are a functional food that can support everything from a glossy coat to healthy joints and a sharp mind. This guide will explore the top five reasons why high-quality, natural Fish Treats for Dogs are one of the best additions you can make to your pet’s diet, transforming treat time into a powerful act of preventative healthcare.
1. The Unrivalled Power of Omega-3 Fatty Acids
This is the number one reason fish-based treats are so highly recommended by vets and nutritionists. Oily fish are nature’s richest source of the Omega-3 fatty acids EPA and DHA, which are crucial for controlling inflammation throughout the body. Unlike the Omega-3s found in plant sources, these are in their most bioavailable form, ready for your dog’s body to use immediately. Sourcing high-quality treats from a specialist like skippers pet products ensures that these delicate oils are preserved through careful, low-temperature air-drying, delivering maximum benefit in every bite.
2. A Hypoallergenic Solution for Sensitive Dogs
Food allergies and intolerances are a common and frustrating problem for many UK dog owners, often leading to itchy skin, sore paws, and digestive upset. The most frequent culprits are common proteins like beef, chicken, and wheat. For many dogs, fish is a “novel protein,” meaning their immune system is less likely to react to it. This makes single-ingredient fish treats a naturally hypoallergenic choice, perfect for dogs with known allergies or for those on an elimination diet to identify their trigger foods.
3. A Natural Boost for Dental Health
Many owners are rightfully concerned about their dog’s dental hygiene. While nothing replaces brushing, the right kind of chew can play a vital supportive role. Natural fish treats, particularly those made from 100% fish skin, have a unique rough and abrasive texture. As your dog chews, this texture works like a natural toothbrush, helping to scrape away the plaque and tartar build-up from their teeth. This simple, enjoyable action can significantly contribute to healthier gums and fresher breath.
4. The Ultimate High-Value Training Reward
If you’ve ever struggled to keep your dog’s attention during a training session, you probably haven’t found a treat that is “high-value” enough. For a treat to be effective for training, it needs to be more exciting and desirable than all the distractions in the environment. Due to their rich, natural aroma, fish treats are incredibly motivating for dogs. Their powerful scent keeps a dog focused and eager to please, making them the perfect reward for everything from puppy recall to advanced obedience work.
5. Superior Digestibility for All Life Stages
One of the best qualities of fish protein is that it is exceptionally easy for a dog’s digestive system to break down and absorb. This high level of digestibility means more nutrients are utilised by the body and there is less strain on the gut, resulting in healthier stools and better overall health. Because they are typically single-ingredient and free from complex additives, natural fish treats are a gentle and nourishing option for puppies, senior dogs, and every stage in between.
What to Look for When Choosing Fish Treats
Not all fish treats are created equal. To ensure you’re getting the best quality, always check the label for two key things. Firstly, the ingredients list should be simple and recognisable—ideally, it should just say “100% Salmon Skin” or “100% Dried Sprats.” Secondly, look for treats that have been naturally preserved through air-drying, as this process locks in the nutrients without the need for artificial preservatives or additives.
Are There Any Fish to Avoid?
It is important to choose treats made from fish that are known to be low in heavy metals. Excellent, safe choices for dogs include salmon, cod, haddock, herring, and sprats. You should generally avoid treats made from large, predatory fish like shark or swordfish, as these can accumulate higher levels of mercury over their long lifespans.
How Many Fish Treats Can I Give My Dog?
While they are incredibly healthy, treats should still be given in moderation. A good guideline followed by UK vets is that treats should not make up more than 10% of your dog’s total daily calorie intake. For small fish treats used in training, you can use them quite generously, but for larger chews like fish skin flatties, one a day is usually plenty.
Incorporating Fish Treats into Your Dog’s Routine
The versatility of fish treats makes them easy to add to your dog’s daily life. Small pieces are perfect for rewarding good behaviour on walks or during training sessions. Larger, chewier treats are fantastic for keeping your dog mentally stimulated and occupied in the evening. You can even crumble them over your dog’s regular food as a tasty and nutritious topper to entice a fussy eater.
In conclusion, moving beyond the traditional grain-based biscuit and embracing natural fish treats is one of the easiest and most effective ways to boost your dog’s health. They are far more than a simple reward; they are a functional, nutrient-dense superfood that provides a powerful dose of Omega-3s, supports dental health, and offers a hypoallergenic solution for sensitive dogs. It’s a simple switch that your dog will not only love but will thank you for in the form of a shinier coat, healthier joints, and a wagging tail.
