What Kind of Natural Snack Does Your Dog Need Based on Their Age and Size?

snack-size

When it comes to rewarding your dog with a tasty treat, not all dogs are the same. Their age, size, and activity level play a big role in determining what kind of snacks they need. Just like we adjust our diet according to our needs, dogs should also enjoy treats that suit their individual profile. Here are some recommendations on the best natural snacks based on your dog’s age and size.

🐶 Snacks for Puppies: Growing Strong and Healthy

Puppies have sensitive, developing digestive systems, so they need special snacks that support their growth and development. Key characteristics include:

Important features in puppy snacks:

  • Low in calories – Puppies have fast metabolisms, but don’t need snacks that overload their diet.

  • Easy to chew – Their teeth are still developing, so soft, gentle snacks are best.

  • High-quality proteins – Essential for strong muscle and bone development.

What to choose?

  • Single-protein snacks (made with one type of meat like chicken or lamb).

  • Soft and tender snacks that are gentle on young teeth.

  • Snacks rich in Omega-3 fatty acids (like fish-based treats) to support brain and vision development.

👉 At Gespetfood, we offer perfect options for your puppy, such as our chicken strips or lamb biscuits, designed for healthy growth.

🐕 Snacks for Adult Dogs: Maintaining Energy and Vitality

Adult dogs have different nutritional needs than puppies. They’ve reached their ideal size and weight, but still need balanced energy and snacks that support their digestive, dental, and overall health.

Important features in adult dog snacks:

  • Nutritional balance – Treats should offer a healthy mix of protein, fats, and carbohydrates to maintain energy without causing weight gain.

  • Dental health – Hard, chewy snacks help clean teeth and support oral hygiene.

  • Joint support – For large breeds or active dogs, glucosamine and chondroitin are key.

What to choose?

  • Hard snacks like natural bones or dehydrated salmon skin to clean teeth.

  • Antioxidant-rich snacks to support the immune system.

  • Snacks with glucosamine and chondroitin for active or large-breed dogs.

👉 If you have an adult dog, our salmon skin chews or natural bones are ideal for maintaining dental and joint health.

🐩 Snacks for Senior Dogs: Supporting Their Well-being

As dogs age, their nutritional needs change. Senior dogs (usually over 7 years old, depending on breed) need easily digestible snacks that support joint health and help maintain an ideal weight.

Important features in senior dog snacks:

  • Easy to chew – Older dogs may have dental issues or sensitive gums, so softer snacks are important.

  • Low in calories – Senior dogs are often less active and need lighter treats to avoid weight gain.

  • Joint and digestive support – Ingredients like glucosamine, fiber, and Omega-3s help overall health.

What to choose?

  • Soft or semi-moist snacks that are gentle on teeth.

  • Snacks with Omega-3s to support coat and joint health.

  • Fiber-rich treats for digestive balance.

👉 For older dogs, our chicken and apple biscuits or fish strips are perfect for rewarding without overloading their diet.

🐕 Snacks for Small Dogs vs. Large Dogs

Your dog’s size also plays a big role in the type of snacks they should have. Small dogs have tiny mouths and limited chewing power, while large dogs need more calories and tougher snacks.

🐾 For small dogs:

  • Smaller, softer treats that are easy to chew.

  • Low in calories to help prevent weight gain.

🐾 For large dogs:

  • Bigger, tougher snacks that promote chewing and dental health.

  • Higher protein and nutrient content to meet their greater energy needs.

🐾 At Gespetfood, We Have the Perfect Snack for Every Dog

Whatever your dog’s age, size, or energy level, Gespetfood has the perfect natural and healthy treat. All our snacks are made with the highest quality ingredients—grain-free and additive-free—so your dog gets only the best.

🌿 Grain-free snacks
🐕 Options for puppies, adults, and seniors
💚 100% natural and delicious