If you're here, chances are your dog has a little extra fluff, or maybe a lot, and you’re on a mission to help them feel healthier, happier, and more energetic. The good news? You absolutely can support your pup’s weight-loss journey without cutting out treats entirely. The key is choosing low-fat dog treats, sticking to all-natural dog treats, and giving the right portions at the right time.
In this guide, we’ll break down how to reward your dog responsibly, what ingredients to look for, how low-fat treats can support weight loss, and simple ways to make your dog’s diet healthier overall. You’ll also get practical tips backed by veterinary research, so you feel confident about every treat you hand out.
Why Some Dogs Need Low-Fat Treats
Just like humans, dogs can gain weight gradually over time—even when they’re eating “normal” food. A few extra biscuits, less outdoor time, or a slightly oversized scoop of kibble can add up quickly.
According to the Association for Pet Obesity Prevention, over half of dogs in the U.S. are overweight or obese. The organization collects data and recommendations you can explore here at petobesityprevention.org.
Being overweight doesn’t just affect how your dog looks. It affects:
- Joint health (more weight = more stress)
- Energy levels
- Organ function
- Lifespan
Switching to treats for overweight dogs helps cut unnecessary calories while still giving your dog the mental stimulation and joy that treats bring.
What Makes a Treat “Low-Fat”?
Not all dog treats are created equal. A treat marketed as “healthy” can still be packed with calories, fillers, or ingredients your dog doesn’t need.
Look Specifically for:
- Less than 10% fat (many low-fat dog treats are under 5%)
- Single-ingredient proteins like chicken breast or cod
- Air-dried or dehydrated instead of fried
- No added sugar, artificial coloring, or preservatives
Many veterinarians recommend simple, minimally processed options because they help dogs maintain a healthier weight while providing clean protein. You can check veterinary nutrition standards from the Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine.
Low-fat dog treats don’t just help with calorie control—they help you know exactly what your dog is eating.
All-Natural Dog Treats Are Better for Weight Loss
When you’re shopping for all-natural dog treats, you’re naturally avoiding many ingredients that cause unnecessary weight gain, like:
- Wheat fillers
- Corn syrups
- Artificial flavors
- Excess oils
Why All-Natural Helps
All-natural treats are often:
- More nutrient dense
- Higher in protein
- Lower in calories
- Easier to digest
- Less likely to trigger allergies
Dogs who switch to whole-ingredient treats often experience better energy and improved digestion—two things that make exercise (and weight loss) easier for them.
Best Types of Dog Treats for Overweight Dogs
There are several categories of treats that work well for dogs who need to slim down. Incorporating a mix of these can keep things fun while still supporting your dog's goals.
1. Single-Ingredient Meat Treats
High-protein and naturally low in fat, these are perfect “dog treats for dogs on a diet.” Examples are:
- Air-dried chicken breast
- Turkey breast strips
- Cod skin
- Rabbit or whitefish
When choosing meat treats, always check the fat percentage. Lean proteins help dogs stay satisfied without extra calories.
2. Freeze-Dried Proteins
Freeze-dried treats work exceptionally well because they maintain nutrients without added fats. Dogs love the crunchy texture, and you can easily break them into small training-sized pieces.
3. Fruit & Veggie Treats
Not all fruits and vegetables are safe, but many are excellent low-fat options:
- Carrot sticks
- Apple slices (no seeds)
- Green beans
- Blueberries
- Pumpkin cubes
These provide fiber, which helps overweight dogs feel fuller longer.
4. Dehydrated Sweet Potato Chews
A perfect alternative to high-fat chew treats. Sweet potatoes offer:
- Fiber
- Vitamins A & C
- Slow-release energy
They’re also gentle on sensitive stomachs and easy to digest.
How Many Treats Should an Overweight Dog Have?
Even the healthiest treat can lead to weight gain if given too often.
A helpful guideline from veterinary nutrition experts is the 10% Rule—treats should make up no more than 10% of your dog's daily calories.
You can read more about this recommendation from the American Kennel Club.
If your dog is on a strict weight-loss plan, dropping to 5% may be even better.
Choosing Dog Treats for Dogs on a Diet: What Ingredients to Avoid
Healthy treats aren’t only about what is in them—they’re also about what isn’t.
Avoid These Ingredients When Possible
- Hydrogenated oils
- Soy protein isolate
- Sugar or molasses
- Glycerin (often used in “soft” treats)
- Wheat flour
- Food coloring
- “Meat byproduct” or “animal digest”
These ingredients offer calories without nutritional value and can spike your dog’s energy in ways that don’t benefit weight loss.
If you're unsure about an ingredient or need guidelines for allergies or digestive concerns, the American Veterinary Medical Association provides solid general nutrition information here at their website.
How Low-Fat Dog Treats Support Weight Loss
Choosing low-fat dog treats does more than reduce calories. It builds the foundation for healthy routines.
1. They Allow Consistent Training
Dogs losing weight still need mental exercise. Treats used in training encourage movement, bonding, and consistency.
2. They Reduce Caloric Spikes
High-fat commercial treats add calories quickly. Low-fat treats ensure that even multiple rewards throughout the day won’t sabotage progress.
3. They Improve Digestion
Overweight dogs often experience digestive sluggishness. Cleaner treats with whole ingredients help keep digestion smoother.
4. They Support Lean Muscle
Protein-rich, low-fat treats help dogs maintain (or build!) muscle mass—key for burning calories efficiently.
Practical Tips for Using Treats While Helping Your Dog Lose Weight
You don’t have to eliminate treats to help your dog lose weight. You just need to adjust how (and when) you use them.
Use Smaller Pieces
Most dogs are just as happy with tiny treats as they are with large ones. Break treats into:
- Halves
- Quarters
- Even tiny “crumbs” during training
The goal is frequency, not size.
Incorporate Treats Into Exercise
Use treats to keep your dog moving:
- Hide treats around the yard for scent games
- Create a “find it!” game inside the house
- Reward intervals during longer walks
Movement + reward = faster progress.
Substitute Treats for Parts of Meals
If you know you’ll be using more treats on a certain day (training days, busy weekends, meeting new people), reduce a small portion of your dog’s dinner to compensate.
Keep a Treat Log
It sounds silly, but it works. Once you start tracking daily treat intake, you realize how easy it is to overdo it.
What to Look for When Buying All-Natural, Low-Fat Dog Treats
When choosing treats for a dog on a diet, quality matters just as much as calories. Whether you're buying from HubertPet.com or another trusted source, always check for the following:
✔ Ingredient List
Shorter is better. The best treats contain one ingredient—real, whole food.
Hubert Pet’s single-ingredient treats, like their Premium Salmon Skin and Low-Fat Duck Jerky, are perfect examples of clean, simple formulas with no fillers.
✔ Fat Percentage
For weight loss, choose treats under 10% fat—under 5% is ideal when possible.
Hubert Pet’s Apple Wrapped Jerky Treats for Dogs are naturally lean and make a great low-fat reward that still feels exciting to your pup.
✔ Protein Source
The first ingredient should always be a real, recognizable protein such as chicken breast, turkey, salmon, cod, or duck.
HubertPet.com specializes in single-ingredient proteins, including wild-caught cod skin treats and high-quality duck jerky, so you always know exactly what your dog is eating.
✔ Country of Origin
Look for treats made or tested in the USA to ensure consistent safety and quality.
Hubert Pet treats are proudly USA-tested and approved, giving pet parents peace of mind.
✔ Artificial Additives
Avoid artificial colors, chemical preservatives, glycerin, or starchy fillers.
Hubert Pet’s treats—including their gentle, vegan Sweet Potato Wrapped Treats—contain no artificial colors, no preservatives, and no added junk, making them ideal for sensitive stomachs and diet-friendly snacking.
You Can Reward Your Dog Without Slowing Their Weight-Loss Progress
Helping your dog lose weight is a journey, but switching to low-fat dog treats, sticking to all-natural dog treats, and focusing on portion control makes it a lot easier—not just for your dog, but for you too. When you choose the right treats and use them intentionally, rewards stay fun, healthy, and totally guilt-free.
At Hubert Pet, we believe in simple, real ingredients that help dogs feel their best. Smart treat choices lead to healthier habits—and healthier habits lead to happier, longer lives with your best friend.
If you ever need recommendations for specific proteins or treat types based on your dog’s needs, the Hubert Pet team is always here to help.
