Senior dog treats often target certain signs of aging in canines, such as heart health, brain performance, and joint wellness. These tasty bites can be a useful part of your senior pet’s care, but some dogs can’t just have any old biscuits. For example, options for pets without teeth can be harder to come by. A little searching and shopping can help you find the best senior dog treat for your toothless fur baby.
These treats are soft, breakable, and oh-so-delicious. Your senior pup will fall in love with the tantalizing flavors and easy textures — and you’ll love all the health benefits they get from these morsels. These are some of our favorites.
Blue Buffalo Blue Bits Soft-Moist Training Dog Treats
With a pack of these bite-sized treats by your side, there’s nothing you and your dog can’t do. Since they’re meant for training, they’re small enough for any dog to handle. And because of their soft and chewy texture, even toothless dogs can get in on the deliciousness.
Why we love them
- These treats are all-natural, so you won’t find any preservatives, dyes, or artificial flavors.
- DHA-enhanced salmon oil gives these treats an extra boost for cognitive ability.
- They come in four flavors, so your pup can enjoy a variety of meaty tastes.
- Meat is the No. 1 ingredient.
WholeHearted Grain-Free Tender Tidbits Peanut Butter Recipe Dog Training Treats
When it comes to treats, meat isn’t everything. These chewy, grain-free tidbits are made with peanut butter as the main ingredient, and, boy, will your dog go crazy for them! Each piece is flavorful and fun-sized, so even the daintiest Chihuahuas can enjoy some gourmet treats.
Why we love them
- Each treat is less than three calories.
- One of the main ingredients is chickpeas, a fantastic source of protein, fiber, and nutrients.
- You won’t find fillers like corn, grain, or wheat in these treats, so they are easily digestable.
- More treats per dollar spent than the other products listed; this is the largest bag on the list!
Wellness Wellbites Soft & Chewy Dog Treats
If a balanced diet looked like a dog treat, this would be it. You won’t find any meat by-products, fillers, or grains here, but you will find a lot of healthy nutrients. With ingredients like real meat and fresh fruits and veggies, what’s not to love?
Why we love them
- These all-natural treats are moist and meaty.
- With canine superfood ingredients like blueberries and sweet potato, your dog is getting health benefits from his treats.
- Each treat is made with two kinds of meat for a unique flavor-and-texture combination.
- This recipe was formulated by veterinarians and canine dietitians.
Ark Naturals Gray Muzzle Joint Health Senior Dog Treats
For older pups who have lost some of their teeth over time, Ark Naturals Gray Muzzle Treats will be just the thing. They’re soft enough for any dog to enjoy, regardless of tooth number, while their senior-dog-formulated recipe helps promote your furry friend’s joint health. It’s even vet-recommended!
Why we love them
- Ingredients like omega-3 fatty acids and turmeric act as anti-inflammatories for your dog’s joints and muscles.
- Glucosamine, chondroitin, and green-lipped mussel promote joint mobility and flexibility.
- These treats are made of all-natural ingredients.
- Contains zero corn, “wheat, soy, by-products, artificial colors, flavors or preservatives.”
How to choose dog treats for your senior dog
Ultimately, your senior dog can munch on many things, even items marketed as puppy-training treats. However, if your senior pup doesn’t have teeth, you’ll want to consider a few factors when shopping, including:
- Texture. Your pup should be able to gum the treats instead of swallowing them whole.
- Size. If your pup loves a treat that they like to swallow whole, see if it comes in tinier bits to prevent choking. Alternatively, you can break the treat into smaller pieces.
- Check the label. Senior dogs often slow down a bit and exercise less. Picking low-calorie treats is best.
- Taste test. Treats should be fun and tasty. You may wish to try a few out to see which ones your pup likes best.
It’s fun to treat your dog, but senior pups without treats have special needs. You’ll want to find an item that your dog can consume easily. Size and texture are important factors. Lower calorie treats are best. Remember, 90% of your dog’s daily food intake should come from their regular food. Limit treat intake to 10% of their intake or less. Your vet can provide more information on your dog’s dietary needs, especially as they age. It doesn’t take a ton of adjustments for a dog who’s missing teeth to live a joyous life, and these treats will help bring them another step closer.
