As India’s pet-loving community continues to grow, so does the awareness around proper pet care and nutrition. With over 32 million pets and a rapidly expanding pet food industry, the way Indian pet parents care for their furry friends is evolving and treats are no longer just an occasional indulgence. Dog treats today play an essential role in a pet’s holistic health, well-being, and daily routine.
Whether it’s Training Treats for good behavior, a soft chew to ease anxiety, or a jerky strip packed with nutrients, pet treats have become as important as regular meals. Understanding their classifications and uses can make all the difference in raising a healthy, happy dog.
Why Dog Treats Matter
Treats are more than tasty rewards. They serve multiple important functions in a dog’s life:
- Training Aid: Treats are integral to positive reinforcement training. Small, flavorful treats help dogs quickly associate good behavior with rewards, making training more effective and fun.
- Mental Stimulation: Chews and interactive treat toys prevent boredom, reduce anxiety, and keep pets mentally engaged, especially helpful for dogs home alone for long periods.
- Nutritional Boost: Many treats are fortified with vitamins, minerals, and ingredients that support joint health, digestion, and skin & coat care.
- Emotional Connection: Offering a treat is one of the simplest yet strongest gestures of love and bonding between a pet and their parent.
Classification of Dog Treats
Understanding the different types of dog treats can help pet parents choose the right kind based on their dog’s needs, lifestyle, and health conditions. Here’s a simple breakdown:
- Texture-Based Classification
- Crunchy & Hard Chews: Toothbrush-like treats that often have dental benefits by helping remove plaque and tartar.
- Soft Chews: Easy to digest and ideal for training; their tenderness makes them suitable for puppies and senior dogs.
- Jerky: High-protein, chewy treats that are both nutritious and appealing to even the pickiest eaters.
- Purpose-Based Classification
- Training Treats: Small, bite-sized, and flavorful , designed to keep your dog engaged during training sessions.
- Comfort Treats: These long-lasting chews are perfect for reducing stress and anxiety. Dogs enjoy gnawing on them, which keeps them calm and entertained.
- Functional Treats: Formulated to provide specific health benefits from improving digestion to supporting joint health.
- Ingredient-Based Classification
- Natural & Organic Treats: Made with high-quality, human-grade ingredients, these treats avoid artificial additives and preservatives.
- Grain-Free & Limited Ingredient Treats: Ideal for dogs with food allergies or sensitivities, these are easy on the stomach and reduce the risk of adverse reactions.
Treats and Regular Dog Food: Complementing Each Other
It’s important to clarify that treats are not a replacement for a complete and balanced diet. However, they complement regular dog food in vital ways:
- Enhancing Nutrient Intake: Treats can supplement a dog’s diet with additional nutrients, especially if they’re functional or fortified.
- Routine Reinforcement: Treats offer structured moments throughout the day , after a walk, during grooming, or while training , providing comfort and predictability.
- Addressing Special Needs: Dogs with specific health concerns, like dental issues or joint problems, can benefit from treats designed to target those areas.
Just remember the golden rule: moderation. Treats should ideally make up no more than 15% of a dog’s daily caloric intake.
Pet Treats in the Indian Market
The pet treat category in India is witnessing explosive growth, with a market size of over ₹500 crore and a projected CAGR of 12% from 2024 to 2029. Treats currently contribute about 8% to the overall pet food category, this clearly states huge opportunity this segment is having.
But with so many options in the market, choosing the right treat can be overwhelming. That’s where trusted distributors like Sai International Pet Products Pvt. Ltd. (SIPP) come in , offering a curated portfolio of high-quality, globally sourced treats across all categories.
Trusted Treat Brands from Sai International
As the exclusive partner for several leading pet treat brands, Sai International provides a one-stop solution for all pet treat needs. Some of the prominent brands under its umbrella include:
- Jerhigh: Imported from Thailand, known for its high-quality, human-grade meat-based treats including jerky strips and soft chews.
- Goodies: Popular for its dental sticks and training chews that are both functional and delicious.
- First Bark: Inhouse brand from Sai International ,offering value-packed treats made with high protein content and natural ingredients , a favorite among Indian pet parents.
- Gnawlers: Specializes in dental chews and bones, helping maintain oral hygiene while keeping dogs happily occupied.
- Truly: A premium offering for select outlets, crafted to deliver both taste and health benefits.
These brands cover every treat category , from soft snacks and chew bones to functional treats, ensuring there’s something for every dog, breed, and dietary need.
Final Woof
For modern Indian pet parents, treats are not just about indulgence , they’re tools for communication, training, health, and love. When used wisely and chosen thoughtfully, treats can significantly enhance a dog’s quality of life.
So next time you look into your pup’s hopeful eyes, go ahead and offer that treat. Just make sure it’s not only tasty, but purposeful.
About the Author
Ambarish Sikarwar is the CBO of Sai International Pet Products Pvt. Ltd. and a passionate advocate for enhancing pet care standards in India. With over a decade of experience in the pet food industry, he is dedicated to helping Indian pet parents make informed choices for their furry companions.