Every dog parent has been there. Those hopeful eyes, the wagging tail, the gentle nudge toward the treat jar. Treats are one of the easiest ways we bond with our dogs, reinforce good behavior, and sprinkle a little joy into their day. But it is also completely fair to pause and ask yourself, how many treats per day is safe for a medium-size dog, especially when you want to keep them healthy for the long run.
Finding the right balance does not mean taking the fun out of treating. It simply means being thoughtful about quantity, quality, and purpose so your dog gets all the benefits without the downside.
What Counts as a Medium-size Dog
Medium-size dogs typically weigh between 30 and 60 pounds. This includes popular companions like Border Collies, Bulldogs, Australian Shepherds, Cocker Spaniels, and mixed breeds that fall right in that range. While size is a helpful guideline, age, activity level, metabolism, and overall health also play a big role in how many treats are appropriate.
An active, young dog who loves agility or long walks may burn more calories than a laid-back couch companion of the same size. That difference matters when deciding how often to reward.
The 10 Percent Rule Made Simple
A widely accepted guideline among pet nutrition experts is the 10 percent rule. Treats should make up no more than 10 percent of your dog’s daily caloric intake, with the remaining 90 percent coming from complete, balanced meals.
For a medium-size dog eating around 800 to 1,000 calories per day, that means roughly 80 to 100 calories from treats. Depending on the size and density of the treat, that could be several small bites or just one or two larger chews.
Why Treat Size Matters More Than You Think
Not all treats are created equal. A single oversized treat can quietly exceed your dog’s daily treat allowance without you realizing it. That is why many pet parents prefer smaller, portion-friendly options that let you reward more often without overdoing it.
For example, soft training treats like Small Bites With Lamb are designed to be low in calories while still delivering big flavor. They are perfect for reinforcing commands, manners, and everyday wins.
Training Days Versus Chill Days
Some days naturally call for more treats than others. Training sessions, socialization outings, or learning new skills may require frequent rewards to keep your dog engaged and motivated.
On higher-treat days, balance things out by slightly reducing meal portions or choosing lighter treats made with simple ingredients. On quieter days, fewer treats help keep calories in check without sacrificing happiness.
Ingredients Make a Big Difference
When you choose high-quality treats made with real ingredients, every bite works harder for your dog. Treats that focus on real meat, limited ingredients, and functional benefits allow you to feel good about what you are giving.
Protein-rich options from the Real Strips collection offer satisfying texture and flavor without unnecessary fillers. This makes it easier to stay within treat limits while still making each reward feel special.
Signs You May Be Overdoing Treats
Dogs cannot tell us when they have had too many treats, but their bodies often do. Weight gain, decreased interest in meals, loose stools, or picky eating can all be subtle signals that treats are taking over.
If you notice these signs, it does not mean treats need to disappear. It simply means it is time to reassess portions, frequency, and treat size.
Using Treats With Purpose
Treats are most powerful when they are intentional. Use them to reward good behavior, reinforce training, or create positive associations with new experiences like vet visits or car rides.
Handing out treats just because the jar is nearby can quickly add up. Being mindful helps every treat feel earned and exciting.
Healthy Treating Is About Balance
So, how many treats per day is safe for a medium-size dog? The short answer is enough to bring joy, reinforce good behavior, and support bonding without exceeding about 10 percent of daily calories.
By choosing thoughtfully sized, high-quality treats and adjusting based on your dog’s lifestyle, you can confidently reward your dog while protecting their long-term health. Happy tails, healthy habits, and guilt-free treating all go paw in paw.
