At Crumps’ Naturals, we believe every treat should do more than taste great—it should help your dog thrive. We know healthy doesn’t mean boring, and we’re here to prove it. With the right ingredients, treats can be both fun and functional, giving your pup something to wag about while supporting their whole-body health. From aiding digestion to promoting strong joints, functional dog treats are the perfect way to combine flavour and wellness in every bite.
What Makes Dog Treats “Fun”?
Fun treats go beyond flavor—they’re about the enticing aromas, textures, and novelty that spark excitement. Dogs may not have the same flavour range as humans, but they know what they love. A well-crafted treat can turn training into playtime, strengthen your bond, and make tails wag every time the bag rustles. Think crunchy apple slices, chewy sweet potatoes, or the rich aroma of peanut butter—ingredients that turn snack time into the highlight of their day.
Fun and Functional Ingredients to Try
Some ingredients naturally balance taste and nutrition. Apples are a great example – naturally sweet, crisp, and rich in vitamins and minerals. That’s why our Apple Bites are made with just one ingredient: fresh Canadian apples, slow-baked to keep their natural flavour and crunch.
Sweet potatoes are another favourite. Their natural sweetness, paired with a chewy texture, makes them a satisfying choice for dogs. They’re also packed with beta-carotene, vitamins, and minerals, and they’re gentle on the stomach – a good option for dogs with food sensitivities. Our Sweet Potato Chews are prepared using a slow-bake process that locks in both nutrients and taste.
Other wholesome options include:
- Peanut butter – creamy, rich, and loved by many dogs.
- Carrots – crunchy and mildly sweet, with beta-carotene for eye health.
- Pumpkin – high in fibre to help with digestion.
- Blueberries – full of antioxidants for immune support.
These simple, whole-food options can bring variety and excitement to treat time.
Balancing Flavour and Nutrition
Flavour matters, but nutrition shouldn’t take a back seat. The best functional dog treats combine the two, pairing tastes dogs love with ingredients that provide something extra. For example, pairing savoury proteins with naturally sweet vegetables offers variety and nutrients in one snack.
Functional Ingredients for Better Health
Some ingredients do more than taste good – they support specific aspects of a dog’s health. Common examples include:
- Chia seeds – high in omega-3 fatty acids for skin and coat health.
- Turmeric – may support joint health with its natural anti-inflammatory properties.
- Pumpkin – a gentle, fibre-rich way to aid digestion.
- Blueberries – antioxidant-rich and supportive of immune health.
We’ve incorporated these into treats like our Venison Jerky with Chia, which pairs hypoallergenic protein with omega-3s for muscle, skin, and immune support. Choosing functional dog treats with added benefits like omega-3s or prebiotics can help support specific wellness needs.
Creating Treats Dogs Look Forward To
Combining health-focused ingredients with flavours dogs naturally gravitate toward can take a bit of creativity. Sweet potatoes with chia seeds make for a hearty, nutrient-rich chew, while pumpkin with a pinch of cinnamon offers a warm, seasonal option.
Collagen-based treats, like our Chicken Collagen Jerky, provide high-quality protein while supporting joint health, skin, and coat. The chewy texture keeps dogs engaged, while the nutritional profile gives them extra benefits beyond taste.
Offering variety in both flavour and texture helps keep treats interesting. Switching between crunchy, chewy, and softer options gives your dog new experiences while ensuring they’re still getting nutritional value.
Finding the Right Balance
Choosing the right treats often comes down to knowing your dog’s preferences and finding ways to incorporate nutritional benefits into those choices. It could be as simple as taking a flavour your dog already loves – like peanut butter or pumpkin – and finding a product that also includes something functional, such as blueberries or chia seeds.
Texture plays a role too. Crunchy carrots, oats, or apple slices can be paired with softer options like banana or yoghurt to keep treat time fresh and engaging.
The Final Word: Treats That Do More
When you give your dog a treat, you want to know it’s not just tasty but also doing something good for them. By choosing natural, wholesome ingredients, you can create moments your dog enjoys while supporting their health. Whether it’s the crisp bite of our Apple Bites, the chewiness of our Sweet Potato Chews, or the protein-packed goodness of our Chicken Collagen Jerky, these functional dog treats can be both a joy and a benefit – helping your dog stay healthy, happy, and ready for their next adventure.
