It’s the question every dog parent asks: how many treats are too many? Whether you’re training, rewarding good behavior, or just feeling generous, it’s easy to overdo it without realizing. Here's how to find the right balance for your pup’s size, age, and activity level — without compromising their health.

Why Treat Quantity Matters

Treats should be fun, but too many can lead to unwanted weight gain, stomach issues, or nutrient imbalances. Most vets recommend that treats make up no more than 10% of your dog’s daily caloric intake. For a 30-pound dog, that’s roughly 75–90 calories worth of treats per day.

Daily Treat Guidelines by Dog Size

Small dogs (under 20 lbs): 1–2 small treats or up to 50 calories
Medium dogs (20–50 lbs): 2–4 medium treats or up to 90 calories
Large dogs (50+ lbs): 3–5 larger treats or up to 120 calories

Always check the calorie content on the packaging. A single pig ear can pack 100+ calories — while some training treats contain as little as 3.

Training Days vs. Rest Days

When training, you’ll naturally use more treats. That’s okay — just make sure to adjust their meal portions slightly or switch to ultra low-calorie training rewards. On days with less activity, scale back the number of treats to maintain balance.

Watch for Hidden Calories

Dental chews, peanut butter-stuffed toys, and even “natural” treats can add up quickly. Keep a mental note (or log) of everything your dog eats outside their meals. If you're unsure, consult your vet — especially for dogs with health conditions or weight issues.

Sniff ’n Snack Portion Control Tips

At SniffnSnack.com, we build each subscription box with balanced variety in mind. Our treats are portioned to avoid overfeeding while still making your pup feel spoiled. Whether it’s a single-ingredient chew or a crunchy biscuit, we include clear guidance on how often to serve each one.

Signs You're Over-Treating

If your dog is gaining weight, skipping meals, or showing less energy, those extra snacks might be adding up. Stick to treat schedules, use them with purpose, and rotate high- and low-calorie options to keep things fresh but balanced.

Final Thoughts

There’s no magic number that fits every dog — but the 10% rule is a great place to start. Keep treats fun, not filler. Choose quality over quantity, and make every snack count.

For responsibly portioned treats delivered monthly, visit SniffnSnack.com today.