The 90/10 Rule for Dogs: How to Keep Treats in Check and Nutrition on Track

When you’re picking your dog’s food, there’s one rule worth keeping in mind before you reach for that “premium” bag or favourite treat.

It’s called the 90/10 rule: about 90% of your dog’s daily calories should come from a nutritionally complete and balanced diet, leaving no more than 10% for treats and snacks.

Why this little rule makes a big difference

When most of the calories come from a high-quality dog food, you’re making sure your dog is getting the nutrients they need: proteins, fats, vitamins, and minerals packed into one consistent source. Treats, on the other hand, tend to be less complete and more variable.

If your dog gets too many calories outside that “90” part, you risk weight gain, nutrient imbalances, and avoidable health issues like joint strain, heart, or metabolic problems.

Simple ways to stick to it

Find out your dog’s daily calorie needs. This depends on their age, weight, breed, activity, and health status. Your veterinarian is the best person to help you with that.

1. Work out the 10% for treats (so 90% for proper food). For example, if your dog’s total daily calories should be 1,000 kcal, then about 900 kcal should come from their complete diet and around 100 kcal from treats.
2. Count treat calories carefully. Treats add up fast (and our impulse to reward is strong). Some treats may be much higher-calorie than you realise.
3. Choose treats wisely. Opt for low-calorie, wholesome options (vegetables, safe fruits, quality dog treats) and avoid using treats to make up a large portion of calories.
4. Adjust if needed. If you’ve given more treat-calories, reduce the main food slightly to keep the overall balance right.

Something to keep in mind when you shop

Before you splurge on a high-end bag of dog food or a stack of fancy treats, ask yourself: Will this food help cover 90% of the calories that matter most? If you’re loading up on treats instead of the base diet, you might be missing the point and possibly adding unwanted calories. Balancing isn’t about depriving your dog of joy; it’s about giving them a foundation of nutrition and then letting treats be just a little extra. Because the best way to spoil your dog is to keep them healthy.

If you’re looking for low-calorie, guilt-free treats to fit into that 10% part of your dog’s diet, we’ve got you covered. Our single-ingredient range makes it easy to reward your dog without overdoing the calories, all while keeping nutrition front and centre.

Here’s a quick look at some of our lean, high-protein options:

• Kangaroo Jerky – 455 kcal / 100g
• Freeze Dried Raw Venison – 473 kcal / 100g
• Freeze Dried Chicken Breast – 545 kcal / 100g

These treats are perfect for mindful pet parents who want to keep their dogs healthy and happy without the guilt.

Explore our full range of Freeze Dried Treats and Jerky Treats for smarter snacking options.