Treats and chews
Are vegetable based treats good for dogs?
Last updated 23 September 2026 · How we write and check this
Short answer
Vegetable based treats are generally a good low calorie option for most dogs, offering fiber and volume with far fewer calories than meat or grain based treats, often under 5 kcal per piece. They work best as a supplement to a balanced diet rather than a main training reward, since some dogs find them less exciting than richer, more strongly scented options.
Where vegetable treats fit best
A dog on a calorie controlled diet, or one that simply gets a lot of daily treats, benefits from vegetable based options because they let the total number of rewards stay high without a matching rise in calories. A handful of small carrot or green bean pieces might total 10 to 15 kcal, compared to 50 or more kcal for the same number of standard biscuits.
Texture and appeal for dogs
Raw vegetable pieces offer a crunchy texture some dogs enjoy chewing through, while steamed or cooked pieces are softer and easier for older dogs or those with dental sensitivity to manage. Either way, vegetable treats tend to rank lower in a dog's preference than meat based options, so they suit calm, low distraction moments more than high stakes training.
Preparing them safely
Cutting vegetable pieces small enough to avoid a choking risk, roughly 1 to 2 cm, and avoiding any added salt, butter, or seasoning keeps them safe and low calorie. Introducing a new vegetable in small amounts over the first few days also helps confirm the dog tolerates it without loose stools.
Key takeaways
- Vegetable based treats often run under 5 kcal per piece, far less than meat or grain based options.
- They work well for frequent, low calorie rewards but are usually less exciting to dogs than meat treats.
- Cut pieces to 1 to 2 cm to reduce choking risk and avoid any added salt or seasoning.
- Introduce a new vegetable gradually over a few days and watch for any digestive reaction.