Got a Sensitive Dog? Here’s What to Look For in a Treat

Got a Sensitive Dog? Here’s What to Look For in a Treat

If your dog has a sensitive stomach, food allergies, or skin issues, choosing the right treat can feel like navigating a minefield. One wrong bite and you’re dealing with itchy skin, upset tummies, or endless paw licking. The good news? With the right knowledge (and the right supplier), you can keep treat time happy and symptom-free.

At Bonza Dog Treats, we offer Australia’s widest range of novel proteins — from emu to goat, wild boar to venison — so you can find the perfect match for your dog’s needs

1. Stick to Single-Ingredient Treats

When a treat has only one ingredient, you know exactly what your dog is eating. No hidden fillers, no mystery meat, no preservatives — just the pure, natural goodness of the protein. This makes it easier to pinpoint what works for your dog and what doesn’t.

Our range includes plenty of single-ingredient options such as goat ears, deer antler, goat tripe, wild boar ears, and emu jerky. These are minimally processed and naturally packed with nutrients, making them a gentle choice for sensitive tummies.

2. Avoid Common Allergens

Chicken and beef are two of the most common triggers for dogs with food sensitivities. Even small amounts can cause flare-ups in some dogs. If you suspect your pup is allergic, choose proteins they’ve never tried before — this is where “novel proteins” come in.

Some great examples include:

• Goat – a lean, easy-to-digest protein that’s gentle on the stomach.

• Emu – rich in nutrients and a great alternative for allergy-prone dogs.

• Wild boar – packed with flavour but low in allergens.

By steering clear of chicken and beef, you can significantly reduce the risk of reactions.

3. Choose Chews That Match Your Dog’s Needs

Not all treats are about a quick snack — some are long-lasting chews that also support dental health and mental stimulation. The key is to pick chews that are digestible and suited to your dog’s chewing style.

• Deer Antler – zero fat, long-lasting, and full of minerals like calcium and phosphorus.

• Goat Horn – a durable chew that naturally scrapes teeth clean.

• Wild Boar Ears – crunchy and satisfying while being gentle on the gut.

These chews don’t splinter, last longer than biscuits, and are much less likely to upset sensitive stomachs.

4. Look for Gut-Healthy Options

For dogs with digestive sensitivities, supporting gut health is just as important as avoiding allergens. Natural treats like goat ears are a great choice — the fur acts as a natural fibre, helping to clean the digestive tract and support a healthy gut microbiome.

Regularly including gut-friendly chews can improve digestion, reduce anal gland issues, and keep your dog’s system running smoothly.

5. Keep It Natural — Always

Artificial flavours, colours, and preservatives can irritate sensitive dogs just as much as certain proteins. Choosing natural treats means your dog is only getting what they need — nothing more, nothing less.

At Bonza Dog Treats, everything we sell is 100% natural, air-dried to lock in nutrients, and free from unnecessary additives.

Final Woof
Finding the right treats for a sensitive dog doesn’t have to be stressful. By sticking to single-ingredient, natural products, avoiding common allergens like chicken and beef, and exploring novel proteins like goat, emu, wild boar, and venison, you can keep your dog healthy, happy, and reaction-free.

With the widest range of novel proteins in Australia, Bonza Dog Treats makes it easy to treat your sensitive dog without compromise. Browse our hypoallergenic treat range today and see the difference it makes.