Many pet treats contain collagen because it’s great for joint health, skin and coat support, and overall mobility—especially in dogs that are older or active. Collagen is often included in treats as hydrolyzed collagen, gelatin, or specific collagen peptides, and can come from sources like beef, chicken, or fish.

Here’s an overview of types of collagen-containing pet treats and what to look for:

🦴 Common Types of Collagen Treats for Pets

These are among the most common collagen treats and often include other joint-support ingredients like glucosamine and chondroitin.

• Soft chews or tablets formulated to promote joint cartilage health
• Collagen may be listed as hydrolyzed collagen or collagen peptides

Good for: Dogs with stiffness, older pets, active working breeds

Some dental chews use collagen or gelatin to add texture and benefit oral health.

• Chews that help remove plaque/tartar
• Collagen can act as a protein boost and help the chew hold its shape

Good for: Daily chew treat + oral hygiene support

These are simpler treats that naturally contain collagen without added supplements:

• Beef or pork tendons
• Chicken or turkey necks
• Beef trachea
• Pig ears

These parts are rich in natural collagen and connective tissue.

Good for: Pets that do well with single-ingredient, low-additive treats

Freeze-dried treats often preserve collagen content very well.

• Can be made from chicken feet, fish skin, or other high-collagen parts
• Often labelled “collagen-rich” or “joint support”

Good for: High-value training treats

🐶 How to Pick a Good Collagen Treat

• ✔️ Named source of collagen (e.g., chicken, beef, fish)
• ✔️ Hydrolyzed collagen/peptides for easier absorption
• ✔️ Joint support formulas often include beneficial combos
• ✔️ Age-appropriate for your pet

💡 Avoid treats with too many fillers, artificial colours, or unnecessary additives.

🐕 Specific Examples of Collagen Treats

Here are typical categories you’ll see:

• Joint support chews with collagen + glucosamine
• Freeze-dried collagen snacks (fish or poultry)
• Natural collagen chews (e.g., beef trachea, chicken feet)
• Collagen supplement bites for skin & coat

We sell a range of dog treats that include collagen.  Look out for ‘Collagen Rich’ tabs on our products or call the office on (01270) 759804 for advice.  

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Independent pet shops often feel the pressure of competing with large retail chains and online giants. With lower pricing power and bigger marketing budgets on the other side, it can seem like an uphill battle.

But here’s the reality: independent shops have unique advantages that big chains simply can’t replicate—and when used properly, they can not only compete, but thrive.

 

💡 1. Win on Expertise, Not Price

Big chains compete on price. Independent shops win on knowledge and trust.

Customers walking into a local pet shop are often looking for:

• Advice on the best treats for their dog’s needs
• Help with allergies or sensitivities
• Recommendations they can trust

How to use this:

• Train staff to understand ingredients and product benefits
• Recommend specific solutions (e.g., calming treats, dental chews)
• Share feeding guidance and treat usage tips

👉 When customers trust your advice, they’re far less price-sensitive.

🛍️ 2. Don’t Compete on Range

Large chains stock everything. Independent shops should stock the right things.

Instead of trying to match range, focus on:

• High-quality, natural, or premium treats
• Unique or hard-to-find products
• Reliable best-sellers with proven demand

Why it works:

A thought out selection reduces overwhelm and positions your shop as a specialist, not a generalist.

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We all love spoiling our dogs with treats. Those puppy eyes are hard to resist, and giving them a snack feels like a way to show love. But just like with people, too much of a good thing can cause problems. Overfeeding treats may lead to weight gain, upset stomachs, and long-term health issues. So, how do you know what’s “too many”?

 

Why not share these tips with your customers:-

Many of those extra pounds come from well-meaning owners who overdo the treats. Obesity in dogs can lead to joint pain, diabetes, heart disease, and even shorten their lifespan.

Treats should be used as rewards or training tools, not as a replacement for a balanced diet.

The 10% Rule:

A simple guideline most veterinarians recommend is the 10% rule: treats should make up no more than 10% of your dog’s daily calories.

Here’s a rough idea:

• Small dogs (around 10 lbs): 30–40 treat calories daily
• Medium dogs (around 30 lbs): 75–100 treat calories
• Large dogs (70 lbs+): 150+ treat calories

👉 Keep in mind that calorie counts vary widely between different types of treats. Always check the packaging or check our website for nutritional information.

What Affects Treat Limits?

Every dog is unique, so the right amount of treats depends on factors like:

• Size & breed – Small breeds need fewer calories than larger ones.
• Activity level – Working dogs and very active pups can handle a few extra calories.
• Age – Older dogs burn fewer calories and may need lighter portions.
• Type of treat – A crunchy biscuit and a freeze-dried liver piece don’t have the same calorie impact.

Smart Ways to Treat Your Dog:

• Break treats into smaller pieces so rewards last longer without the calorie overload.
• Choose low-calorie options, such as natural or single-ingredient treats.
• Use treats for training instead of random snacking.
• Balance meals – If your dog had extra snacks, consider slightly reducing dinner portions.

When to Ask Your Vet:

If your dog has special dietary needs, health conditions (like diabetes or allergies), or you’re unsure about the right calorie range, your vet is the best source of guidance.

Treats should bring joy, not health problems. By following the 10% rule and choosing high-quality, portion-friendly treats, you’ll keep your dog happy, healthy, and full of tail wags.

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As a pet treats wholesaler, sharing clear, practical advice about storing treats during hot weather—both in retail shops and at home—shows we care about product quality and pet well-being.

🏪 In the Shop: Protect Treat Quality:

Help keep treats safe, appealing, and shelf-stable:

• Store in a cool, dry area: Ideal temp is below 25°C (77°F). Avoid unventilated stockrooms, windowsills, or areas exposed to direct sun.
• Avoid displays near heat: Don’t place treats near heaters, windows, or doorways with strong sunlight.
• Use rotation (FIFO): Encourage “First In, First Out” to reduce spoilage in warmer months.
• Check packaging: Look for puffiness, oil separation, or odd smells—signs the treats may have been heat-affected.

🏡 At Home: Keep Treats Fresh & Safe:

Share these quick tips with your customers:

• Keep treats out of hot cupboards (especially near ovens, appliances, or windows).
• Store in original packaging or reseal tightly in airtight containers.
• Refrigerate or freeze soft, natural, or homemade treats (if packaging allows).
• Avoid leaving treats in cars—even a short time can cause spoilage or melting.

🐶 Why It Matters

Heat can shorten the shelf life of pet treats and compromise taste, texture, and safety—especially for natural, grain-free, or meat-based products. By storing them properly, you're protecting pets and preserving product quality.

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Whether you run a pet shop, a grooming salon with a retail corner, or a larger pet supply store, stocking the right mix of pet treats can directly impact your sales and customer loyalty. Today’s pet owners are more discerning than ever—they treat their pets like family and expect the same quality from pet products as they do from their own.

Here’s how to strike the perfect balance when stocking your pet treats:-

1. Understand your Customer Base

Are your shoppers budget-conscious? Or are they seeking premium, natural products?

Start by analysing your local market and customer preferences. If your customers lean toward holistic or eco-conscious lifestyles, you’ll want more all-natural, single-ingredient, or functional treats. If you serve a wide range of pet parents, include options at various price points.

Tip: Keep track of repeat purchases—these signal what your shoppers value most.

 2. Balance Value vs. Premium Treats

Stocking a variety of value-priced and premium options ensures you're meeting both everyday and aspirational needs:

• Value Treats: Great for bulk sales, training rewards, or multi-pet households.
• Premium Treats: Include gourmet, limited-ingredient, or specialty diets (e.g., grain-free, organic, freeze-dried).

Why it matters: Premium treats typically offer higher margins, but value products can drive volume.

3. Offer a variety of textures and functions

Not all pets like the same type of treat, and different textures serve different purposes:

• Crunchy: Good for dental health and satisfying chew time.
• Chewy/Soft: Ideal for training and older pets with sensitive teeth.
• Jerky & Freeze-Dried: Often seen as higher-end; great for impulse purchases.
• Functional Treats: Help with anxiety, digestion, or joint support—these are a growing category.

Mix it up to appeal to various pet needs and ages.

4. Highlight Ingredients & Sourcing

Consumers increasingly care about what’s inside the bag. Treats with clean labels, human-grade ingredients, or limited ingredient lists are in high demand. Offer signage or info cards to help customers understand what sets each brand apart.

5. Watch Sales Trends and Seasonality

Use your POS data to monitor what’s selling—and when. Treats tend to spike in:

• Holidays (great for themed displays)
• Summer (travel-friendly, calming chews)
• Back-to-school/Autumn (separation anxiety treats for pets home alone)

Rotate new treats in and out to keep your shelves fresh and engaging.

Final Tip: Cross-Merchandising Sells More

Pair treats near:

• Leashes & collars (impulse buys)
• Grooming products (reward after bath)
• Training supplies (treats as positive reinforcement)

Offering the right mix of treats isn’t just about variety—it’s about strategy. Knowing your customers, tracking sales, and keeping up with trends will help you curate an appealing treat section that boosts both customer satisfaction and your bottom line.

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