Best fish treats for dogs 2026: Sprats put to the test
Fish treats provide dogs with high-quality protein and natural fat directly from the sea – this guide shows which grain-free sprat snacks are best suited for which dog in 2026.
- Large sprats are the best overall choice among fish treats for dogs – whole fish, high fat content, for medium to large dogs.
- Small sprats are best suited for small dogs and puppies thanks to their handy portion size.
- Large sprats in 9cm pieces are suitable for on the go and portioned training snacks.
- All three varieties are grain-free, consist of whole dried fish and contain no additives.
- By 2026, fish treats will be among the most sought-after alternatives for dogs with intolerances to beef, chicken or horse.
Why this is important
Fish is one of the best-tolerated protein sources for dogs, especially when beef, chicken or horse meat causes problems in their food bowl. Masterfeed We offer grain-free sprats as whole, gently dried fish – without additives, grain-free, and with a high natural fat content. For health-conscious dog owners who value transparent ingredients in 2026, fish treats are a sensible addition to a BARF diet or dry food.
Sprats belong to the herring family and are among the fattier fish – making them a natural source of omega-3 fatty acids, completely without artificial additives. This is precisely what distinguishes a genuine fish treat from industrially processed snacks containing fishmeal.
What makes the best fish treats for dogs?
- Whole fish instead of fishmeal: Sprats should be unprocessed and completely dried, not pressed from fish scraps.
- Grain-free and without additives: No flavorings, no sugar, no grain filler in the snack.
- Suitable piece size for the dog size: Small dogs need different portions than large breeds.
- High natural fat content: Provides Omega-3 fatty acids for coat and skin without added oils.
- Gentle drying: Low temperatures preserve more nutrients than high-temperature processes.
- Suitable as a standalone snack or topping: Good fish treats can be fed on their own or sprinkled over the food.
Overview of fish treats
| product | Best for | Special feature | Key limitation |
|---|---|---|---|
| large sprats | Medium to large dogs | Whole, fatty fish of standard size | Possibly too big for very small dogs |
| Sprats small | Small dogs and puppies | Compact portion size, easy to dose | Too small to be the sole chew snack for large breeds |
| Large sprats, 9 cm | On the road and training | Uniformly tailored pieces for training sessions | More of a treat than a classic chew toy |
1. Large sprats: best fish treats for large dogs
Large sprats provide whole, dried fish from the herring family – ideal for medium-sized dogs with a hearty appetite. This treat is grain-free, additive-free, and suitable as a standalone snack or as a topping for dry food.
Sprats are great pros:
- Whole fish, no fishmeal processing
- High natural fat content for a shiny coat
- Grain-free and without artificial additives
Sprats large Cons:
- Too large a portion for small dogs or puppies
- An intense fishy smell that not every dog owner likes.
Best for: Medium to large dogs that need a fish-based protein source in their snack rotation.
Verdict: Buy.
2. Small sprats: best fish treats for small dogs and puppies
Small sprats offer the same whole fish quality as the large variety, but in a portion size suitable for small breeds and puppies. This makes dosing easier without compromising on fat content or the ingredient list.
Small Pros:
- Handy size for small dogs and puppies
- Whole fish, grain-free, without additives
- Easily divided into portions for a training snack
Small sprats Cons:
- Not enough to serve as a standalone chew snack for large dogs.
- Smaller pieces are eaten faster than a chewing activity.
Best for: Small dogs and puppies who need a fish-based alternative to beef or chicken snacks.
Verdict: Buy.
3. Large sprats, 9 cm: best fish treats for on the go and training
The 9cm version cuts sprats into a uniform size – perfect for your pocket, gym bag, or as a controlled snack. The fish content and ingredient list remain identical to the standard size.
Large sprats 9 cm Pros:
- Uniform piece size, easy to portion
- Practical for training and on the go
- Same fish quality as large sprats
Large sprats 9 cm Cons:
- Not a typical chew toy for extended periods of activity
- Less suitable as a main snack for very large dogs
Best for: Dog owners looking for a portioned fish snack for training or walks.
Verdict: Hold – good as a supplement, but no replacement for a real chew toy.
How the ranking is determined
The ranking is based on the criteria mentioned above: whole fish instead of fishmeal, grain-free, appropriate piece size, and natural fat content. Large sprats are ranked first because the standard size covers most dog sizes; small sprats and the 9 cm variety each occupy their own niche instead of competing for the same spot.
“A fish treat should never be the only protein source in the bowl, but rather a supplement to the main food.”
Which fish treat should you choose?
Those who are unsure should buy in 2026. large sprats – The standard size suits the broadest target group and covers both a standalone snack and toppings. Small dogs and puppies travel with small sprats Better, because the portion size is right for the mouth. It remains suitable for training and on the go. 9 cm version the most practical choice, even if it doesn't replace a classic chew toy.
Discover fish treats for your dog
Grain-free sprats in three sizes, suitable for any dog size.
FAQ
What are the best fish treats for dogs in 2026?
Large sprats are considered the best overall choice among fish treats for dogs in 2026 because the size suits most breeds and the fish is whole and grain-free. Small sprats are better suited for small dogs, and the 9cm version is ideal for on-the-go treats.
Are fish treats suitable for dogs with food allergies?
Fish is considered one of the better-tolerated protein sources, especially if beef, chicken, or horse meat cause problems. However, if allergies are known, a gradual introduction of new protein sources is still recommended.
How much do fish treats for dogs cost?
The cost depends on the package size and variety. You can find current prices directly on the respective product page.
Are sprats suitable for puppies?
Small sprats are well-suited for puppies due to their compact portion size. For very young puppies, it is recommended to break off small pieces instead of giving the whole fish at once.
What is the difference between large sprats and small sprats?
Both consist of the same whole, dried fish from the herring family – the only difference lies in the portion size, not in the list of ingredients.
Are fish treats grain-free?
Yes, the sprat varieties consist exclusively of dried fish without grain fillers or additives.
How often can dogs be given fish treats?
Fish treats are suitable as a supplement to the main food, not as the sole protein source. The amount depends on the size and overall calorie requirements of the dog.
Do fish treats have a strong smell?
Yes, dried sprats have a distinct fishy smell, which is naturally stronger in whole, unprocessed fish than in flavored snacks.
One more thing
Sprats belong to the herring family and are among the fattier small edible fish – therefore, they often have a stronger smell than leaner chew treats made from beef or horse meat, but they also provide more natural fat per piece. Anyone switching to fish treats for the first time in 2026 should start with a smaller portion and observe how their dog reacts before making the standard size a regular snack.
