The Benefits of Liver Treats for Dogs

Let’s take a closer look at the key benefits liver treats can offer your dog:

1. Highly Nutritious

Liver is considered a “superfood” in the canine world - and for good reason. It contains up to 100 times more nutrients than muscle meat!

If your dog’s diet needs a nutrient boost (especially for skin, coat, or energy levels), liver treats can be a great supplemental addition.

Because of its concentrated nutrient content, liver is ideal for dogs that are raw fed, on restricted diets, or need extra support during growth, pregnancy, or recovery.

2. Irresistibly Tasty

Ask any dog owner who’s used liver treats in training - they’re the ultimate high-reward snack. Liver has a strong, rich aroma and flavor that most dogs go absolutely wild for, making it an excellent option for recall training, agility sessions, or simply grabbing their attention when needed.

If you have a fussy eater or a nervous dog who’s hard to motivate, liver treats can often break through where standard biscuits can’t.

3. Easily Digestible

Freeze-dried or air-dried liver treats are gentle on the digestive system, especially when made from a single protein source like duck, beef, or chicken. That makes them a great option for dogs with sensitive stomachs, allergies, or intolerances.

As with any treat, moderation is key - but liver is naturally easy for dogs to digest and absorb.

4. Supports Overall Health

From shiny coats to strong immunity and healthy joints, liver provides nutrients that support every aspect of your dog’s wellbeing. Vitamin A and zinc are particularly known for promoting skin health and coat shine, while B vitamins help regulate energy levels and metabolic processes.

Nutrient	Duck Liver (per 100g)	Chicken Breast (per 100g)
Vitamin A	12,000 IU	64 IU
Iron	7.5 mg	1.0 mg
Vitamin B12	16.6 µg	0.3 µg
Protein	18.0 g	31.0 g
Fat	4.8 g	3.6 g

And don’t forget iron and copper - these are vital for red blood cell health and oxygen flow, keeping your dog alert, active, and happy.

5. Perfect for Puppies (and Seniors!)

Because of its soft texture and digestibility, liver treats are ideal for puppies from 12 weeks as well as older dogs with fewer teeth or sensitive mouths.

For puppies, the rich nutrient profile supports growth and brain development, while seniors benefit from the immune and joint-supporting properties liver provides.

How to Feed Liver Safely

As amazing as liver is, it should be given in moderation due to its high vitamin A content. Feeding too much liver too often can lead to a condition called hypervitaminosis A (vitamin A toxicity).

Here are a few simple guidelines to keep liver treats safe and beneficial:

• Treats should make up no more than 10% of your dog’s daily diet

• Use liver treats as training rewards, meal toppers, or occasional snacks

• Adjust quantity based on your dog’s size and activity level

• Look for freeze-dried or air-dried liver treats with no additives or preservatives

At Wag & Whistle, our Freeze-Dried Duck Liver Treats are made from 100% duck liver - nothing else. They’re gently freeze-dried to preserve the raw nutrients and natural taste, making them a convenient and healthy reward you can feel good about.

Liver Treat Formats: What’s Best?

There are several ways liver treats are prepared, and it’s worth knowing the difference:

• Raw Liver – Excellent in raw diets, but requires careful storage and handling.

• Cooked Liver – Still nutritious but may lose some heat-sensitive vitamins.

• Freeze-Dried Liver – Preserves almost all nutrients, no mess, and long shelf life.

• Air-Dried Liver – Another good option, though not quite as nutrient-dense as freeze-dried.

We recommend freeze-dried liver treats for the best combination of nutrition, safety, and convenience.

Which Type of Liver is Best for Dogs?

Most dogs can enjoy a variety of liver sources. Common types include:

• Duck Liver – Hypoallergenic and rich in flavour, ideal for sensitive dogs

• Beef Liver – High in iron and B vitamins, often a staple in raw diets

• Chicken Liver – Soft, palatable, and widely accepted

• Lamb Liver – A novel protein option for allergy-prone pups

If your dog has food sensitivities, stick to a single-protein option like our duck liver treats to help avoid unwanted reactions.

Conclusion: A Super Treat That Dogs Love

Liver treats check all the boxes: they’re natural, nutritious, tasty, and versatile. Whether you’re looking to power up your training sessions, boost your dog’s diet, or simply offer something special, liver is a treat that delivers.

Just remember: a little goes a long way. Choose high-quality, single-ingredient liver treats (like our Freeze-Dried Duck Liver Treats) and feed them in moderation to keep your dog healthy and happy.