Smelt Freeze Dried Dog Treats
Verified Jun 17, 2026
A single-ingredient, freeze-dried fish treat made entirely from wild-caught smelt for dogs of any size. It’s very high in protein with moderate fat and can be used as a low-calorie reward or crumbled as a topper over regular food. The limited-ingredient, fish-only formula may suit dogs that need a simple ingredient list or can’t tolerate common meats like chicken or beef.
Nutritionally, this is a very clean, high-protein, single-ingredient treat that works well for most dogs, especially those needing a limited-ingredient option. Using whole wild-caught smelt provides high-quality animal protein with naturally occurring fats and micronutrients. As with any fish-based product, it’s best used as a complement to a complete and balanced diet rather than a major portion of daily calories.
The KibbleLab Score (1–10) is assessed from publicly available product data. Our evaluation is science-based, not marketing-based.
KibbleLab may earn an affiliate commission when you buy through a link. No one can pay for a higher score, or to change what we recommend for your pet.
At a Glance
KibbleLab Review
Strengths
- Single-ingredient formula (wild-caught smelt) is excellent for dogs with food sensitivities or owners who want a very simple ingredient list.
- Very high protein (74% minimum) with moderate fat and only about 3 kcal per treat, which can be helpful for training or for dogs watching their weight.
- Freeze-dried processing helps preserve nutrients and flavor without added preservatives or fillers.
- Fish-based protein source can provide naturally occurring omega fatty acids that support skin and coat health.
Considerations
- Because this is a fish-only treat, dogs with fish allergies should avoid it.
- Treats should make up only a small portion of daily calories; relying too heavily on treats, even high-quality ones, can unbalance an otherwise complete diet.
- Whole fish can be aromatic; some dogs love this, but sensitive humans may find the smell strong.
Full Ingredient List
Ingredients and analysis reflect manufacturer data at the time of our last update and can change without notice. Always check the actual product packaging before feeding.
Ingredient filtering helps identify compatible options but is not a substitute for a veterinary elimination diet.
Top 5 Ingredients Explained
01
Smelt
Smelt is a small oily fish commonly used in dog and cat foods as a palatable protein source and natural provider of omega‑3 fatty acids, often included whole, as meal, or in freeze‑dried form to enhance flavor and nutrient density. It supplies digestible amino acids, EPA/DHA for skin, coat and joint support and trace minerals, but can trigger fish allergies, pose choking or bone‑fragment risks if not properly processed, and requires attention to fat content and sourcing to minimize contaminant or pancreatitis concerns.
Nutritional Breakdown
How to read As Fed versus Dry Matter
As fed shows the numbers straight off the label, water included. Dry matter removes the water so you can compare a wet food and a dry food fairly.What is calorie density
How many calories the food packs per unit. Denser foods mean smaller portions for the same calories.Product Details & Brand
Product Specs
Brand
PureBites is a pet treat and food brand specializing in high-quality, single-ingredient treats and freeze-dried raw foods for dogs and cats. The brand targets health-conscious pet owners seeking minimally processed, natural protein sources. Its products are marketed as pure and simple, focusing on nutritional transparency and limited ingredients.
Visit PureBitesManufacturer
Pure Treats Inc. oversees manufacturing operations in North America with strict adherence to food safety and quality assurance programs, including sourcing from USDA-inspected facilities and maintaining traceability of raw materials. Products are made under standards that meet or exceed applicable Canadian and U.S. pet food regulations.
Manufacturing details are compiled from public sources and not independently verified; they may not reflect contract manufacturing or co-packing.
Recall History
PureBites Smelt Freeze Dried Dog Treats has no recalls since 2014.
Source: FDA Pet Food Recall Database · Monitored daily
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Frequently Asked Questions
Has PureBites ever been recalled?
We have no recalls on record for PureBites. We monitor the FDA Pet Food Recall Database daily.
How does KibbleLab rate foods?
Our scores are based on ingredient composition, nutritional profile, AAFCO compliance, and health considerations. We don't penalize by-products, grains, or synthetic preservatives. Brands cannot pay for higher scores.
Is KibbleLab a substitute for veterinary advice?
No. KibbleLab provides data-driven food analysis, not medical advice. Always consult your veterinarian before making dietary changes, especially for pets with health conditions.
KibbleLab provides informational content only. This is not veterinary advice. Always consult a qualified veterinarian before changing your pet's diet.
KibbleLab may earn affiliate commissions through product links. No one can pay for a higher score, or to change what we recommend for your pet.
Product data sourced from manufacturer websites, AAFCO statements, and FDA recall database. Last verified dates reflect our most recent data check.
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