Trixie Mini Hearts, 200 g (assorted) are a complementary feed for dogs in the form of small hearts. The manufacturer positions them as a reward during training and advises giving them between meals, making sure fresh water is always available. Ingredients: cereals, vegetable by-products, meat and animal derivatives, oils and fats, vegetable protein extract. The analysis: crude protein 10%, ash 6.5%, fat 4%, fibre 0.5%, moisture 17.5%. The recipe includes EU-approved preservatives, antioxidants, flavourings and colourings.
What the ingredients say
Ingredients are listed in descending order, and here cereals come first, then vegetable by-products, with meat only in third place and no share given. Protein at 10% is low for a meaty treat. The colourings make the assortment multicoloured, but dogs do not care about colour. This is a budget training treat rather than a meat delicacy, and it should be judged as such.
Key specifications
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Type | complementary feed, treat |
| For | dogs |
| Shape | mini hearts, assorted |
| First ingredient | cereals |
| Protein / fat | 10% / 4% |
| Moisture / ash | 17.5% / 6.5% |
| Additives | preservatives, antioxidants, flavourings, colourings (EU) |
| Pack size | 200 g |
Pros
- Small size. Easy to give often during sessions.
- Low fat. 4% is less than sausages and meat snacks.
- Semi-moist. Soft, eaten quickly and not distracting from training.
- Large pack. 200 g lasts a long time.
- Clear purpose. Made specifically for rewards.
Cons and what to watch
- Cereals first. Meat is only third, with no share stated.
- Low protein. 10%.
- Colourings and preservatives. EU-approved, but not for owners who avoid them.
- Unspecified meat. "Meat and animal derivatives" is not suitable for allergic dogs.
When this treat makes sense
In obedience classes a dog may get dozens of pieces in half an hour, so the treat must be small and not too fatty. Mini hearts fit this job: they do not need breaking, they are eaten quickly, and the dog is immediately ready for the next command. For dogs without allergies or digestive problems they are a practical option. More on choosing treats in treats for dog training.
When to choose something else
If your dog has a food allergy or a sensitive stomach, choose a treat with one known protein and no colourings — for example TASTY lamb strips. For dogs on a strict diet, kibble from the daily ration works too. Ideas for natural treats are in home-made dog treats.
How much to give
All treats together should not exceed about a tenth of the daily calories. On days with active training, reduce the main food portion. For small dogs a heart can be split in half so the pieces last the whole session.
Storage
Keep the pack closed in a dry, cool place, as the manufacturer recommends. The treat is 17.5% moisture, so in warmth it may dry out or spoil faster. The best-before date is on the pack.
Water
Semi-moist treats with salt and preservatives make dogs thirsty, so take water with you to training and on walks. At home a water bowl must always be available.
For puppies
The card gives no age restrictions, but for puppies with delicate digestion any new treat should be introduced gradually. Start with one or two hearts and check the stool. If your puppy chews everything, chew toys and the right treats help redirect its attention — see a puppy chews everything: how to stop it.
Who it suits
Mini hearts suit owners who need lots of small, affordable training treats for dogs without allergies. Other treats are in the dog treats section.
Verdict
Trixie Mini Hearts are small semi-moist hearts for training: a handy size, 4% fat and a 200 g pack. The downsides are cereals in first place, only 10% protein, unspecified meat, and colourings and preservatives in the recipe, so allergic dogs are better off with a different treat.
FAQ
What is in it?
Cereals, vegetable by-products, meat and animal derivatives, oils and fats, vegetable protein extract.
How much protein and fat?
Protein 10%, fat 4%.
Are there colourings?
Yes, EU-approved colourings and preservatives.
Is it suitable for training?
Yes, that is what the hearts are made for.
Is it suitable for allergic dogs?
It is better to choose a treat with one known protein.
How much should I give?
No more than 10% of the daily calories.
What pack size is it?
200 g.
