The Australian pet care market is evolving at lightning speed, reflecting global trends toward healthier, more sustainable, and ethically sourced products. Gone are the days when a generic bone-shaped biscuit would suffice; today’s discerning pet owners demand nutrition, function, and provenance. As we look ahead to 2025, the Australian pet treat scene is poised to be more dynamic than ever, balancing tradition (local Aussie meats and grains) with innovation (insect proteins and hemp). Whether you’re the proud human to a playful pup or a finicky feline, the treats of tomorrow promise to cater to a broad spectrum of tastes, dietary needs, and wellness goals.
Below are 13 top treats that are set to make a splash in 2025, highlighting their unique benefits, sourcing, and why these will be staples on store shelves and online carts across Australia.
1. Air-Dried Kangaroo Jerky Strips
Why They’ll Shine:
Kangaroo-based treats have long been popular for their lean protein and hypoallergenic properties. By 2025, we can expect even more refined air-drying techniques that preserve natural enzymes, flavors, and nutrients. Air-dried kangaroo jerky is low in fat, easily digestible, and perfect for pets with sensitive stomachs or skin conditions. Moreover, kangaroo populations are sustainably managed in Australia, making these treats an eco-conscious choice.
Benefits:
- High-protein, low-fat profile
- Minimal processing and no artificial additives
- Supports local wildlife management and sustainability
2. Insect Protein Crunchies
Why They’ll Shine:
As concerns over traditional livestock farming’s environmental impact mount, insect proteins are emerging as a nutrient-dense, eco-friendly alternative. Black soldier fly larvae or cricket-based treats are not only novel but rich in essential amino acids, omega fatty acids, and minerals. By 2025, insect protein crunchies will gain mainstream acceptance, appealing to pet owners looking to reduce their carbon footprint.
Benefits:
- Highly sustainable and resource-efficient protein source
- Packed with essential nutrients
- Hypoallergenic and easily digestible for sensitive pets
3. Freeze-Dried Tasmanian Salmon Bites
Why They’ll Shine:
Freeze-dried treats lock in flavor and nutrients without the use of heat. Tasmanian salmon, known for its quality and rich fatty acid profile, will be a star player. The gentle freeze-drying process ensures your pet receives all the omega-3s, protein, and B-vitamins of fresh fish. These treats work wonders for both dogs and cats, supporting shiny coats, healthy skin, and joint mobility.
Benefits:
- Rich in omega-3 fatty acids
- Gentle on the digestive system
- Superior taste and aroma for finicky pets
4. Hemp-Infused Calming Chews
Why They’ll Shine:
Research continues to validate the calming properties of hemp extracts. Hemp-infused pet treats can help alleviate anxiety, reduce joint discomfort, and promote overall well-being. With strict quality standards and transparent sourcing in Australia, hemp-infused treats in 2025 will be carefully formulated and widely accepted.
Benefits:
- May help ease anxiety from travel or loud noises
- Potential anti-inflammatory effects
- Non-intoxicating and safe when properly dosed
5. Superfood Biscuits Featuring Native Ingredients
Why They’ll Shine:
Australian superfoods like wattleseed, finger limes, macadamias, and Kakadu plums are making their way into pet treats. These nutrient-dense biscuits offer antioxidants, vitamins, and unique flavors. Pet owners seeking a “paddock-to-pet” approach will appreciate the provenance and the sense of Australian pride these treats bring.
Benefits:
- Nutrient-rich and antioxidant-packed
- Supports local farming communities and indigenous agriculture
- Offers adventurous flavors and textures
6. Plant-Based Dental Chews
Why They’ll Shine:
Dental health remains a priority, and by 2025, the market will offer even more plant-based, grain-free dental chews. Made from ingredients like sweet potatoes, pea fibers, and seaweed, they effectively clean teeth and freshen breath without animal products or artificial additives.
Benefits:
- Promotes healthy teeth and gums
- Suitable for pets with protein allergies
- Eco-friendly, plant-based ingredients
7. Joint-Support Treats with Green-Lipped Mussels
Why They’ll Shine:
Green-lipped mussels, native to New Zealand, are recognized for their joint-supporting benefits. By 2025, look for treats blending green-lipped mussel powder, turmeric, and marine collagen. These functional treats maintain mobility, reduce inflammation, and offer comfort to aging pets.
Benefits:
- Rich in omega-3 and anti-inflammatory compounds
- Supports joint health and mobility
- Naturally sourced and minimally processed
8. Goat Milk “Yoghurt Drops”
Why They’ll Shine:
Goat milk is easier to digest than cow’s milk. When turned into yoghurt drops, these treats become gut-friendly options. Added probiotics enhance digestive health, ensuring better nutrient absorption and a happier tummy.
Benefits:
- Easily digestible dairy alternative
- Supports gut health and nutrient absorption
- Creamy flavor that pets love
9. Roo Bar Training Treats
Why They’ll Shine:
Training treats need to be bite-sized, palatable, and low in calories. Roo Bars—made from kangaroo meat and wholesome binders like quinoa—will excel in these roles. High in protein and lean, these tiny morsels keep pets focused during training without unnecessary fillers.
Benefits:
- Ideal for reward-based training sessions
- Lean protein to support muscle development
- Simple, transparent ingredient lists
10. Vegan Peanut Butter & Pumpkin Cookies
Why They’ll Shine:
Vegan treat options are becoming increasingly common. Peanut butter and pumpkin cookies—made from pesticide-free peanuts and locally grown pumpkins—are high in fiber and gentle on the stomach. Perfect for plant-based households or pets needing allergen-friendly rewards.
Benefits:
- Hypoallergenic and free from common animal protein triggers
- High in fiber for healthy digestion
- Ethically and sustainably produced
11. Freeze-Dried Raw Treats for Cats and Dogs
Why They’ll Shine:
Raw diets have been gaining popularity. Freeze-dried raw treats—beef, chicken, duck, or fish—deliver the nutrition of raw meat in shelf-stable form. By 2025, expect improved safety measures and transparent sourcing, ensuring these treats are pathogen-free and nutritionally balanced.
Benefits:
- Nutrient-dense, minimally processed protein source
- Highly palatable and species-appropriate
- Free from artificial additives and preservatives
12. Probiotic-Boosted Gut Health Treats
Why They’ll Shine:
Gut health is increasingly recognized as crucial for overall wellbeing. Probiotic pet treats—chewy, biscuit, or powdered—will be more common. Look for pet-specific probiotic strains to maintain a balanced gut microbiome, improving immunity, digestion, and vitality.
Benefits:
- Supports a balanced gut microbiome
- May reduce digestive upsets and improve nutrient absorption
- Enhances overall health and energy
13. Coconut-Based Hypoallergenic Treats
Why They’ll Shine:
For pets with severe allergies or on elimination diets, coconut-based treats offer a safe, tasty option. Coconut flour and oil can replace common allergens, resulting in treats rich in healthy fats. Expect coconut biscuits infused with berries or chia seeds for extra nutrients.
Benefits:
- Hypoallergenic and grain-free
- Rich in healthy fats for skin and coat health
- Simple, transparent ingredients that support overall wellness
Trends Driving These Innovations
The rise of these 13 treat types isn’t happening in a vacuum. Several overarching trends are steering these changes:
- Sustainability and Ethics:
Conscious consumers want transparency in sourcing and eco-friendly packaging. Expect more B-Corp-certified brands and carbon-neutral deliveries. - Functional Nutrition and Holistic Health:
Treats are no longer mere indulgences. They’re functional supplements supporting mobility, calmness, gut health, and more. - Ingredient Transparency and Minimal Processing:
Shoppers demand clear ingredients, no artificial additives, and minimal processing (like freeze-drying or air-drying). - Diverse Dietary Options:
From raw diets to vegan options, inclusivity ensures that every pet owner can find treats aligning with their values and their pet’s needs.
The Future is Delicious and Responsible
By 2025, the Australian pet treat landscape will stand as a testament to our deepening understanding of animal health and environmental responsibility. Quality, ethics, health, and flavor will define the era, ensuring that treats do more than fill bellies—they’ll enhance lives. From indigenous superfoods to cutting-edge insect proteins, the future is bright, diverse, and utterly delicious for our furry friends.
For Australian pet owners, this shift means more choices and peace of mind. Whether you have a tiny terrier or a majestic moggie, you’ll find options that support their wellbeing. As we enter this progressive era of pet nutrition, the hardest decision might just be choosing which of these innovative, health-packed treats to try first!