Best Treats for Dogs for Training: Top 8 Picks for Effective Rewards

Dog training is an essential part of owning a dog, and treats are one of the most effective tools for positive reinforcement. However, not all dog treats are created equal. Some treats are more suitable for training than others. In this article, we’ll be discussing the best treats for dogs for training.

When it comes to training treats, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, the treat should be small enough that you can give your dog several during a training session without overfeeding them. Second, the treat should be tasty enough to keep your dog motivated and focused on the training. Finally, the treat should be healthy and made with high-quality ingredients.

With these criteria in mind, we’ve researched and tested several types of dog treats to identify the best ones for training. We’ve looked at different types of treats, including soft treats, crunchy treats, and freeze-dried treats. We’ve also considered the ingredients used in each treat, such as the source of protein, the presence of artificial preservatives, and the level of nutritional value.

When choosing a training treat for your dog, it’s essential to consider their individual needs and preferences. Some dogs may have food allergies or sensitivities, while others may prefer a specific flavor or texture. By keeping these factors in mind, you can choose the best treat for your dog’s training needs and help them become the best-behaved pup they can be.

Best Treats for Dogs for Training

1. Blue Buffalo BLUE Bits Natural Soft-Moist Training Dog Treats

2. Pet Botanics Training Rewards Treats for Dogs

3. Buddy Biscuits Teeny Crunchy Dog Treats

We know that training your furry friend can be both challenging and rewarding. One of the most effective ways to motivate your dog during training is with treats. However, not all dog treats are created equal. Some may not be healthy or appealing enough to keep your dog interested and focused. That’s why we’ve put together a list of the best dog treats for training. These treats are not only delicious and nutritious, but they also come in different shapes and flavors to suit your dog’s preferences. Read on to find the perfect training treat for your four-legged companion.

Blue Buffalo BLUE Bits Natural Soft-Moist Training Dog Treats, Beef Recipe 19-oz Bag Beef 19 Ounce (Pack of 1)

Blue Buffalo BLUE Bits Natural Soft-Moist Training Dog Treats

If you’re looking for a tasty and healthy treat for your furry best friend, Blue Buffalo BLUE Bits Natural Soft-Moist Training Dog Treats are a great option. As dog owners, we know how important it is to find the right treats for training sessions, and these treats are made with high-quality, real beef as the first ingredient, making them ideal for rewarding your dog’s good behavior.

Pros
  • Made with real beef as the first ingredient
  • Bite-sized morsels that are perfect for training
  • Contains DHA to support cognitive development
Cons
  • Coated with a “dust” that can make them messy to handle
  • Some flavors may contain chicken, which could be a problem for dogs with allergies
  • More expensive than some other training treats on the market

Blue Buffalo BLUE Bits are soft, moist, and meaty, making them a great choice for dogs of all sizes and life stages. They don’t contain any chicken or poultry by-product meals and are free from corn, wheat, and soy, making them a healthy and nutritious reward for your furry best friend. Plus, they’re free from artificial preservatives like propylene glycol and colors like red dye 40.

We’ve found that these treats are perfect for training, as they’re the right size for rewarding good behavior without overfeeding your dog. They’re also great for puppies, as they contain DHA to support cognitive development. However, we have noticed that they can be a bit messy to handle, as they’re coated with a “dust” that can leave residue on your hands.

Overall, we believe that Blue Buffalo BLUE Bits Natural Soft-Moist Training Dog Treats are a great choice for dog owners who want to reward their furry friends with a healthy and delicious treat. While they may be more expensive than some other training treats on the market, we believe that the high-quality ingredients and nutritional benefits make them worth the investment.

Pet Botanics Training Rewards Treats for Dogs

Pet Botanics Training Rewards Treats for Dogs

If you want an effective and healthy training treat for your furry friend, we highly recommend Pet Botanics Training Rewards Treats for Dogs. These treats are made with real pork liver and bacon flavor that will motivate your dog to learn and help shorten the learning curve.

Pros
  • Made with real pork liver and bacon flavor that dogs love
  • Small size is ideal for repetitive rewards required during training
  • Natural preservative system is used; no BHA, BHT, soy or ethoxyquin
Cons
  • Some dogs may not like the bacon flavor
  • May be too soft for some dogs
  • Not eligible for international shipping

We have used these treats for our own dogs and found that they work great for training. The small size is perfect for repetitive rewards, and the soft, moist consistency makes them easy to chew and digest. We also appreciate that they are made with real meat and do not contain any harmful preservatives.

Overall, Pet Botanics Training Rewards Treats for Dogs are a great choice for pet owners who want to train their dogs with a healthy and effective treat. Give them a try and see how they can help your furry friend learn and grow!

Buddy Biscuits Teeny Crunchy Dog Treats

Buddy Biscuits Teeny Crunchy Dog Treats

We highly recommend the Buddy Biscuits Teeny Crunchy Dog Treats for small dogs who need smaller treats, but crave the same big flavors.

Pros
  • Made with natural peanut butter
  • Free of corn, soy, artificial flavors and colors
  • Small, bite size, teeny tiny treats perfect for small dogs
Cons
  • Strong smell that may not be appealing to some owners
  • May not be suitable for dogs with peanut allergies
  • May not be ideal for larger dogs as the treats are small in size

We have been using these treats for our small dog during training sessions and have been very pleased with the results. The natural peanut butter flavor is a hit with our pup and the small size of the treats is perfect for rewarding good behavior without overindulging.

The fact that they are free of corn, soy, artificial flavors and colors gives us peace of mind that we are giving our dog a healthy, nutritious treat. We also appreciate that they are made with healthy whole grains and minimally processed in the USA using only simple ingredients.

Overall, if you have a small dog who loves peanut butter and needs smaller treats for training, we highly recommend the Buddy Biscuits Teeny Crunchy Dog Treats.

Zuke’s Mini Naturals Soft Dog Treats for Training

Zuke's Mini Naturals Soft Dog Treats for Training

We highly recommend Zuke’s Mini Naturals Soft Dog Treats for Training for pet owners who want to train their dogs with healthy and delicious treats.

Pros
  • The treats are soft and chewy, making them easy for dogs to eat and digest.
  • Zuke’s Mini Naturals Soft Dog Treats for Training are made with natural ingredients like real chicken and cherries, and contain no corn, wheat, or soy.
  • Each treat contains only 2 calories, making them a perfect healthy option for training or rewarding your dog.
Cons
  • The treats may be too small for larger dogs who prefer bigger treats.
  • Some dogs may not like the taste of the chicken recipe.
  • The treats may become hard if not stored properly.

Zuke’s Mini Naturals Soft Dog Treats for Training are perfect for training or rewarding your dog on the go. We love that these treats contain only natural ingredients, and no fillers or artificial preservatives. Our dogs love the taste of these soft and chewy treats, and we appreciate that they are low in calories and easy to digest.

In addition to training, we also use Zuke’s Mini Naturals Soft Dog Treats for Training as a quick and healthy snack for our dogs. The resealable pouch makes it easy to keep the treats fresh and take them with us on our adventures.

Overall, we highly recommend Zuke’s Mini Naturals Soft Dog Treats for Training for pet owners who want to train their dogs with healthy and delicious treats.

Crazy Dog Train-Me! Training Reward Dog Treats

Crazy Dog Train-Me! Training Reward Dog Treats

If you want to make dog training an easy and enjoyable experience, then Crazy Dog Train-Me! Training Reward Dog Treats is the perfect solution for you.

Pros
  • Train your dog the easy way! Speeds up the learning curve!
  • Created to attract, focus, motivate & reward dogs!
  • Meat is the #1 ingredient – no BHA, BHT, Ethoxyquin.
Cons
  • May not be suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions.
  • Some dogs may not be as motivated by the flavor as others.
  • The treats can crumble easily.

We have been using these treats for our own dogs and have found them to be incredibly effective in training. The treats are small and bite-sized, which makes them perfect for repetitive training without filling up your dog.

One of the best things about these treats is that they are low-fat and low-calorie, making them perfect for dogs of all ages and sizes. The treats are packaged in bright and attractive resealable pouches, making them easy to store and transport.

Overall, we highly recommend Crazy Dog Train-Me! Training Reward Dog Treats for anyone who wants to make dog training a fun and enjoyable experience. With their meaty flavor and bite-sized design, these treats are sure to be a hit with your furry friend.

Pupford Freeze Dried Dog Training Treats

Pupford Freeze Dried Dog Training Treats

If you’re looking for a healthy, tasty, and low-calorie training treat for your furry friend, then Pupford Freeze Dried Dog Training Treats are an excellent choice.

Pros
  • These treats are made with only three natural ingredients, making them a healthy option for your dog.
  • They are freeze-dried to maintain their nutrients and taste, ensuring that your dog gets the best quality training treats.
  • Pupford offers a free online dog training class led by Zak George, which you can combine with these treats for a seamless training experience.
Cons
  • These treats are crunchy and not chewy, which may not be ideal for some puppies.
  • They are a bit expensive compared to other training treats on the market.
  • Some dogs may not like the taste of these treats.

We’ve used Pupford Freeze Dried Dog Training Treats for our furry friend, and we can confidently say that they are one of the best training treats out there. These treats are perfect for reinforcing good behavior, and their small size makes them easy to carry around.

The fact that they are made with only three natural ingredients and are low in calories is a huge plus for us. We also appreciate that Pupford offers a free online dog training class led by Zak George, which you can combine with these treats for a seamless training experience.

However, we do wish that these treats were a bit chewier, as some puppies may not like the crunchiness. Additionally, they are a bit expensive compared to other training treats on the market.

Overall, if you’re looking for a healthy and tasty training treat for your furry friend, then Pupford Freeze Dried Dog Training Treats are definitely worth considering.

Stewart Freeze Dried Dog Treats

Stewart Freeze Dried Dog Treats

We highly recommend the Stewart Freeze-Dried Beef Liver dog treats for anyone looking for a healthy, natural, and tasty dog treat option.

Pros
  • Made from a single ingredient: 100% pure beef liver
  • Gluten-free and grain-free
  • Packed with protein, vitamin D, and well-balanced amino acids to support strong muscles
Cons
  • Expensive compared to other dog treats
  • Not all the same size, making them not ideal for training treats
  • Some customers have reported receiving a tub with a lot of dust

These freeze-dried dog treats are perfect for training, dog enrichment toys, playtime, or rewarding a job well done. They are also versatile enough to serve as a meal topper, just sprinkle the leftover morsels onto your dog’s food once you reach the end of the tub. Plus, they are lightweight and easy to store with a long shelf life, made in the USA, and crafted with care in small batches to ensure the highest quality.

We love that these treats are made from one simple ingredient, 100% beef liver, and are never enhanced with artificial flavoring or fillers like corn and soy. They are also rich in Omega 3 and Omega 6 fatty acids, ensuring your best friend has a healthy coat and skin. The resealable tub packaging is also very convenient for keeping the treats fresh.

In conclusion, if you’re looking for a high-quality dog treat that is healthy and natural, the Stewart Freeze-Dried Beef Liver Dog Treats are definitely worth considering. Your furry friend will surely love them!

Wag Chicken Flavor Training Treats for Dogs

Wag Chicken Flavor Training Treats for Dogs

If you’re looking for a high-quality training treat for your furry friend, then Wag Chicken Flavor Training Treats for Dogs is a great option. Made in the USA with the finest ingredients from around the world, these treats are perfect for bite-sized rewards during training.

Pros
  • The treats are made with American chicken as the #1 ingredient, which is a great source of protein for your dog.
  • They do not contain any added corn, soy, or wheat, which makes them a great option for dogs with food allergies or sensitivities.
  • The resealable pouch keeps the treats fresh and makes them easy to store.
Cons
  • The treats are larger than what some pet owners expected, which may not be ideal for small dogs.
  • Some pet owners found the treats to be too hard to break up, which may make them difficult to use as training treats.
  • The treats are not as soft and chewy as some other training treats on the market.

Overall, Wag Chicken Flavor Training Treats for Dogs is a great option for pet owners who want a high-quality training treat for their furry friend. They are made with the finest ingredients and are a great source of protein for your dog. However, they may not be the best option for small dogs or dogs who prefer softer and chewier treats.

Buying Guide

When it comes to buying treats for dog training, there are a few factors to consider to ensure you’re getting the best product for your furry friend. Here are some features to look for when choosing the right treat:

Ingredients

The first thing to consider is the ingredients. Look for treats made with high-quality, natural ingredients that are free from artificial preservatives, colors, and flavors. Avoid treats that contain fillers like corn, wheat, and soy, as they can be difficult for dogs to digest and may cause allergies.

Texture

The texture of the treat is also important. You want a treat that is easy to break into small pieces, so it can be used for training purposes. Soft, chewy treats are often the best choice, as they can be easily broken into small pieces and are easy for dogs to chew.

Size

The size of the treat is another important factor to consider. You want a treat that is small enough to be used for training, but not so small that it gets swallowed whole. Look for treats that are about the size of a pea or a small grape.

Flavor

Finally, consider the flavor of the treat. Dogs have different preferences when it comes to flavor, so it’s important to choose a treat that your dog will enjoy. Some popular flavors include chicken, beef, and peanut butter.

In summary, when choosing treats for dog training, look for high-quality, natural ingredients, a soft and chewy texture, a small size, and a flavor that your dog will enjoy. By keeping these factors in mind, you can find the perfect treat to reward your furry friend during training sessions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What types of training treats are recommended for large breed dogs?

When it comes to training large breed dogs, it’s important to choose treats that are both tasty and easy to handle. Soft, chewy treats are a great option, as they can be broken into smaller pieces and won’t crumble in your hand. Treats that are high in protein and low in fat are also a good choice, as they provide the energy your dog needs without adding unnecessary calories.

Which treats are suitable for dogs with sensitive stomachs during training sessions?

If your dog has a sensitive stomach, it’s important to choose treats that are easy to digest and won’t upset their stomach. Look for treats that are made with simple, high-quality ingredients and avoid treats that contain artificial preservatives, flavors, or colors. Soft, chewy treats are also a good choice, as they are less likely to cause digestive upset than hard, crunchy treats.

What are the top-rated dog training treats for the current year?

There are many great dog training treats on the market, but some of the top-rated options for the current year include Zuke’s Mini Naturals, Blue Buffalo Wilderness Trail Treats, and Wellness Soft Puppy Bites. These treats are all made with high-quality ingredients and are well-loved by dogs and their owners alike.

Are there specific treats that are more effective for training reactive dogs?

When training reactive dogs, it’s important to choose treats that are both high-value and easy to handle. Soft, chewy treats are a good choice, as they can be broken into smaller pieces and won’t crumble in your hand. Treats that are high in protein and low in fat are also a good choice, as they provide the energy your dog needs without adding unnecessary calories.

What treats do veterinarians commonly recommend for dog training purposes?

Many veterinarians recommend using small, soft treats for dog training purposes. Treats that are made with high-quality ingredients and are free from artificial preservatives, flavors, and colors are also a good choice. Some popular options include Zuke’s Mini Naturals, Wellness Soft Puppy Bites, and Blue Buffalo Wilderness Trail Treats.

What are the most effective rewards to use when training a German Shepherd?

German Shepherds are highly intelligent and respond well to positive reinforcement training. When training a German Shepherd, it’s important to choose rewards that are both high-value and easy to handle. Treats that are soft, chewy, and high in protein are a good choice, as are toys and playtime with their favorite person. Remember, the most effective reward is one that your dog finds highly motivating and rewarding.