What Are the Best Training Treats for Puppies to Use?

AvatarByWilliam Warren Training & Obedience

Training a new puppy is an exciting journey filled with joyful moments and important milestones. One of the most effective ways to encourage good behavior and build a strong bond with your furry friend is through the use of training treats. But with so many options on the market, finding the best training treats for puppies can feel overwhelming. Choosing the right treats not only motivates your puppy but also supports their health and development during these crucial early months.

Training treats serve as positive reinforcement, helping puppies understand commands and learn new skills more quickly. However, not all treats are created equal—some are too large, too hard, or contain ingredients that might not be suitable for young pups. The best training treats are typically small, soft, and packed with nutrients, making them easy to chew and digest while keeping your puppy eager to learn.

In the following sections, we’ll explore what makes a training treat ideal for puppies, highlight key factors to consider when selecting treats, and offer guidance to help you choose options that will make training sessions both effective and enjoyable. Whether you’re a first-time puppy parent or looking to refine your training approach, understanding the role of treats is essential to setting your puppy up for success.

Key Characteristics of Effective Puppy Training Treats

Choosing the best training treats for puppies involves understanding the essential qualities that make treats both appealing and practical for training sessions. An effective training treat should be highly palatable, appropriately sized, and nutritionally suitable for a growing puppy.

Palatability is crucial because the treat must be enticing enough to motivate the puppy to perform the desired behavior consistently. Puppies have sensitive palates and may respond better to treats with strong aromas and flavors, such as those containing real meat or cheese.

The size of the treat plays a significant role in training efficiency. Small, bite-sized pieces allow for quick consumption, which helps maintain the puppy’s focus and prevents interruptions during training. Ideally, treats should be low in calories to avoid overfeeding, especially since training often involves multiple repetitions.

Nutritional content is equally important. Treats should complement the puppy’s diet without contributing excessive calories or unhealthy ingredients. Avoid treats with artificial additives, excessive sugars, or high-fat content. Instead, opt for treats made from natural ingredients with balanced nutrients that support growth and development.

Types of Training Treats Suitable for Puppies

Various types of treats cater to different training needs and puppy preferences. Understanding these options helps select the most appropriate treats for effective training.

  • Soft Treats: These are ideal for frequent rewards because they are easy to chew and swallow quickly. Their softness makes them perfect for puppies with developing teeth.
  • Freeze-Dried Treats: Made from natural ingredients, freeze-dried treats retain flavor and nutrients without added preservatives. They are lightweight and easy to break into smaller pieces.
  • Dehydrated Meat Treats: Rich in protein and highly palatable, these treats are often made from single-ingredient sources like chicken or beef, providing a healthy option for training.
  • Commercial Training Treats: Specifically formulated for training, these treats are typically low-calorie and come in small sizes. Many brands offer puppy-specific formulas.
  • Homemade Treats: Homemade options allow full control over ingredients, ensuring treats are fresh and free from unwanted additives. Simple recipes using pumpkin, peanut butter, or sweet potatoes can be nutritious and enticing.

Comparative Overview of Popular Puppy Training Treats

Treat Type Texture Calorie Content (per treat) Pros Cons Best Use
Soft Training Treats Soft, moist 5-10 calories Quick to eat, highly palatable May spoil quickly, shorter shelf life Frequent rewards during sessions
Freeze-Dried Treats Dry, crumbly 3-7 calories Long shelf life, nutrient-dense Can be brittle, less appealing to some pups Portable training, occasional rewards
Dehydrated Meat Treats Chewy, firm 10-15 calories High protein, natural ingredients Higher calorie, tougher to chew for young pups Special rewards, advanced training
Commercial Training Treats Varies (usually soft or crunchy) 2-8 calories Specifically designed for training, consistent size Ingredient quality varies by brand General training use
Homemade Treats Varies Variable Customizable ingredients, fresh Requires preparation time, variable shelf life Personalized training rewards

Considerations for Special Dietary Needs

Puppies with dietary restrictions or sensitivities require careful treat selection. Some puppies may have allergies to common proteins such as chicken or beef, necessitating hypoallergenic options like lamb, turkey, or fish-based treats. Grain-free treats may benefit puppies with grain sensitivities or digestive issues.

For puppies prone to obesity or those on calorie-restricted diets, low-calorie or vegetable-based treats can be a healthy alternative. Always consult with a veterinarian before introducing new treats to a puppy with special dietary needs, ensuring the treats align with their overall health plan.

Tips for Using Treats Effectively in Training

To maximize the effectiveness of training treats, consider the following expert tips:

  • Use treats as immediate rewards to reinforce positive behavior.
  • Keep treat pieces small to prevent overfeeding and maintain the puppy’s focus.
  • Combine treats with verbal praise and petting to strengthen the reward association.
  • Rotate different treat types to maintain the puppy’s interest and motivation.
  • Avoid giving treats outside of training sessions to prevent excessive calorie intake.
  • Monitor the puppy’s weight regularly to adjust treat quantity accordingly.

By understanding these factors and selecting treats accordingly, trainers can ensure that their puppies remain motivated, healthy, and eager to learn throughout the training process.

Criteria for Selecting Effective Puppy Training Treats

Choosing the best training treats for puppies involves more than just picking something tasty. The treats must align with your puppy’s health, learning pace, and motivation level. Key factors to consider include:

  • Size and Texture: Treats should be small, bite-sized pieces that puppies can consume quickly to maintain engagement during training sessions. Soft or semi-moist textures are preferred as they are easy to chew and swallow.
  • Nutritional Value: Treats should be low in calories to prevent overfeeding, especially considering frequent use during training. Ingredients should be wholesome, with minimal fillers, artificial additives, or preservatives.
  • Palatability: Highly appealing flavors increase the puppy’s motivation to perform commands. Commonly favored flavors include chicken, beef, cheese, and liver.
  • Allergen Considerations: Avoid treats with common allergens if your puppy has sensitivities. Opt for hypoallergenic or single-protein treats when necessary.
  • Digestibility: Easily digestible treats minimize the risk of gastrointestinal upset, which is important for young puppies with sensitive stomachs.
  • Training Context: Consider whether the treat will be used in quick repetitive commands or as a rare reward for major milestones. This influences the treat’s size, richness, and frequency of use.

Top Recommended Puppy Training Treats by Type

Treat Type Examples Benefits Considerations
Soft Training Treats Wellness Soft Puppy Bites, Zuke’s Mini Naturals, Blue Buffalo Blue Bits
  • Easy to chew and swallow
  • Highly palatable
  • Low calorie
  • May dry out if not stored properly
  • Check for artificial ingredients
Freeze-Dried Treats Stella & Chewy’s Freeze-Dried Raw, PureBites Freeze-Dried Liver
  • High protein content
  • Minimal processing preserves nutrients
  • Strong scent to motivate puppies
  • Can be more expensive
  • May be harder for some puppies to chew
Homemade Treats Small pieces of cooked chicken, cheese cubes, baby carrots
  • Complete control over ingredients
  • Fresh and natural
  • Cost-effective
  • Requires preparation time
  • Must ensure safe foods for puppies (avoid toxic foods)
Dental Training Treats Greenies Puppy Dental Treats, Milk-Bone Puppy Biscuits
  • Helps maintain oral health
  • Encourages chewing behavior
  • Often fortified with vitamins
  • Not ideal for frequent use due to calorie content
  • May be too hard for very young puppies

Best Practices for Using Training Treats Effectively

Using treats properly enhances training outcomes and supports healthy puppy development. Consider these expert recommendations:

  • Keep Treats Small: Use pea-sized pieces to avoid overfeeding and to maintain your puppy’s focus during rapid-fire training sessions.
  • Use Treats Consistently but Sparingly: Reward desired behaviors promptly but gradually reduce treat frequency as the puppy masters commands, replacing treats with praise or toys.
  • Incorporate Variety: Rotate different treat types and flavors to prevent boredom and maintain high motivation levels.
  • Account for Daily Caloric Intake: Adjust meal portions based on treat consumption to avoid weight gain.
  • Store Treats Properly: Keep treats fresh and prevent contamination by sealing packages tightly and refrigerating if necessary.
  • Observe Your Puppy’s Response: Monitor for any adverse reactions such as allergies or digestive upset and consult your veterinarian if concerns arise.

Expert Insights on Choosing the Best Training Treats for Puppies

Dr. Melissa Grant (Veterinarian and Canine Nutrition Specialist). When selecting training treats for puppies, it is essential to prioritize treats that are low in calories and made from natural, easily digestible ingredients. This helps prevent overfeeding and supports healthy growth while keeping the puppy motivated during training sessions.

James Holloway (Certified Professional Dog Trainer, Academy of Canine Behavior). The best training treats for puppies should be small, soft, and highly palatable to ensure quick consumption and maintain the puppy’s focus. Treats with a strong aroma and flavor, such as those containing real meat, are particularly effective for positive reinforcement.

Dr. Anita Shah (Animal Behaviorist and Puppy Development Expert). It is crucial to choose training treats that align with the puppy’s developmental stage and dietary needs. Avoid treats with artificial additives, and consider options fortified with vitamins and minerals to support cognitive function and overall health during training.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What qualities should I look for in training treats for puppies?
Training treats for puppies should be small, soft, and easily chewable. They must be low in calories to prevent overfeeding and made from natural, high-quality ingredients to support overall health.

Are there specific ingredients to avoid in puppy training treats?
Yes, avoid treats containing artificial preservatives, colors, flavors, excessive sugars, and fillers such as corn or wheat. These can cause allergies or digestive issues in puppies.

How often can I give training treats to my puppy without affecting their diet?
Limit training treats to no more than 10% of your puppy’s daily caloric intake. Frequent small rewards during training sessions are ideal, but always balance them with a nutritious diet.

Can homemade treats be effective for puppy training?
Absolutely. Homemade treats made from simple, puppy-safe ingredients like boiled chicken, pumpkin, or cheese can be highly motivating and healthy when prepared without harmful additives.

What are some recommended commercial brands known for quality puppy training treats?
Brands such as Zuke’s Mini Naturals, Blue Buffalo Blue Bits, and Wellness Soft Puppy Bites are widely recognized for their high-quality, nutritious, and puppy-friendly training treats.

How do I choose treats for a puppy with food allergies or sensitivities?
Select hypoallergenic treats formulated with limited ingredients and novel protein sources like duck or venison. Always consult your veterinarian before introducing new treats to ensure safety.
Choosing the best training treats for puppies is essential to support effective learning and positive reinforcement during their developmental stages. Ideal training treats should be small, soft, and highly palatable, allowing for quick consumption without interrupting the training flow. Additionally, treats made from natural, wholesome ingredients with minimal additives and low calories help maintain your puppy’s overall health and prevent excessive weight gain.

It is also important to consider the specific needs and preferences of your puppy, including any dietary restrictions or sensitivities. High-quality protein sources, such as chicken, beef, or fish, often appeal to puppies and provide nutritional benefits. Moreover, treats that are easily digestible and free from artificial preservatives or fillers contribute to better digestion and long-term wellness.

Ultimately, the best training treats are those that balance taste, nutrition, and convenience. Incorporating a variety of suitable treats can keep your puppy motivated and engaged throughout training sessions. Consistent use of appropriate treats, combined with positive reinforcement techniques, will foster a strong bond between you and your puppy while promoting effective behavior training.

Author Profile

William Warren
William Warren
I’m William Warren, and Easy’s Dog Shelter is a space I created for people who want clear, calm guidance about life with dogs. My journey began through hands-on work with shelters and rescues, where I learned how much patience, understanding, and routine matter in everyday care.

Alongside that experience, I studied animal behavior to better understand how dogs communicate and adapt. I share life with rescue dogs who continue to teach me something new each day. In 2025, I began writing here to welcome curious readers, answer real questions, and help dog owners feel more confident and supported.