Treats are a great way to reward your dog and train for positive behavior, but it’s crucial to consider both nutritional content and ingredient quality. “I always advise pet owners to look for treats that are high in protein, low in fat, and free from artificial additives,” Dr. Alex Crow, chief veterinary officer at The Net Vet and founder of PetHealthGuru.com, told The Spruce Pets.
The Winners
After surveying veterinarians and pet owners, we also considered the treats our own dogs enjoy. Zuke's Mini Naturals is our overall pick for the best dog treat. Not only do dogs find the small, soft treats delicious, but Dr. Crow also recommends the brand for its nutritional content. A small training treat will be suitable for even larger dogs, but if your dog prefers a crunchy texture, try Bocce’s Bakery Crunchy Biscuits as a higher-value reward.
We also found more fun treats to consider for your dog, from ice cream to bones that will keep them occupied.
Best for Training: Blue Buffalo Blue Bits
Best Jerky: REAL MESA Beef Kabobs Dog Jerky Treat
Best Freeze-Dried: Vital Essentials Chicken Hearts Raw Dog Treats
Best Organic: PetPlate Chicken Bites Dog Treats
Best for Digestive Health: Virbac Tartar Control Dog Chews
Best for Dental Care: Greenies Original Dental Dog Treats
Our Favorite Treat for Dogs
Zuke's Mini Naturals
Zuke's Mini Naturals is the best dog treat because, as recommended by Dr. Crow, "the first ingredient is a recognizable protein source" and they're "high in protein, low in fat," making them a great option for dogs of all sizes and ages. They come in a variety of flavors—including chicken, beef, and salmon, plus more elaborate combos like peanut butter and oats—each flavor with its protein as the main ingredient, so your dog is getting, for example, real chicken, supplemented with ground rice, barley, and other ingredients, such as fruits and vegetables. Plus, Zuke's Mini Naturals contain no corn, wheat, soy, fillers, byproducts, or artificial ingredients.
Zuke's Mini Naturals also makes a good training treat due to their small size and low calorie content, adds Dr. Crow—each with fewer than 3 calories and soft enough to tear in half, which also makes them easy to eat for senior pets with dental issues. These treats are noticeably smelly (in a good way!), so they're sure to grab your dog's attention. They’re made in the United States and come in a resealable pouch to keep them fresh.
Meat protein is the first ingredient
Another Great Choice
Bocce’s Bakery Crunchy Biscuits
When I discovered my Cavapoo puppy Gemma had a sensitive stomach, I turned to Boccee’s Bakery at the recommendation of multiple dog owners who had dealt with similar problems. These crunchy cookies, which Dr. Jamie Richardson, head of veterinary medicine at Small Door Vet, purchases for her own dog, are baked in small batches in the United States and contain limited ingredients that are locally sourced and often organic. They come in dozens of flavors including year-round favorites like Bac 'N Nutty and Birthday Cake and loads of seasonal and holiday recipes, such as pumpkin spice, so my dog can join in on fun seasonal trends.
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The Spruce Pets / Rebecca Shinners
At 12 calories each, one of these biscuits can be an occasional high-value treat, but I also recommend the brand’s Soft & Chewy recipe for an option that can be broken up into multiple pieces. Bocce’s Bakery Brushy Bites, another softer option, gives my dog a minty-fresh breath before she visits her human friends and family.
Wheat-free with limited ingredients
How We Picked
Our top picks are loved by dog owners and vetted by veterinarians. We asked experts to share their must-haves when choosing the best dog treats and every veterinarian we spoke to emphasized the importance of overall nutrition and high-quality ingredients.
With these guidelines in mind, we used real experience and recommendations to find dog treats with natural ingredients, simple recipes, and real protein sources. Top picks were then evaluated for what type of dog they would be best for (small, large, puppy, older) based on factors such as treat texture, size, and calories.
What To Look For
Ingredients
According to Dr. Barbara Hodges, DVM and program director of advocacy and outreach for the Humane Society Veterinary Medical Association, ingredients are the single most important factor when choosing dog treats. “The ingredient list should be short and understandable—treats should not be laden with low-quality ingredients like byproducts and fillers,” she says. Other high-quality ingredients include whole grains, vegetables, and fruits, such as sweet potatoes, carrots, or brown rice, says Dr. Richardson.
Size
You don’t have to choose the size of the treat based on the size of your dog. In general, every dog can use small treats, says Dr. Hodges. (She notes that this doesn’t include real raw or cooked bones or manufactured bone-like treats.) While often labeled for training, since multiple treats can be used in developing response behaviors, smaller treats are useful in most circumstances, like at Christmas as stocking stuffers for dogs.
“Small dogs need small treats—they can choke on treats that are inappropriately large for their size,” she says. “Large dogs do not need large treats—cut or break large treats into smaller pieces. I suggest using training-sized treats for all dogs.”
Remember, treats should make up no more than 10 percent of your dog’s daily calorie intake. Be sure to count all treat calories and compensate with smaller meals on days when you’re doing a lot of training and giving out lots of treats, says Dr. Hodges.
Texture
You can choose from crunchy, hard treats or much softer bites. “Dogs typically have personal preferences for certain textures. Some dogs like crunchy treats, some like soft treats. And some dogs—like mine—like ALL treats!” Dr. Hodges says. “I make batches of a ‘party mix’ of treats with varying ingredients and textures—and I rotate the ingredients in my batches to satisfy even the most novelty-seeking dogs.”
What to Avoid
Avoid treats with artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives, says Dr. Richardson. A long list of ingredients is usually a red flag and might mean the treat contains fillers, artificial preservatives, or colorants. Checking the ingredient label can also make it easier to spot foods your pet may have a negative reaction to, allowing you to better understand your dog's health.
If your dog has specific health issues, such as diabetes or allergies, Dr. Richardson recommends consulting with your veterinarian to help identify treats that are safe for your pup. “Examples include, low-calorie treats for overweight dogs or hypoallergenic options for dogs with food sensitivities,” she says. Dr. Hodges adds that if your dog is prone to or has already had pancreatitis, you’ll want to choose low-fat treats, while dogs with kidney challenges generally do best with treats lower in protein.
Dr. Richardson also says to avoid choosing treats based on only health benefits. “If your pet is on a high-quality dog food, the food will be nutritionally complete and a treat is just that—a nice add-on.”
More We Recommend
Best for Training: Blue Buffalo Blue Bits is the best training treat and a great option for puppies due to their small size and appealing taste, says Dr. Crow. “They are made with quality ingredients and are great for frequent rewards.” Real meat protein is the first ingredient, usually paired with brown rice or oatmeal, depending on flavor, plus omega fatty acids like DHA to help your dog’s skin and coat.
:strip_icc():format(webp)/sps-blue-buffalo-dog-training-treats-rebecca-shinners-01-69de62e1a2594455b66935397f54902e.jpeg)
The Spruce Pets / Rebecca Shinners
Made in the United States with no artificial preservatives, colors, or flavors, these adorable heart-shaped soft treats are great for more than just aesthetics—you can break them into two, even three, pieces. The brand also makes holiday versions of these treats shaped like Christmas trees and Santas. Dog owners note that Blue Bits are a little larger than most treats, which makes them a great low-calorie option for medium- and large-sized dogs as well.
The first ingredient is always animal-sourced protein
Best Jerky: REAL MESA Beef Kabobs Dog Jerky Treats are a great option for a larger dog or can be broken into pieces for a smaller pup. “[They] offer a unique texture and flavor that many dogs find irresistible,” says Dr. Crow—plus, they're high in protein and free from artificial colors and preservatives. My dog notices the smell immediately (though it's not too strong for humans) and her tail starts wagging whenever she sees me pull one out of the bag.
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The Spruce Pets / Rebecca Shinners
Gemma is 11 pounds, so we use these treats (which are 30 calories each) as a high-value reward. The soft jerky can be broken into pieces easily, so I can grab one strip when I’m on the go with Gemma, such as traveling by train or running errands together, put it into a treat pouch, and break it into pieces for her throughout our excursions.
Beef and chicken are the first ingredients depending on which of the two flavor options you choose. REÁL MESA was founded in September 2023 with all recipes prepared under the guidance of co-founder Chef José Andrés and the goal of feeding pets human-approved ingredients. It’s a great option for a picky eater who gets tired of treats and likes to try something new.
The first ingredient is chicken or beef
Best Freeze-Dried: Vital Essentials Freeze-Dried Dog Treats come in at a close second for freeze-dried dog treats and are our pick for adventurous dogs due to the 10 different variations—ranging from chicken and beef to duck and salmon. Each flavor is a freeze-dried protein with no added hormones or antibiotics and is grain- and gluten-free. “The freeze-drying process preserves the nutritional value of the ingredients, making them both healthy and flavorful,” says Dr. Crow, adding that it’s also a great option for dogs with sensitive stomachs—music to my ears.
The chicken heart option is popular for pet parents who like to cut the larger pieces into smaller portions, while salmon and chicken breast come in smaller bites. I was intimidated to give my dog freeze-dried treats at first due to their smell and texture—until I saw how quickly my dog gobbled them up. Now, we use these treats as a reward for her least favorite activities such as hair brushing.
10 single-ingredient protein options
Best Organic: If your dogs come running the second they smell chicken cooking, PetPlate's Chicken Apple Sausage Bites could be their next favorite treat. The limited-ingredient treats are made with only six USDA-certified organic ingredients in an organic kitchen, with chicken being the first ingredient, and the recipe also includes pumpkin and apples, making this a treat you’ll feel good about giving to your pup.
In addition to caring for the health and well-being of dogs, PetPlate has partnered with the ASPCA to help improve the lives of farm animals throughout the nation—and this includes the chicken they source for their dog food and treats. PetPlate, known for its flash-frozen fresh food made from human-grade ingredients, also offers treats and soft chew supplements that you can add to a subscription from PetPlate or purchase on their own.
While these treats each have 20 calories, they are medium-sized and soft in texture, making them easy to break apart for training or to make a smaller portion size. Dogs of all sizes and life stages can enjoy these treats.
Made with USDA-certified organic ingredients
Best for Digestitve Health: Virbac Tartar Control Dog Chews are our top pick for digestive health because they are formulated with a prebiotic to help with digestion. Their sticky, unusual Z-shape is also designed to scrape away tartar and plaque as your dog gnaws. In addition to promoting longer-term dental health, these treats even help freshen your dog's breath on the spot.
Completely plant-based and approved by the Veterinary Oral Health Council, VeggieDent Fr3sh Dog Chews are available in four different sizes, ranging from extra small for dogs under 11 pounds to large for dogs over 66 pounds. The "C.E.T." in the name stands for Clean Every Tooth and Virbac is known among veterinarians as a reputable animal pharmaceutical company with a full line of dog dental products.
Promotes dog gut-health and fresh breath
Best for Dental Care: Good oral hygiene begins with consistency, but if your dog doesn't like the taste of their dental chew, that becomes a struggle. Greenies offer different flavors aimed at satisfying a variety of doggy palates, including poultry (original), sweet potato, and blueberry, as well as different formulas designed for specific needs, such as a breath-freshening minty chew, a grain-free chew, a puppy chew, and a lower-calorie weight-management chew. They're made in the USA with globally sourced ingredients and added vitamins and minerals.
PHOTO: The Spruce Pets / Anna Mejorada PHOTO: The Spruce Pets / Anna Mejorada PHOTO: The Spruce Pets / Anna Mejorada
Greenies are approved by the Veterinary Oral Health Council for plaque and tartar removal and come in four sizes for dogs from 5 to 100 pounds. They're also more affordable than other high-quality dental chews and are available in a wide range of pack counts. The only downside is that they can potentially cause diarrhea or gastric issues in some dogs.
Available in different flavors and formulas
Other Dog Treats We Considered
Wet Noses Organic Crunchy Dog Treats: These crunchy dog treats are made with USDA-certified organic ingredients and all flavors are free of corn, soy, wheat, and dairy. The treats are larger than a quarter and have 18 calories each but are easy to break in half.
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The Spruce Pets / Mary Jo Dilonardo
Rocco & Roxie Supply Co. Gourmet Jerky Sticks: Made with beef, chicken, or turkey as the main ingredient with no artificial flavorings or fillers, like corn or soy. Each bag contains a whopping 1 pound of treats, which might be too much of one treat for many to keep on hand at one time—especially if you have a small dog.
The Farmer's Dog Snap Sticks: These chicken-and-apple-flavored treats provide protein, electrolytes, and fiber. Each Snap Stick has “snap lines” that make it easy to break into tiny pieces using only your hands, and one treat is approximately 6 inches long with 6 calories per inch. But these treats are only available with a subscription.
Native Pet Yak Chews: These chews are long-lasting and less messy than other dog chews. Plus, one Yak Chew should last a few days, depending on your dog’s interest and dedication to chomping.
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Pupford Bully Stick Dog Treats: Bully Sticks are another long-lasting treat, and these single-ingredient treats from Pupford are high in protein and free of preservatives. “Bully sticks are a great natural chew option that can keep dogs occupied and promote dental health,” says Dr. Crow. However, he notes that while they are safe for most dogs, they may be too rich for those with sensitive stomachs.
Polkadog Cod Skins: Dr. Richardson recommends this bone as another safe option to satisfy chewing urges. The brand uses responsibly sourced ingredients made in Boston. Fish is easily digestible, low in saturated fats, and rich in omega-3 fatty acids.
Pooch Cake Cake Mix: This mix makes a single 6-inch cake or eight cupcakes that are safe for dogs to consume. You can bake it in the oven for about half an hour or microwave it for a treat in only five minutes.
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How many treats per day is too many for a dog?
There is no optimal number of treats per day for a dog, and it’s not necessary to give your dog treats every day, says Dr. Hodges. “Take into account your dog’s current weight and lifestyle. A younger, leaner, more active dog can be given more treats than an older, heavier, more sedentary dog,” she says. “Monitor your dog’s activity level and weight regularly and you will, over time, develop a good sense of how to help them maintain a healthy weight.”
If you’re unsure and would like help with your dog’s diet, check with your veterinarian or a board-certified veterinary nutritionist for guidance.
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Can dogs eat cat treats?
In general, dogs shouldn’t be given cat treats because feline treats are usually higher in fat and might not be tolerated well by some dogs, Dr. Hodges says. But some treats are labeled for both cats and dogs. “Make sure to check labels and only give your pet treats that include a picture of a member of their species on the packaging,” Dr. Hodges says.
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Can you freeze dog treats?
If you buy large boxes of treats, it can be tempting to stash some in the freezer until you’re ready to use them. But that may negatively affect a treat's quality. According to Pedigree, dry dog food that is frozen and then thawed can cause mold to develop. It’s possible the same thing could happen with dry treats.
Dr. Hodges says she doesn’t suggest freezing dog treats unless they are meant to be, such as frozen cup-style treats from Yoghund YoPups or Purina Frosty Paws. “Most dog treats will have an expiration date on the package; don’t feed them after that date, and discard any treats that smell ‘off’ to you—even if they are still within the labeled date range,” Dr. Hodges says. “Use common food safety practices with treats—after dispensing treats, reseal the package or transfer the treats to an airtight container to avoid the possibility of oxidation causing rancidity of oils and the growth of toxic molds.”
Why Trust The Spruce Pets?
Rebecca Shinners is a writer and contributor for The Spruce Pets. She has a Cavapoo named Gemma who is a picky eater with a sensitive stomach. The duo have become experts in treat testing—with Rebecca researching ingredients and Gemma analyzing flavors and texture. Check out additional stories on The Spruce Pets written by Rebecca, including The Best Peanut Butter for Dogs and The Best Cooling Mats for Dogs.
For this story, Rebecca spoke with veterinarians Dr. Alex Crow, DVM, and Dr. Jamie Richardson, DVM, and consulted previous reporting from Dr. Barbara Hodges, DVM. Their expertise guided our best treat selections.
A previous version was written by Mary Jo DiLonardo, who has been writing about pets and animals for several decades. She has a rescue dog and has fostered dozens of dogs and puppies so she’s given a lot of treats.