Training Treats for Dogs: What to Look For and Why They Matter
When it comes to dog training (or even everyday rewards), the right treat can make all the difference. Training is all about motivation, and food is one of the strongest motivators for most dogs. But not all treats are created equal. The best training treats have a few key things in common: they’re high value, simple, small, and easy to handle. Let’s break it down:
1. High Value = High Motivation
Your dog will work harder for something truly tasty. “High value” treats are usually soft, meaty, fragrant and extra flavorful. Think of them as your dog’s version of chocolate cake—something special that grabs their attention, even when distractions are around.
2. Limited Ingredients for Sensitive Stomachs
Training often involves lots of repetition (and lots of treats). Choosing treats with simple, limited ingredients helps avoid tummy upset and keeps your dog feeling their best.
3. Size Matters
You’ll be giving lots of rewards during training, so smaller is better. You’ve got to keep an eye on calories and volume. A treat can be broken into tiny pieces which allows for more rewards without overfeeding. Remember if your dog is watching their calories, to reduce regular food to stay in balance. Also, dogs don’t judge you for the size of the treat!
4. Crumbliness (or Lack Thereof)
No one wants a pocket full of crumbs. Soft or freeze-dried treats that break cleanly (without turning into dust) make training easier and less messy.
5. Our Favorites
Bixbi Pocket Trainers – small, soft, chewy, and delicious, made to grab your dog’s attention.
Wild Meadow Farms Jerky Treats – soft, high meat, 3 ingredient and irresistible flavor. Probably the most fragrant of all, great for picky dogs.
Momentum Training Bites – freeze-dried single-protein, square meaty morsels that dogs go crazy for.
Green Juju Training Treats – made with whole-food nutrition, minimal ingredients and proteins like salmon or beef.
Northwest Naturals – just one ingredient (like beef liver, chicken, or salmon). Easy to break. Perfect for sensitive pups.
- Fruitables Skinny Minis are perfectly bite-sized and low-calorie.
Final Thoughts
The right treat is more than just a snack—it’s sets you up for training success. By choosing high-value, limited-ingredient treats that are the right size and easy to handle, your dog will be sitting, waiting and any other -ing soon. Whether it’s Bixbi Pocket Trainers, Fruitables Skinny Minis, Wild Meadow Farms, Momentum Training Bites, Green Juju, or freeze-dried favorites from Northwest Naturals, you’ll have a reward that keeps tails wagging and learning on track.
