Best Dog Training Treats: Top Picks

James Vega | 09-02-2026

Finding the right dog training treat can be surprisingly challenging. Many pet owners struggle to balance ingredient quality, treat size, and calorie content—especially when training sessions require lots of repetition. The wrong treat can lead to overfeeding, lack of motivation, or even digestive upset.

This guide brings together the top dog training treats available today, highlighting the strengths and tradeoffs of each. Whether you need a soft, bite-sized morsel for puppies or a bulk tub for multi-dog households, you’ll find clear comparisons and practical advice to help you choose the best option for your dog’s needs.

Editor's Choice
Pet Botanics Mini Soft & Chewy Bacon Treats
Pet Botanics Mini Soft & Chewy Bacon Treats
Premium Pick
Stewart Beef Liver Freeze Dried Treats Tub
Stewart Beef Liver Freeze Dried Treats Tub
Budget Pick
Blue Buffalo Bits Soft Chicken Training Treats
Blue Buffalo Bits Soft Chicken Training Treats

Top 7 Best Dog Training Treats

After reviewing and comparing the most popular Best Dog Training Treats options, we identified the products that offer the best balance of quality, performance, and value.

1. Buddy Biscuits Trainers Soft & Chewy Bacon Treats

Best Clean Ingredient Formula
Buddy Biscuits Trainers Soft & Chewy Bacon Treats
9.5

Buddy Biscuits

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Training treats should be both enticing and gentle on your dog's system, especially when used in high quantities. Many owners worry about fillers, artificial flavors, or unnecessary calories during frequent training sessions.

Buddy Biscuits Trainers Soft & Chewy Bacon Treats offer a straightforward ingredient list with natural pork liver and bacon, making them a smart choice for those prioritizing clean nutrition. They're ideal for dogs with sensitivities or anyone seeking a treat that won't compromise on health during regular use.

  • Only 1.5 calories per treat: Helps prevent overfeeding during long training sessions
  • No corn, soy, or artificial flavors: Reduces risk of allergies and digestive upset
  • 500 treats per bag: Provides excellent supply for consistent training

Compared to typical training treats, Buddy Biscuits focuses on ingredient transparency and portion control. While the flavor selection is limited, the formula prioritizes health and simplicity over variety.

Strength
  • Very low calorie per treat
  • Simple, natural ingredients
  • No common allergens
  • Large quantity per bag
  • Soft texture for easy chewing
Weakness
  • Limited flavor options
  • Not grain-free

2. Blue Buffalo Bits Soft Chicken Training Treats

Best for Cognitive Support in Puppies
Blue Buffalo Bits Soft Chicken Training Treats
9.5

Blue Buffalo

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Puppies and young dogs need treats that are not only tasty but also support their growth and development. Many new owners overlook the importance of DHA and wholesome ingredients in early training rewards.

Blue Buffalo Bits Soft Chicken Training Treats are crafted with real chicken as the first ingredient and include DHA to help support cognitive development. They're especially well-suited for puppies or dogs in training who benefit from extra nutritional support.

  • DHA for cognitive development: Supports healthy brain growth in puppies
  • No artificial preservatives or colors: Reduces exposure to unnecessary additives
  • Tender, bite-sized morsels: Easy for small or young dogs to chew

Unlike standard treats, Blue Buffalo Bits place emphasis on puppy health and safe ingredients. The main tradeoff is that these treats are not single-ingredient, so they may not suit dogs with complex allergies.

Strength
  • DHA supports puppy brain health
  • Real chicken as first ingredient
  • No artificial colors or preservatives
  • Soft texture for easy chewing
  • Suitable for all breed sizes
Weakness
  • Contains multiple protein sources
  • Not ideal for strict elimination diets

3. American Vet Dogs Skin & Coat Chicken Treats

Best for Skin and Coat Support
American Vet Dogs Skin & Coat Chicken Treats
9.1

Generic

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Some dogs require treats that do more than just motivate—they need added support for skin and coat health. Owners often struggle to find rewards that address these needs without sacrificing palatability or texture.

American Vet Dogs Skin & Coat Chicken Treats are designed to support healthy skin and coat, making them a good fit for dogs with sensitivities or those prone to dryness. The soft, moist texture is gentle on older dogs or those with dental issues.

  • Skin & coat formula: Targets common concerns for dogs with sensitivities
  • Soft and moist texture: Suitable for seniors or dogs with chewing difficulties
  • Value pack (30 oz total): Convenient for multi-dog households or frequent trainers

Compared to basic training treats, this option prioritizes functional benefits for skin and coat. However, the formula is less minimal than single-ingredient alternatives, which may matter for dogs with strict dietary needs.

Strength
  • Supports skin and coat health
  • Soft texture for all ages
  • Large value pack
  • Real chicken flavor
  • Supports veteran service dog programs
Weakness
  • Contains more ingredients than single-protein treats
  • Not grain-free

4. Stewart Beef Liver Freeze Dried Treats Tub

Best for Bulk Value and Supply
Stewart Beef Liver Freeze Dried Treats Tub
9.8

Stewart

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For high-frequency training or multi-dog homes, treat supply and ingredient simplicity are top concerns. Many owners want a single-ingredient treat that lasts and can be used flexibly.

Stewart Beef Liver Freeze Dried Treats Tub delivers a massive supply of pure beef liver in a resealable tub, offering up to 475 treats. It's ideal for those who want a high-value, protein-rich reward with minimal processing.

  • Single-ingredient beef liver: Reduces allergy risk and suits sensitive dogs
  • Up to 475 treats per tub: Excellent for bulk use or long-term storage
  • Freeze-dried for freshness: Locks in nutrients without added mess

Compared to soft or mixed-ingredient treats, Stewart's freeze-dried option is all about purity and volume. The main tradeoff is a firmer texture, which may not be ideal for dogs with dental issues.

Strength
  • Single-ingredient simplicity
  • Large tub for extended use
  • High protein content
  • No grains or fillers
  • Versatile for training or meal topping
Weakness
  • Harder texture than soft treats
  • Higher price per tub

5. Blue Buffalo Bits Soft Beef Training Treats

Best for Beef-First Formulation
Blue Buffalo Bits Soft Beef Training Treats
8.9

Blue Buffalo

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Dogs with poultry sensitivities or beef preferences need a treat that delivers on flavor and digestibility. Many training treats rely on mixed proteins or fillers that can complicate dietary needs.

Blue Buffalo Bits Soft Beef Training Treats use real beef as the first ingredient and are free from poultry by-products, making them a strong choice for beef-loving dogs. The soft, bite-sized pieces are easy to handle during training.

  • Real beef as first ingredient: Appeals to dogs with beef preference
  • No corn, wheat, or soy: Reduces common allergens
  • DHA for cognitive support: Adds nutritional value for puppies

Compared to chicken-based or multi-protein treats, this formula prioritizes beef flavor and allergen avoidance. The tradeoff is that it may not suit dogs who prefer poultry or who need a single-ingredient option.

Strength
  • Beef-first ingredient list
  • No poultry by-products
  • Soft texture for easy chewing
  • No artificial preservatives
  • Includes DHA for puppies
Weakness
  • Not single-ingredient
  • Limited to beef flavor

6. WAG Chicken Flavor Training Treats 2 lb Bag

Best Bulk Value Option
WAG Chicken Flavor Training Treats 2 lb Bag

Frequent trainers and those with multiple dogs often need a cost-effective, plentiful treat that still delivers on quality. Many bulk treats compromise on ingredient standards or palatability.

WAG Chicken Flavor Training Treats offer a 2-pound resealable bag with American chicken as the main ingredient. They're a practical choice for those who value quantity and straightforward nutrition without artificial additives.

  • 2-pound resealable bag: Provides extended supply for regular training
  • No added corn, soy, or wheat: Supports sensitive stomachs
  • American chicken as #1 ingredient: Ensures appealing flavor

Compared to smaller, specialty bags, WAG prioritizes value and volume. The main tradeoff is a less specialized formula, which may not suit dogs with unique dietary needs.

Strength
  • Large bag for frequent use
  • No artificial flavors or colors
  • Simple ingredient list
  • Made in the USA
  • Good for multi-dog homes
Weakness
  • Not grain-free
  • Limited protein variety

7. Finley's Dog Bites Variety Pack Soft & Chewy

Best for Ingredient Transparency
Finley's Dog Bites Variety Pack Soft & Chewy
8.3

Finley's

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Owners who prioritize ingredient sourcing and transparency often struggle to find treats that are both natural and appealing to their dogs. Many products include fillers or synthetic additives that can be concerning.

Finley's Dog Bites Variety Pack offers soft, chewy treats made with lean, human-grade protein and no artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives. They're a solid choice for those who want to know exactly what's in their dog's rewards.

  • 100% natural, human-grade recipe: Minimizes exposure to unwanted additives
  • No wheat, corn, soy, or by-products: Reduces allergy risk
  • Soft texture with real protein: Appeals to a wide range of dogs

Compared to mainstream treats, Finley's stands out for its ingredient integrity and transparency. The tradeoff is a higher price point and a less familiar brand for some buyers.

Strength
  • Human-grade ingredients
  • No artificial additives
  • Soft and chewy texture
  • Multiple protein options
  • Made in the USA
Weakness
  • Smaller package size
  • Less widely available

Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Dog Training Treats

Dog training treats are more than just snacks—they're essential tools for reinforcing good behavior and building positive habits. The right treat can make training sessions smoother, but buyers must weigh factors like ingredient quality, treat size, and calorie count. Many owners mistakenly assume all treats are interchangeable, but differences in formulation, texture, and nutritional value can have a real impact on your dog's health and training success.

Choosing Between Soft and Freeze-Dried Treats

The choice between soft and freeze-dried treats comes down to your dog's preferences and training style. Soft treats are easy to break apart and ideal for rapid-fire rewards, making them popular for puppy classes and everyday obedience work. Freeze-dried treats, on the other hand, offer single-ingredient simplicity and are less likely to trigger allergies, but their firmer texture may not suit all dogs.

Ingredient Quality and Transparency

For many owners, knowing exactly what's in a treat is a top priority. Products like Finley's and Vital Essentials stand out for their human-grade, single-protein recipes and clear sourcing. If your dog has sensitivities or you're concerned about fillers, prioritize treats with short, recognizable ingredient lists and no artificial additives.

Bulk Value vs. Variety

If you train frequently or have multiple dogs, bulk options like Stewart and WAG provide excellent value and reduce the need for frequent repurchasing. However, these larger packages may limit flavor variety or freshness if not used quickly. Smaller bags or variety packs are better for owners who want to keep things interesting or have picky eaters.

Functional Benefits: Beyond Basic Rewards

Some training treats go beyond basic nutrition, offering added benefits like DHA for cognitive support (Blue Buffalo Bits) or skin and coat health (American Vet Dogs). These are especially useful for puppies or dogs with specific health concerns, but may not be necessary for every pet.

Final Buying Advice

Choosing the right dog training treat depends on your dog's dietary needs, training frequency, and your own preferences for ingredient quality and convenience. Focus on what matters most for your situation, and don't be swayed by unnecessary extras.

FAQ For Dog Training Treats

1. What makes a good dog training treat?

A good training treat is small, low in calories, highly palatable, and easy to handle. It should motivate your dog without causing digestive issues or overfeeding.

2. Are single-ingredient treats better for dogs with allergies?

Yes, single-ingredient treats like freeze-dried beef liver reduce the risk of allergic reactions and are ideal for dogs with known sensitivities.

3. How many treats can I give during training?

Use low-calorie treats and adjust your dog's daily food intake to account for treats. For most dogs, training treats should make up no more than 10% of daily calories.

4. Should I choose soft or freeze-dried treats?

Soft treats are best for rapid rewards and puppies, while freeze-dried treats are suitable for dogs with allergies or those needing a single-protein option.

5. Do training treats need to be grain-free?

Not all dogs require grain-free treats. Choose grain-free only if your dog has a diagnosed sensitivity or your veterinarian recommends it.

6. How do I store dog training treats to keep them fresh?

Keep treats in their original resealable packaging or transfer to an airtight container. Store in a cool, dry place and use within the recommended time frame.

James Vega

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