Finding the right treat for your medium-sized dog can be a challenge, especially if your pup has sensitivities or you want to avoid grains and artificial additives. Many popular dog treats contain fillers or ingredients that may not agree with every dog’s digestive system, leading to discomfort or allergic reactions.
This guide reviews the best grain free dog treats for medium dogs, focusing on products with simple, wholesome ingredients and a variety of textures and flavors. Whether your dog prefers crunchy biscuits or soft chews, you’ll find options here that cater to different dietary needs and preferences, making treat time both safe and enjoyable.
Top 10 Best Grain Free Dog Treats For Medium Dogs
We analyzed the top brands and best-selling products in the Best Grain Free Dog Treats For Medium Dogs category to bring you a carefully curated list of recommendations.
1. Cloud Star Buddy Biscuits Grain Free Peanut Butter
For dogs with grain sensitivities or owners who prefer minimal ingredient lists, finding a treat that is both grain free and flavorful can be challenging. Simplicity in ingredients helps reduce the risk of allergies and supports transparency.
Cloud Star Buddy Biscuits Grain Free Peanut Butter stands out for its short ingredient list—just nine items—and a crunchy texture that appeals to medium and large dogs. It's a strong choice for those prioritizing grain-free diets and ingredient clarity.
- Grain-free formula suitable for sensitive dogs
- Only 9 ingredients for peace of mind
- Crunchy, oven-baked texture for chewing satisfaction
Compared to whole grain or soft treats, this biscuit is best for dogs needing a grain-free option. The tradeoff is a firmer texture, which may not suit dogs preferring soft snacks.
- Grain free
- Short ingredient list
- Crunchy texture
- No corn or soy
- Recyclable packaging
- Crunchy texture not for all dogs
- Larger biscuit size
2. Cloud Star Soft & Chewy Peanut Butter & Apples
Some dogs, especially seniors or those with dental sensitivities, need a softer treat that’s easy to chew. Soft and chewy options are also great for training or quick rewards.
This treat delivers a gentle texture and a familiar peanut butter and apple flavor, making it a go-to for dogs that can’t handle crunchy biscuits. The grain-free formula is suitable for pets with common allergies or sensitivities.
- Soft, chewy texture: Easier for dogs with sensitive mouths
- Grain and gluten free: Suitable for dogs with dietary restrictions
- Minimally processed: Made with simple, recognizable ingredients
Unlike crunchy alternatives, this treat prioritizes ease of chewing and digestibility. The tradeoff is a shorter shelf life once opened compared to harder biscuits.
- Gentle on teeth
- Grain free
- No artificial flavors
- Simple ingredient list
- Oven baked in the USA
- Softer treats may dry out faster
- Not as long-lasting as crunchy biscuits
3. CRAFTED BY HUMANS Pumpkin Biscuits
Finding treats for dogs with allergies or sensitive stomachs can be challenging, as many products contain common allergens or fillers. Allergy-friendly options help avoid digestive issues and discomfort.
CRAFTED BY HUMANS Pumpkin Biscuits are crafted with organic pumpkin and a short list of gentle, plant-based ingredients. These biscuits are a great choice for dogs with grain, dairy, or meat sensitivities, and for owners seeking vegan options.
- Grain-free and vegan: Suitable for dogs with multiple allergies
- Limited ingredients: Only 7 or fewer, reducing allergen risk
- Easily breakable: Light, crunchy texture for all dog sizes
Unlike meat-based or grain-filled treats, these biscuits focus on plant-based nutrition and allergy avoidance. The tradeoff is less protein content compared to meat treats.
- Allergy-friendly formula
- Vegan and grain-free
- Limited ingredients
- Easy to break for training
- Handcrafted in the USA
- Lower protein than meat treats
- Not suitable for dogs needing high meat content
4. Hill's Grain Free Soft Baked Naturals Beef & Sweet
For dogs with grain sensitivities or owners seeking a simple ingredient list, finding a treat that avoids common fillers is important. Grain-free treats are ideal for pets with specific dietary needs or those following a grain-free diet.
Hill's Grain Free Soft Baked Naturals Beef & Sweet offers a soft, chewy texture and uses real beef as the main ingredient, making it appealing for picky eaters and sensitive stomachs. It's a strong choice for dogs who need to avoid grains but still want a flavorful, satisfying snack.
- Grain-Free Formula: Suitable for dogs with grain allergies or sensitivities
- Soft Texture: Easy for dogs of all ages to chew and enjoy
- No Artificial Preservatives: Made without artificial flavors or preservatives for peace of mind
Compared to traditional dog biscuits, this treat prioritizes gentle ingredients and a soft consistency. While it may not offer as much crunch as some alternatives, it stands out for its focus on simple, grain-free nutrition.
- Grain-free recipe
- Soft and easy to chew
- Made with real beef
- No artificial flavors
- Veterinarian recommended
- Not crunchy
- Limited flavor selection
5. Cloud Star Grain Free Assorted Variety Box
Dogs can get bored with the same treat every day, and some owners like to offer a mix of flavors. Variety packs are a practical way to keep things interesting and discover new favorites.
This assortment includes three different flavors—peanut butter & apples, beef, bacon & cheese, and turkey & cranberry—so your dog can enjoy a new taste with each treat. It’s perfect for picky eaters or multi-dog households with different preferences.
- Three flavors in one box: Keeps dogs engaged and excited
- Grain and gluten free: Suitable for most dietary needs
- Low calorie per treat: Allows for frequent rewards
Compared to single-flavor bags, this box prioritizes variety and novelty. The main tradeoff is that dogs with strong flavor preferences may not enjoy every option equally.
- Multiple flavors in one box
- Great for picky eaters
- Grain and gluten free
- Low calorie options
- Not all dogs like every flavor
- May run out of favorite flavor first
6. Vital Essentials Beef Liver Freeze Dried Treats
Owners looking for pure, high-protein treats often struggle to find options without fillers or unnecessary additives. This is especially important for dogs with allergies or those on restricted diets.
Vital Essentials Beef Liver Freeze Dried Treats provide a single-ingredient, freeze-dried snack that appeals to picky eaters and dogs with food sensitivities. It's a strong choice for those wanting minimally processed, protein-rich rewards.
- Single-Ingredient Beef Liver: Supports allergy management and simple nutrition
- Freeze-Dried for Freshness: Locks in nutrients and flavor with minimal processing
- No Additives or Fillers: Free from grains, dyes, and artificial preservatives
Compared to multi-ingredient treats, this product prioritizes simplicity and protein content. However, the pure liver flavor may not suit every dog's palate, and the texture can be crumbly.
- Single-ingredient formula
- High protein content
- Freeze-dried for freshness
- No grains or fillers
- Sourced and made in the USA
- Strong liver taste not for all dogs
- Can be crumbly
7. Blue Buffalo Health Bars Crunchy Banana & Yogurt
Some dogs prefer crunchy treats that also offer nutritional benefits. Choosing a treat with natural ingredients and added vitamins can make reward time both enjoyable and healthy.
Blue Buffalo Health Bars combine a crunchy texture with wholesome ingredients like bananas and yogurt, making them a strong option for dogs who enjoy a satisfying bite and owners who value added antioxidants. Best for dogs of all sizes looking for a natural, oven-baked treat.
- Crunchy oven-baked texture: Appeals to dogs who love a satisfying crunch
- Natural ingredients: Includes oatmeal, bananas, and yogurt for wholesome nutrition
- Antioxidant enriched: Enhanced with vitamins to support overall health
Compared to soft or supplement-style treats, these bars focus on taste and texture, but may not suit dogs with specific dietary sensitivities.
- Crunchy texture
- Natural ingredients
- Antioxidant benefits
- No artificial preservatives
- Suitable for all breeds
- Not for sensitive stomachs
- Contains grains
8. Blue Buffalo Wilderness Crunchy Salmon Dog Biscuits
For active or multi-dog households, a large bag of treats helps ensure you never run out. Many owners also seek high-protein snacks with real meat as the first ingredient.
This 24-oz bag of Wilderness Crunchy Salmon Biscuits offers a grain-free, protein-rich option with real salmon. It's ideal for dogs who crave meaty flavors and for owners who want a long-lasting supply.
- Large 24-oz Bag: Suits frequent treaters or multiple dogs
- Grain-Free, High-Protein: Supports dogs with grain sensitivities
- Real Salmon First: Appeals to meat-loving dogs
Compared to smaller bags or grain-based treats, this option delivers on quantity and protein content. The tradeoff is a single flavor and a focus on larger volume, which may not suit those wanting variety or smaller portions.
- Large bag for value
- Grain-free and high-protein
- Real salmon as first ingredient
- Crunchy texture
- No artificial preservatives
- Only one flavor
- Bag size may be excessive for some
9. Hill's Grain Free Soft Baked Naturals Duck & Pumpkin
Some dogs benefit from alternative protein sources, especially if they have sensitivities to common meats like chicken or beef. Duck and pumpkin offer a novel combination that can be easier on digestion.
Hill's Grain Free Soft Baked Naturals Duck & Pumpkin is designed for dogs needing a different protein or those who enjoy new flavors. Its grain-free, soft-baked formula makes it suitable for a wide range of dogs, especially those with dietary restrictions.
- Duck as Main Protein: Good for dogs with common protein allergies
- Pumpkin Ingredient: Supports healthy digestion
- Grain-Free Formula: Reduces exposure to potential allergens
Compared to treats with standard proteins, this product stands out for its unique ingredient profile. The main tradeoff is that it may be less familiar to some dogs, so palatability can vary.
- Alternative protein source
- Includes pumpkin for digestion
- Grain-free
- Soft and easy to chew
- Flavor may not suit all dogs
- Not crunchy
9. Hill's Grain Free Soft Baked Naturals Duck & Pumpkin
Some dogs benefit from alternative protein sources, especially if they have sensitivities to common meats like chicken or beef. Duck and pumpkin offer a novel combination that can be easier on digestion.
Hill's Grain Free Soft Baked Naturals Duck & Pumpkin is designed for dogs needing a different protein or those who enjoy new flavors. Its grain-free, soft-baked formula makes it suitable for a wide range of dogs, especially those with dietary restrictions.
- Duck as Main Protein: Good for dogs with common protein allergies
- Pumpkin Ingredient: Supports healthy digestion
- Grain-Free Formula: Reduces exposure to potential allergens
Compared to treats with standard proteins, this product stands out for its unique ingredient profile. The main tradeoff is that it may be less familiar to some dogs, so palatability can vary.
- Alternative protein source
- Includes pumpkin for digestion
- Grain-free
- Soft and easy to chew
- Flavor may not suit all dogs
- Not crunchy
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Grain Free Dog Treats for Medium Dogs
Grain free dog treats are designed for pets with sensitivities or owners who want to avoid common fillers like wheat, corn, and soy. Choosing the right treat involves balancing ingredient simplicity, texture, protein source, and bag size. Many buyers assume all grain free treats are the same, but there are important differences in formulation, flavor, and suitability for specific health needs.
- Crunchy vs. Soft Treats: Crunchy biscuits are long-lasting and help clean teeth, while soft treats are easier for seniors or dogs with dental issues
- Single-Ingredient vs. Multi-Ingredient: Single-ingredient treats are best for extreme sensitivities, while multi-ingredient options offer more variety and flavor
- Protein Source Matters: Some dogs need alternative proteins (like duck or salmon) due to allergies to chicken or beef
- Bag Size and Value: Larger bags suit multi-dog homes or frequent treat use, while smaller bags are better for occasional rewards
- Flavor Variety: Variety packs can help prevent boredom, but individual flavors may be limited in quantity
- Misunderstanding Grain Free: Not all "grain free" treats are single-ingredient or allergy-friendly—always check for other potential allergens
- Texture Preferences: Some dogs strongly prefer crunchy or soft textures; choosing the wrong type can lead to wasted treats
Crunchy vs. Soft Treats: Matching Texture to Your Dog
Texture is a key decision point. Crunchy treats are ideal for dogs who enjoy chewing and can help with dental health, but may be too hard for seniors or dogs with dental sensitivities. Soft treats are easier to chew and often more aromatic, making them suitable for training or older dogs, but they may dry out faster after opening.
Ingredient Simplicity: When to Choose Single-Ingredient Treats
If your dog has multiple allergies or a very sensitive stomach, single-ingredient treats like freeze-dried beef liver are the safest bet. These treats avoid all fillers, grains, and artificial additives. However, they tend to have a stronger aroma and can be more expensive per ounce than multi-ingredient options.
Protein Source: Addressing Allergies and Preferences
Dogs with allergies to common proteins need treats made from alternative sources like duck, salmon, or turkey. Always check the ingredient list if your dog has known sensitivities. For most dogs, rotating protein sources can help prevent boredom and support a balanced diet.
Bag Size and Value: Choosing for Household Needs
Larger bags are more economical for multi-dog homes or frequent treat givers, but may not be ideal if your dog is picky or you want to try new flavors. Smaller bags or variety packs are better for sampling or for single-dog households.
Final Buying Advice
Choosing the right grain free treat for your medium dog comes down to understanding your dog's dietary needs, preferences, and your household's usage habits. Avoid assuming all grain free treats are equally suitable—read ingredient lists and consider texture and protein source.
- Match treat texture to your dog's chewing ability
- Check for single-ingredient options if allergies are a concern
- Select alternative proteins if your dog has sensitivities
- Buy larger bags only if you use treats frequently
- Don't overbuy on novelty flavors if your dog is picky
FAQ For Grain Free Dog Treats For Medium Dogs
1. Are grain free dog treats better for all dogs?
2. How do I know if my dog needs single-ingredient treats?
3. Can medium dogs eat treats made for all sizes?
4. How should I store soft dog treats to keep them fresh?
5. What protein sources are best for dogs with allergies?
6. Are crunchy treats safe for senior dogs?
James Vega
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