Learning new tricks, getting through a stressful vet visit, and simply bonding with your dog are great opportunities for pet parents to use dog treats. It can be overwhelming to shop for dog treats — especially while navigating sensitive stomachs and allergies.
In this article, we'll outline how to find the best dog treats for your pup. Including:
- What to look for in dog treats
- Best dog treats by category
- Frequently asked questions about dog treats
What to look for in dog treats
With so many dog treats on the market, finding the perfect one for your pup can feel overwhelming. Whether you're shopping in-store or scrolling online, the key is to prioritize treats that align with your dog’s health, dietary needs, and personal taste.
No matter your dog's diet and taste preferences, the best dog treats should:
- Be made with high-quality ingredients: Treats made from wholesome, recognizable ingredients are always the way to go. Bonus points if they include functional ingredients like Omega-3s or added vitamins.
- Be highly palatable: Your dog should be excited to earn these treats! Look for options with natural flavors your pup can’t resist.
- Contain natural flavor: Artificial additives and fillers don’t belong in your dog’s diet. Choose treats with real, simple flavors instead.
Although there are endless yummy treats out there for dogs, not all treats are a good fit for your dog. Whether you're treating your dog while training or for fun, consider the treats':
- Nutritional value
- Size
- Texture
- Taste
Nutritional value
Even treats should provide some benefits, whether it’s extra protein, joint support, or skin and coat health. Some dog treats contain essential vitamins and have real health benefits. To find such treats, there are several ingredients to look out for.
The best dog treats are free of:
- Artificial flavors
- Artificial preservatives
- Artificial ingredients
- Artificial colors
Instead of artificial ingredients and additives, look for all-natural ingredients that:
- Are low fat
- Are low calorie
- Are corn-free
- Are grain-free
- Are high protein
- Align with your pet's diet
- Contain essential nutrients
Regardless of the dog treats' ingredients and health benefits, give your dog only a few treats at a time. Limit treating time to special occasions like when you reward good behavior.
Size
Avoid treats like bully sticks and other large treats that could be choking hazards. If a treat your dog loves could be a choking hazard, break it into small pieces.
Texture
There are plenty of texture options, from crunchy, freeze-dried dog treats to chewy bites. Dog treats come in a variety of textures to cater to different preferences and health needs:
- Crunchy: Crunchy treats can help clean your dog's teeth and reduce plaque as they chew.
- Soft/Chewy: Soft treats are great for puppies, older dogs, and dogs with dental issues.
- Freeze-Dried: Freeze-dried treats are often made from single ingredients like real chicken or real beef.
- Jerky: Tough jerky treats can be tricky for smaller dogs and dogs with dental issues.
Taste
Taste is important when choosing dog treats because it guarantees your dog will love them. Giving them tasty treats with flavors they enjoy makes reward time exciting.
When dog treats taste great, they also work well as rewards for training and reinforcing positive behavior. Tasty treats also help strengthen your bond with your dog and can make introducing new foods or medicines much easier.
Best dog treats by category
Every dog deserves a treat that fits their unique needs and personality. Whether you’re rewarding good behavior, working on training, or simply spoiling your furry friend, the right treat can make all the difference. From grain-free options to dental chews and single-ingredient snacks, there’s a perfect pick for every pup.
Best healthy treats
When treating your dog, finding a healthy option that’s both delicious and beneficial can be tricky. The best treats should strike the perfect balance: simple ingredients, great taste, and versatile uses for training or everyday rewards.
That’s why our top pick is PetFriendly’s Beefy Bites.
Our pick: PetFriendly Beefy Bites
These natural treats are made with one simple ingredient: 100% all-natural beef lung. This single-ingredient approach ensures your pet enjoys a clean, wholesome snack without any fillers, artificial flavors, or preservatives — just pure goodness.
These single-ingredient treats are not only packed with flavor but also ideal for trick training or as a tasty distraction while applying monthly flea and tick treatments.
Best sustainable treats
Choosing sustainable treats is a win for your dog and the planet! The best eco-friendly treats are made with responsibly sourced ingredients that minimize waste while delivering delicious flavors your pup will love.
If you’re looking for a treat that’s tasty, thoughtful, and environmentally conscious, our top pick is PetFriendly’s Blueberry Muffin Baked Goods.
Our pick: PetFriendly Blueberry Muffin Baked Goods.
These blueberry muffin-flavored treats not only smell like fresh-baked muffins but also reflect a commitment to reducing food waste. These baked treats are crafted with upcycled, human-grade ingredients like whole wheat flour, blueberries, and honey.
- Whole wheat flour supports healthy digestion and helps your dog feel satisfied after eating. It's also packed with essential nutrients to support overall health.
- Blueberries are loaded with antioxidants that help combat free radicals and support your pet's immune system. Blueberries are also a natural source of vitamins C and K, contributing to skin health and proper blood clotting.
- Honey is a natural sweetener that provides a quick energy boost and offers antibacterial properties.
Treat your dog while supporting a sustainable future. It’s a decision you and your pup can feel good about!
Best dental treats
Keeping your dog’s teeth clean doesn’t have to be a chore. Dental treats make it easy to support your dog's oral health.
The best dental treats go beyond freshening breath; they help fight plaque, promote healthy gums, and even whiten teeth, all while being a treat your dog will love. Our top pick: PetFriendly’s Brilliant!™ Dental Care.
Our pick: PetFriendly Brilliant!™ Dental Care
Brilliant!™ is no ordinary dental treat. This click-and-lick dental stick features a chicken-flavored gel with innovative ProLONG™ Technology to coat your dog’s teeth and gums for lasting protection. It fights plaque, freshens breath, whitens teeth, and tastes amazing. Dental care just got a whole lot easier (and more delicious)!
Finding the best treats for your dog doesn’t have to be overwhelming when you know what to look for. The right treats not only make training and rewards more effective but also support your dog’s health and happiness.
Choosing high-quality treats is just another way we show our love. Whether you’re treating your dog for learning a new trick, rewarding good behavior, or simply because they’re the best furball in the world, you can feel confident knowing you’re giving them something that’s both delicious and beneficial.