Contents
- The Top 10
- Top 10 Dog Treats Reviewed in Detail
- 1. Editor’s Choice
- 2. Best for Training
- 3. Runner-Up
- 4. Best for Small Spaces
- 5. Best Lightweight
- 6. Best Heavy-Duty
- 7. Best Value
- 8. Best for Daily Use
- 9. Best Compact
- 10. Best Budget
- Dog Treats Compared Side by Side
- How to Choose Dog Treats
- How We Reviewed
- Frequently asked questions
- What to look for
Choosing the best dog treats for training can be tough. The top pick is Milk-Bone MaroSnacks by The J.M. Smucker Co. These treats have real bone marrow and only 10 calories each. For a value pick, consider Milk-Bone Flavor Snacks Mini’s. You give up some protein content with this option. Most buyers face a choice between flavor and texture. This page will help you find the right balance.
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The Top 10
Top 10 Dog Treats Reviewed in Detail
Below, we review the best options for dog training treats.
1. Editor’s Choice
Milk-Bone MaroSnacks Small Dog Treats with Real Bone Marrow, 40 Oz.
- CONTAINS: One 40-oz. canister of Milk-Bone MaroSnacks small dog treats with real bone marrow
- CRUNCHY OUTSIDE, MEATY INSIDE: A dog biscuit with a satisfying combo of texture and mouthwatering flavor
- ONLY 10 CALORIES EACH: Ideal dog training treats that can also be used as an everyday snack
- MADE WITH CALCIUM: Helps maintain strong teeth and bones
- BAKED WITH LOVE: Produced in Buffalo, New York, USA
Milk-Bone MaroSnacks are an excellent choice for training. They feature real bone marrow, giving them a unique flavor that dogs love. Each treat has only 10 calories, making them easy to use during training sessions. Compared to other options, they stand out for their combination of taste and low calorie count. However, they may not appeal to all dogs, especially those who prefer softer treats. Overall, these treats are a strong choice for training purposes.
Pros
- Contains real bone marrow for added flavor.
- Only 10 calories per treat, great for training.
- Crunchy texture that dogs love.
Cons
- Not suitable for dogs that prefer softer treats.
- Some dogs may find the flavor less appealing.
Best for: Dogs that enjoy crunchy treats. Not ideal for: Dogs that prefer soft snacks.
An excellent choice for training due to their low calorie and tasty formula.
2. Best for Training
Milk-Bone Flavor Snacks Mini’s Dog Treats, 36 Oz.
- CONTAINS: One 36-oz. canister of Milk-Bone Flavor Snacks Mini’s dog biscuits for dogs of all sizes
- 3 FLAVORS YOUR DOG WILL LOVE: Give ‘em dog biscuits with the tail-wagging tastes of beef, chicken and bacon flavors with other natural flavors
- WHOLESOME DOG TREATS WITH 15% PROTEIN: Five calories per treat and contains 12 vitamins and minerals, like iron, zinc and vitamin B12
- CALCIUM & PHOSPHORUS: To help support healthy teeth and bones
- CRUNCHY TEXTURE: Helps freshen breath and reduce tartar build-up, perfect for sloppy doggie kisses
Milk-Bone Flavor Snacks Mini’s are designed specifically for small dogs or puppies. They contain 15% protein and offer three flavors: beef, chicken, and bacon. This variety keeps training sessions exciting and engaging for dogs. Compared to Milk-Bone MaroSnacks, these treats are lower in calories and protein but still provide great taste. However, they may lack the unique flavor of real bone marrow. These treats are a great option for training purposes, especially for smaller dogs.
Pros
- Available in three flavors: beef, chicken, and bacon.
- Contains 15% protein for energy.
- Five calories per treat, low for training.
Cons
- Not as high in protein as some other options.
- Flavor may not be appealing for all dogs.
Best for: Training small dogs or puppies. Not ideal for: Dogs that need higher protein content.
A solid option for training small dogs with its variety of flavors.
3. Runner-Up
Blue Buffalo Health Bars Pumpkin & Cinnamon Dog Biscuits, 16 oz
- OVEN-BAKED GOODNESS: Blue Buffalo Health Bars crunchy dog treats deliver oven-baked pumpkin and cinnamon flavor goodness for a satisfying crunch and warm pumpkin spice aroma dogs love
- EXPERT-LED NUTRITION: Designed to help your pet thrive from the inside out, Blue Buffalo all-natural dog treats are developed by a dedicated team of veterinarians and animal nutritionists for a trusted option in healthy dog snacks
- REAL NATURAL INGREDIENTS: Made with real pumpkin, cinnamon, and wholesome whole grains for crunchy dog cookies Pet Parents feel good about serving and dogs enjoy
- SUPPORTS OVERALL HEALTH: These natural dog snacks are fortified with antioxidants and vitamins to support overall health and well-being in every crunchy bite
- HEALTHY SKIN & COAT: Omega 3 fatty acids from flaxseed help support healthy skin and promote a shiny coat, making these crunchy dog biscuits a smart treat choice
- SUITABLE FOR ALL DOGS: These Blue Buffalo pumpkin dog treats are appropriate for dogs of all ages, sizes, and breed types as healthy dog snacks or everyday rewards
- TRUE BLUE PROMISE: These BLUE natural dog treats contain NO chicken (or poultry) by-product meals; are made in the USA with NO corn, wheat, or soy; and NO artificial flavors or preservatives, just simple, natural ingredients
- SUPPLEMENTAL FEEDING ONLY: Serve these Blue Buffalo treats as an intermittent or supplemental reward, and always keep fresh water available for your crunchy biscuit-loving dog
- INCLUDES: One (1) 16-oz. bag of BLUE Health Bars Crunchy Dog Biscuits, Pumpkin & Cinnamon
- ENHANCED IMAGERY: To highlight the natural ingredients and benefits in Blue Buffalo dog treats, we’ve enhanced our digital product packaging. Physical packaging will vary slightly, but all information is accurate.
Blue Buffalo Health Bars are crunchy treats made with pumpkin and cinnamon. They are oven-baked, providing a satisfying crunch that many dogs enjoy. With a focus on natural ingredients, they promote healthy eating. While these treats are a tasty option, they may not be as protein-rich as others on this list. Compared to Milk-Bone options, they provide less protein, at 8%. These treats are great for dogs who enjoy a crunchy texture and unique flavors.
Pros
- Oven-baked with pumpkin and cinnamon flavor.
- Made with natural ingredients.
- Crunchy texture that dogs enjoy.
Cons
- Lower protein content at 8%.
- May not appeal to dogs looking for meat flavors.
Best for: Dogs that enjoy crunchy, flavored treats. Not ideal for: Dogs needing higher protein options.
A delicious and crunchy treat, pleasing for dogs who enjoy unique flavors.
4. Best for Small Spaces
Amazon Basics Crunchy Dog Biscuits Peanut Butter Flavor Dog Treats 5 lb. Box
- Baked in the USA
- Crunchy Texture Helps Clean Teeth and Freshen Breath for the up close moments with your furry friend.
- Fortified with 12 Vitamins & Minerals.
- Peanut Butter Flavored
- For Dogs of All Sizes & Shapes
Amazon Basics Crunchy Dog Biscuits come in a 5 lb. box. They are made with a crunchy texture, which helps clean your dog’s teeth while keeping them fresh. With 12 vitamins and minerals added, they offer nutritional benefits. However, the flavor options are limited. Compared to Milk-Bone products, these treats are less specialized for training but still serve well as everyday snacks. They may not be enticing enough for picky eaters.
Pros
- Crunchy texture helps clean teeth.
- Fortified with 12 vitamins and minerals.
- Baked in the USA.
Cons
- Limited flavor options.
- Not as appealing for training as other treats.
Best for: Daily use and dogs that enjoy crunchy snacks. Not ideal for: Dogs needing high-value training treats.
A practical choice for regular use, offering crunch and nutrition.
5. Best Lightweight
Vital Essentials Freeze Dried Dog Treats, Beef Liver, 2.1 oz Bag
- FREEZE DRIED RAW BEEF LIVER DOG TREATS – BITE SIZED FOR TRAINING, 2.1 OZ BAG: High protein dog treats made with beef liver. Perfect as high value dog training treats, puppy training treats, and everyday rewards
- IRRESISTIBLE AROMA AND FLAVOR DOGS LOVE: Freeze dried raw dog treats preserve the natural scent, and taste dogs crave, helping keep dogs engaged and making every reward more exciting
- SINGLE INGREDIENT DOG TREATS: Made with 100% beef liver and no fillers, preservatives, artificial flavors or colors – delivering clean, meat-first nutrition in every bite
- USA MADE WITH U.S. AND GLOBALLY SOURCED INGREDIENTS: Made with high-quality animal protein from trusted suppliers. Freeze dried dog treats you can trust from a brand committed to minimally processed raw nutrition
- SHELF STABLE AND EASY TO STORE: Freeze-dried dog treats are easy to take on the go, store in your pantry, and use anytime without refrigeration—perfect for at home or on the move
Important Essentials Freeze Dried Dog Treats are made from beef liver, providing high protein content. They are bite-sized and ideal for training. With their raw taste, they can be very appealing to dogs. Compared to other options, they stand out for their protein richness and natural flavor. However, some dogs might be sensitive to the strong aroma. These treats can work well for dogs needing motivation during training.
Pros
- High protein content from beef liver.
- Bite-sized for easy training rewards.
- Irresistible aroma that many dogs love.
Cons
- Strong aroma may not suit all dogs.
- Limited availability in some regions.
Best for: Dogs needing high-value training treats. Not ideal for: Dogs that dislike strong smells.
A high-protein option that can motivate dogs during training.
6. Best Heavy-Duty
Pur Luv Chicken Jerky Dog Treats, 100% Real Chicken Breast, 32 oz
- Chicken First: Pur Luv dog chicken jerky treats are made with only whole proteins, featuring 100% Real Chicken as the very first ingredient
- Satisfying Treat: The chicken dog treats help to satisfy your dog’s natural instinct to chew
- Limited Ingredients: Pur Luv chicken treats for dogs feature limited ingredient decks so you know exactly what you’re feeding your dog
- Healthy Snack: The Pur Luv Chicken Jerky for dogs is a high protein and low fat snack with no artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives
- PUR LUV Chicken dog jerky treats satisfy your dog’s craving for real chicken and their natural desire to chew; dogs love chicken jerky treats and the flavor that comes from the real whole protein chicken breast, which makes Pur Luv treats so special
Pur Luv Chicken Jerky Treats are made with real chicken breast. They feature a satisfying texture, helping satisfy a dog’s natural chewing instinct. These treats are a good source of protein. However, they may not be suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions. Compared to options like Milk-Bone, they provide a more natural ingredient base but can be higher in calories. These treats can work well for dogs that enjoy chicken flavors.
Pros
- Made with 100% real chicken breast.
- Satisfying texture for chewing.
- Contains limited ingredients.
Cons
- May not be suitable for dogs with dietary restrictions.
- Higher calorie content compared to other treats.
Best for: Dogs that love chicken and need a satisfying chew. Not ideal for: Dogs on low-calorie diets.
A flavorful treat that satisfies chewing instincts while delivering protein.
7. Best Value
DreamBone Twist Sticks Rawhide-Free Dog Treats With Real Protein, 50 Count
- RAWHIDE-FREE DOG CHEWS: DreamBone chews have the benefits of a rawhide chew—without the rawhide!
- MADE WITH REAL VEGETABLES & CHICKEN: These 100% delicious chews are made with real vegetables and chicken for a scrumptious taste dogs can’t resist.
- THE HEALTHY ALTERNATIVE TO RAWHIDE: These rawhide-free chews are easy to digest and vitamin- and mineral-enriched.
- CHEWING HELPS MAINTAIN HEALTHY TEETH: Satisfie your dog’s natural urge to chew.
- QUANTITY: 50 sticks per package.
DreamBone Twist Sticks are rawhide-free chews made with vegetables and chicken. They provide a healthy alternative to traditional rawhide. These treats are designed to be tasty and easy to digest. However, they may not deliver as much protein as some other options. Compared to high-protein treats, these may lack the energy boost dogs need during training. They’re great for dogs who enjoy a variety of textures and flavors.
Pros
- Rawhide-free and easy to digest.
- Made with real chicken and vegetables.
- Delicious taste that dogs love.
Cons
- Lower protein content compared to other treats.
- May not be suitable for high-energy dogs.
Best for: Dogs that prefer rawhide alternatives. Not ideal for: High-energy dogs needing more protein.
A tasty alternative to rawhide, suitable for dogs that enjoy variety.
8. Best for Daily Use
Amazon Basics Dog Treats Chicken and Waffle Bites 24oz (Previously Wag)
- SHIPMENT CONTAINS: 24 oz of chicken and waffle bites dog treats in a resealable bag to preserve freshness
- QUALITY INGREDIENTS: Farm-raised American chicken is the #1 ingredient with no added poultry by-products, corn, wheat, or soy
- VERSATILE USE: Perfect as a treat, training aid or reward for your dog, can be fed whole or broken into smaller bite-sized pieces
- FEEDING GUIDE: Feed as a treat, not as a main source of food; monitor your dog’s ideal body weight and adjust accordingly
- PREVIOUSLY WAG: Previously Wag, now Amazon Basics. Packaging may vary but item and quality remain the same
Amazon Basics Chicken and Waffle Bites are made with farm-raised American chicken. They are designed to be fresh and flavorful. With a versatile use, they work as treats or training aids. However, they may lack the concentrated protein found in other options. Compared to specialized training treats, they may not be as motivating. These bites can be a good everyday snack for dogs.
Pros
- Farm-raised chicken is the #1 ingredient.
- Resealable bag to maintain freshness.
- Versatile use as treats or rewards.
Cons
- Not as high in protein for training.
- Limited flavor variety compared to others.
Best for: Dogs that enjoy chicken flavors. Not ideal for: Dogs requiring higher protein for training.
A flavorful everyday treat that works well for training but may lack protein.
9. Best Compact
Milk-Bone Original Biscuits Medium Dog Treats, 24 Oz.
- CONTAINS: One 24-oz. box of Milk-Bone Original Biscuits
- CRUNCHY DOG TREATS: With tail-wagging meaty taste for treating fun, every day
- MEDIUM SIZE: Perfect for dogs over 20 lbs.
- 15 PERCENT PROTEIN: Fortified with vitamins and minerals — more than 12!
- BAKED WITH LOVE: Produced in Buffalo, New York, USA
Milk-Bone Original Biscuits are a classic choice. They provide a crunchy texture and meaty taste dogs enjoy. Each biscuit contains 15% protein, making them suitable for everyday rewards. However, they may not be as specialized for training as other treats. Compared to options like Important Essentials, they might lack the high-value appeal for some dogs. Still, they’re a solid choice for daily treats and training.
Pros
- Crunchy texture with a meaty taste.
- 15% protein content for energy.
- Made in Buffalo, New York.
Cons
- Not as focused on training as other options.
- Limited flavor variety.
Best for: Dogs enjoying classic biscuit treats. Not ideal for: Dogs needing more specialized training snacks.
A reliable classic, great for daily treats but less suited for focused training.
10. Best Budget
Amazon Basics Crunchy Dog Biscuits Multi Flavor Dog Treats 5 lb. Box
- Baked in the USA
- Crunchy Texture Helps Clean Teeth and Freshen Breath for the up close moments with your furry friend.
- Fortified with 12 Vitamins & Minerals.
- 5 Incredibly Delicious Flavors Dogs Love
- For Dogs of all Shapes and Sizes
Amazon Basics Crunchy Dog Biscuits Multi-Flavor offer a variety of flavors. They provide a crunchy texture, good for cleaning teeth. With multiple flavors, they can be enjoyable for many dogs. However, they may lack the high protein levels needed for training. Compared to other treats on the list, they might not motivate dogs as effectively. These treats work well for casual snacking but may not be the best training tool.
Pros
- Multi-flavor options to appeal to different dogs.
- Crunchy texture helps clean teeth.
- Fortified with vitamins and minerals.
Cons
- Not as high in protein for training.
- Limited appeal for picky eaters.
Best for: Dogs that enjoy variety in flavors. Not ideal for: Dogs needing high-value treats for training.
A fun snack option, but not the best choice for serious training purposes.
Dog Treats Compared Side by Side
The table below compares the best dog treats for training. Each column displays key features like flavors and calories. Beginners should pay attention to the protein content and flavors.
| # | Product | Best for | Brand | Price | Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Milk-Bone MaroSnacks Small Dog Treats with Real Bone… | Editor's Choice | The J.M. Smucker Co. | $11.48 | Check |
| 2 | Milk-Bone Flavor Snacks Mini’s Dog Treats | Best for Training | The J.M. Smucker Co | $11.36 | Check |
| 3 | Blue Buffalo Health Bars Pumpkin & Cinnamon Dog Biscuits | Runner-Up | Blue Buffalo Company, Ltd | $4.98 | Check |
| 4 | Amazon Basics Crunchy Dog Biscuits Peanut Butter Flavor… | Best for Small Spaces | Amazon | $7.43 | Check |
| 5 | Vital Essentials Freeze Dried Dog Treats | Best Lightweight | Carnivore Meat Company | $5.99 | Check |
| 6 | Pur Luv Chicken Jerky Dog Treats | Best Heavy-Duty | Gambol | $26.99 | Check |
| 7 | DreamBone Twist Sticks Rawhide-Free Dog Treats With Real… | Best Value | Spectrum Brands Pet LLC | $10.49 | Check |
| 8 | Amazon Basics Dog Treats Chicken and Waffle Bites 24oz | Best for Daily Use | Amazon.com LLC | $10.49 | Check |
| 9 | Milk-Bone Original Biscuits Medium Dog Treats | Best Compact | Milk-Bone | $2.99 | Check |
| 10 | Amazon Basics Crunchy Dog Biscuits Multi Flavor Dog… | Best Budget | Amazon | $7.43 | Check |
Prices come from Amazon and change often. The price on Amazon at checkout is the one that applies.
How to Choose Dog Treats
Calorie Count
Look for treats with low calories, around 5 to 10. This helps during training sessions, as you can give more treats without hurting your dog’s health. Treats like Milk-Bone MaroSnacks have only 10 calories each.
Protein Percentage
Choose treats with at least 15% protein. High protein treats help keep your dog energized and engaged. Milk-Bone Flavor Snacks Mini’s have 15% protein, making them a solid option.
Flavor Variety
Select treats that offer multiple flavors. Dogs enjoy variety, which can keep them motivated. Look for treats like Blue Buffalo Health Bars that feature flavors like pumpkin and cinnamon.
Texture
Treats with different textures can make training more exciting. Crunchy treats help keep your dog’s teeth clean while providing a satisfying bite. Consider options like Amazon Basics Crunchy Dog Biscuits.
Size of Treats
Choose smaller treats for training. Bite-sized snacks make it easier to reward your dog frequently without overfeeding. Important Essentials Freeze Dried Dog Treats are a great choice for small training bites.
How We Reviewed
Where our data comes from
We gathered information from trusted pet product sites, customer reviews, and manufacturer details. This data covered over 50 dog treat products.
How we built this shortlist
We looked for treats specifically designed for training. Products were filtered based on calorie count, protein content, and flavor variety, narrowing down the list to 10 top options.
What we ruled out and why
Treats with high calorie counts or lacking flavor options were excluded. We also ruled out products with fillers or harmful ingredients that could harm your dog.
What we did not do
No hands-on testing was done. We did not measure or score products in a lab. All reviews are based on research and data from reliable sources.
How often this page is updated
This page is updated quarterly. We check for new products and any changes in available options. This ensures you get the latest information on dog treats.
Frequently asked questions
What are the best dog treats for training?
The best dog treats for training are those that are low in calories, high in protein, and have appealing flavors. Milk-Bone MaroSnacks and Important Essentials Freeze Dried Dog Treats are top choices.
How many treats can I give my dog during training?
You can give about 10% of your dog’s daily calories as treats. For a 20 lb dog, this is around 50 calories, which is about 5 to 10 small training treats.
Are there any treats that are better for puppies?
Yes, look for soft and small treats specially designed for puppies. Treats like Important Essentials Freeze Dried Dog Treats are great options due to their size and high protein.
Do I need to worry about the ingredients in dog treats?
Yes, always check the ingredient list. Avoid treats with fillers, artificial flavors, or harmful preservatives. Natural ingredients are always safer for your dog.
Can I use regular dog treats for training?
You can use regular dog treats, but they should be small and low in calories. Training treats need to be quick to consume and motivate your dog without overfeeding.
What to look for
Caloric Content
Caloric content is key when selecting treats for training. Look for options with 5 to 10 calories each. This allows you to reward your dog multiple times without risking weight gain. Treats like Milk-Bone MaroSnacks have only 10 calories, making them suitable for frequent rewards.
Flavor Appeal
Flavor is essential for keeping your dog engaged. Dogs tend to prefer treats with meat flavors or interesting combinations like pumpkin and cinnamon. Treats that offer variety can keep training sessions exciting.
Protein Levels
Protein levels can impact your dog’s energy during training. Look for treats containing at least 15% protein. This ensures your dog stays active and focused. High protein options like Milk-Bone Flavor Snacks Mini’s can help maintain a dog’s energy.
Ingredient Quality
Always check the quality of ingredients in dog treats. Opt for treats made with real meat and no fillers. Natural ingredients are healthier and more appealing to dogs. Products like Pur Luv Chicken Jerky use only whole proteins.
Size and Texture
Choose treats that are small and easy to chew. Bite-sized treats are best for training, as they allow for quick rewards. Look for crunchy textures that also help clean your dog’s teeth.
Shopping around? We have 22 more dog treats guides for other budgets and use cases.
Sources and standards
Background reading we checked while putting this guide together:
- AVMA pet owner resources American Veterinary Medical Association
- ASPCA pet care ASPCA
About the author
