Dog training treats are key to fast results. Learn how to choose the best kind for effective sessions, happy pups, and long-term success.
Dog Training Treats: How to Pick the Right Kind for Training Sessions
What if I told you that the secret to faster, better dog training isn’t more commands—it’s better treats? 🐶🍖
The right dog training treats can make or break your training sessions. They are a tool, whether you’re house-training a new puppy or fine-tuning a leash walk with your older dog. But not all treats are created equal. Some are too boring, too big, too crumbly—or worse, too unhealthy.
Let’s break down exactly how to pick the best kind of training treats so your sessions are fun, rewarding, and super effective.
Why Training Treats Matter (More Than You Think)
Training isn’t just about commands—it’s about motivation. And for dogs, motivation often comes in one delicious form: food. 🍗
Treats are positive reinforcement. When your dog does something right, a treat tells them, “Yes! Do that again!” That feedback loop helps dogs learn faster and keeps them engaged.
What Makes a Good Dog Training Treat?
There are a few non-negotiables when it comes to choosing a good treat for training:
- Smell: The stronger, the better. Dogs love stinky stuff.
- Taste: If your pup loves it, they’ll work harder.
- Size: Small enough to avoid overfeeding, but a “wow” bite.
- Texture: Soft treats are easier to chew quickly.
Here’s a quick cheat sheet:
| Feature | Ideal Option | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| Smell | Meaty or fishy | Dogs follow their nose 🐾 |
| Texture | Soft/moist | Faster chewing, less distraction |
| Size | Pea-sized or smaller | Prevents overfeeding during reps |
| Calories | Under 3 per treat | Keeps your dog fit and healthy |
High vs. Low-Value Treats: Know the Difference
Here’s a little-known trick: Not all treats should be created equal.
- Low-value treats are for easy tasks your dog already knows.
- High-value treats are for tough training or distractions (like working outside or meeting new dogs).
Think of it like tipping your dog. Basic trick? A dry biscuit. Recall from a squirrel? 🐿️ Bust out the chicken.
Best Types of Dog Training Treats (By Category)
Let’s go over what works—and what doesn’t.
1. Soft Chews
These are the gold standard for most training. Think Zuke’s Minis or Wellness Soft Bites.
- Easy to break apart
- Moist and smelly
- Quick to eat = no delay between commands
2. Freeze-Dried Meat
If your dog loves freeze-dried liver or chicken, it’s a game changer.
- Super high-value
- Natural ingredients
- Longer shelf life than fresh meats
3. Store-Bought Training Treats
Brands like Cloud Star, Blue Buffalo, or Merrick make treats for training. Look for:
- Small size (under 1 inch)
- Grain-free if your pup has allergies
- Limited ingredients
4. Homemade Dog Treats
Want to control what your dog eats? DIY time! 🏡
- Boiled chicken breast
- Turkey hot dogs (sliced thin)
- Sweet potato coins (baked soft)
Pro tip: Freeze portions in snack-size bags for easy training.
When NOT to Use a Treat
Believe it or not, some things are better taught without treats. For example:
- Correcting behavior like jumping or barking
- Housebreaking (treats come after the potty, not before!)
- Aggression or fear—these need more nuanced approaches
How Many Treats Are Too Many?
This is where a lot of folks go wrong. You can love your dog… a little too much. 😅
Here’s a rough daily guideline:
| Dog Weight | Max Treat Calories/Day |
|---|---|
| Under 10 lbs | 20–30 cal |
| 10–25 lbs | 30–50 cal |
| 25–50 lbs | 50–75 cal |
| 50+ lbs | 75–100 cal |
Tip: Training treats should be no more than 10% of your dog’s daily calories.
How to Use Treats Effectively in Training
🎯 Timing is everything. Give the treat immediately after the behavior. Even a 2-second delay can confuse your dog.
Do this:
- Say command → dog responds → instant treat
- Use verbal praise with the treat
- Keep a treat pouch on you for faster access
Avoid this:
- Reaching for a treat before the command (dogs will just beg)
- Delayed rewards
- Over-repeating commands
Mix It Up: Use a Variety of Treats
Dogs get bored—just like us.
Use different treats for different sessions. Your pup will get excited when they don’t know what’s coming. 🎁
Try this rotation idea:
- Morning walk = chicken bites
- Afternoon session = peanut butter bits
- Evening game = freeze-dried beef
Watch for Allergies and Ingredients
Always read the label.
Avoid:
- Artificial preservatives (like BHA/BHT)
- Too much sugar or salt
- Fillers like corn, soy, or wheat (for sensitive pups)
Choose treats with:
- Real meat as the first ingredient
- Limited ingredients
- Natural preservatives (like rosemary extract)
Training Puppies? Pick Treats Carefully
Puppy tummies are sensitive. Choose puppy-specific treats or homemade options like boiled chicken.
✅ Soft
✅ Easy to digest
✅ Made for tiny mouths
Also, puppies train a lot. So the treats need to be low-calorie and small.
Senior Dogs Need Different Treats Too
Older dogs may have dental issues or slower digestion.
Go for:
- Soft texture
- Low-fat options
- Joint-support treats (some contain glucosamine)
The Role of Treat Pouches (Yep, It Matters)
Want to train like a pro? Get a good treat pouch. 🎒
Why?
- Speeds up treat delivery
- Keeps hands free
- Less mess in your pockets (you’ll thank us later)
Look for ones that are:
- Easy to clip on your belt
- Magnetic or drawstring closure
- Machine washable
Training Treats vs. Daily Treats: Know the Difference
Not all treats are for training.
Training treats are:
- Smaller
- Lower in calories
- Quick to chew
Daily treats can be:
- Larger
- Harder chews for dental health
- Given once or twice a day for bonding
💡 Use the right tool for the job. Don’t train with a milk bone!
Best Times to Train with Treats
Here’s when your dog’s attention is peak-level:
- Before meals (slightly hungry = more motivation)
- After a potty break
- When the environment is low-distraction (at first)
📅 Keep sessions short and sweet: 5–10 minutes max.
Signs a Treat Isn’t Working
Not all treats are good. Look for these signs:
- Your dog sniffs it… and walks away 😬
- They seem bored or distracted
- They’re slow to respond to commands
If you see these signs, try better treats.
Sample Dog Training Treat Rotation Plan
Need a treat plan? Here’s one:
| Day | Low-Value Treat | High-Value Treat |
|---|---|---|
| Monday | Kibble bits | Turkey hot dogs |
| Tuesday | Soft training treats | Freeze-dried liver |
| Wednesday | Dental chews | Peanut butter chunks |
| Thursday | Sweet potato bites | Boiled chicken |
| Friday | Biscuit crumbs | Salmon jerky |
Keep it exciting for your dog!
Conclusion: Pick Smart, Train Better
Choosing the right treat is key. It’s not just about taste. It’s about making learning fun and effective.
Whether homemade or store-bought, the goal is to motivate your dog. This builds a strong bond through positive reinforcement.
So, think about it next time you give a treat. Is it worth it? 😉🐾
FAQs
1. Can I use kibble as a training treat?
Yes! It’s good if your dog loves food. Just don’t give too much.
2. What’s the best treat for outdoor training?
Try liver, hot dogs, or boiled chicken. They work well outside.
3. How often should I change training treats?
Change them every few days. It keeps your dog interested.
4. Are human foods safe for training treats?
Some are! Safe choices include plain chicken, turkey, carrots, and cheese (in small amounts).
5. What if my dog doesn’t like any treats?
Try toys or praise instead. Some dogs prefer play or affection.
References
- American Kennel Club: https://www.akc.org
- PetMD Dog Treat Guide: https://www.petmd.com
- ASPCA Nutrition Tips: https://www.aspca.org
