Best Treats for Bloodhounds

By PetEssentialist Editorial · Updated July 2026

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Our top pick is Zuke's Mini Naturals Dog Training Treats — best for Large breed training and motivation. Why it wins: High-value treat for training.

Bloodhounds are known for their strong nose and determined temperament, making them a challenge to train without the right motivation. With their large size and moderate energy level, they require treats that are both rewarding and easy to consume. Given their prone nature to bloat and skin fold infections, it's essential to choose treats that are not only tasty but also healthy and safe. Their friendly and gentle nature makes them a delight to train with positive reinforcement, using treats that are high-value and nutritious. However, their stubbornness can make training a test of patience, requiring consistent and rewarding treat-based motivation. When selecting treats for Bloodhounds, it's crucial to prioritize their specific needs, focusing on size, ingredient quality, and calorie control to ensure they remain healthy and engaged throughout their training sessions.

What to look for

Treat Size and Texture

Bloodhounds are large dogs and require treats that are appropriately sized for their breed. Treats that are too small may not be satisfying, while treats that are too large can be overwhelming. Opt for treats that are specifically designed for large breeds, with a texture that is easy to chew and swallow.

Ingredient Quality and Safety

Given their predisposition to bloat and skin infections, Bloodhounds benefit from treats made with high-quality, easily digestible ingredients. Look for treats with limited ingredients, avoiding fillers and by-products that can exacerbate health issues.

Calorie and Portion Control

With their moderate energy level, Bloodhounds need treats that are calorie-controlled to prevent overfeeding. Choose treats that are low in fat and calories, and be mindful of portion sizes to maintain a healthy weight.

Trainability and Motivation

Bloodhounds are highly motivated by food, making treat-based training highly effective. Select treats that are high-value and tempting to keep them engaged and focused during training sessions.

Our top picks

SponsoredHow we choose →

#	Product	Best for
1	Zuke's Mini Naturals Dog Training Treats	Large breed training and motivation
2	Wellness Soft WellBites Natural Grain-Free Dog Treats	Grain-free, soft chew treats for sensitive stomachs
3	Blue Buffalo BLUE Bits Soft-Moist Training Dog Treats	Soft, moist treats for quick training rewards
4	Cloud Star Tricky Trainers Soft & Chewy Dog Treats	Low-calorie, grain-free treats for training
5	Stella & Chewy's Freeze-Dried Raw Dog Treats	High-value, raw treats for picky eaters

Zuke's Mini Naturals Dog Training Treats

Best for Large breed training and motivation

Zuke's Mini Naturals are ideal for Bloodhounds due to their small size, making them perfect for training sessions without overfeeding. With real meat as the first ingredient, these treats are both healthy and enticing. Their low calorie count also helps in maintaining a healthy weight.

✓ High-value treat for training
✓ Small size for easy consumption
✓ Real meat as first ingredient

✕ May not be suitable for dogs with certain meat allergies

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Wellness Soft WellBites Natural Grain-Free Dog Treats

Best for Grain-free, soft chew treats for sensitive stomachs

Wellness Soft WellBites offer a grain-free, natural alternative that is gentle on Bloodhounds' potentially sensitive stomachs. Their soft texture makes them easy to chew, reducing the risk of choking hazards.

✓ Grain-free for sensitive dogs
✓ Soft texture for easy chewing
✓ Natural ingredients

✕ Limited size options

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Blue Buffalo BLUE Bits Soft-Moist Training Dog Treats

Best for Soft, moist treats for quick training rewards

Blue Buffalo BLUE Bits are soft and moist, making them perfect for quick training rewards. With real meat as the first ingredient, they are both healthy and motivating for Bloodhounds.

✓ Soft and moist for quick consumption
✓ Real meat as first ingredient
✓ No poultry by-products

✕ May be too soft for some owners' preferences

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Cloud Star Tricky Trainers Soft & Chewy Dog Treats

Best for Low-calorie, grain-free treats for training

Cloud Star Tricky Trainers offer a low-calorie, grain-free option that is ideal for Bloodhounds requiring a diet restricted in certain ingredients. Their small size and soft texture make them perfect for training.

✓ Low in calories
✓ Grain-free
✓ Small size for training

✕ Flavor options may be limited

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Stella & Chewy's Freeze-Dried Raw Dog Treats

Best for High-value, raw treats for picky eaters

Stella & Chewy's Freeze-Dried Raw Dog Treats provide a high-value, raw treat option that can be particularly appealing to picky Bloodhounds. Made from single-protein sources, these treats are also a good option for dogs with food sensitivities.

✓ High-value treat for picky eaters
✓ Single-protein sources
✓ Minimal processing

✕ May be more expensive than other options

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Frequently asked questions

What treat size is best for Bloodhounds?

Bloodhounds, being a large breed, require treats that are appropriately sized. Opt for treats that are specifically designed for large breeds to ensure they are satisfying yet not overwhelming.

How can I prevent overfeeding my Bloodhound with treats?

To prevent overfeeding, choose low-calorie treats and be mindful of portion sizes. It's also essential to consider the treat's nutritional value and how it fits into your dog's overall diet.

Are there any specific ingredients I should avoid in Bloodhound treats?

Yes, due to their predisposition to certain health issues, it's advisable to avoid treats with fillers, by-products, and potentially irritating ingredients. Opt for treats with natural, easily digestible ingredients instead.

Can I use treats to help with my Bloodhound's training?

Yes, treats are highly effective for training Bloodhounds due to their strong food motivation. Use high-value, low-calorie treats to keep them engaged and focused during training sessions.

How often should I give my Bloodhound treats?

The frequency of giving treats depends on your dog's individual needs, activity level, and dietary requirements. As a general rule, treats should not exceed 10% of your dog's daily calorie intake. Always consult with a veterinarian for personalized advice.

When choosing the best treats for your Bloodhound, prioritize their specific needs, including size, ingredient quality, and calorie control. Whether you're looking for training rewards or simply a healthy snack, there's a treat on this list suitable for your large and lovable companion. Remember, every dog is unique, so it's crucial to monitor your Bloodhound's response to different treats and adjust your choices accordingly.

More for your Bloodhound

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Best Treats for other breeds

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