Best Treats for Giant Schnauzers

By PetEssentialist Editorial · Updated July 2026

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Our top pick is Zuke's Mini Naturals Dog Training Treats — best for High-energy training sessions. Why it wins: Low calorie count for controlled feeding.

Giant Schnauzers are renowned for their intelligence and trainability, making them highly responsive to reward-based training. However, their large size and high energy level require careful consideration when selecting treats to avoid overfeeding and support their overall health. With their strong work ethic and loyal nature, Giant Schnauzers thrive on mental and physical stimulation, and the right treats can play a significant role in their development and well-being. Given their size, Giant Schnauzers need treats that are substantial enough to be satisfying, yet controlled in terms of calories to prevent obesity and related health issues such as hip dysplasia and bloat. Treats should also be easy to consume and digest, considering their potential for sensitive stomachs. The key is finding a balance between rewarding their good behavior and maintaining their optimal weight and health. For Giant Schnauzer owners, selecting the right treats is crucial for effective training, health management, and strengthening the bond between dog and owner. The ideal treats should be not only delicious and motivating but also tailored to their specific needs, including their large size, high energy level, and potential health concerns.

What to look for

Size and Calorie Control

Giant Schnauzers are large dogs with high energy levels, requiring treats that are sizable enough to be rewarding yet controlled in calories to prevent overfeeding. Treats with low to moderate calorie counts are ideal for training sessions without compromising their diet. Consider treats that are specifically designed to be low in fat and calories.

Ingredient Sensitivity

Some Giant Schnauzers may have sensitive stomachs or be prone to health issues like hypothyroidism, making it essential to choose treats with limited, easily digestible ingredients. Look for treats made with real meat as the first ingredient and avoid fillers like corn, wheat, or soy.

Trainability and Motivation

Given their high trainability, Giant Schnauzers respond well to treats that are highly motivating. High-value treats with real meat or unique protein sources can be particularly effective for training. However, it's crucial to balance high-value treats with lower-calorie options to maintain a healthy diet.

Health Considerations

Giant Schnauzers are prone to certain health issues such as hip dysplasia, bloat, and eye conditions. While treats cannot prevent these conditions, choosing treats that support overall health and are easy on the digestive system can be beneficial. Consider treats that are rich in nutrients and made with wholesome ingredients.

Our top picks

SponsoredHow we choose →

#	Product	Best for
1	Zuke's Mini Naturals Dog Training Treats	High-energy training sessions
2	Blue Buffalo BLUE Bits Soft-Moist Training Dog Treats	Soft and moist training rewards
3	Cloud Star Tricky Trainers Soft & Chewy Dog Treats	Low-calorie, high-reward training
4	Merrick Power Bites Soft & Chewy Dog Treats	Grain-free, high-protein rewards
5	Wellness Soft WellBites Natural Grain-Free Dog Treats	Natural, grain-free treats

Zuke's Mini Naturals Dog Training Treats

Best for High-energy training sessions

Zuke's Mini Naturals are ideal for training Giant Schnauzers due to their small size, low calorie count, and high-value ingredients. Made with real meat as the first ingredient, these treats are perfect for rewarding good behavior during high-energy training sessions without overfeeding. Their small size also makes them suitable for frequent rewards, keeping your Giant Schnauzer engaged and motivated.

✓ Low calorie count for controlled feeding
✓ Real meat as the first ingredient for high motivation
✓ Small size for frequent rewarding

✕ May be too small for some owners to handle easily

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Blue Buffalo BLUE Bits Soft-Moist Training Dog Treats

Best for Soft and moist training rewards

Blue Buffalo BLUE Bits offer a soft and moist texture that Giant Schnauzers find irresistible, making them perfect for training sessions that require a high level of engagement. With real meat as the first ingredient and no poultry by-products, these treats are both healthy and motivating.

✓ Soft and moist texture for easy consumption
✓ Real meat as the first ingredient
✓ No poultry by-products for sensitive stomachs

✕ May be higher in calories than some other options

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Cloud Star Tricky Trainers Soft & Chewy Dog Treats

Best for Low-calorie, high-reward training

Cloud Star Tricky Trainers are designed for dogs that require a low-calorie diet without compromising on flavor and motivation. With only 2 calories per treat, these are ideal for frequent rewarding during training sessions, keeping your Giant Schnauzer engaged without the risk of overfeeding.

✓ Extremely low calorie count
✓ Grain-free for sensitive stomachs
✓ High-value treats for training

✕ May not be as filling as other treats

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Merrick Power Bites Soft & Chewy Dog Treats

Best for Grain-free, high-protein rewards

Merrick Power Bites offer a grain-free formula with real deboned meat as the first ingredient, making them a great option for Giant Schnauzers that thrive on high-protein diets. Their soft and chewy texture is also appealing to dogs, making them perfect for training and rewarding.

✓ Grain-free for sensitive stomachs
✓ High-protein for muscle health
✓ Soft and chewy texture

✕ Limited flavor options

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Wellness Soft WellBites Natural Grain-Free Dog Treats

Best for Natural, grain-free treats

Wellness Soft WellBites are natural, grain-free treats that cater to Giant Schnauzers' potential sensitivities and dietary needs. Made with natural meat as the first ingredient and no artificial colors or preservatives, these treats are a healthy option for rewarding your dog.

✓ Natural ingredients for a healthy diet
✓ Grain-free for sensitive stomachs
✓ No artificial preservatives or colors

✕ May be more expensive than other options

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Frequently asked questions

What is the best way to use treats for training a Giant Schnauzer?

The best way to use treats for training a Giant Schnauzer is to start with high-value treats during the initial training phases and gradually transition to lower-value treats as the dog becomes more proficient in the desired behaviors. It's also important to use treats in conjunction with praise and affection to create a positive association with the training.

How many treats can I give my Giant Schnauzer per day?

The number of treats you can give your Giant Schnauzer per day depends on their individual calorie needs, activity level, and the calorie count of the treats. As a general rule, treats should not exceed 10% of your dog's daily calorie intake. It's best to consult with a veterinarian to determine the appropriate number of treats for your Giant Schnauzer based on their specific needs.

Can I make my own treats for my Giant Schnauzer?

Yes, you can make your own treats for your Giant Schnauzer, but it's crucial to ensure that the ingredients are safe, healthy, and balanced for your dog's diet. Consult with a veterinarian or a canine nutritionist to create recipes that meet your Giant Schnauzer's nutritional needs and avoid ingredients that could cause allergies or sensitivities.

How do I choose the right size of treats for my Giant Schnauzer?

For Giant Schnauzers, it's essential to choose treats that are large enough to be satisfying but not so large that they become a choking hazard or contribute to overfeeding. Treats should be easily consumable and digestible, considering their size and potential for sensitive stomachs.

Are there any treats that can help with my Giant Schnauzer's health issues?

While treats cannot replace veterinary care or prevent health issues, some treats are formulated to support specific health needs, such as joint health or digestive health. Consult with your veterinarian to find treats that can complement your Giant Schnauzer's diet and health regimen, especially if they have existing health issues like hip dysplasia or sensitive stomachs.

For Giant Schnauzer owners, selecting the right treats is a critical aspect of their dog's training, health, and overall well-being. By considering factors such as size, calorie control, ingredient sensitivity, and health considerations, owners can choose treats that not only reward good behavior but also support their dog's specific needs. Whether you're looking for high-value training treats or healthy snacks, there's a treat out there that's right for your Giant Schnauzer.

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