Best Treats for Irish Setters

By PetEssentialist Editorial · Updated July 2026

We independently research and pick every product. When you buy through our links we may earn a commission, at no extra cost to you. How this works.

🏆 Quick answer

Our top pick is Zuke's Mini Naturals Dog Training Treats — best for Training and portion control. Why it wins: Low in calories and fat.

Irish Setters are notorious for being slow to mature, which means they require consistent training and positive reinforcement throughout their lives. As a breed that thrives on human interaction and affection, they are highly food-motivated, making treats an essential part of their training and bonding process. However, with their high energy levels and tendency to gain weight, it's crucial to choose treats that are not only delicious but also nutritious and portion-controlled. When selecting treats for Irish Setters, it's essential to consider their large size, requiring treats that are substantial enough to satisfy their appetite without overfeeding. With their outgoing and playful personalities, Irish Setters need treats that can keep up with their active lifestyle. They require treats that are easy to digest, made with wholesome ingredients, and low in calories to prevent weight gain and related health issues. Irish Setters are also prone to certain health issues such as hip dysplasia and bloat, making it vital to select treats that are gentle on their stomachs and support their overall well-being. By choosing the right treats, Irish Setter owners can help support their dog's training, satisfy their hunger, and promote a healthy and happy lifestyle. With so many treat options available, it can be overwhelming to decide which ones are best suited for this breed. Here are some key factors to consider and top picks for Irish Setter treats.

What to look for

Size and Portion Control

Irish Setters are a large breed, requiring treats that are substantial enough to satisfy their appetite. However, it's essential to choose treats that are low in calories and can be easily broken into smaller pieces for training and portion control. This will help prevent overfeeding and weight gain, which can exacerbate health issues such as hip dysplasia.

Nutrition and Ingredient Quality

Irish Setters need treats that are made with wholesome, easily digestible ingredients. Look for treats that are rich in protein, fiber, and healthy fats, and avoid those with fillers, by-products, and artificial preservatives. Limited-ingredient diets can be beneficial for Irish Setters with sensitive stomachs or food allergies.

Energy Level and Activity

Irish Setters are highly energetic and require treats that can keep up with their active lifestyle. Choose treats that are high in protein and fiber to support their energy needs and satisfy their hunger after exercise or playtime.

Health Considerations

Irish Setters are prone to certain health issues such as hip dysplasia, bloat, and epilepsy. When selecting treats, consider their nutritional needs and potential allergies or sensitivities. Opt for treats that are gentle on their stomachs and support their overall health and well-being.

Trainability and Reward

Irish Setters are highly trainable and thrive on positive reinforcement. Choose treats that are small, tasty, and can be easily used as rewards during training sessions. This will help motivate them to learn and behave well.

Our top picks

SponsoredHow we choose →

#	Product	Best for
1	Zuke's Mini Naturals Dog Training Treats	Training and portion control
2	Wellness Soft WellBites Natural Grain-Free Dog Treats	Sensitive stomachs and grain-free diets
3	Blue Buffalo BLUE Bits Soft-Moist Training Dog Treats	Training and high-energy activities
4	Cloud Star Tricky Trainers Soft & Chewy Dog Treats	Small training sessions and portion control
5	Stella & Chewy's Freeze-Dried Raw Dog Treats	Raw diets and high-value rewards

Zuke's Mini Naturals Dog Training Treats

Best for Training and portion control

Zuke's Mini Naturals are ideal for Irish Setters due to their small size, low calorie count, and wholesome ingredients. These treats are perfect for training and can be easily broken into smaller pieces for portion control. With real meat as the first ingredient, they provide a nutritious and delicious reward for good behavior.

✓ Low in calories and fat
✓ Made with wholesome ingredients
✓ Perfect for training and portion control

✕ May be too small for some Irish Setters
✕ Limited flavor options

Check price →

Wellness Soft WellBites Natural Grain-Free Dog Treats

Best for Sensitive stomachs and grain-free diets

Wellness Soft WellBites are a great option for Irish Setters with sensitive stomachs or food allergies. These grain-free treats are made with natural ingredients and are easy to digest, reducing the risk of adverse reactions.

✓ Grain-free and natural ingredients
✓ Easy to digest
✓ Soft and chewy texture

✕ May be too soft for some Irish Setters
✕ Limited size options

Check price →

Blue Buffalo BLUE Bits Soft-Moist Training Dog Treats

Best for Training and high-energy activities

Blue Buffalo BLUE Bits are perfect for Irish Setters that require high-energy treats. These soft and moist treats are made with real meat and are easy to digest, providing a nutritious and delicious reward for good behavior.

✓ High in protein and fiber
✓ Soft and moist texture
✓ Perfect for training and high-energy activities

✕ May be too high in calories for some Irish Setters
✕ Limited size options

Check price →

Cloud Star Tricky Trainers Soft & Chewy Dog Treats

Best for Small training sessions and portion control

Cloud Star Tricky Trainers are ideal for Irish Setters that require small, low-calorie treats for training and portion control. These soft and chewy treats are made with wholesome ingredients and are perfect for rewarding good behavior.

✓ Low in calories and fat
✓ Made with wholesome ingredients
✓ Perfect for small training sessions

✕ May be too small for some Irish Setters
✕ Limited flavor options

Check price →

Stella & Chewy's Freeze-Dried Raw Dog Treats

Best for Raw diets and high-value rewards

Stella & Chewy's Freeze-Dried Raw Dog Treats are a great option for Irish Setters that thrive on raw diets. These freeze-dried treats are made with single-protein sources and are perfect for high-value rewards and training sessions.

✓ Raw and natural ingredients
✓ High in protein and fiber
✓ Perfect for high-value rewards

✕ May be too high in calories for some Irish Setters
✕ Limited size options

Check price →

Frequently asked questions

What are the best treats for training an Irish Setter?

The best treats for training an Irish Setter are small, low-calorie, and made with wholesome ingredients. Zuke's Mini Naturals and Cloud Star Tricky Trainers are great options for training and portion control.

Can I give my Irish Setter raw treats?

Yes, Irish Setters can thrive on raw diets. Stella & Chewy's Freeze-Dried Raw Dog Treats are a great option for raw diets and high-value rewards.

How many treats should I give my Irish Setter per day?

The number of treats you should give your Irish Setter per day depends on their individual needs and activity level. As a general rule, treats should not exceed 10% of their daily calorie intake. Consult with your veterinarian to determine the best treat plan for your Irish Setter.

What are the best treats for an Irish Setter with sensitive stomachs?

For Irish Setters with sensitive stomachs, it's best to opt for treats that are easy to digest and made with limited ingredients. Wellness Soft WellBites and Blue Buffalo BLUE Bits are great options for sensitive stomachs and grain-free diets.

Can I use treats as a replacement for meals?

No, treats should not be used as a replacement for meals. Treats are meant to be a supplement to your Irish Setter's regular diet and should not exceed 10% of their daily calorie intake. Consult with your veterinarian to determine the best diet plan for your Irish Setter.

When selecting treats for your Irish Setter, it's essential to consider their unique needs and traits. Choose treats that are nutritious, delicious, and tailored to their individual requirements. With the right treats and a balanced diet, you can help support your Irish Setter's training, health, and overall well-being. Remember to always consult with your veterinarian before making any changes to your Irish Setter's diet or treat plan.

More for your Irish Setter

Other breed-matched picks worth a look.

Best Treats for other breeds

The same category, matched to a different breed.