Best Treats for Norwegian Elkhounds

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: High-quality ingredients.

Norwegian Elkhounds are renowned for their bold and loyal nature, making them highly trainable with the right motivation. As a medium-sized breed with high energy levels, they require treats that are not only delicious but also nutritious and sized appropriately. With their dense gray coat and tendency to blow seasonally, it's essential to focus on calorie control and portion management to prevent weight gain. Training is an excellent way to mentally stimulate and physically exercise Norwegian Elkhounds, and using the right treats can make all the difference. However, their potential health issues, such as hip dysplasia and hypothyroidism, necessitate careful consideration of treat ingredients and calorie content. When selecting treats for Norwegian Elkhounds, it's crucial to prioritize their specific needs, taking into account their size, energy level, and potential health concerns. By doing so, owners can provide their dogs with the best possible support for a happy and healthy life.

What to look for

Treat Size and Calorie Control

Norwegian Elkhounds require treats that are sized appropriately for their medium build. Look for treats with limited calories to prevent weight gain and support overall health. Treats with around 3-5 calories per piece are ideal for training and rewarding without overfeeding.

Ingredient Quality and Sensitivity

Given the breed's potential health issues, such as hip dysplasia and hypothyroidism, it's essential to choose treats with high-quality, easily digestible ingredients. Limited-ingredient and low-fat options can help mitigate the risk of sensitive stomachs and pancreatitis.

Trainability and Reward Value

Norwegian Elkhounds are highly trainable, and the right treats can significantly enhance the training process. Opt for treats with a high reward value, such as those made with real meat or containing minimal ingredients, to keep your dog engaged and motivated.

Dental Health and Durability

While not the primary focus for treats, considering the dental health benefits of certain treats can be beneficial. Durable treats can help reduce the risk of dental issues, but for Norwegian Elkhounds, the primary concern is calorie control and ingredient quality.

Our top picks

SponsoredHow we choose →

#	Product	Best for
1	Zuke's Mini Naturals Dog Training Treats	high-energy training sessions
2	Cloud Star Tricky Trainers Soft & Chewy Dog Treats	sensitive stomachs and picky eaters
3	Wellness Soft WellBites Natural Grain-Free Dog Treats	dogs requiring grain-free diets
4	Blue Buffalo BLUE Bits Soft-Moist Training Dog Treats	training sessions requiring soft, moist treats
5	Fruitables Skinny Minis Soft Dog Treats	owners seeking low-calorie, fruit-based treats

Zuke's Mini Naturals Dog Training Treats

Best for high-energy training sessions

Zuke's Mini Naturals Dog Training Treats are perfect for Norwegian Elkhounds due to their small size, low calorie count, and high-quality ingredients. With real meat as the first ingredient, these treats provide excellent reward value for training sessions. Their small size makes them ideal for rapid reward delivery, keeping your dog engaged and motivated.

✓ High-quality ingredients
✓ Low calorie count
✓ Perfect size for training

✕ May be too small for some owners to handle

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Cloud Star Tricky Trainers Soft & Chewy Dog Treats

Best for sensitive stomachs and picky eaters

Cloud Star Tricky Trainers are an excellent choice for Norwegian Elkhounds with sensitive stomachs or those who are picky eaters. With only 2 calories per treat and grain-free, limited-ingredient formulas, these treats are easy on the stomach and provide a high reward value for training.

✓ Limited ingredients
✓ Low calorie count
✓ Soft and chewy texture

✕ May not be suitable for dogs with severe food allergies

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Wellness Soft WellBites Natural Grain-Free Dog Treats

Best for dogs requiring grain-free diets

Wellness Soft WellBites are a great option for Norwegian Elkhounds that require grain-free diets. These soft, chewy treats are made with natural ingredients and have no artificial preservatives or colors, making them a healthy choice for training and rewarding.

✓ Grain-free formula
✓ Natural ingredients
✓ Soft and chewy texture

✕ Limited size options

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Blue Buffalo BLUE Bits Soft-Moist Training Dog Treats

Best for training sessions requiring soft, moist treats

Blue Buffalo BLUE Bits are ideal for Norwegian Elkhounds that thrive on soft, moist treats during training sessions. With real meat as the first ingredient and no poultry by-products, these treats provide a high reward value and are easy to digest.

✓ Soft and moist texture
✓ High-quality ingredients
✓ No poultry by-products

✕ May be too soft for some owners' preference

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Fruitables Skinny Minis Soft Dog Treats

Best for owners seeking low-calorie, fruit-based treats

Fruitables Skinny Minis are a unique treat option for Norwegian Elkhounds, made with fruit and vegetable ingredients and containing only 3 calories per treat. These treats are perfect for owners looking for a low-calorie, healthy reward option that's also gentle on the stomach.

✓ Low calorie count
✓ Fruit and vegetable ingredients
✓ Soft and chewy texture

✕ May not be suitable for dogs with certain food allergies

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Frequently asked questions

What is the ideal treat size for Norwegian Elkhounds?

The ideal treat size for Norwegian Elkhounds is small to medium, around 1-2 inches in diameter, to prevent overfeeding and support training sessions. Treats with limited calories (around 3-5 calories per piece) are also recommended.

Can Norwegian Elkhounds have grain-free treats?

Yes, Norwegian Elkhounds can have grain-free treats, especially if they have sensitivities or allergies. However, it's essential to choose grain-free treats made with high-quality, easily digestible ingredients to ensure the best nutritional support.

How many treats can I give my Norwegian Elkhound per day?

The number of treats you can give your Norwegian Elkhound per day depends on their individual calorie needs, activity level, and the treat's calorie content. As a general rule, limit treats to 5-10% of their daily calorie intake to prevent overfeeding and support a healthy weight.

Are there any specific ingredients I should avoid in treats for my Norwegian Elkhound?

Yes, it's recommended to avoid treats containing fillers, by-products, and artificial preservatives, as these can be difficult for Norwegian Elkhounds to digest and may exacerbate potential health issues. Opt for treats with named protein sources, whole grains, and minimal ingredients instead.

Can I use treats as a replacement for meals for my Norwegian Elkhound?

No, treats should not be used as a replacement for meals for Norwegian Elkhounds. Treats are intended to be a supplement to their regular diet, providing additional flavor, texture, and reward value. Ensure your dog is receiving a balanced, nutrient-rich diet, and use treats in moderation to support training and bonding.

For Norwegian Elkhound owners, the key to choosing the best treats is to prioritize their specific needs, including high energy levels, potential health issues, and trainability. By selecting treats that are sized appropriately, made with high-quality ingredients, and limited in calories, owners can provide their dogs with the best possible support for a happy and healthy life. Whether you're focusing on training, rewarding, or simply spoiling your Norwegian Elkhound, the right treats can make all the difference.

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