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By PetEssentialist Team · Updated July 2026 · How we review
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Our top pick is Zuke's Mini Naturals Dog Training Treats — best for Small to medium-sized breeds. Why it wins: Tiny size for small breeds.
As a puppy owner, they're constantly on the lookout for ways to reward good behavior, support growth, and keep their little one occupied. Puppies are at a critical stage of development, and their treats should reflect that. They need something that's not only delicious but also safe, healthy, and tailored to their specific needs. From house-training to crate-training, treats play a vital role in a puppy's learning journey. With so many options on the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one. That's why it's essential to consider factors like size, ingredient quality, and calorie content when selecting treats for puppies. For puppies, treats should be more than just a tasty snack - they should be a tool for training, a source of nutrition, and a way to keep them engaged and stimulated. By choosing the right treats, owners can set their puppies up for a lifetime of health, happiness, and strong training foundations.
Puppies come in all shapes and sizes, and their treats should too. For smaller breeds, tiny training bits are essential to prevent choking hazards. Larger breeds, on the other hand, can handle bigger treats. Owners should choose treats that are specifically designed for their puppy's size and breed.
Puppies can be prone to sensitive stomachs, and some breeds are more susceptible to pancreatitis. Owners should opt for limited-ingredient or low-fat treats to minimize the risk of adverse reactions. Real meat as the first ingredient is also a plus, as it provides essential protein for growth and development.
Puppies are high-energy, and they need treats that won't weigh them down. Low-calorie treats are ideal for training sessions, as they provide a quick reward without overloading on calories. Owners should look for treats with minimal ingredients and no fillers to keep their puppies focused and motivated.
Puppies are notorious for putting everything in their mouths, which makes choking hazards a significant concern. Owners should choose treats that are designed with safety in mind, such as soft and chewy textures or small, bite-sized pieces.
| # | Product | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Zuke's Mini Naturals Dog Training Treats | Small to medium-sized breeds |
| 2 | Cloud Star Tricky Trainers Soft & Chewy Dog Treats | Toy breeds and picky eaters |
| 3 | Wellness Soft WellBites Natural Grain-Free Dog Treats | Puppies with sensitive stomachs |
| 4 | Blue Buffalo BLUE Bits Soft-Moist Training Dog Treats | Medium to large-sized breeds |
| 5 | Fruitables Skinny Minis Soft Dog Treats | Puppies with weight management issues |
Zuke's Mini Naturals are the perfect treat for small to medium-sized breeds. With only 3 calories per treat, they're ideal for training sessions without overloading on calories. Real meat as the first ingredient provides essential protein for growth and development.
Cloud Star Tricky Trainers are perfect for toy breeds and picky eaters. With only 2 calories per treat, they're an excellent choice for training sessions. The soft and chewy texture makes them easy to eat and digest.
Wellness Soft WellBites are an excellent choice for puppies with sensitive stomachs. The grain-free formula and natural ingredients make them easy to digest, while the soft and chewy texture provides a comfortable eating experience.
Blue Buffalo BLUE Bits are perfect for medium to large-sized breeds. The soft and moist texture provides a comfortable eating experience, while the real meat as the first ingredient provides essential protein for growth and development.
Fruitables Skinny Minis are an excellent choice for puppies with weight management issues. With only 3 calories per treat, they're an ideal choice for training sessions without overloading on calories. The fruit and vegetable ingredients provide essential nutrients for growth and development.
The best treat size for your puppy depends on their breed and size. For smaller breeds, tiny training bits are essential to prevent choking hazards. Larger breeds can handle bigger treats. Choose treats that are specifically designed for your puppy's size and breed.
No, it's not recommended to give your puppy table scraps as treats. Table scraps can be high in calories, fat, and salt, which can be detrimental to your puppy's health. Instead, opt for healthy, puppy-specific treats that are designed to meet their nutritional needs.
The frequency of treat-giving depends on your puppy's individual needs and training goals. As a general rule, puppies should receive treats during training sessions or as an occasional reward. Overfeeding with treats can lead to weight gain and other health issues.
When choosing puppy treats, avoid ingredients like fillers, by-products, and artificial preservatives. Opt for treats with real meat as the first ingredient, and limited ingredients to minimize the risk of adverse reactions.
Yes, treats can be an effective tool for house-training. Use small, low-calorie treats to reward your puppy for eliminating outside or using the litter box. This positive reinforcement can help speed up the house-training process and reduce accidents.
When it comes to choosing the best treats for puppies, it's essential to consider factors like size, ingredient quality, and calorie content. By selecting treats that meet your puppy's specific needs, you can support their growth and development, while also providing a positive and rewarding training experience. Consult with your veterinarian to determine the best diet and treat plan for your puppy.
The same category, matched to a different breed.