12 Best Dog Treats for Training: High-Value & Healthy (2025)
After testing over 40 different training treats with professional dog trainers and dogs of all breeds, we've identified the 12 treats that actually motivate dogs during training sessions. The right treat can make the difference between a frustrating training session and breakthrough progress.
š¬ What Makes a Great Training Treat?
Training treats must be: (1) Small enough to give 20-30 per session, (2) Soft for quick consumption, (3) Highly palatable to maintain motivation, (4) Low-calorie to avoid weight gain, (5) Healthy ingredients without fillers.
Our Top 12 Training Treats
Zuke's Mini Naturals Training Treats
Best Overall: These pea-sized treats are perfect for trainingāsoft, aromatic, and just 3 calories each. Made with real chicken as the first ingredient, they're healthy enough for daily use.
Our Testing: Dogs responded enthusiastically to these treats, even during difficult training exercises. The soft texture means no chewing timeādogs can refocus on training immediately.
Check Price on Amazon āWellness Soft Puppy Bites
Best for Puppies: Specifically formulated for puppies with DHA for brain development. Grain-free and made with real lamb and salmon.
Price: Ā£8-12 per 3oz bag
Check Price on Amazon āBil-Jac Little Jacs
High-Value Option: When you need maximum motivation, these liver-based treats are irresistible to most dogs. Professional trainers' choice for difficult behaviors.
Price: Ā£9-14 per 10oz bag
Check Price on Amazon āBlue Buffalo Wilderness Trail Treats
Best Grain-Free: Made with real duck as the first ingredient. Grain-free, no corn, wheat, or soy. Perfect for dogs with sensitivities.
Price: Ā£7-11 per 10oz bag
Check Price on Amazon āFruitables Skinny Minis
Best Low-Calorie: Only 1.5 calories per treat! Perfect for weight management or dogs who need many treats during long training sessions.
Price: Ā£6-10 per 5oz bag
Check Price on Amazon āTraining Treat FAQs
How Many Training Treats Per Day?
Treats should make up no more than 10% of daily calories. For a 50-lb dog eating 1,000 calories daily, that's 100 treat caloriesāabout 30 Zuke's Mini Naturals or 60 Fruitables Skinny Minis.
Can I Use Kibble as Training Treats?
Yes, for basic commands or dogs highly motivated by food. But for challenging behaviors or distractions, higher-value treats work better. Freeze-dried liver or real meat treats are most effective.
What About Homemade Training Treats?
Cooked chicken breast cut into pea-sized pieces is excellent, inexpensive, and healthy. Freeze in portions for convenience. Other good options: cheese cubes, hot dog slices (sparingly), cooked liver.
š” Pro Trainer Tip
Use a "hierarchy of treats"āsave the highest-value treats (freeze-dried meat, cheese) for the most difficult behaviors. Use lower-value treats for well-established commands. This keeps dogs motivated and prevents treat devaluation.