Bringing home a new puppy is one of the most exciting times! You’ve got the toys, the cozy bed, and all the love to give. But when it comes to training and rewarding your furry friend, what treats should you choose? It can feel overwhelming, right? You want the best for your little one, but the pet store aisles are packed with so many choices, it’s hard to know where to start.
Many owners worry about picking treats that are healthy, safe, and actually help with training. Are they too hard? Too soft? Do they have weird ingredients? These are all common concerns when you’re trying to nurture your puppy into a well-behaved companion. You want treats that are tasty enough to keep them interested but also good for their growing bodies.
This blog post is here to help! We’ll break down what makes a great puppy treat and guide you through finding the perfect options for your little furball. By the end of this, you’ll feel confident choosing treats that support your puppy’s development and make training a fun, rewarding experience for both of you. Let’s dive in and discover the delicious world of puppy treats!
Our Top 5 Dog Treats For Puppies Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Dog Treats For Puppies Detailed Reviews
1. Milk-Bone Mini’s Flavor Snacks Dog Treats
Rating: 8.9/10
Looking for a way to make your furry friend’s day a little brighter? Milk-Bone Mini’s Flavor Snacks Dog Treats, in a generous 36-ounce canister, offer a delightful way to reward your canine companion. These mini biscuits come in three crowd-pleasing flavors: savory beef, classic chicken, and smoky bacon. They are perfectly sized for frequent rewarding, making training sessions or just everyday moments extra special.
What We Like:
- Three delicious flavors (beef, chicken, bacon) keep treat time exciting.
- The mini size is ideal for rewarding your dog often, especially during training.
- The crunchy texture helps promote fresh breath and can aid in reducing tartar buildup.
- Each treat contains only 5 calories, making them a guilt-free indulgence.
- They are packed with 12 essential vitamins and minerals for overall health.
- The classic bone shape adds a fun element to treat time.
What Could Be Improved:
- The large canister size might be a bit much for owners with very small dogs who only need a few treats.
- While the flavors are popular, some dogs can be picky, so having a variety of single-flavor options might be beneficial for some owners.
Overall, Milk-Bone Mini’s Flavor Snacks are a fantastic choice for any dog owner. They provide a tasty, healthy, and fun way to show your dog some love.
2. Wellness Puppy Treats
Rating: 9.5/10
Give your furry friend a taste of wholesome goodness with Wellness Puppy Treats! These crunchy, oven-baked biscuits are shaped like adorable hearts, making training and rewarding even more fun. They’re made with natural ingredients, so you know you’re giving your puppy the best. Plus, they come in a convenient 6-ounce bag, perfect for keeping your pup happy and motivated.
What We Like:
- Adorable heart shapes make training extra fun.
- Delicious Peanut Butter & Molasses flavor that puppies love.
- Made with all-natural ingredients, no artificial preservatives.
- Grain-free recipe is great for sensitive tummies.
- Proudly made in North America, a brand trusted for over 90 years.
- Crunchy texture helps clean teeth and freshen breath.
What Could Be Improved:
- Limited time availability means you’ll want to stock up!
These treats are a fantastic option for rewarding good behavior or just showing your puppy some love. They offer a healthy and tasty way to bond with your new best friend.
3. Blue Buffalo Baby BLUE Training Treats Natural Puppy Soft Dog Treats
Rating: 9.5/10
Training your new puppy can be a rewarding experience, and the Blue Buffalo Baby BLUE Training Treats in Savory Chicken flavor are designed to make it even better. These soft, bite-sized treats are made with real chicken as the first ingredient, offering a tasty reward your puppy will be eager to earn. They also include DHA, which supports healthy cognitive development during those crucial early months.
What We Like:
- Real chicken is the first ingredient, making them a delicious and motivating treat for puppies.
- The tender, meaty texture is perfect for little mouths and ideal for frequent training rewards.
- Wholesome ingredients mean no chicken by-product meals, corn, wheat, or soy.
- They are free from artificial preservatives and colors, ensuring a natural and healthy option.
- DHA is included to support your puppy’s cognitive development.
What Could Be Improved:
- The 4-oz bag might be gone quickly if you have a very active training schedule or a particularly food-motivated pup!
These treats offer a healthy and delicious way to reinforce good behavior during puppyhood. They are a great choice for rewarding your furry friend while supporting their development.
4. Buddy Biscuits Trainers 10 oz. Bag of Training Bites Soft & Chewy Dog Treats Made with Bacon Flavor
Rating: 8.8/10
Buddy Biscuits Trainers 10 oz. Bag of Training Bites are soft, chewy dog treats perfect for rewarding your furry friend during training sessions. Made with a natural pork liver base and real bacon, these treats are sure to get your dog’s attention.
What We Like:
- Super Tasty: Dogs go crazy for the bacon flavor and the natural pork liver makes them even more delicious. Your dog will be eager to learn new tricks for these!
- Lots of Treats: You get about 500 treats in each bag, so they last a long time. This is great for frequent training.
- Low Calorie: Each treat is only 1.5 calories. This means you can give your dog plenty of rewards without worrying about them gaining too much weight.
- Healthy Ingredients: The treats are made with clean ingredients. They don’t have corn, soy, or artificial flavors, which is good for your dog’s health.
- Real Bacon: The natural bacon flavor makes these treats extra appealing.
What Could Be Improved:
- Bag Size: While 500 treats is a lot, the 10 oz. bag might not be large enough for owners who train their dogs very often or have multiple dogs.
- Softness Consistency: Some users have noted that the treats can become a bit crumbly if the bag is left open for too long.
These Buddy Biscuits Trainers are a fantastic option for any dog owner focused on positive reinforcement training. They offer great taste and a healthy ingredient list, making training sessions more enjoyable for both you and your dog.
5. Nylabone Healthy Edibles Natural Puppy Chews Long Lasting Treats for Puppies
Rating: 8.8/10
Welcoming a new puppy into your home is exciting, and keeping them happy and healthy is a top priority. Nylabone’s Healthy Edibles Natural Puppy Chews are designed with your growing furry friend in mind. These edible chews are made with all-natural ingredients and come in a variety pack with yummy flavors like Roast Beef, Apple, and Bacon. They’re perfect for little pups, especially those under 15 pounds, and are crafted right here in the USA.
What We Like:
- Made with all-natural ingredients, so no artificial stuff is in them.
- They are highly digestible, which is great for puppy tummies.
- The long-lasting nature helps encourage good chewing habits.
- Comes with three different flavors for variety.
- Proudly made in the USA.
- The size is perfect for X-small puppies.
What Could Be Improved:
- The package only contains 3 chews, which might not last very long for an active puppy.
- If your puppy has a sensitive stomach, it’s always good to monitor them with new treats.
These Nylabone chews offer a great way to reward your puppy during training or just to keep them occupied. They provide a safe and tasty chewing experience for your little one.
Choosing the Best Dog Treats for Your Puppy
Picking the right treats for your growing puppy is exciting! Treats help with training and bonding. But with so many options, how do you choose? This guide will help you find the perfect treats for your furry friend.
Key Features to Look For
When you shop for puppy treats, keep these important things in mind:
- Size-Appropriate: Puppies have small mouths and developing teeth. Look for treats that are small and easy for them to chew and swallow. Big, hard treats can be a choking hazard.
- Nutrient-Rich: Puppies need good nutrition to grow strong. The best treats should have high-quality protein as the first ingredient. This helps build muscles.
- Limited Ingredients: Simple is often better for puppies. Treats with fewer ingredients are less likely to cause tummy upset or allergic reactions.
- No Artificial Stuff: Avoid treats with artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives. These add nothing good to your puppy’s diet.
- Dental Benefits: Some treats are designed to help clean your puppy’s teeth as they chew. This can be a nice bonus!
Important Materials
The ingredients in puppy treats matter a lot. Here’s what to look for:
High-Quality Protein Sources
Protein is essential for puppy growth. Good sources include:
- Chicken
- Turkey
- Lamb
- Fish
- Beef
Look for these listed as the first ingredient on the package.
Healthy Carbohydrates and Fiber
These give your puppy energy. Good options are:
- Sweet potatoes
- Oats
- Rice
- Peas
Beneficial Add-ins
Some treats include extras that can help your puppy:
- Omega-3 fatty acids (from fish oil or flaxseed) can support a healthy coat and brain development.
- Vitamins and minerals are important for overall health.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
What makes a treat great or not so great?
What Makes a Treat Better?
- Natural Ingredients: Treats made with whole, recognizable ingredients are usually higher quality.
- Vet Recommended: If your veterinarian suggests a specific brand or type of treat, it’s usually a safe bet.
- Good Reviews: See what other puppy owners say about the treats.
What Can Lower Treat Quality?
- Fillers: Ingredients like corn, wheat, or soy can be used to bulk up treats but offer less nutritional value. Some puppies can also be sensitive to these.
- Artificial Additives: As mentioned before, avoid artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives.
- Excessive Sugar or Salt: These are not good for puppies and can lead to health problems.
User Experience and Use Cases
How do people actually use and experience puppy treats?
Training Success
Treats are a puppy’s best friend during training! They work as rewards for good behavior. When your puppy sits, stays, or comes when called, a tasty treat makes them want to do it again. Small, soft treats are perfect for quick rewards during training sessions.
Bonding and Playtime
Giving your puppy treats can be a fun way to bond. You can use them for gentle games like “find the treat” or during cuddle time. This builds trust and strengthens your relationship.
Dental Health
Some puppies enjoy chewable treats. These can help keep their teeth clean and their gums healthy. Chewing also helps relieve teething discomfort.
Special Occasions
Treats can be a nice way to celebrate milestones, like finishing potty training or a successful vet visit. They make your puppy feel special!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: How many treats should I give my puppy each day?
A: It’s best to give treats in moderation. Treats should only make up about 10% of your puppy’s daily calorie intake. Always check the treat packaging for recommended amounts based on your puppy’s age and size. Too many treats can lead to weight gain and spoil their appetite for their main food.
Q: When can I start giving my puppy treats?
A: You can start offering small, soft treats as soon as your puppy is weaned off milk and eating solid puppy food, usually around 6-8 weeks old. Always choose treats specifically made for puppies.
Q: What if my puppy has a sensitive stomach?
A: If your puppy has a sensitive stomach, look for treats with limited ingredients, especially those that are grain-free or made with novel proteins like duck or venison. Hypoallergenic treats are also a good option.
Q: Are rawhide treats safe for puppies?
A: Rawhide treats can be a choking hazard and may cause digestive upset for some puppies. It’s generally safer to choose softer, more digestible puppy treats.
Q: How long do puppy treats last?
A: Most unopened puppy treats can last for several months, often up to a year, if stored properly in a cool, dry place. Once opened, check the packaging for instructions, but it’s usually best to use them within a few weeks to ensure freshness and prevent spoilage.
Q: Can I give my puppy adult dog treats?
A: It’s best to stick to puppy-specific treats. Puppy treats are formulated with the right balance of nutrients for growing dogs. Adult dog treats might not have the necessary vitamins and minerals for proper development.
Q: What are “training treats”?
A: Training treats are usually small, soft, and highly palatable (meaning puppies find them very tasty!). They are designed to be used frequently during training sessions as positive reinforcement for good behavior.
Q: Should I worry about calories in puppy treats?
A: Yes, you should be mindful of calories. Puppies are still growing, and too many extra calories from treats can lead to unhealthy weight gain, which can affect their bone development. Always factor treat calories into their total daily intake.
Q: What is the difference between soft and hard puppy treats?
A: Soft puppy treats are easier to chew and digest, making them ideal for very young puppies or those with sensitive mouths. Hard puppy treats can offer more dental benefits by helping to scrape plaque off teeth, but they should still be appropriately sized and not too hard for your puppy’s teeth.
Q: Can treats help with teething?
A: Yes, some puppies enjoy chewing on specially designed teething treats. These can help soothe their sore gums. Look for treats made with safe, digestible ingredients that are designed for chewing.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.