Training a new puppy requires patience, consistency, and the right motivators—and nothing motivates a puppy like the perfect treat. Whether you’re teaching basic commands or encouraging good behavior, the treats you use play a key role in keeping your puppy focused and engaged.
But not all treats are created equal. Some are too big, too hard, or too rich for a young puppy’s digestive system. In this guide, we’ll highlight what to look for in a training treat and share the best options to reward your puppy during those important early lessons.
What Makes a Great Puppy Training Treat?
The best training treats are:
- Small and soft – Easy to chew and quick to eat during fast-paced training sessions
- Highly palatable – Irresistible flavor that grabs your puppy’s attention
- Low in calories – So you can give many during a session without overfeeding
- Nutritious and safe – Made with quality ingredients suitable for young dogs
Bonus: Many trainers prefer treats that don’t leave greasy residue on hands.
When to Use Training Treats
Training treats are best used for:
- Teaching basic commands (sit, stay, come, down)
- Potty training and crate training
- Socialization rewards (meeting new people or exploring new environments)
- Redirecting unwanted behavior
- Reinforcing calmness and focus
Treats work best when used immediately after the desired behavior. Timing is everything.
Top 6 Training Treats for Puppies
1. Zuke’s Mini Naturals Puppy Treats
These soft, pea-sized treats are perfect for repetitive training. Made with real meat and free from corn, wheat, and soy.
- 3.5 calories per treat
- Available in several flavors
- Easy to break into smaller pieces
2. Wellness Soft Puppy Bites
Designed specifically for puppies, these treats include DHA for brain development and come in a soft, chewy texture.
- No meat by-products
- Grain-free
- Ideal for early obedience work
3. Blue Buffalo Blue Bits
Packed with real meat and enhanced with vitamins, these treats are soft and tasty. Great for food-motivated pups.
- No artificial preservatives
- Available in chicken, beef, and salmon
- Suitable for puppies 3 months and older
4. Merrick Power Bites
Protein-rich and soft, Merrick treats are great for both training and rewarding. Made with deboned meat as the first ingredient.
- Grain-free
- No artificial flavors
- High-value reward for outdoor training
5. Natural Balance Mini Rewards
A lower-calorie option perfect for frequent training sessions. They come in limited ingredient formulas for sensitive puppies.
- Only 2.5 calories per treat
- Great for small breeds
- Lamb, duck, and chicken options
6. Boiled Chicken or Freeze-Dried Liver (Homemade Option)
If you prefer a natural, unprocessed option, small bits of cooked chicken or freeze-dried liver make excellent high-value treats.
- 100% protein
- Ideal for picky eaters
- Must be used quickly or stored properly
How Many Treats Are Too Many?
Training sessions can involve dozens of repetitions, so it’s important to account for treat calories in your puppy’s daily intake. You can:
- Break treats into smaller pieces
- Use part of your dog’s kibble as a reward
- Balance with activity and portion control at meals
Overfeeding treats can lead to digestive upset or bad habits, so use them wisely and gradually phase them out as commands become consistent.
Conclusion
The right training treats can make a big difference in how quickly and happily your puppy learns. Choose soft, tasty, and appropriately sized options that support both training success and your puppy’s overall health.
Looking for more puppy training tips? Check out our full Puppy Training section for step-by-step guides and behavioral advice.