The Best Treats for Puppies in 2024

Puppy treats play a crucial role in shaping your canine companion's behavior and fostering a strong bond between you and your furry friend. Whether you're engaging in training sessions or simply want to reward good behavior, choosing the right treats is paramount. In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore the top considerations when selecting puppy treats and introduce you to some of the best options on the market that cater to different preferences and dietary needs.

Things to Consider When Choosing Treats for Puppies

Before immersing ourselves in the world of specific products, it’s essential to delve deeper into the intricate factors that make selecting the perfect treats for your puppy an art. Understanding these considerations will not only enhance your pup’s overall well-being but also strengthen the bond between you and your furry friend.

Ingredients: Nutritional Goodness

When it comes to ingredients, envision treats as a symphony of nutritional goodness for your puppy. Beyond merely seeking high-quality components, delve into the specifics of what makes each treat wholesome. Opt for treats that boast real meat and vegetables as primary ingredients, providing essential proteins, vitamins, and minerals. Steering clear of artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives is not just about avoiding unnecessary additives; it’s a commitment to prioritizing your puppy’s health with every delectable bite. Treat time becomes a moment of nourishment, aligning with the principles of a balanced and nutritious diet.

Texture: Tailoring Treats to Canine Palates and Dental Health

Puppies, like people, have discerning palates, and texture plays a pivotal role in their treat preferences. The options are vast—some may revel in the satisfying crunch of a biscuit, while others might prefer the tender indulgence of a soft treat. But texture is more than a matter of taste; it’s also a key player in dental health. Crunchy treats can contribute to reducing plaque and tartar buildup, promoting optimal oral hygiene. For puppies with teething sensitivities, the gentleness of a softer treat becomes a soothing experience. By understanding and catering to your puppy’s texture preference, you transform treat time into a multisensory delight that supports both their taste buds and dental well-being.

Purpose: A Treat for Every Occasion

Treats are versatile in their roles, serving as tools for training, rewards for good behavior, or aids in dental care. Identifying the purpose behind each treat guides your selection process. Training treats, for instance, should be small, quick to consume, and irresistibly palatable to effectively reinforce positive behaviors. Rewards, on the other hand, might call for a slightly larger and more indulgent treat, creating a special moment of celebration. Dental treats often come with specific textures and ingredients designed to reduce plaque and freshen breath. Tailoring the treat to its intended purpose ensures maximum effectiveness in your puppy’s care routine, creating a holistic approach to their well-being.

Size: Balancing Pleasure and Safety

The size of a treat is more than a trivial detail—it’s about balancing pleasure and safety for your puppy. Treats that are too large may pose challenges for small or toy breeds, potentially leading to overconsumption or choking hazards. Conversely, treats that are too small might leave larger breeds unsatisfied, diminishing the reward effect. Size considerations should extend beyond breed size to factor in your puppy’s age and individual preferences. Experimenting with a variety of sizes allows you to tailor treats to your pup’s specific needs, ensuring each delightful morsel is perfectly sized for pleasure without compromise.

In conclusion, choosing the right treats for your puppy involves a nuanced understanding of ingredients, texture, purpose, and size. These considerations elevate treat time from a routine to a thoughtful and enriching experience for your furry companion. As you embark on this journey of treat selection, armed with knowledge, you’re not just offering snacks—you’re crafting moments of joy, nourishment, and positive reinforcement for your puppy.

Now, let’s explore some of the top puppy treats available, each offering unique features to meet the diverse needs of pet owners.

The Best Treats for Puppies in 2024

Blue Buffalo Baby BLUE Training Treats

Train with taste

Trusted brand Blue Buffalo strikes again.
Best Overall

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Highlights:

  • Ideal for training sessions
  • Small, soft, and easily breakable
  • Real meat as the first ingredient
  • No poultry by-products or artificial preservatives
  • Rich in DHA for cognitive development
  • Suitable for puppies and adult dogs

Blue Buffalo Baby BLUE Training Treats stand out as a leading choice for pet owners engaged in training activities. These treats are expertly crafted with real meat as the primary ingredient, ensuring a protein-rich reward that aligns with your dog’s natural dietary preferences. The small, soft, and easily breakable nature of these treats makes them convenient for training sessions, allowing you to reinforce positive behaviors effectively.

What sets Blue Buffalo apart is their commitment to holistic health. Enriched with DHA, a vital nutrient for cognitive development, these treats go beyond mere taste, supporting your dog’s mental acuity during the crucial training period. With a focus on natural ingredients, these treats exclude poultry by-products and artificial preservatives, aligning with the principles of a healthy and balanced diet for your puppy.

Pros:

  • Ideal for training sessions
  • Real meat as the first ingredient
  • Enriched with DHA for cognitive development
  • Suitable for puppies and adult dogs

Cons:

  • May be more expensive compared to other options
  • Some dogs may have specific flavor preferences

Blue Buffalo Baby BLUE Training Treats offer a delectable and purposeful option for training your puppy, combining taste, nutrition, and cognitive support in each bite.

Buddy Biscuits Trainers

Tasty and tantalizing

Training made simple with Buddy Biscuits.
Best for Training

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Highlights:

  • Perfectly sized for training sessions
  • Crunchy texture dogs love
  • Made with simple, wholesome ingredients
  • No artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives
  • Available in various flavors like chicken, beef, and peanut butter

Buddy Biscuits Trainers have earned their reputation as the optimal choice for training rewards, providing a delightful combination of taste and functionality. These treats are meticulously crafted with a focus on simplicity and wholesomeness, using only high-quality ingredients that pet owners can trust. The crunchy texture of these bite-sized wonders captures the attention of dogs during training sessions, making them an effective positive reinforcement tool.

What sets Buddy Biscuits apart is their commitment to transparency in ingredients. Free from artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives, these dental treats offer a clean and straightforward approach to canine rewards. The variety of flavors, including chicken, beef, and peanut butter, ensures that there’s a tempting option for every dog’s palate. The perfectly sized treats make them convenient for training purposes, allowing for quick and effective reinforcement of desired behaviors.

Pros:

  • Ideal for training sessions
  • Simple, wholesome ingredients
  • Crunchy texture for dental health
  • Various flavors to suit different tastes

Cons:

  • Some dogs may prefer softer treats
  • Limited availability in some regions

Buddy Biscuits Trainers provide the perfect combination of taste and functionality, making them an exceptional choice for dog training treats and positive reinforcement, with a variety of flavors to suit every dog’s preferences.

Nylabone Healthy Edibles Natural Puppy Treats

Nourishing treats for growing pups

Give your pup a healthy boost with these treats.
Best Additive-Free

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Highlights:

  • Made with natural ingredients
  • Edible and highly digestible
  • No artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives
  • Available in various flavors like lamb and apple
  • Specially designed for puppy chewing needs

Nylabone Healthy Edibles Natural Puppy Treats stand out as a top choice for puppies in their crucial growth stages. Made with natural ingredients, these treats are not only delicious but also highly digestible, ensuring they are gentle on your puppy’s developing digestive system. With flavors like lamb and apple, these treats provide a variety that puppies find enticing. Designed to cater to the chewing needs of growing pups, they offer a satisfying and nourishing snack.

What sets these treats apart is their focus on promoting healthy chewing habits. The unique design accommodates your puppy’s natural inclination to chew, providing a positive outlet for this behavior. The treats are not only a delicious reward but also contribute to dental health by helping to clean teeth and control plaque and tartar buildup. With no artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives, Nylabone Healthy Edibles prioritize the overall well-being of your puppy.

Pros:

  • Highly digestible for puppies
  • Natural ingredients for optimal health
  • Satisfies puppy chewing instincts
  • Available in various flavors

Cons:

  • Some puppies may consume quickly
  • May be too large for very small breeds

Nylabone Healthy Edibles Natural Puppy Treats provide a tasty and nutritious option for growing pups, supporting both their development and natural chewing instincts. These are by far some of the best dog treats out there.

Purina Beggin’ Dog Treats

Beg-worthy

Yummy bacon flavor in every bite.
Best Bacon Flavor

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Highlights:

  • Made with real bacon as the first ingredient
  • Irresistible aroma and flavor
  • Soft and chewy texture
  • Ideal for training or as a tasty snack
  • Available in various sizes and flavors

Purina Beggin’ Dog Treats are a bacon lover’s dream, featuring real bacon as the star ingredient. The irresistible aroma and flavor make these treats a favorite among dogs, turning every moment into a delightful experience. The soft and chewy texture adds to the appeal, making them suitable for training or as a special snack. With various sizes and flavors, you can find the perfect Beggin’ treat for your canine companion.

What sets these treats apart is the emphasis on delivering an authentic bacon experience. The soft treats are not just infused with bacon flavor but actually contain real bacon, ensuring a mouthwatering taste that dogs find irresistible. The soft and chewy texture of the treats adds to their appeal, making them suitable for a wide range of dogs, including those with dental sensitivities. Whether you’re looking for a training reward or a treat to celebrate special moments, Purina Beggin’ Dog Treats deliver the savory goodness of bacon in every bite.

Pros:

  • Real bacon for a delicious taste
  • Soft and chewy texture
  • Ideal for training or as a treat
  • Available in various sizes and flavors

Cons:

  • High aroma may be strong for some owners
  • Best for occasional indulgence due to richness

Purina Beggin’ Dog Treats offer an irresistible bacon flavor in a soft and chewy treat, perfect for training or rewarding your dog with a special snack.

Rocco & Roxie Supply Co.

Premium delights

These top-notch dog treats will have your pup drooling.
Best Gourmet 

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Highlights:

  • Premium-quality ingredients
  • Slowly smoked for enhanced flavor
  • Suitable for dogs with sensitive stomachs
  • Free from artificial preservatives and fillers
  • Available in various flavors like beef and chicken

Rocco & Roxie Supply Co. takes puppy training treats to a gourmet level with their premium-quality ingredients and slow smoking process. The result is a treat that not only delights your dog’s taste buds but also suits those with sensitive stomachs. Free from artificial preservatives and fillers, these treats prioritize quality and flavor. Available in flavors like beef and chicken, Rocco & Roxie treats elevate the snacking experience for discerning dogs.

What sets these treats apart is the meticulous attention to ingredient quality. Rocco & Roxie uses premium-quality ingredients, ensuring that every treat is a gourmet delight for your discerning pup. The slow smoking process enhances the flavor, creating a rich and savory experience that dogs can’t resist. Additionally, these treats are formulated to be gentle on sensitive stomachs, making them suitable for dogs with dietary sensitivities. If you’re looking to indulge your dog with a treat that goes beyond the ordinary, Rocco & Roxie Supply Co. offers a gourmet experience that meets the highest standards.

Pros:

  • Gourmet-quality ingredients
  • Slow-smoked for enhanced flavor
  • Suitable for sensitive stomachs
  • Various flavors available

Cons:

  • Relatively higher cost
  • Larger pieces may need breaking for smaller dogs

Rocco & Roxie Supply Co. offers gourmet-quality dog treats with premium ingredients and enhanced flavor, providing a delightful snacking experience for your discerning pup.

Pupford Freeze Dried Dog Treats

Pure flavor

Enjoy tasty deliciousness in every freeze-dried bite.
Best Freeze-Dried

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Highlights:

  • Freeze-dried for maximum flavor retention
  • Single-ingredient treats
  • Suitable for dogs with allergies or sensitivities
  • Convenient for training or as a quick snack
  • Available in various protein options

Product Deep-Dive: Pupford Freeze Dried Dog Treats redefine the snacking experience with their freeze-dried process, preserving maximum flavor in every bite. These soft puppy bites are crafted with simplicity in mind, featuring single ingredients that cater to dogs with allergies or sensitivities. The freeze-drying technique not only intensifies the flavor but also retains the nutritional value of the ingredients.

What sets these treats apart is their versatility. Whether you’re using them for training, as a quick snack, or a reward, the freeze-dried format makes them convenient for various situations. The single-ingredient formula ensures transparency in what you’re feeding your dog, making them suitable for those with specific dietary requirements. With various protein options available, including chicken, beef, and liver, Pupford Freeze Dried Dog Treats offer a flavor-packed, healthy option for dogs of all sizes.

Pros:

  • Freeze-dried for maximum flavor
  • Single-ingredient treats
  • Suitable for dogs with allergies or sensitivities
  • Convenient for training or as a snack

Cons:

  • Can be crumbly, requiring careful handling
  • Higher cost compared to some traditional treats

Pupford Freeze Dried Dog Treats provide a pure and flavorful snacking experience, with the convenience of freeze-dried single-ingredient treats suitable for dogs with various dietary needs.

Pet Botanics Puppy Treats

Affordable quality

A great choice for your growing pup.
Best Value

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Highlights:

  • Made with real pork liver as the first ingredient
  • Bite-sized for training and rewarding
  • No artificial colors or flavors
  • Balanced formula for puppy nutrition
  • Value-sized bag for cost-effectiveness

Pet Botanics Puppy Treats stand out as a practical and quality option for pet owners seeking affordability without compromising on nutrition. These treats are crafted with real pork liver as the first ingredient, ensuring a high-quality protein source for your growing pup. The bite-sized format makes them ideal for training sessions and quick rewards, contributing to positive reinforcement.

What sets these best puppy treats apart is their balanced formula. While being budget-friendly, Pet Botanics doesn’t sacrifice on essential nutrients needed for your puppy’s development. Free from artificial colors or flavors, these treats provide a wholesome and flavorful option without unnecessary additives. The value-sized bag adds to the cost-effectiveness, making Pet Botanics Puppy Treats a go-to choice for pet owners mindful of both their pup’s well-being and their budget.

Pros:

  • Affordable yet quality option
  • Made with real pork liver
  • Bite-sized for training and rewarding
  • Balanced formula for puppy nutrition

Cons:

  • Some dogs may prefer softer treats
  • Not suitable for dogs with specific protein sensitivities

Pet Botanics Puppy Treats offer a cost-effective yet quality solution for puppy training and rewarding, with a balanced formula that supports your growing pup’s nutritional needs.

Blue Buffalo Nudges Grillers Natural Dog Treats

Highlights:

  • Made with real chicken as the first ingredient
  • Grilled for enhanced flavor
  • Soft and chewy texture
  • No corn, wheat, soy, or artificial preservatives
  • Resealable bag for freshness

Blue Buffalo Nudges Grillers Natural Dog Treats offer a grill-worthy experience for your canine companion, featuring real chicken as the first ingredient. The grilling process enhances the flavor, creating a treat that dogs find irresistible. The soft and chewy texture adds to the appeal, making these treats suitable for various occasions, from training sessions to casual snacking.

What sets these treats apart is their commitment to clean ingredients. Free from common allergens like corn, wheat, soy, and artificial preservatives, Blue Buffalo Nudges Grillers prioritize the well-being of your dog. The resealable bag ensures freshness, allowing you to treat your pup to grill-inspired goodness whenever the moment strikes. Whether you’re reinforcing positive behavior or simply indulging your dog with a flavorful snack, these grillers deliver a taste experience that mirrors the joy of a backyard barbecue.

Pros:

  • Real chicken as the first ingredient
  • Grilled for enhanced flavor
  • Soft and chewy texture
  • No common allergens or artificial preservatives

Cons:

  • Some dogs may consume quickly due to texture
  • Higher cost compared to basic treats

Blue Buffalo Nudges Grillers Natural Dog Treats provide a grill-worthy experience with real chicken and enhanced flavor, making them a delectable choice for treating your dog to something special.

FAQs

Q: What are the best treats for puppies in 2024?

A: The best treats for puppies in 2024 include a variety of options such as dental chews, high-value treats, puppy training treats, soft puppy bites, natural dog treats, and more.

Q: How can I choose the right puppy treat for my dog?

A: When selecting a puppy treat, look for high-value treats that are appropriate for your puppy’s age, size, and dietary needs. Consider options like dental chews, soft puppy bites, and training rewards.

Q: Are there specific training treats for puppies available?

A: Yes, there are training treats specifically designed for puppies to use during obedience training, potty training, leash training, and other behavioral training exercises.

Q: What should I look for in puppy dental treats?

A: Look for dental treats that are formulated to promote oral health, such as those that help reduce plaque and tartar buildup, freshen breath, and support healthy teeth and gums.

Q: Which are the best high value puppy treats on the market?

A: Some of the best high-value puppy treats in 2024 include wellness soft puppy bites, old mother hubbard treats, freeze-dried treats, and other options that are highly rewarding for training purposes.

Q: Can I use treats like peanut butter for my puppy?

A: While peanut butter can be a popular choice for dog treats, ensure that the peanut butter is unsalted, unsweetened, and does not contain xylitol, which can be harmful to dogs.

Q: How many treats are recommended to give your puppy daily?

A: The number of treats to give your puppy daily depends on their size, age, and calorie intake requirements. It’s advisable to consult with a veterinarian to determine the appropriate amount of treats for your puppy.

Conclusion

In the world of puppy treats, the choices are diverse, catering to the specific needs and preferences of both pet owners and their furry companions. Whether you prioritize natural ingredients, unique flavors, or specialized formulas, the key is to find treats that align with your puppy’s nutritional requirements and your training goals. From Blue Buffalo Baby BLUE Training Treats’ cognitive development support to the gourmet experience offered by Rocco & Roxie Supply Co., each product on this list brings something special to the table.

Consider the individual traits of your puppy, such as size, age, and dietary restrictions, when making your selection. By doing so, you’ll ensure that every treat you offer contributes positively to your puppy’s health and happiness. So, embark on this flavorful journey with your pup, exploring the world of treats that not only taste great but also enhance the joy of being a pet parent. Happy treating!

About the Author

Tanja lives in Norwich, UK, with her two young Labradors, Inka and Jetson. Both dogs are super active and love to fill up on tasty dinners to keep them fuelled up for their adventures. However, Inka has a grain allergy, so her diet has to be tailored appropriately.

Tanja is always on the lookout for tasty grain-free alternatives, while supporting her close-knit canine community with their dogs' diets and lifestyles, too.

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