Is your new puppy a bundle of fluffy energy, always ready to learn and play? Of course, they are! And what’s one of the best ways to reward all that adorable behavior and encourage good habits? Delicious dog treats, of course! But when you walk down the pet aisle, it can feel like a giant, tasty minefield. So many choices, so many ingredients – how do you pick the perfect treat for your tiny canine companion?
Choosing the right treats for your puppy is super important, but it can also be confusing. You want something healthy that will help them grow strong, but you also need it to be something they’ll actually love. Plus, you’re probably worried about what ingredients are in those colorful bags. Don’t let the treat aisle overwhelm you!
In this post, we’ll break down everything you need to know about puppy treats. We’ll explore what makes a treat a good choice for young dogs, what to look for on the ingredient list, and how to use treats effectively for training. Get ready to become a puppy treat pro and find out exactly what goodies will make your furry friend wag their tail with joy!
Our Top 5 Dog Treats Puppies Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Dog Treats Puppies Detailed Reviews
1. Wellness Puppy Treats
Rating: 9.4/10
Training your new puppy just got a whole lot tastier and healthier! Wellness Puppy Treats, in a Soft Lamb & Salmon flavor, are designed to be the perfect reward. These natural, grain-free, bite-sized treats are packed with good stuff to help your furry friend grow and learn.
What We Like:
- Grain-free formula is great for puppies with sensitive tummies.
- Made with real lamb and salmon, which puppies love.
- Salmon provides DHA, supporting healthy brain development.
- Each treat has only 6 calories, making them ideal for frequent training rewards.
- No corn, wheat, soy, or artificial colors, just wholesome ingredients.
- Made in the USA with quality ingredients.
- Soft texture is easy for puppies to chew and digest.
What Could Be Improved:
- The 8-ounce bag might go quickly if you have a very active learner!
These Wellness Puppy Treats are a fantastic choice for puppy parents. They offer a healthy, delicious way to reinforce good behavior and support your puppy’s growth.
2. Milk-Bone Mini’s Flavor Snacks Dog Treats
Rating: 9.4/10
Give your furry friend a taste of pure joy with Milk-Bone Mini’s Flavor Snacks Dog Treats! This generous 36-ounce canister is packed with mini biscuits in three irresistible flavors: beef, chicken, and bacon. These little treats are designed for frequent rewarding, making every training session or good-behavior moment even more special. Plus, their satisfying crunch helps keep your dog’s breath fresh and reduces tartar, so you can enjoy those slobbery kisses without worry!
What We Like:
- Comes in a large 36-ounce canister for plenty of treats.
- Offers three delicious flavors: beef, chicken, and bacon.
- Perfectly sized for frequent treating and training.
- The crunchy texture promotes fresh breath and helps reduce tartar.
- Each treat is only 5 calories, making them a guilt-free reward.
- Enriched with 12 essential vitamins and minerals for overall health.
- The classic bone shape adds a fun element to treat time.
What Could Be Improved:
- Some dogs might prefer larger treats if they are not mini-biscuit fans.
- The canister might be a bit large for very small living spaces.
Milk-Bone Mini’s Flavor Snacks are a fantastic way to spoil your dog while supporting their health. They offer great value and delicious variety for happy pups!
3. Blue Buffalo Baby BLUE Training Treats Natural Puppy Soft Dog Treats
Rating: 9.4/10
Training your new puppy just got a whole lot tastier and healthier with Blue Buffalo Baby BLUE Training Treats in Savory Chicken flavor. These soft, bite-sized morsels are designed to be the perfect reward for your furry friend’s good behavior, making training sessions more enjoyable for both of you.
What We Like:
- REAL CHICKEN FIRST: Made with real chicken as the top ingredient, these treats are packed with meaty flavor your puppy will love.
- BRAIN BOOSTER: They contain DHA, which is great for your puppy’s cognitive development.
- PERFECT SIZE FOR TRAINING: The tender, small pieces are easy for puppies to chew and swallow, ideal for quick rewards during training.
- WHOLESOME GOODNESS: Absolutely no chicken by-product meals, corn, wheat, or soy. They also skip artificial preservatives and colors.
- HEALTHY CHOICE: Blue Buffalo focuses on healthy, natural ingredients you can feel good about giving your puppy.
- ATTRACTIVE PACKAGING: The packaging clearly highlights the key ingredients and benefits, making it easy to see what you’re buying.
What Could Be Improved:
- Bag Size: While one 4-oz bag is a good start, puppies go through training treats quickly, so a larger size option might be appreciated by busy trainers.
These treats are a fantastic option for rewarding your puppy during training. The focus on real ingredients and developmental benefits makes them a winner for any new dog parent.
4. Milk-Bone MaroSnacks Small Dog Treats With Bone Marrow
Rating: 8.8/10
Our furry friends deserve the best, and Milk-Bone MaroSnacks Small Dog Treats deliver a delicious experience that will have tails wagging. This 40-ounce container is packed with tasty treats, perfect for rewarding your canine companion.
What We Like:
- The real bone marrow center is a big hit with dogs.
- These treats have a satisfying crunchy outside and a meaty inside.
- They contain calcium, which is good for your dog’s health.
- Made with colors from natural ingredients only.
- Baked with love in Buffalo, New York, USA.
- The large 40-ounce container offers great value.
What Could Be Improved:
- Some dogs might find them a bit too crumbly.
- The size is specifically for small dogs, so larger breeds might need a different option.
Milk-Bone MaroSnacks are a fantastic choice for treating your small dog. They offer a delightful combination of taste and texture that dogs adore.
5. Pupford Freeze Dried Training Treats for Dogs & Puppies
Rating: 8.8/10
Training your furry friend just got a whole lot easier and tastier with Pupford Freeze Dried Training Treats! These little powerhouses are packed with flavor and made with only two simple, all-natural ingredients. That means you’re giving your dog a healthy, low-calorie reward they’ll absolutely adore, without any unnecessary fillers.
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What We Like:
- The two-ingredient formula is fantastic – simple and healthy!
- They’re perfectly sized for quick rewards, making training sessions a breeze.
- No messy crumbs or greasy hands! You can toss them in your pocket or treat pouch without worry.
- Even picky eaters seem to love the variety of flavors.
- Pupford’s promise to help if you or your pup aren’t satisfied is a great reassurance.
- While the chicken flavor is great, a wider variety of single-ingredient options might appeal to dogs with more specific dietary needs or sensitivities.
- The 4 oz bag might go quickly for owners with multiple dogs or very active training schedules.
What Could Be Improved:
These treats are a game-changer for consistent, positive reinforcement training. They’re a healthy, mess-free, and delicious way to keep your dog motivated and happy.
Choosing the Best Treats for Your Puppy: A Tail-Wagging Guide
Bringing a new puppy home is exciting! You want to give them the best, and that includes tasty treats. But with so many options, how do you pick the right ones? This guide will help you find the perfect puppy treats.
Key Features to Look For
When you shop for puppy treats, keep these important things in mind:
- Size Appropriateness: Puppies have small mouths and delicate tummies. Treats should be small and easy for them to chew. Look for treats made specifically for puppies, as they’re usually bite-sized.
- Nutritional Value: Puppies are growing fast! They need treats that offer more than just flavor. Good treats contain essential vitamins and minerals that support their development.
- Digestibility: A puppy’s digestive system is still developing. Choose treats that are easy to digest to avoid tummy upset. Ingredients like chicken, lamb, and rice are often good choices.
- Dental Health: Some treats are designed to help clean your puppy’s teeth as they chew. This can be a great bonus feature!
- Training Use: Many puppy treats are small and have a strong scent, making them ideal for training. They help reward good behavior and make learning fun.
Important Materials and Ingredients
The ingredients list tells you what’s inside the treat. Here’s what to look for and what to avoid:
- High-Quality Protein: Real meat like chicken, turkey, beef, or lamb should be one of the first ingredients. This gives your puppy the building blocks they need.
- Whole Grains and Vegetables: Ingredients like brown rice, oats, sweet potatoes, and peas offer healthy carbs and fiber. These help with digestion and provide energy.
- Omega Fatty Acids: These are good for your puppy’s skin and coat. You might see ingredients like fish oil or flaxseed.
- Avoid Artificial Additives: Steer clear of artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives. These offer no nutritional benefit and can sometimes cause reactions.
- Limit Fillers: Ingredients like corn, wheat, and soy can be fillers. While some puppies tolerate them well, others might be sensitive.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
What makes a puppy treat great or not so great?
- Improved Quality:
- Limited Ingredient Diets: For puppies with sensitivities, treats made with just a few simple ingredients are often best.
- Natural Ingredients: Treats made with whole, recognizable ingredients are generally higher quality.
- Vet-Recommended Brands: Brands recommended by veterinarians often meet high standards for safety and nutrition.
- Reduced Quality:
- Generic “Meat By-Products”: These can be lower quality parts of the animal and don’t offer the same benefits as named meat sources.
- Excessive Fillers: Too many ingredients like corn or wheat can make a treat less nutrient-dense.
- High Sugar Content: Puppies don’t need added sugars.
User Experience and Use Cases
How do people use puppy treats, and what’s the experience like?
- Training Rewards: This is the most common use! Treats are fantastic for positive reinforcement during potty training, obedience classes, and teaching new tricks. A small, tasty treat can make your puppy eager to learn.
- Bonding: Giving your puppy a treat during playtime or cuddle sessions strengthens your bond. It’s a simple way to show affection.
- Occasional Indulgence: Sometimes, your puppy just deserves a special snack!
- Chew Time: Some larger, more durable treats can provide a satisfying chew for teething puppies, helping to soothe their gums.
Frequently Asked Questions About Puppy Treats
Q: How many treats should I give my puppy each day?
A: Always check the treat packaging for recommended serving sizes based on your puppy’s age and weight. It’s important not to overfeed them, as treats should only make up a small part of their diet.
Q: When can I start giving my puppy treats?
A: You can usually start giving puppies treats as soon as they are weaned from their mother and eating solid food, typically around 6-8 weeks old. Always choose puppy-specific treats.
Q: Are puppy treats different from adult dog treats?
A: Yes, puppy treats are usually smaller, softer, and formulated with the specific nutritional needs of growing puppies in mind, like added calcium and DHA.
Q: What if my puppy has a sensitive stomach?
A: Look for puppy treats with limited ingredients, especially those that are grain-free or made with novel proteins like duck or fish, if your vet recommends it.
Q: Can puppy treats help with teething?
A: Some softer puppy treats can be soothing for teething gums. You can also freeze some puppy-safe treats or offer chilled teething toys.
Q: Should I use treats for potty training?
A: Absolutely! High-value, small treats are excellent motivators for successful potty training. Reward your puppy immediately after they go to the bathroom outside.
Q: How long do puppy treats typically last?
A: Most unopened puppy treats have a shelf life of about 6-12 months. Once opened, it’s best to use them within a few months, and always store them in a cool, dry place.
Q: Can I give my puppy human food as treats?
A: It’s best to stick to dog-specific puppy treats. Many human foods can be harmful to dogs, and they may not provide the balanced nutrition puppies need.
Q: What does “grain-free” mean for puppy treats?
A: Grain-free treats do not contain grains like corn, wheat, or soy. They often use alternative carbohydrates like sweet potatoes or peas.
Q: How do I introduce a new treat to my puppy?
A: Start with just one or two treats to see how your puppy’s stomach reacts. If they have no digestive issues, you can continue giving them.
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.
Hi, I’m Mallory Crusta, the heart and mind behind LovelyPetSpot.com.. As a passionate pet enthusiast, I created this space to share my experiences, expertise, and love for all things pets. Whether it’s helpful tips, heartfelt stories, or advice for pet parents, my mission is to make the journey of caring for your furry, feathery, or scaly friends as joyful and fulfilling as possible. Join me in celebrating the incredible bond we share with our animal companions!