Best Treats for Training Puppies
Best Treats for Training Puppies: Grumpy Old Max’s No-Nonsense Picks
1. Why Puppy Training Treats Matter
Training a puppy isn’t just about teaching tricks—it’s about building trust, strengthening your bond, and yes, bribing your furball with the right kind of snacks.
Treats are a powerful tool for positive reinforcement, helping puppies learn commands quickly and happily.
Grumpy Old Max growls, “Call it bribery if you want, but it works—so fork over the snacks.”
2. What Makes a Good Puppy Training Treat?
Not all treats are created equal, and the wrong choice can turn training into a messy, frustrating ordeal.
2.1 Size Matters – Small, Bite-Sized Rewards
“No one wants to wait while you break a treat into 17 pieces. Get ‘em small and ready to go.” Small treats are ideal for training because they can be given quickly without interrupting the session.
2.2 Soft vs. Crunchy – Which Works Better for Training?
Soft treats are usually easier and quicker for puppies to chew, keeping training smooth. Crunchy treats are fine but can slow down the process.
2.3 High Value = High Motivation
High-value treats—like bits of chicken or cheese—are irresistible to puppies, making them perfect for teaching new or difficult commands.
2.4 Health Considerations
Choose low-calorie options to prevent overfeeding. Look for limited-ingredient treats, especially if your puppy has a sensitive stomach.
3. Max’s Top 10 No-Nonsense Picks for Puppy Training Treats
Here’s my paw-picked list of treats that won’t let you—or your puppy—down.
3.1 Small Soft Chews
Brands like Zuke’s Mini Naturals and Wellness Soft Puppy Bites are perfect for training—soft, bite-sized, and easy to carry.
3.2 Freeze-Dried Meat Treats
Pure protein options such as freeze-dried chicken or beef liver are highly motivating and healthy.
3.3 Cheese Bites (Yes, Really)
Small cubes of cheese can work wonders. Max says: “Puppies go bonkers for cheese. Just don’t overdo it unless you like cleaning up surprises.”
3.4 Homemade Puppy Treats
Boiled chicken, tuna cookies, or tiny pumpkin bites are easy to make and healthy.
3.5 Store-Bought Training Treats Worth the Hype
Look for brands known for puppy-safe ingredients and small, soft bites.
4. How to Use Treats Effectively in Puppy Training
Handing out treats like a Pez dispenser isn’t training—it’s spoiling.
4.1 Timing is Everything
Reward immediately after your puppy does the correct behaviour so they connect the action with the reward.
4.2 Keep Sessions Short and Fun
Puppies have short attention spans—5–10 minutes per session is plenty.
4.3 Combine Treats with Praise and Play
Use praise and play along with treats so your puppy doesn’t become dependent on food alone.
5. Treat Mistakes Owners Make (According to Max)
“Humans, listen up—because you lot mess this part up all the time.”
5.1 Overfeeding and Making Your Puppy Chunky
Too many treats can lead to weight gain, which can be bad for growing pups.
5.2 Using the Same Treat Until It’s Boring
Puppies can get bored—switch up treats to keep things exciting.
5.3 Treating Without Training – Reinforcing Bad Behaviour
Don’t hand out treats for free. Make sure they’re always linked to positive behaviour.
6. DIY Training Treat Recipes Puppies Love
Want to save some money and know exactly what your pup is eating?
Roll up your sleeves—it’s cooking time.
6.1 Three-Ingredient Chicken Bites
Boil chicken, chop finely, and bake lightly for easy, bite-sized treats.
6.2 Peanut Butter & Oat Mini Cookies
Mix peanut butter, oats, and egg, then bake into tiny cookies.
6.3 Frozen Banana and Yogurt Bites (Perfect for Summer)
Mash banana, mix with plain yogurt, and freeze in small molds.
7. Special Considerations for Puppies with Dietary Needs
Not every pup can handle the same snacks—some of us are delicate, alright?
- Hypoallergenic treats for sensitive pups
- Grain-free or limited ingredient options
- Avoid toxic foods (chocolate, grapes, onions, etc.)
8. Max’s No-Nonsense Final Tips for Training Success
Here’s my final word on the matter—because you clearly need it.
- Vary rewards to keep training exciting.
- Always pair treats with positive reinforcement.
- Know when to phase out treats as puppies learn commands.
Max growls: “Don’t be stingy with praise. We like the snacks, but we love your attention too.”
9. Conclusion: Training Your Puppy the Smart (and Tasty) Way
The right treats can turn training from a battle of wills into a fun, rewarding experience for both you and your puppy.
Experiment with different options to find what your pup loves best.
Max adds: “Pick the right treat and we’ll sit, stay, roll over, and maybe even pay rent. Okay, maybe not the rent part.”
10. FAQs About Puppy Training Treats
Still confused?
Fine, I’ll answer your silly questions—one last time.
How many treats should I give my puppy during training?
Small, frequent treats work best—just keep total calories in mind.
Can I use kibble as a training treat?
Yes! Using part of their daily kibble as training rewards can prevent overfeeding.
When should I stop using treats for training?
Once your puppy masters a command, gradually replace treats with praise or play.
Are human foods safe to use as puppy treats?
Some are—like boiled chicken or cheese—but always avoid toxic foods.
What’s the best treat for crate training?
High-value treats like freeze-dried meat or a stuffed Kong with puppy-safe filling work well.
