The best dog training treats are so good, your pup will do whatever it takes to earn one: sit, stay, shake paws — you name it. You know those gold-star stickers they give to kids? Training treats are the tasty, wholesome version for your superstar pup.

Maybe you’re working on recall at the park or leash manners on the sidewalk. With the right training treats for dogs that are small, flavorful, and easy to chew, your bestie will be focused and eager. With the wrong ones, well, let’s not go there.

Some pups are picky, others have sensitive stomachs. So, finding the best treats for dog training means factoring in your pup’s age, diet, and #goals.

In this blog post, we’ll explore the best healthy dog training treats for puppies, adults, and seniors to help encourage your fluffy student to sit, stay, and high-five. 

 

Why Dog Training Treats Are Essential for Learning

Curious why training treats are so important when teaching your pup new tricks? They’re the tasty core of reward-based dog training, turning simple snacks into powerful motivation. According to the American Kennel Club, using food rewards in training helps reinforce desired behaviors and make them more likely to stick, especially when the treats are tailored to your dog’s preferences and the training environment.

The best positive reinforcement treats are small and soft, helping your pup absorb both the reward and command, all in one quick bite.

When distractions are high or the task is tough, high-value training treats are your secret weapon. With their irresistible flavor and smell, they help your pup focus on you — even if the most exciting squirrel in the universe dashes by.

 

Types of Dog Training Treats and When To Use Them

Soft vs Crunchy Training Treats

If you’re training on the go, the best soft dog treats are quick to chew and easy on their teeth — perfect for puppies or seniors who need a little extra gentleness.

Soft dog training rewards keep the momentum going without distraction. On the flip side, crunchy training treats take a bit longer to eat, making them a better “you did it!” reward at the end of a training session.

Low-Calorie Treats for Frequent Use

If your pup’s putting in daily reps, you’ll want low-calorie dog treats for training so they won’t pack on pounds. Stick to treats under 3 calories each, if possible, so your pup stays fit while they learn to sit.

The best dog training treats, like Jinx Beef Training Treats, have added nutrients so every “good pup!” moment, supports your dog’s behavior and health.

High-Value Treats for Challenging Distractions

When the world’s just too exciting, cue the high-value dog treats. These are your MVTs (most valuable treats) when your pup’s focus starts to fade or there’s a lot going on around you.

Often freeze-dried liver, cheese cubes, or other irresistible snacks — these are the best treats for distracted dogs because they smell so good, your pup forgets everything else!

High-reward dog training snacks help reel their attention back to you, right where it belongs.

 

Best Dog Training Treats by Life Stage

Your pup’s age and life stage make a difference in what works best for learning. From puppy training treats to Jinx snack-size bites for adult dogs and gentler options for older pups — tailoring your rewards helps keep their eye on the prize (and task at paw!)

Puppy Training Treats for Learning and Teething

Training a young pup? Jinx chicken training treats are soft, small, and easy on sensitive tummies. Puppies are learning (and teething), so a chewy texture is key. Bonus points for treats packed with DHA to help support brain development, because your perfect baby genius deserves every advantage.

Adult Dog Training Treats for Ongoing Skills

Adult dog training treats are all about balance. Most adult pups can handle a range of textures and flavors, but if you’re treating frequently, keep an eye on portion sizes to avoid sneaky weight gain. The golden rule of treats? No more than 10% of your dog’s daily diet.

Senior Dog Training Treats for Gentle Rewards

A little gray in the muzzle never stopped a pup from learning. Old dogs can learn new tricks! — especially with training treats for senior dogs. They’re not only gentle on your dog’s mature teeth, they’re lower in calories to match your pup’s slower pace. Look for added joint support or single-ingredient options — perfect for pups with sensitivities who are still eager to earn a reward.

 

How to Choose the Best Dog Training Treats

The best dog training treats are more than tasty — they’re smart. When choosing a training treat, consider size, scent, and what’s inside. The best ingredients in dog training treats are real, whole proteins like chicken, beef, or salmon. No mystery meat, thanks. Did someone say soft, chickeny goodness that’s easy to digest? Jinx Chicken Training Treats check all your boxes.

If you’re wondering what to look for in dog treats, you know where we stand: skip the artificial stuff and go for healthy dog training snacks to fuel (and reward!) your pup’s focus.

 

How to Use Treats Effectively in Dog Training

Knowing how to use dog treats effectively for training can be a total game changer. It’s not just what you give them, it’s when and how. Here are a few go-to treat-based dog training tips:

• Timing is everything. Offer your pup a treat within seconds of their good behavior.

• Reward often at first. This helps build a strong connection between action and reward.

• Scale back on treats over time. Integrate other rewards into your rotation, praise or a quick playtime. 

Used correctly, training treats don’t just reinforce good behavior, they build trust and confidence, not to mention a beautiful bond between you and your buddy.

Can Regular Dog Food Work as Training Treats?

Many of you have asked us, “Can kibble be used as training treats?” The answer is: absolutely! Using Jinx Small Breed Dog Food (because of its smaller size) for training works great in calm settings or for brushing up on basics like “sit” or “stay.” 

We recommend timing kibble treats with meals to help reinforce cues. Just keep in mind, dog food as a training reward might not hold up against distractions. Your pup’s interest may fade, so toss in a few high-value treats like a small spoonful of plain Peanut butter or cheese cubes to keep their motivation high and their snout sniffing. 

Why Jinx Training Treats Are a Smart Choice

Whether it’s basic obedience or mastering the elusive off-leash recall, the right training treat makes all the difference. 

Trust us, you want something healthy, motivating, and just plain delicious. Jinx Treats cover all the bases, as they’re made with real, wholesome ingredients — perfect for everything from training sessions to daily rewards.

When it comes to fueling your pup’s progress, quality treats are the way forward. 3 barks to that!

 

 

FAQs About Dog Training Treats

How many training treats can I give my pup a day?

Treats are like snacks between meals — fun and tasty, but don’t let them replace the main course. As mentioned, keep treats to 10% or less of your pup’s daily calories. On big training days, opt for low-calorie dog training treats or slightly reduce portion size for balance.

What if my pup isn’t food motivated?

Some pups are not driven by snacks, though most seem to be. Try switching up the flavors and textures (soft and smelly are big winners). If treats really aren’t their thing — reward them with toys, playtime, walks, praise, belly rubs, and cuddles. Not all rewards are chewable.

Can I make my own training treats at home?

100% — DIY treats are fun and simple to make. We suggest using lean meats, oats, or sweet potatoes. Be sure to skip pungent no-go’s like garlic, onions, spices. Keep DIY treats soft, bite-sized, and easy to chow down during training.

Are training treats bad for my pup’s diet?

If you’re portioning them right, they’re perfectly alright. Healthy dog training treats can make up 10% of your pup’s daily diet. Always be mindful of quantity and adjust their regular meals if needed. Good treats plus Jinx balanced meals equals one happy, well-fed learner.