Best Dog Treats for Small Dogs: Top Picks for Healthy and Happy Pups

Dog treats are an essential part of any dog’s diet, providing them with a tasty reward while also helping to maintain their dental health and overall well-being. When it comes to small dogs, finding the right treats can be a challenge. Smaller dogs have different nutritional needs than larger breeds, and they require smaller treats that are easier for them to chew and digest.

In this article, we’ll be exploring the best dog treats for small dogs. We’ve spent hours researching and testing a variety of treats to identify the ones that are not only delicious but also provide the right balance of nutrition and health benefits for small dogs.

When choosing dog treats for small dogs, it’s important to pay attention to the size and texture of the treat. Small dogs require treats that are easy for them to chew and digest, and that won’t pose a choking hazard. Additionally, you’ll want to look for treats that are made from high-quality ingredients and that provide additional health benefits, such as promoting dental health or supporting joint health.

After extensive research and testing, we’ve identified the top dog treats for small dogs that meet all of these criteria. Whether you’re looking for a tasty training treat or a healthy snack to reward your furry friend, we’ve got you covered.

Best Dog Treats for Small Dogs

As dog owners ourselves, we know that finding the best treats for your furry friend can be a challenge, especially if you have a small dog. That’s why we’ve researched and tested various options to bring you our top picks for the best dog treats for small dogs. From soft and chewy to crunchy and flavorful, our list has something for every pup’s taste buds. So, without further ado, here are our top choices for the best dog treats for small dogs.

1. Blue Buffalo BLUE Bits Natural Soft-Moist Training Dog Treats, Chicken Recipe 19-oz Bag Chicken 19 Ounce (Pack of 1)

Best dog treats for small dogs: top picks for healthy and happy pups

If you’re looking for a healthy and nutritious dog treat for your small dog, Blue Buffalo BLUE Bits Natural Soft-Moist Training Dog Treats are a great option.

Pros

  • Made with real chicken as the first ingredient
  • Bite-sized and perfect for training
  • Free from artificial preservatives and colors

Cons

  • Packaging may vary
  • Not suitable for dogs with chicken allergies
  • Some dogs may not like the taste

We recently tried these treats with our small dog and were impressed with the quality. The treats are soft, moist, and easy to chew, making them perfect for small dogs. We also appreciate that they’re made with real chicken as the first ingredient, which is a healthier option than treats made with by-product meals.

The bite-sized morsels are perfect for training and can be used as a reward for good behavior. We also like that they contain DHA to help support cognitive development, making them a great choice for puppies.

These treats are free from artificial preservatives like propylene glycol and colors like red dye 40, which is a plus for health-conscious dog owners. However, it’s worth noting that the packaging may vary and some dogs may not like the taste.

Overall, we recommend Blue Buffalo BLUE Bits Natural Soft-Moist Training Dog Treats for small dogs who need a healthy and nutritious reward for good behavior.

2. Good’n’Fun Triple Flavored Rawhide Kabobs

Best dog treats for small dogs: top picks for healthy and happy pups

We highly recommend the Good’n’Fun Triple Flavored Rawhide Kabobs for small dogs. These treats are packed with flavor and provide a long-lasting chewing experience that our dogs love.

Pros

  • The combination of five flavors makes these treats irresistible to dogs.
  • The natural chewing action helps reduce tartar buildup and remove plaque.
  • These treats are made from high-quality ingredients, including real chicken, duck, and chicken liver.

Cons

  • These treats can be a bit pricey compared to other options on the market.
  • Some dogs may have trouble chewing through the rawhide portion of the treat.
  • These treats should only be given to dogs under supervision to prevent choking hazards.

Our dogs absolutely love these treats and can’t get enough of the delicious combination of flavors. We appreciate that these treats also help promote dental health by reducing tartar buildup and removing plaque.

We do wish that these treats were a bit more affordable, as they can add up quickly if you have multiple dogs or are giving them out frequently. Additionally, some dogs may struggle to chew through the rawhide portion of the treat, so it’s important to monitor them closely while they’re enjoying these kabobs.

Overall, we highly recommend the Good’n’Fun Triple Flavored Rawhide Kabobs for small dogs who love a tasty, long-lasting chew.

3. Greenies Original Dental Treats

Best dog treats for small dogs: top picks for healthy and happy pups

If you’re looking for a dental treat that promotes oral health and is safe for your small dog, Greenies Original Dental Treats are a great choice.

Pros

  • These treats have a chewy texture that helps fight plaque and tartar, making them effective at cleaning teeth and maintaining healthy gums.
  • Greenies Dental Treats are made with natural ingredients and are easy to digest, making them safe for your dog to consume.
  • They are vet-recommended for at-home oral health care, so you can trust that they are effective and safe.

Cons

  • Some dogs may not like the taste of the original flavor.
  • They can be expensive compared to other dental treats on the market.
  • They may not be suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions.

We recently tried Greenies Original Dental Treats for our small dog and were impressed with their effectiveness in promoting oral health. The chewy texture of the treats helps clean teeth and maintain healthy gums, while the natural ingredients make them safe and easy to digest. Our dog loves the taste of the original flavor, but we understand that some dogs may not enjoy it as much.

While Greenies Dental Treats may be more expensive than other dental treats on the market, we believe that the quality of the product justifies the price. They are vet-recommended for at-home oral health care, which gives us peace of mind that we are giving our dog a safe and effective product.

Overall, we highly recommend Greenies Original Dental Treats for small dogs who need a dental treat that promotes oral health.

4. Pur Luv Chicken and Sweet Potato Jerky Wraps Rawhide Free Dog Treats

Best dog treats for small dogs: top picks for healthy and happy pups

If you are looking for a healthy and easily digestible treat for your small dog, Pur Luv Chicken and Sweet Potato Jerky Wraps Rawhide Free Dog Treats are a great option.

Pros

  • The treats are made with real chicken and sweet potato, which dogs love and is good for them too.
  • The treats are rawhide-free, making them a safer and healthier alternative to traditional rawhide dog chews.
  • The limited ingredient decks make it easy to know exactly what you are feeding your dog.

Cons

  • The treats may not last as long as other chews, so they may not be the best option for dogs who need a longer-lasting treat.
  • The treats are made in China, which may be a concern for some dog owners who prefer treats made in the USA.
  • Some dogs may not like the texture of the treats or may have trouble digesting them.

We recently tried Pur Luv Chicken and Sweet Potato Jerky Wraps Rawhide Free Dog Treats with our small dog, and she loved them. The treats are the perfect size for small dogs and have a delicious flavor that our dog couldn’t resist. We also appreciated that the treats are made with limited ingredients and are easily digestible.

One thing to note is that the treats may not last as long as other chews, so they may not be the best option for dogs who need a longer-lasting treat. Additionally, the treats are made in China, which may be a concern for some dog owners who prefer treats made in the USA.

Overall, if you are looking for a healthy and tasty treat for your small dog, Pur Luv Chicken and Sweet Potato Jerky Wraps Rawhide Free Dog Treats are definitely worth trying.

5. Greenies Original Petite Natural Dental Dog Treats

Best dog treats for small dogs: top picks for healthy and happy pups

We highly recommend Greenies Original Petite Natural Dental Dog Treats for small dogs who need good oral health care.

Pros

  • These treats have a unique texture that cleans down to the gumline to fight plaque and tartar and freshen bad dog breath.
  • They are made with natural, easy-to-digest ingredients and are nutritionally complete.
  • Greenies Treats for Dogs are veterinarian recommended and VOHC accepted (Veterinary Oral Health Council).

Cons

  • The treats are a bit hard, which may not be suitable for dogs with dental issues.
  • Some dogs may not like the taste of these treats.
  • The packaging might vary, which can be confusing for some customers.

Greenies Original Petite Natural Dental Dog Treats are fantastic for small dogs between 15 and 25 lbs. We have been using these treats for a while, and they have proved to be very effective in promoting our dog’s overall health. The treats are made with highly soluble ingredients that are safe and easy to digest. Our dog loves the taste of these treats, and we give her one a day to help remove any food that might be stuck in her teeth from dinner.

In conclusion, Greenies Original Petite Natural Dental Dog Treats are a must-have for small dogs who need good oral health care. They are vet-recommended and have a unique texture that fights plaque and tartar and freshens bad dog breath. However, they may not be suitable for dogs with dental issues, and some dogs may not like their taste.

6. Stewart Freeze-Dried Beef Liver Dog Treats

Best dog treats for small dogs: top picks for healthy and happy pups

If you’re looking for a healthy and tasty treat for your small dog, Stewart Freeze-Dried Beef Liver Dog Treats are a great option.

Pros

  • Made from 100% beef liver, these treats are grain-free, gluten-free, and packed with protein, vitamin D, and amino acids to support strong muscles.
  • Freeze-drying preserves the natural nutrients in the treats, making them lightweight and easy to store.
  • Rich in Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids, these treats promote healthy skin and coat.

Cons

  • Some dogs may not like the taste of beef liver.
  • These treats are relatively expensive compared to other options.
  • The morsels can be quite large for smaller dogs.

We’ve been using these treats for our small dog for a while now, and we’re impressed with their quality. The single ingredient ensures that we’re feeding our dog only the best, and the freeze-drying process means that the treats are packed with nutrients.

Our dog loves these treats and eagerly awaits them during training sessions. We also appreciate that the morsels can be broken into smaller pieces for smaller dogs or as a food topper.

Overall, Stewart Freeze-Dried Beef Liver Dog Treats are a great option for small dogs who need a healthy and tasty treat.

7. Rachael Ray Nutrish Savory Roasters Real Meat Dog Treats

Best dog treats for small dogs: top picks for healthy and happy pups

If you want a grain-free, soft, and delicious treat for your small dog, Rachael Ray Nutrish Savory Roasters Real Meat Dog Treats are a great option.

Pros

  • Made with real U.S. farm-raised chicken
  • Soft texture that is easy to break into smaller pieces
  • Grain-free recipe with no artificial flavors or meat by-products

Cons

  • Contains chicken as the only protein source
  • Not suitable for dogs with chicken allergies
  • The bag is not resealable

We tried these treats with our small dog, and he loved them! The soft texture makes them easy to chew and digest, and the roasted chicken flavor is irresistible to him. We also appreciate that they are made with real meat and have a grain-free recipe.

One downside is that the treats contain chicken as the only protein source, so they may not be suitable for dogs with chicken allergies. Additionally, the bag is not resealable, which can make it difficult to keep the treats fresh after opening.

Overall, if you are looking for a tasty and healthy treat for your small dog, we highly recommend giving Rachael Ray Nutrish Savory Roasters Real Meat Dog Treats a try.

8. Rachael Ray Nutrish Burger Bites Real Meat Dog Treats

Best dog treats for small dogs: top picks for healthy and happy pups

We highly recommend the Rachael Ray Nutrish Burger Bites Real Meat Dog Treats for small dogs who love the taste of real beef. These soft treats are perfect for dogs of all sizes and can be easily broken into smaller pieces.

Pros

  • Tasty real beef treats for dogs
  • Soft treats are easy to break into smaller pieces
  • Grain-free recipe with no artificial flavors or meat by-products

Cons

  • Some dogs may not like the taste of bison
  • A bit pricey compared to other dog treats
  • May not be suitable for dogs with certain food allergies

We were impressed with the quality of the ingredients used in these treats. The number one ingredient is real beef, and there are no artificial flavors or meat by-products. Plus, the treats are safely cooked in the USA with no ingredients from China.

Our dogs absolutely loved the taste of these treats. They were easy to break into smaller pieces, making them perfect for training or as a quick snack. However, some dogs may not like the taste of bison, so it’s important to keep that in mind before purchasing.

Overall, we think the Rachael Ray Nutrish Burger Bites Real Meat Dog Treats are a great choice for small dogs who love the taste of real beef. While they may be a bit pricey compared to other dog treats, the quality of the ingredients and the taste make them well worth the investment.

9. Milo’s Kitchen Dog Treats, Chicken Meatballs

Best dog treats for small dogs: top picks for healthy and happy pups

If you want to reward your small dog with a delicious and nutritious treat, Milo’s Kitchen Chicken Meatballs are the way to go.

Pros

  • Made with real chicken, these home-style dog treats are wholesome and delicious.
  • The meatballs are cooked to perfection for an authentic chicken taste, and they come in a resealable bag to keep them fresh.
  • Milo’s Kitchen guarantees customer satisfaction, so you can buy with confidence.

Cons

  • Some customers reported that the treats arrived squished into crumbs and mush, which made it difficult to give them to their dogs.
  • The treats may not be suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions, as they contain chicken and other ingredients.
  • The price per ounce is higher than some other dog treats on the market.

We recently tried Milo’s Kitchen Chicken Meatballs with our small dog, and she absolutely loved them. The meatballs are soft and easy to break into smaller pieces, which makes them great for training or as a special treat.

One thing we appreciated about these treats is that they are made in the USA with real chicken as the main ingredient. We felt good about giving them to our dog knowing that they are wholesome and nutritious.

The resealable bag is also a nice feature, as it helps keep the treats fresh and prevents them from going stale. However, we did notice that the price per ounce is higher than some other dog treats on the market, so they may not be the most cost-effective option.

Overall, we think that Milo’s Kitchen Chicken Meatballs are a great choice for small dogs who love chicken. They are tasty, nutritious, and made with high-quality ingredients.

10. Purina Beggin’ With Real Meat Dog Treats

Best dog treats for small dogs: top picks for healthy and happy pups

If you’re looking for a delicious and healthy treat for your small dog, Purina Beggin’ Fun Size Bacon Flavor adult dog treats might be the perfect option for you. As a dog owner, I know how important it is to give your furry friend a tasty treat that won’t harm their health. With Purina Beggin’, you can be sure that your dog will get a delicious snack that is also nutritious.

Pros

  • Made with real meat and bacon flavor
  • Perfect size for small dogs
  • Tempting texture that is easy to chew

Cons

  • Some dogs may not like the bacon flavor
  • Might not be suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions
  • Some owners might prefer a different type of treat for their dog

These dog treats are made with real meat as the number one ingredient, and every little bite is made with real bacon for a scrumptious snack that dogs love. The savory pieces are perfectly sized for your pal’s mouth, giving them small, soft dog treats they can enjoy without any issues. Plus, at only 7 calories per Purina Beggin’ Fun Size strip, these treats won’t ruin your dog’s diet.

The texture of these dog strips is easy to chew, making them perfect for small dogs or dogs with dental issues. The Beggin’ Fun Size strips provide the ultimate treat experience, and the rich aroma lets your dog know it’s treat time. These treats are also made without artificial flavors, so you can feel good about indulging your dog every day with the bacony taste that drives them bonkers.

In conclusion, if you’re looking for a delicious and healthy treat for your small dog, Purina Beggin’ Fun Size Bacon Flavor adult dog treats are definitely worth considering. They are made with real meat and bacon flavor, perfect size for small dogs, and have a tempting texture that is easy to chew. However, some dogs may not like the bacon flavor, and they might not be suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions.

11. NUTRO Crunchy Dog Treats with Real Mixed Berries

Best dog treats for small dogs: top picks for healthy and happy pups

If you’re looking for a low-calorie, healthy treat for your small dog, NUTRO Crunchy Dog Treats with Real Mixed Berries are a great option.

Pros

  • Made with high-quality ingredients that you can see and smell
  • Low-calorie treats that are perfect for training and rewarding good behavior
  • Contains no artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives, and no corn, wheat, or soy

Cons

  • Some dogs may not like the taste of the mixed berries
  • May be a bit pricey compared to other treats on the market
  • The treats may be too small for larger dogs

We recently tried these treats with our small dog and were impressed with the quality of the ingredients. You can see and smell the real mixed berries, and the treats are only 5 calories each, making them perfect for training and rewarding good behavior without worrying about your dog gaining weight.

One thing to keep in mind is that some dogs may not like the taste of the mixed berries. However, our dog seemed to enjoy them, and we appreciated that they contain no artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives, and no corn, wheat, or soy.

Overall, if you’re looking for a healthy, low-calorie treat for your small dog, NUTRO Crunchy Dog Treats with Real Mixed Berries are definitely worth considering.

12. Milk-Bone MaroSnacks Dog Treats

Best dog treats for small dogs: top picks for healthy and happy pups

We highly recommend Milk-Bone MaroSnacks Dog Treats for small dogs who love a crunchy, meaty treat.

Pros

  • The biscuit shell encases a real bone marrow center, making them a delicious and satisfying treat for small dogs.
  • Made with calcium and only natural ingredients as sources of color, so you can feel good about giving them to your furry friend.
  • Comes in a 40-ounce package, making it a great value for the price.

Cons

  • Some small dogs may have difficulty chewing the crunchy texture of the treats.
  • The treats may crumble easily, creating a mess.
  • Not suitable for dogs with sensitive stomachs.

We recently tried Milk-Bone MaroSnacks Dog Treats on our small dog and were impressed with the flavor and texture combo. The crunchy exterior and meaty center made for a satisfying treat that kept our dog busy for a while. We appreciated that the treats were made with natural ingredients and calcium, ensuring our dog’s health and well-being. The 40-ounce package is a great value for the price, and we felt good about giving our dog a treat that was both delicious and nutritious.

That being said, we did notice that the treats could be a bit messy, as they tended to crumble easily. Additionally, some small dogs may have difficulty chewing the crunchy texture of the treats, so it’s important to monitor your dog while they are eating them. Lastly, if your dog has a sensitive stomach, these treats may not be the best option for them.

Overall, we highly recommend Milk-Bone MaroSnacks Dog Treats for small dogs who love a crunchy, meaty treat. They are a great value for the price and are made with natural ingredients that you can feel good about giving to your furry friend.

Buying Guide

When it comes to buying dog treats for small dogs, there are several factors that you should consider to ensure that you are getting the best product for your furry friend. In this buying guide, we will discuss some of the key features that you should look for when selecting the perfect dog treat.

Ingredients

The ingredients used in dog treats are perhaps the most important factor to consider when making a purchase. You want to ensure that the treat is made with high-quality, natural ingredients that provide your dog with the necessary nutrients and energy to stay healthy. Look for treats that are made with real meat, vegetables, and fruits, and avoid those that contain artificial preservatives, colors, and flavors.

Size and Texture

Small dogs have smaller mouths and teeth, so it is important to choose a treat that is appropriately sized and textured for their needs. Look for treats that are small and easy to chew, and avoid those that are too hard or large, as they can pose a choking hazard.

Nutritional Value

In addition to being tasty, dog treats should also provide some nutritional value to your pet. Look for treats that are high in protein and low in fat, and avoid those that are high in sugar or carbohydrates. You can also choose treats that are specifically designed to address certain health issues, such as dental health or joint support.

Price

Finally, the price of the dog treat is also an important consideration. While you don’t want to skimp on quality, you also don’t want to overspend on treats that your dog may not even enjoy. Look for treats that are reasonably priced and offer good value for your money.

In summary, when choosing the best dog treats for small dogs, it is important to consider the ingredients, size and texture, nutritional value, and price. By taking these factors into account, you can ensure that you are providing your furry friend with a healthy and delicious treat that they will love.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some healthy and natural dog treats for small dogs?

There are many healthy and natural dog treats that small dogs can enjoy. Some great options include small pieces of fresh fruits and vegetables like blueberries, carrots, and green beans. You can also try giving your dog lean meats like chicken or turkey, or even some plain Greek yogurt. Just be sure to avoid any foods that are toxic to dogs, like chocolate, grapes, and onions.

What are some of the worst dog treats for small dogs?

Some of the worst dog treats for small dogs are those that are high in fat, sugar, and calories. Treats that are made with artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives should also be avoided. Some examples of treats to stay away from include rawhide chews, pig ears, and any treats that are made with animal by-products.

Are ZIWI dog treats suitable for small dogs?

Yes, ZIWI dog treats can be a great option for small dogs. They are made with high-quality, natural ingredients and come in a variety of flavors and textures that small dogs are sure to love. Just be sure to choose treats that are appropriate for your dog’s size and dietary needs.

What are the benefits of Blue Buffalo dog treats for small dogs?

Blue Buffalo dog treats are made with high-quality, natural ingredients and are free from artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives. They come in a variety of flavors and textures that small dogs are sure to love, and can be a great way to reward good behavior or provide a little extra nutrition.

What are some homemade dog treats that are healthy for small dogs?

There are many homemade dog treats that can be healthy and delicious for small dogs. Some great options include homemade peanut butter treats, pumpkin and oatmeal biscuits, and even homemade frozen treats made with plain yogurt and fresh fruit.

How many treats should small dogs be given daily?

The number of treats that small dogs should be given daily depends on their size, age, and activity level. As a general rule, treats should make up no more than 10% of your dog’s daily caloric intake. This can vary depending on the type of treat, so be sure to read the label and follow any feeding guidelines provided by the manufacturer.