The Best Dog Training Treats: My Top 8 Picks for Rewarding Success

Training your dog is one of the most rewarding experiences, and using the right treats can make all the difference. Whether you're teaching basic commands, perfecting recall, or working on advanced tricks, having high-value treats will keep your dog motivated and eager to learn.

So, what makes a great training treat? It should be:
✅ Tasty – Your dog should love the flavor.
✅ Easy to Eat – Soft or small treats work best for quick consumption.
✅ Healthy – Training involves frequent rewards, so treats should be nutritious.

In this blog post, I’ll share my top 3 favorite training treats and 5 more fantastic options to help you find the best fit for your pup!

My Top 3 Training Treats

1. Liver Cake – The Ultimate High-Value Treat

If you’ve never used liver cake for training, you’re missing out! This homemade treat is packed with protein, has an irresistible smell, and is soft enough for quick chewing. You can easily cut it into tiny pieces, making it perfect for multiple rewards during a session.

Why I love it:
✔ Dogs go crazy for the strong scent.
✔ Can be prepared in batches and frozen for later use.
✔ Packed with nutrients to support your dog’s health.

Pro Tip: Because liver is rich, give it in moderation to avoid stomach upset.

2. Tuna Cake – The Smelly but Effective Reward

Tuna cake is another homemade gem that works wonders for training. The strong fishy smell instantly grabs a dog's attention, making it a great choice for distracted pups. Its soft texture allows for easy chewing, and it’s an excellent alternative for dogs who prefer fish over meat.

Why I love it:
✔ High in omega-3 fatty acids, great for skin and coat health.
✔ Can be easily cut into small training-sized pieces.
✔ Perfect for picky eaters who turn their noses up at regular treats.

Pro Tip: If your dog has a sensitive stomach, introduce tuna cake slowly to ensure they digest it well.

3. Natural, Meat-Based Training Treats – The Convenient Option

For those who prefer store-bought treats, natural meat-based training treats are a fantastic choice. Look for options made with real meat and without artificial additives, ensuring your dog gets a healthy, high-value reward.

Why I love them:
✔ Convenient for on-the-go training.
✔ Soft and easy to break into smaller pieces.
✔ Available in a variety of proteins, from chicken to venison.

Pro Tip: Choose grain-free or limited-ingredient options if your dog has food sensitivities.

Other Fantastic Training Treats

4. Freeze-Dried Meat – Lightweight and Nutritious

Single-ingredient freeze-dried treats (such as chicken, beef, or fish) are packed with flavor and nutrition. They’re lightweight, easy to store, and perfect for rewarding your dog during outdoor adventures.

5. Soft, Small Bites – Made for Training

Many pet brands offer soft, bite-sized training treats designed for frequent rewards. They’re easy to chew and come in a variety of flavors, making them a great everyday option.

6. Cheese Cubes – The Classic High-Value Treat

Most dogs love cheese! Small cubes of mild cheese (like cheddar or mozzarella) make a delicious and highly motivating treat. Just be mindful of portion sizes, as cheese is high in fat.

7. Cooked Chicken Pieces – Simple and Effective

Plain, boiled chicken cut into tiny chunks is a healthy, lean training reward. It’s a great option for dogs with dietary restrictions or those who need a low-fat treat.

8. Peanut Butter on a Spoon – A Sticky but Tasty Reward

Dog-safe peanut butter (free from xylitol) can be a great reward, especially for calm training exercises like "stay" or "settle." A small lick from a spoon keeps your dog engaged while preventing overfeeding.

How to Choose the Best Training Treat for Your Dog

🔹 Consider your dog’s preferences – Some dogs love fishy treats, while others prefer meaty or cheesy options.
🔹 Think about digestion – If your dog has a sensitive stomach, start with simple, single-ingredient treats.
🔹 Keep them small – The best training treats are bite-sized so your dog can eat them quickly and stay focused.
🔹 Use variety – Switching up treats keeps training exciting and prevents your dog from getting bored.

Final Thoughts

Using the right treats can transform your dog’s training experience! Whether you go for homemade favorites like liver cake and tuna cake or convenient options like freeze-dried meat and soft bites, the key is to find what excites your pup the most.

What’s your dog’s favorite training treat? Let me know in the comments—I’d love to hear your recommendations! 🐶🎉

Happy training! 🐾