Best Dog Treats for Training

We all want our pups to be well-behaved. It makes them, and everyone around them, happier. Treats can play a big role in positively reinforcing healthy behaviors into good habits—but it’s important that we use the right treats. Let’s take a look at some healthy—and not so traditional—treats that will put your pup in the mood to learn some new tricks! 

Apple Slices

Treats don’t have to be complicated! Apples are a guilt-free treat that come loaded with antioxidants, fiber, and vitamins C and A. They’re also great for freshening breath and keeping teeth clean.

While apples are obviously healthy, they do contain a lot of natural sugar so stick to just a few slices to avoid sugar-overload (and potential diarrhea). Also make sure that the seeds are removed—in high volumes they can be toxic.

Cooked Chicken

A common ingredient in many dog foods, cooked chicken is an excellent source of protein.

Roast, poach, grill or bake unseasoned chicken and remove all bones. (While raw-food diets are gaining popularity, we always recommend cooking chicken due to the potential of salmonella and other illness-causing bacteria.) Then cut it up into bite-sized pieces. You can also dehydrate chicken for a delicious chewy snack.

Homemade Treats

Learning how to make your own homemade dog treats is a wonderfully hands-on way to reward your pooch, and unlike store-bought treats you’ll know exactly what’s in them.

Fruits and vegetables, peanut butter (unsalted and xylitol-free!), oats and grains make for healthy ingredients—or get into dehydrating foods for a chewier texture that pups love!

Coconut

It might sound a little exotic, but coconut—in either oil or fruit form—is really beneficial for dogs! It’s high in vitamins, minerals and fiber. It can also boost the immune system and help reduce inflammation, which is perfect for older dogs who suffer from joint pain.

As always, start with a small amount of raw coconut meat or oil and see how your pooch responds—although natural, some of the components are known to cause stomach upset in some dogs.

Pumpkin

Pumpkin boasts a range of essential vitamins and minerals to keep your pup’s immune strong—plus, most pups go bonkers for the taste!

 If using canned pumpkin puree, ensure that it’s 100% plain—no spices or sugar.

You can also roast or steam your own, which your dog may enjoy as-is. But you can also mix pumpkin puree with yogurt and freeze into treats or mix with other ingredients as a base for easy-to-bake treats that will help you on your training journey!