Finding the perfect treats for your furry friend can be overwhelming with countless options flooding the market. Not all dog treats are created equal—some offer superior nutrition while others excel in training effectiveness or dental benefits. This comprehensive guide breaks down the top dog treats of 2025, comparing ingredients, benefits, and potential drawbacks to help you make the best choice for your canine companion.
What Makes a Great Dog Treat in 2025?
Today’s best dog treats balance several key factors:
- High-quality, minimally processed ingredients
- Specific functional benefits (dental health, training, joint support)
- Sustainability and ethical sourcing
- Transparency in manufacturing processes
- Appropriate size and texture for different breeds
Let’s examine the top contenders across various categories with detailed pros and cons tables.
Best Training Treats: Small, High-Value, Low-Calorie Options
Training treats need to be small, enticing, and low enough in calories to use frequently during training sessions.
Zuke’s Mini Naturals Enhanced Training Formula
Zuke’s has revolutionized their classic training treat by incorporating brain-boosting nutrients while maintaining the perfect tiny size that trainers love. These soft, moist treats come in a resealable pouch and have been reformulated with added L-theanine to improve focus during training sessions. At under 3 calories each, they allow for frequent rewarding without overfeeding.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| ✅ Small, perfect training size (under 3 calories each) | ❌ Contains some grain ingredients (may not suit all dogs) |
| ✅ New cognitive-enhancing nutrients for improved learning | ❌ Higher price point than previous formulations 💰 |
| ✅ Soft texture works for all age groups, including puppies and seniors | ❌ Requires refrigeration after opening ❄️ |
| ✅ No artificial preservatives or colors 🌿 | ❌ Shorter shelf life (45 days) |
| ✅ Available in 6 protein varieties 🍗 | ❌ Some formulas contain chicken (common allergen) 🐔 |
Ingredient Highlight: Contains L-theanine and MCT oil to support focus during training sessions.
PureBites Freeze-Dried Training Reward Bites
These single-ingredient treats represent the purest option available for training. Using a gentle freeze-drying process, PureBites preserves the nutritional integrity and flavor of premium meats without any additives whatsoever. The intensity of flavor makes these particularly effective for high-distraction training environments or working with particularly food-motivated breeds.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| ✅ Single ingredient (100% meat) 🥩 | ❌ More expensive than other training treats 💰 |
| ✅ Zero additives or preservatives 🌱 | ❌ Can crumble in treat pouches 🧹 |
| ✅ Extremely high-value for picky dogs 🤤 | ❌ Limited protein variety (5 options) |
| ✅ Lightweight for carrying during training 🏃♂️ | ❌ Texture varies between batches 📊 |
| ✅ Shelf-stable without refrigeration 🕒 | ❌ Some dogs may need time to adjust to freeze-dried texture |
Ingredient Highlight: Human-grade protein sources with no fillers, perfect for dogs with sensitivities.
Cloud Star Tricky Trainers Sustainable Series
Taking an innovative approach to environmental impact, Cloud Star has created the first mainstream training treat incorporating sustainable insect protein. These eco-conscious treats reduce carbon footprint while maintaining the soft, breakable texture that trainers value. The novel protein source also makes them suitable for dogs with common allergies to traditional proteins.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| ✅ Carbon-neutral manufacturing process 🌍 | ❌ Slightly larger size than some training treats 📏 |
| ✅ Insect protein option for environmental sustainability 🐛 | ❌ Limited flavor varieties |
| ✅ Low-calorie (2 calories per treat) ⚖️ | ❌ Higher moisture content can make treats sticky 💦 |
| ✅ Soft texture easily broken into smaller pieces ✂️ | ❌ Contains some plant-based proteins 🌱 |
| ✅ Recyclable packaging ♻️ | ❌ Not suitable for dogs with specific legume allergies 🚫 |
Ingredient Highlight: First mainstream training treat to incorporate sustainable cricket protein with reduced environmental impact.
Best Dental Treats: Effective Plaque and Tartar Control
Dental treats have evolved significantly, with 2025’s options offering more effective cleaning with better ingredients.
Greenies Dental Treats Advanced Cleaning Formula
The most recognizable name in dental treats has upgraded their formula with advances in texture technology and oral microbiome science. The new Greenies maintain their distinctive brush shape but offer improved flexibility to reach more tooth surfaces, including the challenging gum line. The addition of specific probiotics targets the bacteria most associated with periodontal disease.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| ✅ New flexible texture reaches more tooth surfaces 🦷 | ❌ Premium price point 💰 |
| ✅ Clinically proven to reduce plaque and tartar 🧪 | ❌ Contains wheat gluten (not for grain-sensitive dogs) 🌾 |
| ✅ Added probiotics for oral microbiome support 🦠 | ❌ Higher in calories than some competitors 🍽️ |
| ✅ Highly digestible formula 🐶 | ❌ Must select correct size for your dog 📏 |
| ✅ VOHC (Veterinary Oral Health Council) approved ✓ | ❌ Some dogs eat them too quickly for maximum benefit ⏱️ |
Ingredient Highlight: New probiotic blend specifically targets bacteria that cause periodontal disease.
Whimzees Eco-Brushzees
Combining dental efficacy with environmental consciousness, Whimzees has reimagined their popular dental chews with a fully biodegradable formula. These vegetable-based chews feature an innovative ridged design that cleans multiple tooth surfaces while providing a satisfyingly long chew time. The company has also achieved carbon-neutral production status while maintaining their playful, recognizable shapes.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| ✅ Biodegradable formula breaks down in 90 days ♻️ | ❌ Limited protein infusions (only 3 flavors) 🍗 |
| ✅ Extra-long chewing time (15+ minutes average) ⏱️ | ❌ More expensive than classic dental chews 💲 |
| ✅ Vegetable-based with no artificial ingredients 🥕 | ❌ Texture too hard for senior dogs 👵 |
| ✅ Ridged design cleans hard-to-reach tooth surfaces 🪥 | ❌ Can stain light-colored carpet if left wet 🧼 |
| ✅ Carbon-neutral production process 🌿 | ❌ Not suitable for aggressive chewers 🐺 |
Ingredient Highlight: Made with potato starch and infused with natural antioxidants that support gum health.
OraVet Dental Hygiene Chews
Developed with veterinary dentists, OraVet chews incorporate proprietary technology that creates an invisible barrier on teeth to prevent plaque formation. These highly effective chews are the only option available with the patented delmopinol coating that physically blocks bacteria from attaching to teeth. Their unique dual-action approach has earned them a devoted following among veterinary professionals.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| ✅ Contains delmopinol to block bacteria attachment 🦠 | ❌ Only available through veterinarians 👨⚕️ |
| ✅ Creates a protective barrier against plaque formation 🛡️ | ❌ Higher cost than grocery store dental treats 💰 |
| ✅ Proven 53% reduction in tartar formation 📊 | ❌ Contains beef hide which some dogs may be sensitive to 🐄 |
| ✅ Available in multiple sizes for precise dosing 📏 | ❌ Meaty smell can be strong 👃 |
| ✅ Recommended by veterinary dentists 🦷 | ❌ Must be given daily for maximum effectiveness 📅 |
Ingredient Highlight: Patented delmopinol coating that actively blocks bacteria from attaching to teeth.
Best Functional Treats: Targeted Health Benefits
Today’s functional treats deliver meaningful health benefits beyond basic nutrition.
Nordic Naturals Omega Treats+
Building on their reputation for premium human-grade supplements, Nordic Naturals has created a functional treat delivering therapeutic doses of omega-3 fatty acids. These soft chews combine EPA and DHA from both fish and algae sources for maximum bioavailability, while adding clinically relevant amounts of joint-supporting compounds. The treats undergo rigorous third-party testing for purity and potency.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| ✅ Contains clinical-dose omega-3s (EPA/DHA) 🐟 | ❌ Premium price point 💰 |
| ✅ Added glucosamine and chondroitin for joint health 🦴 | ❌ Fishy smell may be off-putting 👃 |
| ✅ Third-party tested for purity 🧪 | ❌ Requires refrigeration after opening ❄️ |
| ✅ Soft texture suitable for senior dogs 🧓 | ❌ Higher calorie content (30 calories per treat) 🍽️ |
| ✅ Human-grade ingredients 👨🍳 | ❌ Limited flavor options 🍽️ |
Ingredient Highlight: Contains both fish and algae-sourced omega-3s for maximum bioavailability.
Zesty Paws Mobility Bites
The second generation of these popular functional chews incorporates cutting-edge joint support ingredients alongside proven classics. With the addition of undenatured type-II collagen and enhanced anti-inflammatory botanicals, these chews offer comprehensive joint support in a palatable format. The peanut butter flavor masks the herbal components while appealing to most dogs.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| ✅ Complete joint support complex (glucosamine, chondroitin, MSM) 🦴 | ❌ Larger treat size not ideal for small breeds 🐕 |
| ✅ Added turmeric and boswellia for inflammation 🌿 | ❌ Contains some grain ingredients 🌾 |
| ✅ Noticeable results within 2-4 weeks ⏱️ | ❌ Higher in calories than simple treats 🍽️ |
| ✅ Appealing peanut butter flavor 🥜 | ❌ Some dogs dislike the herbal aroma 👃 |
| ✅ Soft chew format easy to break into pieces ✂️ | ❌ Sticky texture can be messy 💦 |
Ingredient Highlight: New UC-II undenatured collagen that shows greater efficacy than traditional joint supplements.
Best Natural/Limited Ingredient Treats: Simplicity Meets Quality
For dogs with sensitivities or owners concerned about additives, these treats offer clean, simple ingredients.
The Honest Kitchen One-Ingredient Treats
True to their name, these treats contain just a single protein source, dehydrated at low temperatures to preserve nutrients and flavor. Made in a human food facility with human-grade ingredients, they represent the ultimate in ingredient simplicity and transparency. The company provides complete traceability for all proteins used.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| ✅ Single, human-grade protein source 🥩 | ❌ Higher price per ounce than multi-ingredient treats 💰 |
| ✅ Available in 8 protein options 🐟 | ❌ Can be brittle and break in packaging 💔 |
| ✅ Free from preservatives and additives 🌿 | ❌ Limited shelf life once opened ⏱️ |
| ✅ Sustainably sourced with transparent supply chain 🌎 | ❌ Some varieties have strong odor 👃 |
| ✅ Suitable for elimination diets 🔍 | ❌ Less appealing to some dogs than enhanced treats 🤔 |
Ingredient Highlight: Human-grade proteins dehydrated at low temperatures to preserve nutrients.
Jiminy’s Cricket Protein Treats
Pioneering sustainable protein sources, Jiminy’s treats harness the nutritional power of crickets—a complete protein that requires a fraction of the resources needed for traditional meat production. These eco-friendly treats offer a novel protein source for dogs with common allergies while significantly reducing environmental impact compared to conventional treats.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| ✅ 80% smaller carbon footprint than meat-based treats 🌍 | ❌ Premium price point 💰 |
| ✅ Hypoallergenic for dogs with common protein allergies 🦮 | ❌ Concept of insect protein unappealing to some owners 🐛 |
| ✅ Complete amino acid profile 🧬 | ❌ Limited distribution (not available everywhere) 🏪 |
| ✅ Renewable, sustainable protein source ♻️ | ❌ Slightly grainy texture 🌾 |
| ✅ Low-fat and highly digestible 🐶 | ❌ Some dogs may initially reject the novel protein 🤨 |
Ingredient Highlight: Cricket protein requires 2000× less water and produces 80× less methane than beef.
Open Farm Wild-Caught Salmon Treats
These premium treats showcase Open Farm’s commitment to transparency and sustainability through their use of certified ocean-friendly seafood. Each package includes a lot code that allows consumers to trace the exact origin of the wild-caught salmon. With just five simple ingredients, these freeze-dried treats offer excellent nutritional value with minimal processing.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| ✅ Ocean Wise certified sustainable seafood 🌊 | ❌ Most expensive option in category 💰 |
| ✅ Transparent sourcing with lot tracking 🔍 | ❌ Strong fishy smell 🐟 |
| ✅ Limited ingredient formula (5 ingredients) 📋 | ❌ Limited availability in some regions 🏪 |
| ✅ Rich in natural omega fatty acids 🧠 | ❌ Requires refrigeration after opening ❄️ |
| ✅ Freeze-dried to maintain nutrient integrity 🌡️ | ❌ Can stain fingers when handled 👐 |
Ingredient Highlight: Uses only certified sustainable, wild-caught salmon with full traceability.
Best High-Value Treats: Special Occasions and Major Rewards
These premium treats serve as “jackpot” rewards for special training circumstances or occasional indulgence.
Stella & Chewy’s Freeze-Dried Raw Dinner Patties
Elevating treating to a gourmet experience, these dinner patties contain a nutritionally complete blend of raw meat, organs and bone. While marketed as a meal option, many trainers use pieces of these incredibly high-value patties as “jackpot” rewards for major training breakthroughs or special occasions. The freeze-drying process preserves the intense flavor and nutritional profile of raw feeding in a convenient, shelf-stable format.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| ✅ 95% meat, organs, and bone 🥩 | ❌ Most expensive treat option 💰 |
| ✅ Exceptionally high-value to most dogs 🤤 | ❌ Too high-value for regular training (creates overexcitement) 🤪 |
| ✅ Cold-pressed raw process preserves nutrients 🌿 | ❌ High in calories (50+ calories per patty) 🍽️ |
| ✅ Available in 8 protein sources 🐄 | ❌ Crumbles easily in treat pouches 💔 |
| ✅ Can be broken into smaller pieces ✂️ | ❌ Limited shelf life after opening ⏱️ |
Ingredient Highlight: Includes raw ground bone for natural calcium and freeze-dried raw organs for nutrient density.
Portland Pet Food Craft Brew Biscuits
These innovative treats upcycle spent grains from local craft breweries into flavorful, sustainable dog biscuits. Made in small batches by hand, these treats reduce food waste while supporting local businesses and creating a unique umami flavor profile that dogs love. The company maintains strict quality control over their limited-release batches, often collaborating with different breweries for seasonal varieties.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| ✅ Handcrafted with upcycled craft brewery grains 🍺 | ❌ Limited availability outside specialty retailers 🏪 |
| ✅ Supports small businesses and reduces food waste ♻️ | ❌ Higher price point than mass-market biscuits 💰 |
| ✅ Appealing savory flavor profile 😋 | ❌ Contains wheat (not for grain-sensitive dogs) 🌾 |
| ✅ Unique texture dogs find engaging 🦴 | ❌ Shorter shelf life than preservative-containing treats ⏱️ |
| ✅ Made in small batches for quality control 👨🍳 | ❌ Inconsistent sizing between batches 📏 |
Ingredient Highlight: Uses spent brewing grains that would otherwise be discarded, creating a sustainable treat with complex flavors.
Full Moon Kitchen-Crafted Jerky Treats
True to their name, these jerky treats are made in small batches using the same processes and equipment as human jerky production. Using USDA-inspected meats and a slow evaporative cooking process, Full Moon produces exceptionally flavorful treats without chemicals or preservatives. The high protein content and intense flavor make these particularly effective for challenging training scenarios.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| ✅ Human-grade USDA-inspected meat 🥩 | ❌ Requires refrigeration after opening ❄️ |
| ✅ Kitchen-crafted in small batches 👨🍳 | ❌ Higher in fat than some treat options 🍔 |
| ✅ No glycerin, preservatives or fillers 🌿 | ❌ Not suitable for dogs on low-protein diets ⚠️ |
| ✅ Excellent training motivator for challenging behaviors 🎯 | ❌ Can be difficult to break into smaller pieces 💪 |
| ✅ Appropriate for dogs with grain sensitivities 🌾 | ❌ Some varieties contain potential allergens 🚫 |
Ingredient Highlight: Slow-cooked in evaporative ovens rather than dehydrators for improved flavor and texture.
Best Budget-Friendly Quality Treats: Value Without Compromise
Quality ingredients don’t always require premium prices. These options offer excellent value without cutting corners.
Nudges Natural Dog Treats Value Pack
These wholesome treats strike an excellent balance between quality ingredients and affordability. Using real meat as the first ingredient and avoiding artificial preservatives, Nudges has created a product that satisfies both conscientious pet parents and their dogs. The company utilizes animal protein parts that might otherwise be wasted, creating an environmentally and economically sustainable treat option.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| ✅ Real meat as first ingredient 🥩 | ❌ Limited protein varieties (chicken, beef, duck) 🐄 |
| ✅ No artificial preservatives, colors or flavors 🌿 | ❌ Higher carbohydrate content than premium options 🌾 |
| ✅ 30% lower price point than premium brands 💰 | ❌ Larger pieces need breaking for small dogs ✂️ |
| ✅ Made in USA with globally sourced ingredients 🇺🇸 | ❌ Contains some grain ingredients 🌾 |
| ✅ Resealable packaging for freshness 🔒 | ❌ Stronger aroma than some competitors 👃 |
Ingredient Highlight: Uses animal protein by-products that are still nutritious but would otherwise be wasted.
Amazon Basics Dental Dog Treats
Amazon has leveraged their enormous purchasing power to create a dental chew that matches the efficacy of premium brands at a substantially lower price point. These VOHC-approved treats actually use many of the same cleaning compounds as the market-leading dental chews but cost significantly less. While they don’t offer the variety of premium brands, they provide excellent value for budget-conscious pet parents.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| ✅ VOHC-approved for tartar reduction 🦷 | ❌ Limited size options (only 3) 📏 |
| ✅ 40% lower price than premium dental chews 💲 | ❌ Contains wheat gluten as a primary ingredient 🌾 |
| ✅ Made in facilities with human food production standards 🏭 | ❌ Less effective for power chewers 🐺 |
| ✅ Textured design reaches multiple tooth surfaces 🪥 | ❌ Higher in calories than some dental treats 🍽️ |
| ✅ Highly digestible formulation 🐶 | ❌ Some batches vary in hardness 📊 |
Ingredient Highlight: Contains the same active cleaning ingredients as premium brands at a significantly lower price point.
Wholesomes Earth-Friendly Training Treats
These small training treats are designed for high-frequency rewarding without breaking the bank. Wholesomes uses upcycled ingredients from human food production to create affordable treats while reducing food waste. The company has also invested in carbon-neutral manufacturing and recyclable packaging while maintaining a sub-$5 price point for a generous quantity of treats.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| ✅ Affordable price point (under $5 for 200 treats) 💰 | ❌ Limited distribution channels 🏪 |
| ✅ Carbon-neutral manufacturing 🌍 | ❌ Contains some grain ingredients 🌾 |
| ✅ Smaller size perfect for training 🐕 | ❌ Less appealing flavor to some dogs 😐 |
| ✅ Resealable, recyclable packaging ♻️ | ❌ Slightly harder texture than premium soft treats 🦴 |
| ✅ No artificial colors, flavors or preservatives 🌿 | ❌ Shorter shelf life than treats with preservatives ⏱️ |
Ingredient Highlight: Uses upcycled ingredients from human food production that would otherwise be discarded.
How to Choose the Right Treat for Your Dog
Consider these factors when selecting from the top treats of 2025:
- Purpose: Training treats should be tiny and low-calorie; dental treats need appropriate texture and size
- Dietary needs: Consider allergies, sensitivities, and weight management requirements
- Ingredients: Look for named protein sources and recognizable ingredients
- Value vs. budget: Higher price doesn’t always mean better quality
- Sustainability: Consider environmental impact of ingredients and packaging
Remember that treats should make up no more than 10% of your dog’s daily caloric intake to maintain proper nutrition and weight.
Conclusion
The best dog treat of 2025 depends entirely on your specific needs, your dog’s preferences, and your priorities regarding ingredients, functionality, and value. By understanding the pros and cons of each option, you can make an informed choice that rewards your dog while supporting their overall health and wellbeing.
For training, Zuke’s Mini Naturals Enhanced and PureBites Freeze-Dried offer excellent options. Dental health is best served by Greenies Advanced Formula or OraVet Dental Chews. If you’re focused on sustainability, Jiminy’s Cricket Protein or Cloud Star Tricky Trainers Sustainable Series lead the pack.
What treats have worked best for your dog? Share your experiences in the comments below!
Remember to introduce any new treats gradually and monitor for any adverse reactions, particularly if your dog has known sensitivities.
JoggerPups 
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