Best Dog Treats for Training in 2025 – My Honest Review
Introduction
When I first started looking for the best dog treats for training, I thought any small snack would do. Oh, how wrong I was. After going through a graveyard of rejected treats (my dog gave me that look more than once), I finally figured out what makes a training treat truly effective.
In this guide, I’ll share:
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Why choosing the right training treat matters
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What separates good treats from the great ones
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My honest review of Blue Buffalo Soft & Moist Training Treats
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A side-by-side comparison with other popular options
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Pros & cons you should know before buying
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FAQs from real dog parents like us
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Where to buy the best deals online
Grab your leash, because we’re about to make training way more rewarding.
Why the Best Dog Treats for Training Matter
Dogs learn best with positive reinforcement. A tasty, bite-sized reward can be the difference between a stubborn pup and a quick learner.
Here’s why training treats are different from regular snacks:
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Small & quick to chew → Keeps training smooth without long pauses.
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Smelly (in a good way) → The stronger the aroma, the faster your dog reacts.
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Low calorie → So you can give plenty without creating a chunky pup.
What Makes the Best Dog Training Treats Stand Out
Through trial (and a lot of tail wags), I discovered the essentials:
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Texture: Soft treats are easier for both puppies and senior dogs.
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Taste: Real meat should always be the first ingredient.
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Nutrition: Look for DHA for brain health, limited fillers, and low calories.
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Convenience: Easy to carry, won’t crumble into dust in your pocket.
Not every snack works well in training. For a breakdown of different types of dog treats and how they compare, check our detailed guide.
My Review of Blue Buffalo Training Treats
Blue Buffalo Soft & Moist Training Treats quickly became my dog’s favorite — and mine too, because they make training way easier.
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Taste test (from my dog’s perspective): Total obsession. He will literally drop his toy mid-play for one.
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Training results: Commands like sit and stay improved almost instantly thanks to their quick chewability.
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Convenience: The resealable bag keeps them fresh, and each treat is already bite-sized.
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Downside: If you forget to close the bag, they dry out fast. Rookie mistake, I know.
My Rating: 4.7/5
I balance these with other treats like Zuke’s Mini Naturals for variety, but Blue Buffalo remains my #1 pick for consistent training sessions.
Comparison Table – Best Training Treats for Dogs
| Brand | Key Features | Best For | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Blue Buffalo Training Treats | Real chicken, DHA for brain health | Puppies, seniors | Soft, healthy, tasty | Contains sugar |
| Nudges Jerky Cuts | Natural jerky, no corn/wheat/soy | Adult dogs | Tearable, flavorful | Can upset sensitive stomachs |
| Zuke’s Mini Naturals | Low-calorie, grain-free | Training sessions | Very small pieces | Limited flavor variety |
| Wellness Soft Puppy Bites | Lamb & salmon, DHA | Puppies | Gentle on teeth | Pricier than others |
Are Calming Treats Useful in Training?
Training a hyper or anxious dog can feel like herding squirrels. That’s where calming treats come in. They’re not for every session, but they can help in situations like:
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Crate training
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First car rides
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Vet visits or grooming sessions
Look for calming treats with chamomile, melatonin, or CBD. Just don’t mix them with heavy training days unless recommended by your vet.
Pros & Cons of Blue Buffalo Training Treats
Pros
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Soft & moist — easy to chew
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Real chicken as first ingredient
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DHA supports brain health
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Perfect size for training
Cons
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Contains sugar
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Can dry out if not sealed properly
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Not ideal for dogs on strict grain-free diets
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Are these treats suitable for small breed dogs?
Yes, the soft texture makes them perfect for small mouths. Even tiny pups can enjoy them.
Q: Can senior dogs eat these?
Definitely. The soft consistency is gentle on older teeth, and the DHA helps cognitive support.
Q: Do they contain common allergens?
They’re free from corn, wheat, and soy, but contain rice and oatmeal. Dogs with grain allergies should avoid them.
Q: How many calories per treat?
About 3 calories each. Perfect for multiple training sessions without weight gain.
Q: How should I store them?
Always reseal the bag tightly. If left open, the treats dry out.
Q: Can I use calming treats and training treats together?
Yes, but moderation is key. Always consult your vet if your dog is on medication.
Q: Can I use these for potty training?
Absolutely. Their size and smell make them perfect for fast rewards during housebreaking.
Q: Where can I learn more about other options?
You can explore more best dog treats for training on our site to see alternatives for picky eaters or special diets.
Where to Buy
I usually grab my bag of Blue Buffalo Training Treats directly from Amazon because it’s fast and reliable.
👉 Buy Blue Buffalo Soft & Moist Training Treats on Amazon
Final Verdict
For me, the best dog treats for training in 2025 are Blue Buffalo Soft & Moist Training Treats. They’re tasty, healthy, and my dog literally sits before I finish the word.
Are they perfect? Not quite. But if you want treats that are easy to carry, loved by dogs, and supportive of training progress — this is your best bet.
