Dog owners have loved giving rewards and snacks to their furry friends when training, playing, or even at random times. It has also become their way of showing their affection to these animals. Nevertheless, while giving toothsome bites has become a universal love language, you cannot reward your dog the best without at least one of the 11 best soft dog treats.
This article will introduce you to healthy soft treats for dogs you can choose from to help you decide on one. Read ahead to get started!
11 Best Soft Treats For Dogs
According to White et al. ‘s research about the owner perceptions and motivations for treat giving, 96% of the 280 dog owners feed their dogs with treats. Moreover, 69% give shop-bought treats daily. In that case, choosing soft, healthy dog treats will ensure your furry friend gets the nutritional value it needs in a day.
So, here are the best ones to give you ideas.
| Product Name | Description | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Stella & Chewy’s Chicken Hearts Freeze-Dried Raw Dog Treats | An easy-to-break soft treat with 100% pure freeze-dried raw chicken hearts with no preservatives and synthetic ingredients | 4.8 |
| 2. PureBites Beef Liver Freeze-Dried Raw Dog Treats | Made with 100% pure freeze-dried USA-sourced raw beef liver for a healthy treat or training aid | 4.7 |
| 3. Zuke’s Mini Naturals Training Dog Treats Duck Recipe | Miniature-sized dog treats are available in six different flavors for training dogs | 4.6 |
| 4. Wellness Wellbites Natural Grain Free Soft Dog Treats | A soft treat made with high-quality fruits, vegetables, and human-grade meats in a six-ounce container | 4.6 |
| 5. Fruitables Skinny Minis Pumpkin & Berry Flavor Soft & Chewy Dog Treats | Made with natural ingredients in a certified organic bakery and is rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and dietary fiber | 4.6 |
| 6. Full Moon USDA Organic Chicken Training Treats Healthy All Natural Dog Treats Human Grade | A filler-free dog treats with real organic chicken and human-grade ingredients | 4.6 |
| 7. Canine Carry Outs Beef Flavor Dog Treats | Comes in a 50-ounce container of nutrient-packed fun-shaped dog treats at an affordable price | 4.6 |
| 8. ORIJEN Original Grain-Free Freeze-Dried Dog Treats | A high-quality combination of freeze-dried raw animal ingredients, including organs, meat, bone, and cartilage | 4.6 |
| 9. Blue Buffalo Wilderness Trail Treats High Protein Grain Free Crunchy Dog Treats Biscuits | An inexpensive option with real meats and vegetables for providing valuable nutritional content | 4.5 |
| 10. Hill’s Grain Free Dog Treats, Soft-Baked Naturals with Beef & Sweet Potatoes | A natural and organic soft dog treats with a balanced flavor and nutritional value | 4.5 |
| 11. Milo’s Kitchen Chicken Meatballs Dog Treats | A natural high-protein snack with organic vegetables and meat | 4.5 |
1. Wellness Wellbites Natural Grain Free Soft Dog Treats
The first one on the list is Wellness Wellbites Natural Soft Dog Treats. This mini chewy treat contains human-quality meats, such as venison and lamb, without artificial additives and meat by-products. Furthermore, it has whole fruits and vegetables, including blueberries and sweet potatoes, as sources of antioxidants and necessary nutrients.
Also, if your dog dislikes lamb and looks for something else, Wellness Wellbites has a wide range of flavor options to suit your friend’s taste buds. It also comes with a six-ounce container to make it handy wherever you go. Nonetheless, you can find that this product is more expensive than other dry treats.
Pros
- Different flavor options
- Made with high-quality ingredients
- Great for training, treating, or snacking
- Suitable for puppies to senior dogs
- Six-ounce container
Cons
- It is on the expensive side
2. Stella & Chewy’s Chicken Hearts Freeze-Dried Raw Dog Treats
If you are looking for a nutrient-dense soft dog treat, you must check Stella & Chewy’s Freeze-Dried Chicken Hearts! Also, it only has a single high-quality ingredient, which is 100% pure freeze-dried raw chicken hearts for high protein and amino acids. Therefore, it makes a perfect treat for dogs with a limited-ingredient diet and food sensitivities.
In terms of health benefits, Stella & Chewy’s promotes healthy digestion, gums, and teeth. Additionally, it supports vitality, stamina, and skin or coat health. Since it is grain-free and gluten-free, you can ensure your furry friend will not get any allergic reaction from this soft dog treat! The only drawback here is that it can be greasy, which leaves stains on mats.
Pros
- Easy to break, suitable for training treats
- Advisable for allergic dogs
- No preservatives and synthetic ingredients
- Flavorful to entice picky-eater dogs
- Includes nutrients to improve holistic health
Cons
- Greasy
- Leaves stain on mats
3. Zuke’s Mini Naturals Training Dog Treats Duck Recipe
Zuke’s Mini Naturals Training Dog Treats is a good option if you want soft dog treats for small dogs. Due to their miniature-sized biscuits, you no longer need to break them into smaller pieces when training your furry friend. Also, your dog can have guilt-free snack time since it only has three calories per treat!
Zuke’s Mini Naturals contains real meat, cherries, and natural flavors like turmeric. Aside from the duck recipe, you can choose from several flavor options, e.g., salmon, pork, rabbit, chicken, and peanut butter with oats. Even though it is not the most expensive dog treat on the list, you can find that the features are slightly not worth the price.
Pros
- Low calories
- Made with natural ingredients
- It does not require breaking the biscuits into smaller pieces
- No artificial flavors, colors, and preservatives
Cons
- It is slightly expensive per ounce.
4. Blue Buffalo Wilderness Trail Treats High Protein Grain Free Crunchy Dog Treats Biscuits
Having a tight budget for natural soft dog treats is not a problem with Blue Buffalo Wilderness Trail Treats! Although it is one of the inexpensive options on this list, it does not sacrifice quality because it has natural meats and vegetables. Furthermore, its grain-free biscuits can be valuable for your dog’s nutrition.
Furthermore, Blue Buffalo has antioxidants, omega 3, and 6 fatty acids for improving health and cleaning teeth. The ingredients also do not include corn, wheat, soy, and chicken by-products. Nevertheless, the crunchy biscuits can break up inside the bag, causing them to crumble in the long run.
Pros
- Made with real meat and vegetables
- A budget-friendly option
- Wide range of flavor options
- Crunchy
- No chicken by-products
Cons
- The biscuits are crumbly and can break in the bag.
- Some reviews say that it causes intestinal reactions in their dogs.
5. Fruitables Skinny Minis Pumpkin & Berry Flavor Soft & Chewy Dog Treats
Have you heard of a certified organic bakery? That is because Fruitables produce Skinny Minis Pumpkin & Berry Flavor Dog Treats on one! They aim to create a dog treat with a tempting smell like freshly baked blueberry muffins to attract dogs. Moreover, since it is also low in calories, it is an excellent option for a guilt-free reward.
Moreover, Fruitables Skinny Minis are rich in antioxidants, dietary fiber, and vitamins. It only contains natural and nutritious ingredients, excluding wheat, corn, soy, and artificial additives. Furthermore, if your dog dislikes the pumpkin and berry flavor, you can opt for a different variant of this dog treat!
Pros
- Suitable for training dogs
- Pleasant smell that can attract pups
- Advisable for miniature dogs
- Made in a certified organic bakery
Cons
- Some pet owners report that their dogs dislike this product and will not eat it.
6. Hill’s Grain Free Dog Treats, Soft-Baked Naturals with Beef & Sweet Potatoes
The succeeding product on our list of soft treats for dogs is Hill’s Grain Free Dog Treats. As its name says, this soft-baked treat contains natural ingredients and is grain-free. It perfectly balances the nutritional value and flavor to satisfy both your furry friend’s taste buds and health needs.
In addition, Hill’s Grain Free Dog Treats has different flavors, including beef & sweet potatoes, duck & pumpkin, and chicken & carrots. Since it contains real meat, your dog can have lean protein for its muscles. Nevertheless, the product’s pieces are awkwardly small and can crumble inside the pouch or container.
Pros
- No harmful ingredients and artificial additives
- Nutrient-dense
- Made with 100% natural content
Cons
- The biscuits are extremely small-sized and awkward.
- It can be crumbly over time.
7. Milo’s Kitchen Chicken Meatballs Dog Treats
A wide range of flavors, you ask? Milo’s Kitchen Dog Treats is available in five other variants aside from chicken meatballs, including beef sausage slices, chicken jerky, steak grillers, chicken and apple sausage slices, and chicken with wild rice and vegetables. Unquestionably, your dog can choose from several flavors today!
Aside from the flavor options, Milo’s Kitchen is also a high-protein snack with organic vegetables and meat. It is a premium dog treat with no added flavors and colors. However, since the product contains only organic ingredients, you can expect that they can cost higher than most dog treats on the market.
Pros
- Made with organic and natural ingredients
- No artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives
- Stays moist when placed in a container properly
- Wide range of flavor options
Cons
- It is on the expensive side.
- Some reviews said their dogs became sick due to this product.
8. PureBites Beef Liver Freeze-Dried Raw Dog Treats
Like its name suggests, this PureBites Dog Treats has 100% pure freeze-dried USA-sourced raw beef liver. The production process of freeze-drying only includes water removal to preserve the nutritional content. Moreover, they do not add other flavors and preservatives; hence, this product is wholly natural.
PureBites Freeze-Dried Beef Liver only has five calories per treat and is rich in protein. It is ideal for your furry friends who are diabetic, allergic, and overweight, and those with gastrointestinal disorders and restricted diet. Additionally, you can use this dog treat as a healthy snack and a tasty training reward!
Pros
- Suitable for dogs with a limited-ingredient diet
- Rich in protein
- Low calories
- No added flavors and preservatives
- Perfect for a healthy treat or training reward
Cons
- Not suitable for canines that do not eat beef liver
9. Full Moon USDA Organic Chicken Training Treats Healthy All Natural Dog Treats, Human Grade
Full Moon Organic Human Grade Training Dog Treats has real organic chicken as its main ingredient. It is a high-quality option for treating dogs at random times because it contains human-grade ingredients and natural content, e.g., flax seed and paprika. Furthermore, the treats are small and low in calories.
You can ensure your dog’s safety with this premium soft dog treat, for it neither contains by-products nor synthetic ingredients. The content also excludes wheat, soy, and corn to prevent dogs from having allergic reactions. Lastly, it is free from glycerin and fillers.
Pros
- Made with organic ingredients and cage-free chickens
- Low calories
- With real meat flavors
- Meets USDA Standards that fit human consumption
Cons
- It can get moldy even before the expiry date arrives.
10. Canine Carry Outs Beef Flavor Dog Treats
Here comes another inexpensive option on the list: Canine Carry Outs Beef Flavor Dog Treats. These soft, chewy dog treats come in a 50-ounce container with a price that is half the others with small pouches. Also, this product, made in Topeka, Kansas, has fun shapes for a more exciting reward when training your dog.
Additionally, Canine Carry Outs offer a wide range of natural flavors aside from beef, including bacon, chicken, hotdog minis, sausage links, burger minis, steak bites, bacon & cheese, beef & bacon, and beef & cheese. So, if your furry friend is picky, you can let it choose from these variants!
Pros
- Made with natural ingredients
- Wide variety of flavor options
- It comes with a large container
- Not expensive
Cons
- The product has very small-sized biscuits.
- It can get crumbly in the container.
11. ORIJEN Original Grain-Free Freeze-Dried Dog Treats
ORIJEN Original Grain-Free Freeze-Dried Dog Treats is a high-quality combination of various raw animal ingredients, including organs, meat, bone, and cartilage. Also, these treats come in small batches to preserve the nutritional content. Moreover, they did not add artificial flavors, colors, and preservatives for a healthier dog treat.
This soft dog treat contains only five calories per piece for guilt-free snacking. Its delicious taste will surely satisfy your dog’s taste buds without risking its health because it is also grain-free, gluten-free, and high in protein! Lastly, its lightweight pack will let you bring it whenever and wherever you want.
Pros
- High protein levels
- Tasty flavors
- Suitable for picky-eater dogs
- It does not produce an unpleasant smell
Cons
- The biscuits can have a crumbly to a powdery consistency.
How to Choose the Best Soft Treats for Dogs
You can find the best soft treats for dogs if you consider a few factors of purchasing one. While these treats are also perfect for rewarding dogs for a job well done, providing them with a healthy snack will complement learning.
So, we offer you these aspects you must check when choosing the best soft treats for your furry friend!
Quality Ingredients
Firstly, you must inspect the ingredients list once you reach the store or online shop. Scan the added components to ensure that they do not include harmful content or edible dangers that can risk your dog’s health. For example, sugar, unhealthy fats, and chicken by-products are not advisable.
On the other hand, the best ingredients in a soft dog treat are natural, organic, and authentic contents, like meat, vegetable, or fruits. Since simplicity is the best, single ingredients are the most advisable treats. Also, it will be better if they meet the USDA Standards and are U.S.-based.
Digestibility
According to Rakha et al.‘s research about the prevalence of health issues in dogs, the highest and most common health cases in canines are digestive problems. These can come from harmful components, such as onion, garlic, grapes, raisins, and bones. Since digestibility refers to the number of nutrients absorbed in food, choosing a soft dog treat that suits your fur baby’s stomach will help it get the necessary vitamins.
Furthermore, if your dog has allergies to specific ingredients, its body will not accept the nutritional value of the treat. Instead, it will suffer more from the inability to digest it. So, it is best to check whether or not your dog has food sensitivities.
Filler-Free
You can find soft dog treats with a bunch of fillers, chemicals, and ingredients that are hard to digest for dogs. They can contain unnecessary content that will not produce any health benefits and harm your dog’s health. Hence, filler-free and natural soft treats are what your dog needs.
For instance, there must be no soy, wheat, gluten, or corn. Also, avoid preservatives, coloring, artificial flavors, and synthetic chemical sweeteners. If you find glycerin in the ingredients list, double-check if it comes from palm, coconut, or soybean because a soybean-derived ingredient is not advisable for dogs.
Nutritional Value
A dog’s health is essential by all means because it influences its behavior and activity. While the food they eat daily affects their well-being, giving them a soft dog treat with an excellent nutritional value will ensure they are safe and nourished.
Given these points, Gizzarelli et al.‘s research on the effects of carbohydrates in dogs’ diets states that a balanced combination of carbohydrate sources and energy nutrients like protein will improve liver function and holistic health. These contents will also create the healthiest soft dog treat once coupled with antioxidants, vitamins, minerals, and omega 3 or 6 fatty acids.
Benefits of Soft Treats for Dogs
Aside from a wide range of health benefits, the best soft puppy treats also help pet owners to feed their furry friends due to their taste, smell, and suitability for both senior dogs and puppies. Since canines who are picky eaters can also be challenging to deal with when it comes to foods, using soft treats can be a real game changer.
So, here are the benefits of soft dog treats to know more!
Tastier
Initially, you will notice that soft dog treats have a wide range of flavor options to attract dogs during training. They can have beef, chicken, pork, salmon, and other ingredients that make the dog treat more flavorful than typical dog foods. Furthermore, they contain more fat, oils, and carbs; that is why they are tastier.
Stronger Smell
According to Kokocinska-Kusiak et al.‘s research on canine olfaction, dogs have a sensitive smell and can differentiate odors. That is why soft dog treats have a more intense scent to keep your dog’s attention when training. Moreover, it can also help pet owners to entice their fur babies to eat the treats.
Suitable for Senior and Puppies
Soft dog treats are the perfect snacks for senior dogs with oral issues, puppies with undeveloped teeth, and those who cannot chew hard dog treats. Single-ingredient and freeze-dried treats also suit all dogs of different breeds and ages. Lastly, their multiple flavor options, biscuit size, and health benefits are also universal.
Best Soft Dog Treats: FAQ
Choosing the best soft dog treats can further require additional information. Since this matter is crucial to ensure your furry friend’s safety, you must also know the slightest details about dog treats. Thus, here are a few frequently asked questions to provide more tips about this.
One of the healthiest soft dog treats is Stella & Chewy’s Chicken Hearts Freeze-Dried Raw Dog Treats. It aids digestion, gums, and teeth while supporting stamina, vitality, and skin and coat health. Furthermore, its protein, amino acids, grain-free, and gluten-free content are suitable for dogs with food sensitivity and a limited-ingredient diet.
You can choose between a hard and soft dog treat, given that you will consider the situation where you will want to feed your fur baby. For instance, a hard one is better when you want to focus your dog’s attention on the treat if you are doing something. On the other hand, soft treats are advisable for small puppies and those with dental problems.
Moderately feeding your dog with milk-bone treats will give it minerals and vitamins. Nonetheless, if it has milk-bone allergies or lactose intolerance, your furry friend can have gastrointestinal problems, such as diarrhea or vomiting. Therefore, it is best to check first whether or not your dog can handle it.
Fortunately, soft dog treats are not harmful to dogs, especially those brands with organic and natural ingredients. It is suitable for young puppies with undeveloped teeth or senior dogs with poor dental health. Moreover, these treats are high in protein and low in fats; thus, it is a healthy option for canines of any breed and size.
First, you can soften dog treats by steaming them or wrapping them in a damp rag and putting them in low heat inside the microwave. You can also lightly brush them with any liquid and leave them for a day. However, you must check them from time to time to see whether they bend or not.
You can find lots of the best soft dog treats on the market today, and all that is left for you to do is to choose one for your dog. While these dog treats vary in flavor, consistency, and ingredients, all of them can provide the necessary health benefits your fur baby needs.