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As a responsible pet owner, you want to give your four-legged family members the best of everything, including treats. However, when it comes to healthy dog treats for small dogs, you need to be a little more careful.
As you may already know, small dogs have different nutritional requirements and smaller teeth compared to their larger counterparts. Therefore, it’s important to choose doggie snacks that are specifically designed to meet their needs.
So, how do you spot healthy dog treats for small dogs among a sea of choices? In this article, we’ll talk about that. Likewise, I give my recommendations for the seven best healthy dog treats for small dogs.
Whether you have a Shih Tzu, Pomeranian, or any other small breed, keep reading to find out how to keep your furry pal healthy and happy with the right treats.
How Do You Define Healthy Dog Treats for Small Dogs?
When it comes to choosing healthy dog treats for small dogs, there are several factors to consider beyond flavor preferences.
Size Matters
Size definitely matters when it comes to choosing healthy dog treats for small dogs.
Picture yourself trying to take a bite of a cookie the size of a plate. That’s precisely the sort of challenge a Chihuahua faces when given a jerky made for a Bullmastiff. This predicament even gets much worse for older dogs with missing teeth or gum disease.
Rather than resembling jawbreakers, the treat should easily fit a small dog’s dainty mouth and each bite should be enjoyable. Treats that are too large may even pose a choking hazard.
Nutritious and Satisfying
Treats that are high in protein, such as those with real meat as the primary ingredient, are often a hit with dogs who favor savory flavors. For those with a sweet fang, options include treats with peanut butter, sweet potato, or pumpkin.
How about you grab both meaty and non-meat treats to keep things interesting for your furry pal? After all, dogs love variety!
Moreover, it’s crucial to consider any dietary restrictions due to allergies or sensitivities; hypoallergenic treats or those with limited ingredients can be beneficial.
If Doggo is already on a hypoallergenic diet, then you’ll be pleased to know that there are meaty treats in this list that use novel proteins like fish and duck. These animal protein sources are less commonly associated with gut issues in dogs than chicken or beef.
The products we reviewed are free from unnecessary fillers such as soy, wheat, and corn. These ingredients are often linked to digestive issues and allergic reactions in dogs.
While most of the products have limited ingredients, they are practically irresistible even to the pickiest of eaters due to the quality of the ingredients used.
Low in Calories
The best healthy dog treats for small dogs are low in fat; otherwise, the calories could easily add up. Also, fatty treats could potentially upset a dog’s stomach or exacerbate health conditions like diabetes and pancreatitis.
Proudly Made in the USA
Feel reassured that all the products featured in this review are proudly made in the USA with the highest quality standards.
These treats are not only scrumptious, but they are also nutritious and beneficial for our furry pals. By selecting these meticulously crafted doggie snacks, you can be sure that your pets receive only the best.
Top 7 Best Healthy Dog Treats for Small Dogs Reviewed
1. Old Mother Hubbard by Wellness | P-Nuttier ‘N Nanners Mini | Grain-Free Oven Baked Dog Biscuits (16 oz.)
These grain-free biscuits feature an irresistible combination of peanut butter, bananas, molasses, and apples. They are baked slowly to lock in freshness and crafted into fun, crunchy bone-shaped biscuits that little doggies will love to munch.
These healthy dog treats for small dogs are only 10 kcal a piece, and their size is perfect for those tiny little teeth.
No wonder Old Mother Hubbard has been pleasing dogs for decades with their delicious treats! While this peanut butter recipe is the crowd favorite, I’ve heard that many dogs also love the Pick of the Patch and All the Fixins (has turkey meal).
Reviews:
Laura | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“My dog has IBD and it’s very difficult to find treats that don’t have ingredients in them that will trigger it. I can’t get anything with meat in it so I stick to peanut butter and things like that. You’d be surprised how difficult it is to find treats that are limited-ingredient, grain-free, and don’t have chicken somewhere in the ingredients. I’ve gotten these several times and my dog seems to tolerate them very well. I’d definitely recommend them for dogs with food allergies or intolerances.”
Marty | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“My Lab/Blue Heeler mix Otis loves these little dog biscuits. The small size of these biscuits makes them great for a training treat or a small anytime snack. Otis is crazy about the peanut butter and banana flavor! I would definitely recommend these treats.”
2. American Journey Grain-Free Oven Baked Dog Treats with Peanut Butter (16 oz.)
American Journey’s oven-baked biscuits are also a big hit among small dogs!
The smoky allure of dry roasted peanuts, plus adding chickpeas and peas in the place of grains make these healthy dog treats for small dogs a nourishing gourmet delight.
The perfect crunch in each bite is sure to keep tails wagging. And at only 13 kcal a treat, they are quite the indulgence you can feel good about giving to Doggo and Pupper.
If you want to alternate your doggies’ treats with something meaty, you should try the Turkey Recipe, which is just as popular with the canine crowd.
Although this limited-ingredient recipe contains chicken fat as a natural preservative, it is completely safe for dogs with allergies to chicken.
Reviews:
George | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“My dogs are pretty picky and it’s hard to find one that all three will like. My bigger girl dogs didn’t even smell it—just ate it, which alone is weird. And the Chihuahua, who is the pickiest, smelled it and gently took it like she was thinking about at first but she’s eating them. From first experience, they are liked.”
Paula | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“My dog Baby is very, very picky. However, she enjoyed these crunchy peanut butter small little circles of baked goodness. I put two in front of her and she crunched away. They smell good, I was almost tempted to eat one, but I didn’t. Baby is a 20-pound little Poodle and I bought two bags. I was thrilled she likes them too!”
3. Zuke’s Mini Naturals Chicken Recipe Healthy Dog Treats for Small Dogs (1 lb.)
Zuke’s Mini Naturals Chicken Recipe Dog Treats are crafted with love in the USA, with ingredients sourced from every corner of the globe, all snug in a resealable pouch that’s ready to roll whenever adventure barks.
With each 1-pound bag boasting a whopping 650 treats, you could practically pave the path to your dog’s leash training. Low in calories but high in yum, these healthy treats for small dogs—which are the size of a pencil eraser—are like ninjas that sneak in the goodness without the guilt!
Chicken is leading the pack, with a supporting cast of rice, oats, and even cherries, all jazzed up with vitamin E and zinc. It’s like a micromini meal!
And for those discerning doggos turning their noses up at corn, wheat, and soy – fear not! Zuke’s has kept it clean and green, just the way nature intended.
Reviews:
Pastor | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“Muchie and Mindy go crazy for new treats! Our two little dogs cannot get enough of these wonderful treats. They are the perfect size for them; one is a Maltese and the other a Maltipoo. They are always looking at the bag and wanting a bunch of these great little treats. Thanks to our neighbor who had an extra bag that her little dog didn’t want any longer, now we have a great treat for our girls.”
Christina | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“Great low-fat treat! Our little guy Lalo can’t have anything with fat, which makes finding treats for him difficult. These treats are under 3% fat and he likes the taste. They are small which keeps the calories down but still feels like a reward.”
4. Blue Buffalo Bits Soft-Moist Training Treats | Tempting Turkey Recipe (4 oz.)
Blue Buffalo Blue Bits Tempting Turkey Recipe Soft-Moist Training Dog Treats offer a nutritious and delicious way to reward dogs during training sessions. With only 4 kcal per treat, they’re an ideal choice for maintaining your dog’s weight while keeping them motivated.
The use of real turkey as the primary ingredient ensures a high-quality protein source, essential for muscle development and energy. The absence of by-product meals further underscores the commitment to a natural diet for pets.
For those whose dogs have no chicken allergies, alternating with the chicken recipe can provide variety. The inclusion of DHA is a thoughtful addition, supporting brain health, while the omega fatty acids contribute to a shiny coat and healthy skin.
These treats are also considerate of older dogs, who may struggle with harder snacks, offering a softer texture that is easier on sensitive gums.
Reviews:
Roxanne | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“Scrumptious! My dog likes them even more than the chicken ones. A definite must-have! I 100% recommend the turkey ones along with the chicken.”
Gale | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“Our Maltese little Lizette (she’s just 6 months old) has been easy to train. And when these turkey bits are offered, she’s quick to catch on. They’ve been an excellent training tool.”
5. Pet Botanics Training Rewards Soft & Chewy Bacon Treats (500 treats)
When it comes to treats, it’s a tightrope walk between tasty and waistline-friendly. So it’s a relief to know that Pet Botanics Training Rewards Soft & Chewy Bacon Treats are only 3 calories each. You don’t have to worry about Doggo transforming into a pudgy pooch.
While there’s a variety of flavors available, the majority of the canine crowd leans towards bacon — and who can blame them? And with 500 treats per bag, you’re getting a big bang for your buck.
Crafted with pride in the USA, these treats are free from the big no-nos like corn, soy, artificial preservatives, and such. Instead, they’re brimming with botanicals: rosemary, green tea, and chamomile.
Reviews:
Lorrie | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“It’s my dog’s favorite treat. It’s apparently tasty enough to really get his attention but small enough so he’s not being overfed.”
Kenneth | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“My pup loves these treats. I give him a different flavor each time I buy them. He’s been enjoying them for 4 years now.”
6. Vital Essentials Freeze-Dried Minnows (2.5 oz.)
As the name suggests, these healthy dog treats for small dogs are made from American-sourced minnows that are rich in Omega-3 fatty acids. Featuring only one ingredient, it is perfect for dogs that are sensitive to common animal proteins and grains.
The freeze-drying process, which spans 48 hours, is key to preserving the natural flavors and nutrients found in the raw minnows, ensuring that pets enjoy all the benefits of the fish’s nutrition.
With a high protein content and rich in omega-3 fatty acids, Vital Essentials Freeze-Dried Minnows not only tantalize the taste buds of our pets but also contribute to their overall health and well-being.
Reviews:
Sandy | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“I have a working crew of both small (Poodles) and large (Doberman Pinschers), and each and every dog loves these minnows. They don’t smell too strong to have in a pocket and they are not greasy like some other brands. We are very pleased with these.”
Brenda | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“Always have a bag of these in our house! My 3 Yorkies love these. I thought they were creepy at first! We feed a raw diet to our girls, so these are perfect for a little treat.”
7. Stella & Chewy’s Freeze-Dried Dog Treats | Carnivore Crunch (3.25 oz)
For the ultimate meat connoisseur, Stella & Chewy’s Carnivore Crunch Freeze-Dried Treats for Dogs is like a steak dinner without the need for a reservation or a dress code. All that is required is good behavior.
Would you believe each treat is less than 3 calories? If Doggo is a good boy, then he can indulge in a few more treats without turning into a round hound.
Reviews:
Doodler | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“My dogs love these treats, my groomer uses them and I understand why. The dogs will do anything to get them! They are bite-sized and come in several flavors. These are going on auto delivery, I never want to be without them.”
Joanne | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“These Carnivore Crunch by Stella &Chewy are really good for training your dog. They really like the taste and seem to respond well on command.”
Conclusion
Mixing up our dogs’ treats with both meaty and non-meat options can be a great way to provide them with variety. Plus, it’s always fun to see their excitement when they get to try something new.
We hope our guide has been helpful in your search for the best healthy dog treats for small dogs. Happy snacking! 🐶♥️
Frequently Asked Questions
You may use single-ingredient treats as food toppers if you’re in a pinch.