Nothing turns a distracted pup into a laser-focused student faster than the perfect training treat. Walk down any PetSmart aisle, though, and the sheer wall of brightly colored bags—freeze-dried nibs, air-dried strips, tiny heart-shaped nibbles—can feel more overwhelming than a barking dog park at 5 p.m. The good news? You don’t need a certified trainer’s badge to spot the winners once you know what actually matters: calorie density, ingredient integrity, texture, and your individual dog’s age, breed sensitivities, and motivation level. Below, we’ll unpack everything you need to cruise PetSmart’s shelves like a pro, decode label jargon, and choose treats that keep tails wagging and training on track without sabotaging dinner or widening the waistline.
Ready to turn every “sit,” “stay,” and “heel” into a delicious celebration? Let’s dig in.
Top 10 Petsmart Dog Training Treats
Detailed Product Reviews
1. Pet Botanics Training Rewards Treats for Dogs, Made with Real Pork Liver, Focuses, Motivates, Rewards, Speeds Up Learning Curve, No BHA, BHT, Ethoxyquin, Bacon, 20 oz (1 pack)
Overview: Pet Botanics Training Rewards are soft, bacon-flavored morsels built around real pork liver to turn any training session into a rapid-fire success. Each 20-oz pouch holds roughly 500 treats sized for dogs of every age, from wide-eyed puppies to seasoned competitors.
What Makes It Stand Out: The brand’s “Botanic” twist—added salmon oil, cranberries, and flaxseed—means you’re slipping omega-3s, antioxidants, and fiber into your dog while you reward sits and stays. The soft texture breaks cleanly into halves for calorie control without crumbling in pocket or pouch.
Value for Money: At $12.61/lb you’re paying mid-tier pricing, but the real-pork base, clean preservative-free formula, and training-specific size deliver professional-grade results without boutique mark-ups.
Strengths and Weaknesses:
Pros: irresistible pork-liver aroma; soft enough for seniors; no BHA/BHT/ethoxyquin; resealable bag keeps moisture.
Cons: bacon flavoring can stain light fabric; smell is strong for sensitive humans; calorie count (3 kcal) is slightly higher than ultra-light competitors.
Bottom Line: If you want a single pouch that motivates every dog in class yet skips synthetic preservatives, Pet Botanics earns a permanent spot in your bait bag.
2. Buddy Biscuits Trainers 10 Oz. Pouch of Training Bites Soft & Chewy Dog Treats Made with Bacon Flavor
Overview: Buddy Biscuits Trainers deliver 500 tiny bacon-chewy bites in a slim 10-oz pouch, purposely built for high-rate reinforcement without blowing your dog’s daily calorie budget.
What Makes It Stand Out: One-and-a-half calories per piece lets owners dole out dozens during agility sequences or puppy socialization without guilt. The natural pork-liver base keeps flavor high while corn, soy, and artificial junk stay out.
Value for Money: At $11.02/lb this is the budget hero of the group—roughly 1.4¢ per treat—yet ingredient integrity rivals products twice the price.
Strengths and Weaknesses:
Pros: ultra-low calorie; uniform size prevents fumbling; resealable pouch fits jacket pocket; no common allergens.
Cons: squares can dry out if left open; faint grease film on fingers; aroma is mild, so super-finicky dogs may still hold out for steak.
Bottom Line: For cost-conscious trainers who reward by the handful, Buddy Biscuits Trainers are the cheapest path to clean, low-calorie compliance.
3. Natural Balance Limited Ingredient Mini-Rewards Chicken Grain-Free, Training Treats for Dogs | 5.3-oz. Canister
Overview: Natural Balance Mini-Rewards shrink L.I.D. philosophy into pea-sized, chicken-first morsels designed for dogs with itchy skin, sensitive guts, or simply discerning pet parents.
What Makes It Stand Out: Chicken is the sole animal protein, joined only by sweet potato, peas, and flaxseed—no grain, soy, gluten, or colors. The brand’s “Feed with Confidence” program posts every batch test result online, a transparency rarity in the treat aisle.
Value for Money: $21.07/lb looks steep until you realize each 5-calorie square replaces bigger biscuits, stretching the 5.3-oz canister through weeks of short sessions.
Strengths and Weaknesses:
Pros: single-protein safety; gentle on allergy dogs; sturdy canister prevents crushing; USA-made with vet-tech support line.
Cons: higher price per pound; chicken-only recipe limits rotation; texture dries quickly if lid is mis-threaded.
Bottom Line: When your dog’s tummy (or your vet) demands minimal ingredients, Mini-Rewards justify the premium with provable safety and calm digestion.
4. Zuke’s Mini Naturals Dog Training Treats for Dogs, Pet Treats Made with Real Chicken, 16 oz
Overview: Zuke’s Mini Naturals have been the adventure dog’s currency for two decades: 16 oz of cherry-and-chicken nibbles fortified with vitamins yet only two calories apiece.
What Makes It Stand Out: The softness holds up in trail vests and parkas alike, while real chicken, cherries, and turmeric provide antioxidant backup for hiking buddies. Added vitamins E & C support immune health without synthetic fillers.
Value for Money: $14.94/lb sits mid-pack, but the 2-calorie count means one bag funds months of recall practice for an active Lab.
Strengths and Weaknesses:
Pros: stays soft in cold weather; resealable stand-up pouch; no corn/wheat/soy; USA-sourced ingredients.
Cons: faint fruit smell divides humans; cylindrical shape can roll off flat surfaces; color varies batch-to-batch (natural but odd).
Bottom Line: For outdoorsy owners who need a pocket-proof, nutrient-topped motivator, Zuke’s remains the trail-tested gold standard.
5. Vital Essentials Beef Liver Dog Treats, 2.1 oz | Freeze-Dried Raw | Single Ingredient | Premium Quality High Protein Training Treats | Grain Free, Gluten Free, Filler Free
Overview: Vital Essentials Beef Liver treats are single-ingredient, freeze-dried raw slabs of USA beef liver broken into high-value “jackpot” pieces for the most demanding distractions.
What Makes It Stand Out: Protein is frozen within 45 minutes of harvest, then slow freeze-dried to lock in 70% crude protein and natural iron—no grains, fillers, or preservatives ever touch the vat.
Value for Money: $45.64/lb is eye-watering until you grasp that one 2.1-oz tube equals a month of ultra-high-value reinforcers used sparingly; a little shard melts on the tongue and buys instant attention.
Strengths and Weaknesses:
Pros: pure organ nutrition; crumbles into dust for food toppers; ideal for allergy elimination diets; long shelf life without chemicals.
Cons: pricey; dusty crumbs at bottom; smell is pure butcher shop; sharp edges can poke gentle mouths if not broken carefully.
Bottom Line: Reserve Vital Essentials for proofing behaviors amid squirrels or vet-office stress—its raw aroma and protein punch turn any environment into a classroom.
6. Jinx Beef Dog Training Treats – Healthy All-Natural Mini Bite-Sized Dog Treats for Training with Grass-Fed Beef – Pet Products for All Dogs (Puppies, Adults & Seniors) – 4oz
Overview: Jinx Beef Dog Training Treats are premium, all-natural mini bites designed for high-frequency rewarding. These 14-hour slow-smoked treats combine grass-fed beef with real banana in a soft, chewy format that appeals to dogs of all ages and sizes.
What Makes It Stand Out: The artisanal slow-smoking process creates an intense aroma and flavor that dogs find irresistible, making these exceptionally effective for high-value training scenarios. The addition of banana provides natural sweetness and digestive fiber, while beef liver adds an extra savory punch that keeps dogs engaged and motivated.
Value for Money: At $23.16 per pound, these are premium-priced treats, but the ultra-low calorie count (under 2 calories each) means you can use them generously during training sessions without worrying about weight gain. The 4oz bag contains hundreds of treats, making the cost per treat quite reasonable for the quality ingredients.
Strengths and Weaknesses: The slow-smoked flavor and soft texture make these highly motivating for even picky eaters. The ingredient list is impressively clean with no fillers or artificial preservatives. However, the premium price point may be prohibitive for daily use, and the strong smell might be overwhelming for sensitive owners.
Bottom Line: These are excellent high-value training treats for special training sessions or stubborn dogs. While too expensive for everyday treating, they’re worth the investment for important training milestones or behavioral modification work.
7. Crazy Dog Train-Me! Training Reward Mini Dog Treats 4 Ounce (Pack of 1)
Overview: Crazy Dog Train-Me! Mini Training Treats offer an affordable, American-made solution for basic obedience training. With meat as the first ingredient and approximately 200 treats per 4oz bag, these tiny morsels are designed to accelerate learning through consistent positive reinforcement.
What Makes It Stand Out: These treats are specifically formulated to be highly attractive and motivating to dogs, helping to maintain focus during training sessions. The manufacturer emphasizes their effectiveness in speeding up the learning curve, making them ideal for beginners teaching basic commands or working through behavioral challenges.
Value for Money: At just $3.26 per bag, these are among the most budget-friendly training treats available. With roughly 200 treats per package, the cost per treat is exceptionally low, making frequent rewarding during training sessions financially sustainable for most pet owners.
Strengths and Weaknesses: The affordable price point and American manufacturing are major advantages. The treats are sized appropriately for training and contain no harmful preservatives. However, the ingredient list beyond the first meat component isn’t as clean as premium brands, and some dogs may find them less exciting than higher-value alternatives.
Bottom Line: These are solid, economical training treats perfect for basic obedience work and daily practice. While not the highest quality on the market, they offer excellent value for budget-conscious owners focused on fundamental training needs.
8. Blue Buffalo Bits Soft Dog Treats for Training, Made With Natural Ingredients & Enhanced with DHA, Beef Recipe, 19-oz Bag
Overview: Blue Buffalo Bits are premium soft-moist training treats featuring real beef as the primary ingredient. Enhanced with DHA for cognitive development, these tender morsels come in a generous 19-oz bag, making them suitable for multi-dog households or extended training sessions.
What Makes It Stand Out: The inclusion of DHA sets these treats apart, particularly benefiting puppies’ brain development during crucial training periods. The soft texture makes them ideal for dogs of all ages, including seniors with dental issues, while the substantial 19-oz quantity ensures you won’t run out mid-training session.
Value for Money: At $12.61 per pound, these mid-priced treats offer good value, especially considering the larger bag size. The soft texture means no crumbs or waste, and the DHA enhancement adds nutritional value beyond typical training treats.
Strengths and Weaknesses: The soft texture and DHA enhancement are significant advantages, particularly for puppies and senior dogs. The ingredient quality is solid with no poultry by-products or common allergens. However, the treats can become sticky in warm weather, and some dogs might prefer a crunchier texture for the satisfaction factor.
Bottom Line: These are excellent all-purpose training treats that work well for households with multiple dogs or different age groups. The DHA enhancement makes them particularly worthwhile for puppy training and development.
9. Old Mother Hubbard Wellness Training Bitz Assorted Mix Dog Biscuits, Natural, Training Treats, Three Flavors, Small Size, (8 Ounce Bag)
Overview: Old Mother Hubbard Wellness Training Bitz offer a crunchy alternative to soft training treats. These classic oven-baked biscuits come in three flavors (chicken, liver, and vegetable) and have been produced since 1926, bringing traditional baking methods to modern dog training.
What Makes It Stand Out: The variety pack approach prevents treat boredom, while the crunchy texture provides dental benefits during training. The oven-baking process preserves natural flavors without artificial preservatives, creating a more satisfying crunch that many dogs prefer over soft alternatives.
Value for Money: At $9.98 per pound, these treats offer solid mid-range value. The variety pack means you’re essentially getting three treat types in one purchase, and the 2-calorie count allows for generous rewarding without weight concerns.
Strengths and Weaknesses: The variety pack and crunchy texture are major advantages for maintaining dog interest. The long company history suggests consistent quality and customer satisfaction. However, the crunchy texture may not suit very young puppies or dogs with dental issues, and the biscuit form factor might be too large for tiny breeds.
Bottom Line: These traditional crunchy treats are perfect for dogs who enjoy texture variety and owners who appreciate time-tested quality. The assortment pack provides excellent value and prevents training treat monotony.
10. Bocce’s Bakery Quack, Quack, Quack Training Treats for Dogs, Wheat-Free Dog Treats, Made with Real Ingredients, Baked in The USA, All-Natural & Low Calorie Training Bites, Duck & Blueberry, 6 oz
Overview: Bocce’s Bakery Quack, Quack, Quack Training Treats feature an unusual but appealing duck and blueberry combination. These wheat-free, low-calorie training bites are baked in small batches in the USA, continuing the company’s tradition of simple, natural ingredients that started in a tiny NYC kitchen.
What Makes It Stand Out: The unique duck and blueberry flavor profile sets these treats apart from typical beef or chicken options, making them excellent for dogs with common protein sensitivities. The wheat-free formulation and commitment to short ingredient lists appeal to health-conscious pet owners seeking minimal, recognizable components.
Value for Money: At $1.33 per ounce ($21.28 per pound), these are premium-priced treats. However, the unique protein source and small-batch quality justify the cost for dogs with allergies or owners seeking novel protein options. The 4-calorie count allows for frequent treating.
Strengths and Weaknesses: The novel protein source and wheat-free formula are significant advantages for sensitive dogs. The small-batch production ensures quality control and freshness. However, the premium price might be hard to justify for everyday training, and some dogs might find the duck flavor too unusual initially.
Bottom Line: These are excellent specialty treats for dogs with food sensitivities or owners seeking high-quality, unique protein sources. While expensive for daily use, they’re invaluable for dogs requiring novel protein diets or as high-value rewards for special training achievements.
Why the Right Treat Makes or Breaks Training Sessions
A high-value reward bridges the communication gap between human words and canine understanding. The tastier and quicker a treat is delivered, the faster your dog connects the behavior with the payoff. Pick the wrong size, texture, or flavor, and you’ll watch focus drift faster than a squirrel in springtime. In short, treat selection is not a petty detail—it’s the engine of positive reinforcement.
Understanding High-Value vs. Low-Value Rewards
High-value treats are canine currency: soft, aromatic, usually meat-centric morsels your dog will trade anything for. Low-value options—think kibble or dry biscuits—work when motivation is already high or calories need controlling. Balancing both lets you scale rewards to the difficulty of the cue and prevent “treat dependency.”
Calorie Counting: Keeping Treats to 10% of Daily Intake
Veterinary nutritionists recommend that no more than 10% of a dog’s daily calories come from treats. For a 50-pound dog on a 1,000-calorie diet, that’s only 100 treat calories. Factor in multiple training reps, and you’ll see why tiny, low-calorie pieces are gold. Always check kcal per treat, not just per cup, and adjust meal portions accordingly.
Soft & Chewy vs. Crunchy: Which Texture Fuels Faster Learning?
Soft treats break apart quickly, letting dogs swallow without pausing to crunch—ideal for rapid-fire marker training. Crunchy varieties can work as “jackpot” rewards but may slow the rhythm. Puppies, small breeds, and seniors often struggle with hard textures, so default to pliable options unless your dog specifically loves the snap.
Protein First: Decoding the Ingredient Panel
The first ingredient should be a named protein—chicken, salmon, beef liver—not vague “meat meal” or “by-product.” Dogs are omnivores, but animal protein drives palatability and amino-acid completeness. Watch for starches or glycerin creeping up the list, indicators that the treat is more “cookie” than “carnivore candy.”
Limited-Ingredient Treats for Sensitive Stomachs
Chicken and beef top the food-allergy hit list. If your dog shows itchy ears, scooting, or post-treat gas, pivot to novel proteins—rabbit, venison, or alligator—or single-ingredient freeze-dried options. PetSmart carries several limited-ingredient SKUs marketed explicitly for “sensitive systems,” often shelved under specialty brands rather than mainstream kibble aisles.
Grain-Free vs. Whole-Grain: Marketing Hype or Genuine Need?
Unless your vet has diagnosed a grain allergy, whole grains like oats and brown rice provide fiber and B-vitamins without the calorie spike of pure fat. The FDA’s ongoing DCM investigation links some boutique grain-free diets to heart issues, but treats fed in moderation rarely reach the intake levels of concern. Rotate both styles and monitor stool quality for the real verdict.
Functional Add-Ins: Glucosamine, Probiotics, and Omega-3s
Some PetSmart treats now double as supplements—think glucosamine squares for senior joints, probiotic nibbles for gut flora, or salmon-skin rolls for coat shine. While the dosage per piece is modest, they can complement a vet-approved wellness plan. Treat them like fortified cereal: helpful, not heroic.
Freeze-Dried Raw: Nutrient Density Without the Mess
Freeze-drying removes moisture while locking in raw nutrition, yielding lightweight, shelf-stable cubes that crumble easily for portion control. They’re ideal for owners who like the “raw philosophy” but hate bloody prep. Price per ounce runs higher, so reserve these for high-distraction environments—think park recalls or agility class.
Training Treat Size: Why Smaller Is Smarter
A treat should be no bigger than a pea for medium dogs, half that for toy breeds. Oversized rewards slow reps, pack calories, and teach dogs to chew rather than swallow. Many PetSmart bags now advertise “training size” or “bite-sized,” but bring a measuring scoop anyway; marketing photos can be deceiving.
Storage & Freshness: Keeping Treats Tasty and Safe
Heat, air, and light oxidize fats, turning salmon treats rancid faster than you can say “drop it.” Resealable pouches help, but for bulk bags divide portions into airtight glass jars and freeze extras. Label with the date opened—most soft treats last 4–6 weeks once the seal is cracked, freeze-dried up to a year.
Puppy-Specific Considerations: Tummy Safety and Teething
Puppies under six months need treats formulated for growth—higher calcium, moderate phosphorus, and no harsh chemical preservatives. Soft, pliable textures soothe teething gums; avoid antler-splitting hardness that can fracture baby teeth. Ask PetSmart associates for “puppy-approved” signage; brands must meet AAFCO growth profiles to display it.
Senior Dogs: Soft Joints, Softer Treats
Arthritic jaws and worn teeth appreciate treats you can pinch between two fingers. Look for added omega-3s, green-lipped mussel, or collagen to support aging cartilage. If your senior is on a kidney-friendly diet, opt for lower-phosphorus proteins like whitefish and steer clear of liver-heavy varieties.
Budget-Friendly Buying: Treats Under 15¢ per Piece
Value hunting doesn’t mean junk ingredients. Store-brand baked nibbles, bulk “trail mix” bins, and subscription autoship discounts can slash prices below 15¢ per piece while still listing meat first. Split large soft chews with a pizza cutter to stretch servings further—your dog doesn’t care about geometry.
Sustainability & Sourcing: Ethical Treats for Conscious Pet Parents
Check packaging for MSC-certified fish, MSC blue label, or “Made with upcycled ingredients” claims. Some PetSmart-exclusive brands now publish carbon-impact scores. Choosing chicken raised without antibiotics or wild-caught salmon supports more humane farming and healthier oceans—something both you and your retriever can feel good about.
Reading PetSmart Shelf Tags: Coupons, Rewards, and Clearance Secrets
Yellow “price cut” tags cycle every 4–6 weeks; stack them with Treats Loyalty coupons in the app for double savings. Endcaps often house short-dated clearance—freeze-dried raw included—still safe if you freeze within a day. Ask staff when trucks arrive; new shipments prompt markdowns on outgoing inventory.
DIY Taste Test: How to Evaluate a New Treat at Home
- Offer a crumb-sized piece beside your dog’s usual favorite.
- Mark which one is sniffed first (indicates aroma preference).
- Note chewing ease and swallow speed.
- Monitor stool for 24 hours—loose stool equals thumbs-down.
- Re-test in a distracting backyard session; high-value treats win attention over squirrels.
Transitioning Off Treats: Fading Food Rewards Without Losing Reliability
Once a cue hits 90% success, randomize rewards: jackpot two perfect sits, then skip three, reward on the fourth. Substitute praise, tug, or real-life perks—door opens, ball is thrown. Keep treats in your pocket but invisible; intermittent reinforcement actually strengthens behavior faster than continuous cookies.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How many treats can I give my dog during a 15-minute training session?
Aim for 20–30 pea-sized pieces; break larger treats in half to stay within calorie limits.
2. Are PetSmart’s grain-free treats linked to heart disease?
Occasional grain-free treats in a balanced diet pose minimal risk—watch total legume intake and consult your vet.
3. Can I use cat treats for dog training?
Cat treats are safe short-term but are denser in protein and taurine; adjust meal calories to avoid tummy upset.
4. What’s the best way to carry treats without smelling like a deli?
Silicone treat pouches with magnetic closures keep odors in and can be tossed in the dishwasher nightly.
5. Should I refrigerate soft treats after opening?
Yes, especially in humid climates; refrigeration extends shelf life by 2–3 weeks and prevents mold.
6. How early can I start training treats with puppies?
Begin at 8 weeks with puppy-specific soft treats, keeping sessions under five minutes to protect attention spans.
7. Do senior dogs really benefit from glucosamine treats?
They can contribute, but therapeutic levels require dedicated supplements; view treats as icing, not the cake.
8. Are bulk bin treats at PetSmart safe?
Scoop bins are date-stamped; inspect for dryness and avoid if you see visible crumbling or off smells.
9. Can I return an open bag if my dog refuses the treat?
PetSmart’s “Love It or Return It” policy covers open consumables within 60 days with receipt—save the packaging.
10. How do I know if a treat is too hard for my dog’s teeth?
If you can’t indent it with your fingernail, it’s likely too hard for seniors or toy breeds—opt for a softer formula.