Your dog’s tail still wags at the crinkle of a wrapper, but since the diabetes diagnosis you’ve become the unofficial ingredient detective—squinting at labels, calculating carbs, and second-guessing every reward. The good news? Treats don’t have to exit the picture; they just need a smarter script. In 2025, new research on canine glycemic response and novel functional foods make it easier than ever to spoil without spikes. Below, you’ll learn exactly what to look for (and what to dodge) so every “good boy” moment stays safe, satisfying, and syringe-free.
Top 10 Treats For A Diabetic Dog
Detailed Product Reviews
1. Old Dog Cookie Company Tiny Diabetic Dog Treats | All Natural, 2 Calorie, Vet Approved Pet Snacks | Top Treat for Dogs | Healthy Chews for Large, Medium & Small Breeds | 8 oz
Overview: Old Dog Cookie Company’s Tiny Diabetic Dog Treats deliver a purpose-built snack for dogs who need tight glycemic control. Each 2-calorie biscuit is sized for repeat rewards during training or gentle enough for senior jaws, while still offering a satisfying crunch.
What Makes It Stand Out: The micro size (225+ treats per 8 oz bag) paired with a blood-sugar-stable recipe—pumpkin, dandelion, kelp, apple, alfalfa—creates the only mass-market cookie that lets diabetic or weight-watching dogs earn dozens of reps without calorie overload.
Value for Money: At $2.75/oz you’re paying boutique-cookie prices, yet the bag lasts 3-4× longer than standard treats because one piece equals one reward; cost per training rep is actually lower than grocery-store biscuits.
Strengths and Weaknesses:
Pros: genuinely low glycemic, USA-made human-grade ingredients, resealable pouch keeps crunch for months, tiny size eliminates breaking chores.
Cons: herb-forward smell isn’t alluring to every pup, crumbs can dust dark floors, price sticker shock if you miss the “225+” count.
Bottom Line: If your vet has stressed portion-controlled, diabetic-safe rewards, these are the easiest, tastiest way to keep tails wagging and glucose steady—tiny cookie, huge peace of mind.
2. Old Dog Cookie Company All Natural Diabetic Dog Treats – Vet Approved Snacks | Best Chews for Canine, Top Treat for Pups | Low Glycemic, Supports Healthy Blood Sugar | 10 oz
Overview: Old Dog Cookie Company’s original 10 oz diabetic biscuits scale up the same vet-approved, no-added-sugar recipe into a 2.5″ crunchy cookie ideal for medium & large dogs that prefer a substantial chew.
What Makes It Stand Out: Forty substantial biscuits deliver 16 calm calories each—enough to feel like a “real” treat yet still low-glycemic thanks to pumpkin fiber, apple pectin and dandelion root, giving big dogs flavor without glucose spikes.
Value for Money: $21.98 for ~40 pieces equals 55¢ per biscuit—cheaper than a commercial dental chew with the bonus of blood-sugar support and clean USA ingredients.
Strengths and Weaknesses:
Pros: satisfying crunch helps clean teeth, resealable bag maintains freshness for weeks, single cookie can be snapped into four training nibbles.
Cons: too large/crunchy for toy breeds or seniors with worn teeth, calorie count demands stricter daily budgeting than the Tiny version, herbal scent may tempt owners more than picky pups.
Bottom Line: For households with bigger diabetic or weight-management dogs that like a hearty biscuit, this is the gold-standard functional reward—just monitor portions and keep water handy.
3. Marcy’s Pet Kitchen-Diabetic Dog Treats-Vet Recommend-No Preservatives – Crunchy, Superfoods, All Natural-Vegan Homemade,-Gluten Free-for Sensitive Stomachs-Made in The USA Only.
Overview: Marcy’s Pet Kitchen ships heart-shaped, vegan, gluten-free cookies baked in micro-batches for dogs battling diabetes, allergies or sensitive stomachs.
What Makes It Stand Out: A plant-powered recipe (carrot, sweet potato, pea) keeps glycemic load low while remaining entirely free of salt, sugar, dyes and preservatives—rare in the vegan treat niche.
Value for Money: $10.99 buys only 5 oz (≈40 little hearts), pushing the price north of $35/lb; you’re funding small-batch ethics and charity donation more than bulk snacking.
Strengths and Weaknesses:
Pros: adorable shape, soft crunch suitable for seniors, short ingredient list wins over allergy parents, female-founded company donates to rescue.
Cons: bag size feels tiny, some dogs dismiss veggie flavor without a meat “hook,” inconsistent baking color can worry first-time buyers.
Bottom Line: Picky carnivores may snub them, but for vegan households or dogs with multiple protein allergies these hearts are a clean, compassionate choice—just budget for the boutique premium.
4. A Better Treat – Freeze Dried Salmon Dog Treats, Wild Caught, Single Ingredient | Natural High Value | Gluten Free, Grain Free, High Protein, Diabetic Friendly | Natural Fish Oil | Made in The USA
Overview: A Better Treat freeze-dries wild Alaskan salmon into airy, single-ingredient cubes that suit diabetic, allergy-prone or raw-fed dogs and cats alike.
What Makes It Stand Out: Zero additives, 68% less saturated fat than farmed fish, and freeze-drying locks in 61% more omega-3s than dehydration—delivering skin, coat and joint benefits alongside high-value training motivation.
Value for Money: $5.66/oz looks steep, yet 3-4 cubes crumble into a meal topper that entices an entire bowl, stretching the 3-oz pouch far beyond ordinary biscuits.
Strengths and Weaknesses:
Pros: irresistible fishy aroma, gluten/grain free, breaks easily into dust or chunks, USA-sourced and sustainable.
Cons: strong salmon scent transfers to hands/pockets, cubes shatter into pricey crumbs if over-handled, fat calories still need watching for strict diabetic diets.
Bottom Line: If your dog’s taste buds need a blockbuster reward or his coat needs an omega boost, these salmon clouds justify every penny—just zip the bag fast to avoid fish-flavored laundry.
5. Hank & Harley Chicken Jerky Sticks, 1 lb – USA Lean Protein Soft Dog Treats with Pumpkin. 100% Natural and NO Added Sugar, Flour or fillers. Ideal for finicky Pets
Overview: Hank & Harley compress USA chicken breast and pumpkin into soft, 1″ jerky sticks—just five whole-food ingredients, no sugar, grains or fillers, making them a protein-forward option for diabetic or finicky pets.
What Makes It Stand Out: Over 90% lean chicken keeps carbs minimal while pumpkin adds gentle fiber; the soft texture pleases seniors, puppies and cats who turn up their noses at crunchy biscuits.
Value for Money: $1.31/oz for a full pound (≈100 sticks) undercuts most premium jerkies by half, giving budget-conscious owners a high-protein, low-glycemic training stash.
Strengths and Weaknesses:
Pros: widely appealing meat aroma, easy snap into pea-sized bits, resealable bag prevents drying, clear sourcing transparency.
Cons: natural color variation can look “burnt” to novices, protein calories climb quickly—strict diabetic dogs need portion math, softer strips may mold if stored damp.
Bottom Line: For trainers who want a universally tempting, low-carb reward without breaking the bank, Hank & Harley’s sticks are the sweet-spot between clean nutrition and wallet-friendly bulk—just keep an eye on daily calories.
6. DogaBetix Ella’s Diabetic Dog Treats Chicken (8oz) – Low Glycemic Ingredients – Vet Approved – Made in USA by Owners of Diabetic Dogs – Developed to Help Keep Glucose Levels Stable
Overview: DogaBetix Ella’s Diabetic Dog Treats are specialized chicken-flavored snacks designed specifically for diabetic dogs. Created by owners of diabetic dogs and vet-approved, these 8oz treats focus on maintaining stable glucose levels while providing a tasty reward.
What Makes It Stand Out: The personal touch of being developed by diabetic dog owners adds credibility. The low glycemic formula is specifically crafted for glucose management, using limited natural ingredients without additives or preservatives. Being organic and made in the USA appeals to health-conscious pet parents.
Value for Money: At $1.99 per ounce, these are premium-priced treats. However, for diabetic dogs requiring specialized nutrition, the cost is justified by the potential health benefits and peace of mind they provide.
Strengths and Weaknesses: Strengths include vet approval, organic ingredients, and specialized diabetic formulation. The treats are suitable for picky eaters and free from harmful additives. Weaknesses include the high price point and limited flavor options. Some dogs might find the taste less appealing than conventional treats.
Bottom Line: These treats are worth the investment for diabetic dogs. While expensive, the specialized formulation and organic ingredients make them a smart choice for managing your pet’s condition while still allowing for positive reinforcement training.
7. Hill’s Grain Free Soft Baked Naturals, All Life Stages, Great Taste, Dog Treats, Chicken & Carrots, 8 oz Bag
Overview: Hill’s Grain Free Soft Baked Naturals offer soft-baked chicken and carrot treats suitable for all life stages. Made with real chicken and free from artificial preservatives, these 8oz treats come from the #1 veterinarian-recommended brand.
What Makes It Stand Out: The veterinarian recommendation carries significant weight. The soft-baked texture makes these ideal for puppies, seniors, or dogs with dental issues. The grain-free formula appeals to dogs with sensitivities while maintaining nutritional balance.
Value for Money: At $17.98 per pound, these are mid-range treats. The trusted brand name and quality ingredients justify the price for many pet owners seeking reliable, healthy options.
Strengths and Weaknesses: Strengths include the soft texture, natural ingredients, veterinary endorsement, and suitability for all ages. The grain-free formula helps dogs with sensitivities. Weaknesses include the higher price compared to basic treats and the fact that they’re not specifically formulated for special dietary needs.
Bottom Line: These treats offer excellent versatility and quality. While not the cheapest option, the soft texture and trusted brand make them ideal for multi-dog households or dogs needing gentler treats. They’re a solid choice for everyday rewarding.
8. A Better Treat – Freeze Dried Organic Pumpkin Dog and Cat Treats, Organic, Single Ingredient | Natural, Healthy, Diabetic Friendly | Made in The USA
Overview: A Better Treat’s Freeze-Dried Organic Pumpkin treats offer single-ingredient goodness in a convenient form. These organic pumpkin pieces serve as both treats and digestive aids, suitable for both dogs and cats.
What Makes It Stand Out: Being the first organic single-ingredient treats on the market sets these apart. The freeze-drying process retains 61% more nutrients than other preservation methods. At only 0.2 calories per treat, they’re perfect for training or weight management.
Value for Money: At $14.98, these treats offer excellent value given their versatility, organic certification, and dual-purpose nature as both treats and digestive supplements.
Strengths and Weaknesses: Strengths include the single organic ingredient, low calorie count, digestive benefits, and suitability for pets with diabetes or allergies. The treats work as food toppers and training rewards. Weaknesses include the bland flavor that might not excite all pets and the crumbly texture that can create mess.
Bottom Line: These treats excel for health-conscious pet owners. The digestive benefits, low calories, and organic quality make them worth trying, especially for pets with sensitive stomachs or weight issues. They’re particularly valuable for training sessions.
9. A Better Treat – Organic, Freeze Dried, Single Ingredient, 100% Grass Fed and Finished Beef Liver Dog Treats, Cat Treats | Natural Healthy | Grain Free, High Protein, Diabetic Friendly | Made in USA
Overview: A Better Treat’s Organic Beef Liver treats feature 100% grass-fed and finished beef liver in freeze-dried form. These single-ingredient treats pack impressive nutritional density while remaining suitable for pets with dietary restrictions.
What Makes It Stand Out: The grass-fed and finished aspect ensures superior nutrition with 33% less fat, 11% higher protein, and 5 times more Omega-3s than grain-fed beef. The nutrient density is remarkable, with liver containing 16 times the Vitamin D and 23 times the calcium of regular beef.
Value for Money: At $90.61 per pound, these are extremely expensive treats. However, the organic certification, superior sourcing, and nutritional density somewhat justify the premium price for health-focused pet owners.
Strengths and Weaknesses: Strengths include exceptional nutritional value, single-ingredient simplicity, suitability for diabetic and allergic pets, and the skin/coat benefits from essential fatty acids. The high protein content makes them excellent training rewards. Weaknesses include the very high price and strong smell that some owners find unpleasant.
Bottom Line: These treats are worth the splurge for pet owners prioritizing optimal nutrition. While expensive, the quality sourcing and nutritional benefits make them valuable for pets with health issues or as occasional high-value rewards.
10. Fruitables Baked Dog Treats, Healthy Pumpkin Treat for Dogs, Low Calorie & Delicious, Free of Wheat, Corn and Soy, Made in the USA, Apple and Crispy Bacon Flavor, 12oz
Overview: Fruitables Baked Dog Treats combine pumpkin, apple, and crispy bacon flavors in low-calorie, crunchy biscuits. These 12oz treats offer a unique flower shape and guilt-free treating at only 8 calories each.
What Makes It Stand Out: The creative flavor combination of pumpkin with apple and bacon creates an irresistible taste profile. The CalorieSmart formulation allows guilt-free treating, while the crunchy texture and pleasant aroma make these treats genuinely enjoyable for dogs.
Value for Money: At $7.92 per pound, these treats offer excellent value. The larger 12oz bag, low calorie count, and quality ingredients make them economical for regular treating.
Strengths and Weaknesses: Strengths include the appealing flavor combination, low calorie content, wheat/corn/soy-free formula, and crunchy texture dogs love. The pleasant smell and unique shape add to the appeal. Weaknesses include limited availability in some stores and the crunchy texture not suitable for dogs with dental issues.
Bottom Line: These treats hit the sweet spot of taste, health, and value. The low calorie count allows frequent rewarding, making them perfect for training or overweight dogs. They’re an excellent everyday treat that doesn’t compromise on quality or flavor.
Understanding Diabetes in Dogs: Why Treat Choice Matters
Canine diabetes is essentially a traffic-jam of glucose: the pancreas doesn’t deliver enough insulin, so sugar piles up in the bloodstream. Traditional biscuits can act like fast-lane sports cars, dumping glucose in minutes and forcing you to chase the curve with extra insulin. Low-glycemic treats, on the other hand, behave like courteous commuters—merging slowly and keeping blood sugar predictable. The right reward, given at the right time, can even reinforce positive associations with injection routines or glucose checks.
How Blood Sugar Spikes Happen After Treats
When a dog ingests simple starches or added sucrose, salivary amylase begins carbohydrate breakdown before the first swallow. Within 15–30 minutes, glucose rockets upward, peaking anywhere from 150–400 mg/dL depending on dose and insulin timing. That spike stresses pancreatic beta cells (if any remain), inflames blood vessels, and can trigger diabetic cataracts or neuropathy over time. The goal is to flatten that curve so the highest reading stays within your vet’s target range—usually 100–250 mg/dL for most diabetic pups.
The Glycemic Index Explained for Canine Nutrition
Human nutritionists rank foods by how fast they raise blood glucose compared to pure glucose (GI = 100). Dogs aren’t tiny people, but university data show similar trends: white rice GI ≈ 82, chickpeas ≈ 28, non-starchy vegetables <15. Anything under 35 is considered low-glycemic for dogs and should be your treat benchmark. Remember, fiber type matters; soluble fiber (e.g., pumpkin) slows absorption, while insoluble fiber (e.g., cellulose) mostly adds stool bulk.
Key Nutrients Every Diabetic Dog Treat Should Contain
Prioritize:
– High-quality, animal-based protein (≥30% DM) to support muscle mass and satiety.
– Moderate, low-glycemic fiber (5–10% DM) to blunt post-prandial glucose.
– Functional fats (omega-3s, MCTs) that reduce inflammation and provide ketone alternatives for brain fuel.
– Micronutrients like chromium and magnesium, cofactors in insulin signaling pathways.
Ingredients to Avoid in Commercial Dog Treats
Skip anything listing “cane molasses,” “honey,” “maple syrup,” or “dextrose” in the top half of the panel. Same goes for white potato, tapioca starch, rice flour, and “natural flavor” that isn’t explicitly meat-derived. Beware of “grain-free” marketing that simply swaps grains for high-GI legumes like pea starch. Artificial sweeteners such as xylitol are outright toxic, while maltitol and sorbitol can cause osmotic diarrhea and unpredictable glucose curves.
Reading Labels: Hidden Sugars and Carbohydrate Math
Regulations allow “0 g added sugar” if each serving contains <0.5 g, but a tiny biscuit can still harbor 3 g of maltodextrin—technically a complex carb yet higher GI than table sugar. To estimate true carb content, use the modified Atwater equation:
Carb % = 100 – (protein % + fat % + fiber % + ash % + moisture %).
Shoot for <15% digestible carbs on a dry-matter basis for any treat intended for diabetic dogs.
Portion Control: Treats as Part of the Daily Carb Budget
Veterinary nutritionists recommend that no more than 10% of daily calories come from treats—and for diabetics, those calories must be subtracted from the total carb allotment. If your 20 kg dog eats 800 kcal/day and needs 40% carbs (320 kcal), only 80 kcal can come from treats, and ideally <30 kcal from rapid-absorb carbs. Log every reward in a smartphone tracker so you can adjust mealtime insulin accordingly.
Timing Treats with Insulin Injections for Optimal Control
Give low-glycemic rewards either at mid-cycle (4–6 h post-injection) or immediately before a meal that gets its own insulin dose. Avoid “grazing” treats between meals; random spikes create roller-coaster curves that are tough to correct. If you use treats during training sessions, schedule practice 30–60 minutes after the morning insulin so you can capture the slow glucose rise within the insulin’s peak action window.
Homemade vs. Store-Bought: Safety & Consistency Considerations
Kitchen creations let you control every gram, but nutrient drift is real: one extra spoon of pumpkin can add 2 g carbs. Bake in batches, freeze in silicone trays, and analyze the recipe with veterinary software. Store-bought options undergo lab testing for guaranteed analysis, yet cross-contamination with sugary biscuits can occur in manufacturing plants. Whichever route you choose, stick to the same SKU or recipe for at least two weeks so glucose data stay interpretable.
Protein-First Treats: Leveraging Meat, Fish & Eggs
Dehydrated chicken breast, air-dried salmon skins, and freeze-dried raw turkey hearts are essentially carb-zero. They supply branched-chain amino acids that help maintain lean mass even when calories drop. For dogs with concurrent pancreatitis, select low-fat versions (≤10% DM fat) such as cod or rabbit. Rehydrate with warm water to reduce choking risk for small breeds.
Fiber-Rich Vegetable Options That Dogs Actually Like
Roasted green beans caramelize slightly, releasing a popcorn aroma most dogs crave. Zucchini chips, dehydrated okra, and thin carrot ribbons baked at 200 °F for two hours deliver crunch without the carb punch. Finely minced kale or broccoli stems can be folded into egg-based biscuits for a chlorophyll boost that also binds dietary iron.
Functional Fats: Omega-3s, MCTs & Their Metabolic Perks
Wild-caught sardine flakes contribute EPA/DHA that reduce diabetic inflammation and may improve insulin receptor sensitivity. Coconut-derived MCT oil converts to ketones, offering an alternate brain fuel when glucose utilization is impaired. Limit MCT to 0.5 g/kg body weight per day to avoid greasy stools; introduce gradually over seven days.
Antioxidant & Anti-Inflammatory Additions for Long-Term Health
Blueberry powder (1 tsp per 20 kg dog) supplies anthocyanins that blunt post-prandial oxidative stress. Turmeric paste made with piperine (black pepper) increases curcumin bioavailability and may reduce joint pain common in diabetic seniors. Always pair polyphenol-rich add-ins with a fat source to enhance absorption and slow glucose uptake.
Dental Chews Without the Sugar Rush
Traditional dental sticks rely on wheat starch to create the chewy texture that scrapes tartar. Newer formulations use collagen, gelatin, or insect protein blended with cellulose powder. Look for VOHC-approved products that list “digestible carbohydrate <5%” and no hidden maltodextrin. Offer the chew immediately after the evening meal so the insulin onboard handles the minimal glucose bump.
Monitoring Your Dog’s Glucose Response to New Treats
Start with a 5 g test portion—about the size of a postage stamp—and check blood glucose at +15, +30, +60, and +120 minutes using a calibrated pet glucometer. A rise of <50 mg/dL from baseline is acceptable; anything steeper means the treat fails the test. Keep a shared spreadsheet with your vet so dose adjustments can be data-driven rather than guesswork.
Transitioning to New Treats Without Gastrointestinal Upset
Sudden fiber hikes can trigger gas or diarrhea, which dehydrates and can skew glucose readings. Replace 25% of the old treat volume every three days, simultaneously adding a canine-specific probiotic to stabilize the microbiome. If stools soften, back up one step and hold until firm before advancing.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I give peanut butter to my diabetic dog?
Only if it’s unsweetened, xylitol-free, and limited to ½ teaspoon per 10 kg body weight; even “natural” varieties contain 1–2 g sugar per tablespoon.
2. Are blueberries too sugary for diabetic pups?
Fresh blueberries average 10% sugar, but their fiber and polyphenols blunt the spike; stay under 3 berries per kg body weight per day.
3. How many treats can I give during a single training session?
Keep total training treats ≤10% of daily calories and break them into rice-grain sizes so you can reward 20 times without exceeding carb limits.
4. Is pumpkin safe if the label says “100% pure” but lists 4 g sugar?
Yes—those are intrinsic, slowly absorbed sugars; a tablespoon (15 g) adds only 2 g carbs and is safe for most dogs.
5. Do I need to bolus extra insulin for low-carb treats?
Usually no, provided the treat is <3% net carbs and given at mealtime; always confirm with your vet based on your dog’s curve.
6. Can dehydrated meats raise glucose through gluconeogenesis?
Protein can convert to glucose, but the process is slow and rarely impacts peak readings; monitor the first few times to be sure.
7. Are eggshell membranes a good joint supplement for diabetic dogs?
Yes—they provide type-I collagen and glycosaminoglycans with zero carbs, making them ideal for diabetic seniors with arthritis.
8. What about freeze-dried liver for training?
Liver contains glycogen, so limit to 0.5 g per kg body weight and account for 1 g carb per 2 g liver to avoid surprises.
9. How do I calculate carbs in homemade baked biscuits?
Weigh each ingredient, plug values into USDA FoodData Central, sum total carbs, divide by batch weight, then multiply by individual biscuit weight.
10. My dog had a sneaky cupcake—what now?
Check glucose every 30 minutes for 4 hours, offer water, and call your vet if readings exceed 300 mg/dL or if ketones appear in urine.