Ever watched your dog’s eyes light up at the sound of a crinkling bag? That moment of pure excitement is why jerky treats are one of the most-loved rewards in any dog’s life. But not all jerky is created equal—some are packed with fillers, artificial preservatives, or questionable meats that can do more harm than good. So, how do you know which jerky treats are actually healthy, safe, and worth the wag? In this guide, we’ll break down the best dog jerky treats that deliver real nutrition and flavor without compromise. From high-protein human-grade options to joint-supporting recipes and training favorites, you’ll discover which brands stand out—and why your pup will love them just as much as you’ll trust them.
Benefits & When to Feed Jerky Dog Treats
Benefit
When to Feed
Why It Matters
High-Protein Nutrition
After walks, playtime, or workouts
Jerky treats are protein-rich, helping maintain lean muscle mass and aiding recovery, especially in active dogs.
Dental Health Support
Between meals or as a daily chew
The chewy texture naturally helps remove plaque and tartar, promoting cleaner teeth and fresher breath.
Training Motivation
During obedience or agility training
The meaty aroma makes jerky a high-value reward, keeping your dog focused and engaged during training sessions.
Portable & Mess-Free Snack
On hikes, road trips, or travel days
Jerky is lightweight, easy to carry, and doesn’t require refrigeration — ideal for on-the-go treating.
Healthy Alternative to Biscuits
As a mid-day or occasional snack
Grain-free and often single-ingredient, jerky treats are suitable for dogs with allergies or food sensitivities.
Mental Stimulation
When your dog is home alone or bored
Chewing helps relieve stress and anxiety while providing mental enrichment and satisfaction.
Weight Management Aid
As a controlled, low-fat treat
Lean jerky options offer fewer calories than many commercial snacks, making them suitable for weight-conscious dogs.
Always consult your veterinarian before changing your dog’s diet. You can get personalized nutritional advice from an online registered vet nutritionist through Vetster anytime, anywhere, to ensure jerky treats fit your dog’s specific nutritional needs. You can also chat with an online vet to ask questions about portion sizes, protein sources, or sensitivities related to jerky treats. Likewise, an at-home dog gut health test can provide insights into how your dog digests high-protein snacks like jerky. Additionally, an at-home dog allergy testing kit can help identify potential intolerances to common jerky ingredients such as chicken or beef. These insights help you make informed choices for safe, balanced, and rewarding snacking.
Best Jerky Treats For Dogs
Here are the best jerky treats for dogs this year.
Best Overall Dog Jerky Treats
4.8
★★★★★
The Honest Kitchen
Who It’s For: Dog owners who want to provide the highest quality, whole-food jerky treat that leans more toward “real food” and human-grade ingredients than processed snacks.
Why we recommended it:The Honest Kitchen Jerky Harvest Bars combine 80% real meat—either ranch-raised beef or cage-free chicken—with nutrient-rich additions like oats, apples, carrots, blueberries, and gentle herbal hints such as thyme or ginger. The treats are roasted in small batches to preserve whole-food nutrition while maintaining a soft texture that dogs generally enjoy. This blend supports muscle building and overall health, making these treats both tasty and nourishing. Dogs love the flavor and texture.
What sets it apart from competitors: The Honest Kitchen claims “human grade” status, meaning all ingredients must meet food-grade standards from harvest through processing (i.e., usable in human food supply chains). Also, by avoiding fillers like corn, wheat, soy, and artificial preservatives, they cater to dogs with sensitivities or owners who prefer to avoid common allergenic or “cheap” ingredients.
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Best Human-Grade Dog Jerky Treats
4.7
★★★★★
Open Farm
Who It’s For: Dog owners seeking premium, human-grade jerky treats made from ethically sourced and 100% traceable ingredients.
Why we recommended it:Open FarmGrain-Free Jerky Strips use third-party certified, humanely raised proteins such as grass-fed beef or humanely raised turkey, with no antibiotics or added hormones. The jerky strips are oven-baked at low temperatures to preserve natural nutrients and deliver a chewy texture dogs find appealing. The treat’s breakability into smaller pieces makes them especially convenient for training. While some competing jerky snacks focus purely on meat, Open Farm adds supporting ingredients (like flaxseed) to help balance texture and provide dietary fiber.
What sets it apart from competitors: The brand’s full transparency with ingredient sourcing and rigorous animal welfare standards. Each ingredient is traceable to its geographical origin via a lot code, providing peace of mind. Additionally, Open Farm’s treats are free from artificial flavors, colors, preservatives, corn, wheat, and soy, catering to dogs with sensitivities or owners seeking clean-label options.
Best Jerky Treats for Training
4.5
★★★★★
PRIMAL PET FOOD
Who It’s For: Dog owners seeking high-protein, wholesome treats ideal for training and everyday rewarding.
Why we recommended it:PRIMAL PET FOOD Give Pieces a Chance offer a simple, transparent ingredient list consisting of grass-fed beef, organic sweet potato, and bone broth, providing a rich protein and nutrient boost that supports muscle health and hydration. Their soft, chewy texture makes them practical for breaking into tiny training rewards that dogs find irresistible. The inclusion of bone broth adds an extra nutrient dimension and taste appeal that many dogs love. One reason these work well for training is their balance: juicy/chewy enough to be motivating, not so dense that the dog slows down to chew for a long time.
What sets it apart from competitors: Offers a combination of high animal welfare standards with USDA-certified organic produce, no corn, wheat, soy, grains, or artificial additives. These jerky pieces also provide a richer texture and more satisfying chew without being so tough that they slow things down.
Best High-Protein Dog Jerky Treats
4.7
★★★★★
JustFoodForDogs
Who It’s For: Dog owners looking for a high-protein snack made from a single, wholesome ingredient. Also great for dogs with food sensitivities or allergies, as they contain no chemicals.
Why we recommended it:JustFoodForDogs Chicken Breast Treat offers an exceptionally high protein content (70% minimum) while maintaining low fat and fiber, fueling muscle maintenance and overall vitality. Dehydrated to preserve nutrients, the thinly sliced chicken breast has a chewy yet crisp texture that dogs find appealing. Many owners praise their dogs’ enthusiasm for these treats and value the transparency of sourcing—USDA-certified chicken breast with no hormones added. The inclusion of essential vitamins and minerals such as vitamin B, D, calcium, iron, and zinc further supports canine health.
What sets it apart from competitors: Simplicity and commitment to quality: single-ingredient, human-grade chicken processed in Southern California kitchens with no artificial chemicals or preservatives. The treats’ nutritional density makes them stand out in a market often crowded with fillers or multi-ingredient snacks.
Best Jerky Treats for Joint Health
4.6
★★★★★
Pawstruck
Who It’s For: Dog owners seeking natural, single-ingredient chews that support their pets’ joint health.
Why we recommended it:PAWSTRUCK Jerky Joint Health Treats consist solely of beef esophagus—naturally rich in glucosamine and chondroitin, essential compounds known to support joint cartilage health and reduce inflammation. The treats are slow-roasted without artificial ingredients, hormones, or preservatives, offering a clean ingredient profile free from common allergens like corn, soy, and grains. We like the low odor compared to other jerky chews and find them effective for aiding dental health by reducing tartar and plaque through chewing.
What sets it apart from competitors: Use of beef esophagus from trusted sources in South America, ensuring consistent quality and a natural, high-nutrient chew that also satisfies dogs’ natural urge to chew. The product’s 36-month shelf life and all-natural formulation enhance its convenience and safety, making it a reliable long-term option for maintaining joint function.
Best Single-Ingredient Dog Jerky Treats
4.5
★★★★★
Redbarn
Who It’s For: Dog owners seeking a very simple, clean chew—especially dogs with food sensitivities or those already on restrictive diets.
Why we recommended it:Redbarn Beef Jerky is made from 100% natural beef esophagus, providing a treat rich in protein and low in fat. The beef esophagus is a natural source of chondroitin and glucosamine, compounds known to support joint health. Slow roasting enhances the flavor and texture, making these jerky treats both palatable and digestible. This treat acts as a bona fide chew, giving the dog active engagement rather than just ingestion.
What sets it apart from competitors: A long-standing family-owned heritage with over 25 years of premium pet products, combined with rigorous quality assurance, including SQF Certification that ensures safe and nutritious production.
Best Organic/Natural Dog Jerky Treats
4.7
★★★★★
Ollie
Who It’s For: Dog owners who want organic, natural snacks made with human-grade ingredients and minimal processing.
Why we recommended it:Ollie Jerky Strips are made from real meat paired with nutritious whole foods like sweet potatoes or apples, combined with natural binding agents such as oats and coconut glycerin. This mix provides a balanced nutritional profile with natural sources of protein, fiber, and healthy fats. The jerky strips are crafted in US facilities with no artificial flavors or additives, offering peace of mind about quality and safety. Dogs eagerly respond to these treats and appreciate the brand’s transparent ingredient lists and responsible sourcing. The strips’ easy-to-break texture also suits training purposes and helps control portion sizes, unlike many tougher jerky chews.
What sets it apart from competitors: Commitment to 100% human-grade quality with a meat-first approach paired with nutrient-dense ingredients, ensuring an appetizing and health-conscious snack.
Best Multi-Protein Dog Jerky Treats
4.5
★★★★★
Stella & Chewy‘s
Who It’s For: A good match for owners who want a treat that leans “natural / raw-style” but in a convenient, bite-sized format.
Why we recommended it:Stella & Chewy´s Wild Red Jerky Nugget combine a multi-protein profile (e.g. beef + lamb, or chicken + duck) with solid nutritional values in a compact format. Their nutritional balance (high protein, moderate fat, low fiber) makes them effective for rewarding without overeating. Also, the low calorie count per piece gives flexibility during training: you can hand out more rewards without drastically upsetting the dog’s daily allotment.
What sets it apart from competitors: They contain 90% mix of meat sourced responsibly, providing a rich protein boost with essential amino acids for muscle health and energy. The recipe excludes common fillers like grains, peas, and lentils, which benefits dogs with sensitivities, while using natural preservatives for freshness.
Best Jerky Treats for Puppies
4.6
★★★★★
Chew + Heal
Who It’s For: Puppy owners who want a jerky-style snack that’s gentler on developing teeth and digestion, rather than a hard chew.
Why we recommended it:Chew + Heal Dog Jerky for Puppies balances flavor, nutritional support, and safety for little mouths. The first ingredient is wild-caught Alaskan salmon, which brings in omega-3s (EPA, DHA) that support brain, coat, and immune system development. The formula is “limited ingredient” and avoids many common allergens, which reduces the risk of digestive upset during a stage when puppies’ guts are still maturing. The recipe includes superfoods like chickpeas, flaxseed, carrots, sweet potato, apples, blueberries, and cranberries, offering antioxidants, vitamins, and fiber for overall growth and immune support. The treats are soft and chewy, designed to be easy on puppy teeth and jaws, making them perfect for training sessions and rewarding good behavior.
What sets it apart from competitors: The treats are made in the USA in FDA-approved facilities, ensuring strict quality control, and free from farmed fish contaminants.
Best Jerky Treats for Sensitive Stomachs
4.8
★★★★★
Waggin’ Train
Who It’s For: Dogs whose owners have already noticed gastrointestinal sensitivities or mild digestive upset from typical jerky treats.
Why we recommended it:Waggin’ Train Duck Jerky Tenders features a relatively minimal, focused formula, and its functional additions are targeted at digestion. The first ingredient is real duck breast (i.e. whole muscle duck) — something many dogs tolerate better when more common proteins (chicken, beef) trigger sensitivity. It’s enhanced with prebiotic fiber from dried chicory root, which aids digestion and fosters a healthy gut microbiome. This makes them suitable for daily rewarding and training while supporting gastrointestinal wellness.
What sets it apart from competitors: The formula is grain-free, corn-free, and avoids artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives — all of which are common culprits in digestive reactions. Another point: very few jerky lines maintain such a short ingredient list for sensitive digestion while using a meat like duck (which is a relatively novel protein).
Best Affordable Dog Jerky Treats
4.5
★★★★★
Full Moon
Who It’s For: Dog owners who want a balance of affordability + top-notch ingredient quality.
Why we recommended it:Full Moon Jerky Healthy is made with USDA-approved, cage-free chicken breast cooked in small batches using traditional slow-smoking and roasting techniques that retain nutrients and natural flavor. The treats use only natural ingredients such as chicken, cassava root, organic cane sugar, rosemary extract, vinegar, and salt, avoiding glycerin, by-products, or fillers. This approach results in an all-natural, wholesome treat that delivers balanced protein and energy without compromising on taste or safety.
What sets it apart from competitors: Full Moon stands out by keeping its ingredient list tighter (e.g. chicken, organic cane sugar, vinegar, rosemary extract) and avoiding glycerin. Also, the “human grade” and “all natural” branding gives consumers more confidence than typical bargain jerky treats.
Best Grain-Free Dog Jerky Treats
4.7
★★★★★
Newman’s Own
Who It’s For: Dogs that have sensitivity to grains (corn, wheat, soy) or you just want to avoid common filler ingredients.
Why we recommended it:Newman’s Own Jerky Treats for Dogs use grass-fed beef or U.S. farm-raised chicken as the primary ingredient, providing a solid protein boost while maintaining a clean ingredient list free of grains. The treats are oven-baked to preserve flavor and nutrients without common fillers or artificial preservatives, making them safe and wholesome. Because of those leaner, cleaner tendencies, many dog owners report that Newman’s jerky treats are better tolerated than lower-cost jerky products laden with fillers or glycerin.
What sets it apart from competitors: Commitment to responsible sourcing with grass-fed beef primarily from New Zealand and farm-raised chicken from the U.S., both raised without the use of hormones or antibiotics. The treats also carry certifications from independent organizations through SmartLabel, emphasizing quality, environmental responsibility, and social justice.
Other Best Dog Jerky Treats
Best Limited-Ingredient Dog Jerky Treats:Bocce’s Bakery Jerky Stick Dog Treats is great for pups with sensitive stomachs or owners who prefer recognizable ingredients. The soft, stick-style texture is easy to break into training-sized pieces without crumbling. They’re wheat-free and avoid the usual fillers, which helps reduce the risk of unnecessary allergens. If you want a clean, no-fuss jerky that still feels high-value to your dog, this is the one to reach for.
Best Jerky Treats for Small Dogs:Farmland Traditions Dogs Love Chicken Jerky earns the small-dog nod because the strips are easy to snap into petite portions. That means you control calories and chew size—perfect for toy breeds or picky eaters. The single-protein chicken focus keeps flavors straightforward while avoiding complicated blends. Pet parents also appreciate that a little goes a long way, making one bag last across many tiny training rewards.
Best Jerky Treats for Large Dogs:Bundle x Joy Superfood Jerky Bars are hefty, bar-style treats that feel appropriately sized for big chewers. Their “superfood” angle adds functional ingredients beyond basic protein, which larger, high-energy dogs can benefit from. The firmer bite satisfies dogs that like to work a treat rather than inhale it. If you want a substantial, nutritious chew that doesn’t disappear in two seconds, these bars are a smart pick.
Best Jerky Treats for Senior Dogs:DOGSWELL Jerky Hip and Joint Dog Treats take the lead for older pups thanks to added joint-support ingredients (like glucosamine and chondroitin) paired with high-value jerky. The texture is chewy yet manageable, so many seniors can enjoy them without excessive effort. Owners often note that dogs seem extra motivated by the flavor, which helps when you’re being selective about treat calories. It’s an easy way to pair “something yummy” with “something supportive” in one reward.
Best Vegan or Plant-Based Dog Jerky Treats:V-dog Kind Jerky is the top plant-based option for households avoiding animal proteins or rotating away from common meat allergens. The recipe leans on plant proteins and “superfood” additions, offering variety for dogs with dietary restrictions. Texture-wise, they’re satisfyingly chewy without being rock-hard, making them versatile for different sizes. If you want a meat-free jerky that still delivers aroma, chew, and enthusiasm, this is the one to try.
The Bottom Line
Finding the perfect jerky treat isn’t just about spoiling your dog—it’s about fueling them with real, wholesome ingredients that support their health and happiness. The best options go beyond taste, offering high-quality proteins, minimal processing, and transparency you can trust. Whether you’re rewarding good behavior, supporting joint health, or just sharing a moment of joy, the right jerky can make every treat-time feel special. Ultimately, your dog deserves snacks that match the same care you put into their daily meals. With the picks in this guide, you can treat them confidently—knowing each bite is as nutritious as it is delicious.
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Sources
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