23 Healthiest Dog Treats in 2025: Vet-Recommended Brands

This content was reviewed and fact-checked by veterinarian Dr. Aukse Caraite, DVM.

Would you give your child cookies made of mystery meat dust and artificial flavoring every day? That’s essentially what many commercial dog treats are: ultra-processed, nutrient-empty snacks dressed up with buzzwords like “wholesome” and “natural.” But here’s the issue—your dog’s health, energy, and even lifespan can be impacted by what’s in those seemingly innocent bites. From itchy skin and upset stomachs to long-term inflammation and weight gain, unhealthy treats quietly sabotage your pup’s well-being. And what if the so-called “vet-recommended” or “grain-free” treats do more harm than good? In this guide, we break down the most nutritious and healthiest dog treats —so you can reward your pup without compromising their health.

What Is The Healthiest Dog Food?

Based on current research and expert consensus, the healthiest dog treats—regardless of format—should prioritize whole, human-grade ingredients, be minimally processed, and offer digestible, functional nutrition. Whether used for training, dental health, or simply as a reward, healthy treats should go beyond empty calories and provide real benefits to your dog’s well-being. The best treats are free from artificial additives, fillers, and animal by-products, which are often linked to inflammation, allergies, and poor gut health. Instead, they should align with your dog’s life stage, size, activity level, preferences, and health concerns—whether you’re supporting joint health, managing allergies, or promoting a shiny coat.

Whether you choose freeze-dried organ treats, soft-baked chews, or plant-based snacks, the healthiest options will always prioritize ingredient transparency, nutritional integrity, and bioavailable nutrients that truly support your dog’s health from the inside out.

Health & Nutrition Comparison of Different Dog Treat Types

The healthiest dog treats typically prioritize high-quality protein sources, minimal processing, and alignment with a dog’s biological needs.

Here’s a nutrition comparison table based on current formulations and veterinary recommendations:

Which Type of Dog Treat Is The Healthiest Overall?

🥇 Winner: Freeze-dried treats deliver top-notch nutrition without synthetic additives. They’re minimally processed, often single-ingredient, and retain the natural benefits of raw food — all in a shelf-stable form.

✅ High protein (30–45%)
✅ Minimal moisture = long shelf life
✅ Single-ingredient options (great for allergies)
✅ Raw but safe due to freeze-drying
✅ Perfect for training or high-value rewards
✅ Top choice for nutrient density and bioavailability

🥈 Runner-ups:

• Air-dried: Nutrient-dense, raw-style treats that are shelf-stable and safer than raw. They are often used as full meals, too.
• Jerky: Real meat, high-protein, chewy texture dogs love. Watch for additives and ensure single-source protein where possible.
• Raw bones and chews: Great for enrichment and dental health. Natural and nutrient-rich, but supervision is required.

🥉 Third place:

• Vegan treats: Ethical and allergy-friendly. Choose ones with complete amino acid profiles and no artificial additives.
• Training treats: Bite-sized and often low-calorie. It is not always the most natural, but it is practical and useful when chosen wisely.
• Soft chews: Easy to chew, often fortified with functional supplements (e.g., calming or joint health).
• Crunchy biscuits: Budget-friendly and shelf-stable. Good for teeth, but usually lower in protein and made with fillers.

Before Changing Your Dog’s Diet

Always work with your vet before changing your dog’s diet. Alternatively, you can get personalized nutritional advice from an online registered vet nutritionist through Vetster anytime, anywhere. You can also chat with an online vet and ask them questions about your dog’s nutritional needs. Similarly, an at-home dog gut health test can provide valuable insights by analyzing your dog’s microbiome, helping you determine which nutrients their treats should contain. Additionally, an at-home dog allergy testing kit can help identify which ingredients may not be suitable for your dog. This information lets you confidently choose the right treat and care plan to support optimal digestion and nutrition.

Healthiest Dog Treats

Here are the healthiest dog treats of this year.

Healthiest Overall Dog Treat

Flavors: Chicken

Protein: 35%

Fat: 9%

Fiber: 3%

Calories: 93 kcal/treat

Why we recommended it: Full Moon Chicken Fillet is made from USDA-inspected, cage-free chicken and contains no artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives. The treats are slow-cooked in small batches to preserve their natural taste and nutritional value. Their limited ingredient list ensures they are free from fillers and common allergens, making them a healthy and safe choice for most dogs. Each treat contains straightforward ingredients such as chicken, organic cane sugar, vinegar, and rosemary extract, without any by-products or waste.

What sets it apart from competitors: Made with human-grade quality, meaning they meet the same standards as food for people. Additionally, the brand’s commitment to sourcing ingredients from trusted U.S. farmers and using small-batch cooking methods ensures superior quality and safety.

Healthiest Chew Dog Treat

Flavors: 7

Protein: 12%

Fat: 9%

Fiber: 0.96%

Calories: 14 kcal/treat

Why we recommended it: Bocce’s Bakery ‘Berries & Cream Treats are crafted with just nine 100% real ingredients, such as oat flour, honey, rolled oats, and blueberries) ensuring a nutritious snack without fillers or artificial additives. The treats are baked in small batches in the USA, guaranteeing freshness and quality. Their variety of flavors and wholesome recipes make them appealing to picky eaters while supporting better pet nutrition. It offers fun seasonal flavors like “Birthday Cake” and “Fireside Apple Pie,” adding excitement to treat time. The brand only uses high-quality ingredients local to their bakeries.

What sets it apart from competitors: Bocce’s treats have won first place at the Global Pet Expo for “Best In Show, Natural Category” for three consecutive years. These soft chews are crafted to be gentle on teeth and gums, making them accessible for dogs who struggle with hard biscuits. These chews are also baked rather than extruded, a cleaner and more wholesome preparation method.

Healthiest Dog Treat for Active Dogs

Flavor: Beef

Protein: 35%

Fat: 30%

Fiber: 1%

Calories: 25 kcal/treat

Why we recommended it: Get Joy Superfood Beef Organ Treats are tailored for active dogs of all breeds and ages, especially those requiring high-protein snacks to sustain their energy and muscle recovery. They are made from USDA-inspected, pasture-raised beef organs with no added hormones, steroids, or antibiotics. The freeze-drying process preserves 97% of the nutrients, ensuring your dog receives maximum benefits from vitamins, minerals, and proteins. These treats also promote gut health, cardiovascular strength, and shiny coats while being versatile—usable as rewards, meal toppers, or standalone snacks. Their freeze-dried format makes them suitable for on-the-go lifestyles.

What sets it apart from competitors: Made of 100% veef heart, which contains a prime Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10), crucial for maintaining heart health and promotes a reduced risk of cardiovascular issues in dogs. CoQ10 also can increase your dog’s energy levels, promoting vitality and an active lifestyle. It also contains essential vitamins (A, B, D, E, and K), minerals (iron, selenium), and fatty acids.

Healthiest Dog Treat for Small Dog Breeds

Flavor: Beef, chicken & salmon

Protein: 25%

Fat: 20%

Fiber: 0.5%

Calories: 2 kcal/treat

Why we recommended it: The Honest Kitchen Chicken & Salmon Meaty Littles’s 2-calorie size makes them ideal for training sessions or frequent treating without risking weight gain in small breeds. We love these treats because they combine cage-free chicken and wild-caught salmon, providing high-quality protein and DHA to support muscle health and brain development. These treats are also versatile, doubling as training rewards or interactive toy fillers. They are also suitable for dogs with dietary sensitivities due to their limited ingredient list.

What sets it apart from competitors: Rigorous quality standards—they are made in a human food facility using 100% human-grade ingredients that ensure safety and nutritional value, while the slow-roasted preparation enhances flavor without compromising health.

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Healthiest Dog Treat for Training

Flavors: 8

Protein: 16%

Fat: 2.5%

Fiber: 5%

Calories: 7 kcal/treat

Why we recommended it: Zignature Turkey Soft Moist Treats for Dogs offers a high-value motivating reward for training or positive reinforcement. Its small size and enticing aroma make it perfect for training sessions. Plus, it uses animal protein as the first ingredient, ensuring a high-protein snack that supports muscle health and energy during highly insensitive activities. The soft texture is gentle on teeth and gums, making them easy to chew during training. Additionally, their limited-ingredient philosophy minimizes the risk of digestive issues or allergic reactions, making them a safe option for sensitive pups.

What sets it apart from competitors: Aside from turkey, this brand offers several novel protein-based dog treats, such as kangaroo and duck. Their treats are complemented by wholesome ingredients like lentils, peas, chickpeas, and apple cider vinegar. Unlike many training treats that rely on fillers or artificial additives, Zignature uses natural preservatives like rosemary extract and mixed tocopherols.

Healthiest Freeze-Dried Dog Treat

Flavors: Liver, beef, chicken

Protein: 16%

Fat: 2.5%

Fiber: 5%

Calories: 7 kcal/treat

Why we recommended it: Open Farm Freeze-Dried Raw Cubes are made with responsibly sourced, 100% humanely raised meats certified by G.A.P. (Global Animal Partnership). The freeze-drying process retains 97% of the nutritional value and maintains the appealing texture and flavor of the ingredients, unlike many processed treats that lose key nutrients during manufacturing. Additionally, the variety of protein options (e.g., chicken liver, beef liver, lamb liver) caters to different dietary preferences. Its single-ingredient, grain-free composition minimizes the risk of allergic reactions or digestive issues.

What sets it apart from competitors: Open Farm’s commitment to ethical sourcing and traceability ensures high-quality ingredients free from antibiotics or added hormones.

Healthiest Grain-Free Dog Treat

Flavors: 14

Protein: 15%

Fat: 9%

Fiber: 4%

Calories: 17 kcal/treat

Why we recommended it: Wet Noses Grain-Free Organic Crunchy Dog Treats are made with organic, human-grade ingredients, making them suitable for health-conscious pet owners who prioritize clean, natural diets. The crunchy texture also supports dental health by helping to reduce plaque buildup. The treats are baked in small batches in the company’s own Safe Quality Food (SQF) Level III-certified facility, ensuring high safety and quality standards. Additionally, their grain-free formula is perfect for dogs with dietary restrictions while still providing essential nutrients. The have over ten amazing flavors to choice from, for instance, the Carrot & Sweet Poatoes variety combines organic carrot puree and sweet potatoes with nutrient-rich pea flour and peanut butter, offering a blend that’s both flavorful and easy to digest.

What sets it apart from competitors: Unlike many grain-free options that rely on artificial flavors, these treats use real fruits and vegetables like pumpkin, quinoa, and berries to provide natural flavor and nutritional benefits. The human-grade certification further elevates them above many competing products.

Healthiest Jerky Treat for Dogs

Flavors: Chicken, beef, salmon

Protein: 26%

Fat: 16%

Fiber: 2%

Calories: 62 kcal/treat

Why we recommended it: Ollie Jerky Treats are made in U.S. facilities with local and imported 100% human-grade, all-natural ingredients. They are minimally processed to retain nutritional value while being easy to digest. These premium jerky treats can be used as training rewards or everyday snacks—making them an excellent addition to a healthy diet. Their soft texture makes them easier to digest compared to tougher jerky options.

What sets it apart from competitors: Ollie follows a meat first recipe. This means that the first ingredient on their label is a protein like chicken, in the case of their Chicken and Apple Jerky Strips formula. They offer two other drool-worthy flavors, including salmon and beef jerky flavors, which are boosted with superfoods such as oats, coconut, sweet potatoes, and other wholesome ingredients.

Healthiest Dog Biscuit Cookie Treat

Flavors: Chicken, beef, & turkey

Protein: 13%

Fat: 7.5%

Fiber: 2%

Calories: 7 kcal/treat

Why we recommended it: The Honest Kitchen Chicken Bone Broth Bites combine high-quality chicken bone broth with carrots, pumpkin, and sweet potatoes to deliver essential nutrients like collagen, vitamins, and antioxidants. These treats promote joint health, digestion, and immune function while being free from artificial additives, fillers, or preservatives. Each treat is slow-baked in small batches to retain its natural nutrition and flavor, resulting in a crunchy texture that dogs find appealing. The Honest Kitchen’s commitment to only using human-grade ingredients further elevates these treats above conventional options.

What sets it apart from competitors: Boosted with real chicken bone broth as a key ingredient—a superfood known for its collagen content and joint-supporting properties. The addition of carrots and pumpkin provides natural sweetness and fiber while boosting immune health.

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Healthiest Dog Treat for Senior Dogs

Flavors: Blueberry & carrot

Protein: 15%

Fat: 12.5%

Fiber: 4%

Calories: 17.2 kcal/treat

Why we recommended it: Honest to Goodness Plant Snacks Golden Years Dog Treats combine nutrient-rich fruits and vegetables like blueberries, carrots, and broccoli with advanced nutrients such as marine microalgae oil and yeast culture postbiotics. These ingredients provide omega-3 fatty acids to support joints, eye health, and brain function, antioxidants for immune health, and prebiotics for gut well-being. The treats are free from synthetic additives or fillers, ensuring safe and clean nutrition for older dogs.

What sets it apart from competitors: Uses functional human-grade, plant-based ingredients tailored to senior dogs’ needs. It’s free from common allergens such as soy, wheat, dairy, and meat-based proteins. This makes them particularly suitable for food-sensitive pets.

Healthiest Homemade Treat for Dogs

Flavors: 19

Protein: 12%

Fat: 13%

Fiber: 1%

Calories: 102 kcal/treat

Why we recommended it: Bonne et Filou Handmade Strawberry Human-Grade Macaron Dog Treats are crafted with human-grade, all-natural ingredients like oat flour, honey, and fractionated coconut oil, sunflower lecithin ensuring both safety and nutritional benefits. The addition of strawberry yogurt filling provides antioxidants that enhance skin health and digestion and give a natural flavor without artificial coloring or preservatives. These treats promote digestive health, immune support, and coat shine while offering a unique gourmet experience for dogs. The use of fractionated coconut oil and sunflower lecithin in the yogurt filling enhances skin health and digestion, while their minimal ingredient list ensures transparency and quality.

What sets it apart from competitors: Handmade preparation and commitment to luxury. These treats are inspired by French haute cuisine and packaged elegantly, making them suitable for gifting or special occasions.

Healthiest Dog Treat for Health Support

Flavor: Natural

Protein: 27%

Fat: 40%

Fiber: 18%

Calories: 6.5 kcal/treat

Why we recommended it: Open Farm Immune Chew Supplements are crafted with vet-recommended, 100% traceable functional ingredients like reishi and chaga mushrooms, bromelain, apple cider vinegar, turmeric, bromelain, quercetin, and probiotics. These components promote immune health, skin vitality, and stable gut microflora. The inclusion of a six-strain prebiotics blend and antioxidants ensures comprehensive health benefits while supporting digestion and reducing inflammation. Additionally, Open Farm’s commitment to transparency and sustainability adds trustworthiness to the product.

What sets it apart from competitors: Each ingredient is sourced responsibly, with detailed information on origin provided, allowing pet owners to make informed choices and setting a higher quality standard than many competitors.

Healthiest Dog Treat for Allergies

Flavors: Rabbit, duck, trout, shrimp & boar

Protein: 13%

Fat: 3%

Fiber: 9%

Calories: 8 kcal/treat

Why we recommended it: The Smart Cookie Duck & Squash Dog Treat features duck as a novel protein source, which is less likely to trigger allergic reactions in sensitive dogs. Paired with butternut squash, these treats provide essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber for overall health. It’s handcrafted in Colorado in small batches with human-grade ingredients and no artificial additives, ensuring freshness and safety while supporting digestive health and immune function.

What sets it apart from competitors: These treats stand out due to their focus on regional sourcing and limited ingredients. Duck, sourced from the Great Lakes region, is paired with roasted butternut squash to create a simple yet nutritious recipe. Unlike many allergy-friendly treats that sacrifice taste, these are highly palatable and soft enough to double as training rewards or food toppers.

Healthiest Organic Dog Treat

Flavors: Chicken & beef

Protein: 36%

Fat: 22%

Fiber: 3%

Calories: 25 kcal/treat

Why we recommended it: Pet Plate Organic Beef & Sweet Potato Bites features organic beef as the primary ingredient, providing a high-protein snack that supports muscle maintenance and energy. Paired with organic sweet potatoes, they deliver essential vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants for overall health. The wood-smoked preparation enhances flavor while maintaining nutritional integrity, and the absence of fillers or artificial preservatives ensures a clean and safe treat. Each treat is easy to break apart, making them ideal for training sessions or portion control.

What sets it apart from competitors: Uses USDA-certified organic ingredeitns and grass-fed meats for a high protein and superior nutritional profile.

Healthiest Dog Treat for Large Dogs

Flavors: Chicken apple

Protein: 16%

Fat: 14%

Fiber: 3%

Calories: 12 kcal/treat

Why we recommended it: The Spot Farms Chicken Apple Sausage Healthy All Natural Dog Treats substantial size and chewy texture make them particularly suitable for bigger dogs, providing a rewarding treat that aligns with their dietary needs. These treats are made with antibiotic-free chicken and antioxidant-rich apples sourced from family farms in Kentucky. The treats contain no fillers, artificial flavors, preservatives, or colors, ensuring clean nutrition. Their balanced protein and fat content support muscle health and energy needs, while the inclusion of flaxseed, vitamin E, and other ingredients promotes digestive health and skin vitality. The calorie content and size are perfect for larger breeds needing a satisfying yet healthy treat.

What sets it apart from competitors: The recipe’s human-grade certification and farm-to-fork sourcing model, ensures transparency and quality. Additionally, their soft texture makes them versatile for training or rewarding large dogs without causing strain on teeth or gums.

Healthiest Dog Treat for Anxious Dogs

Flavors: bacon

Protein: 15%

Fat: 7%

Fiber: 1%

Calories: 10 kcal/treat

Why we recommended it: Medterra Pet CBD Calming Chews features 10mg of CBD with calming ingredients like L-Tryptophan, chamomile, valerian root, and passion flower. This formula supports the endocannabinoid system in regulating stress while promoting serotonin production for mood stabilization during stressful situations or events. The inclusion of ginger root aids digestion, ensuring these chews are gentle on sensitive stomachs, and their soft texture makes them easy to chew, even for older dogs or those with dental issues. This treat is also great if you want to provide CBD oil benefits to your pet.

What sets it apart from competitors: THC-free CBD isolate formulation, ensuring no psychoactive effects while delivering targeted anxiety relief. The addition of multiple calming herbs and amino acids creates a synergistic effect that enhances relaxation without causing drowsiness. Furthermore, Medterra emphasizes transparency with third-party lab testing and uses high-quality hemp extract sourced from trusted farms.

Healthiest Dog Treat for Puppies

Flavors: Chicken

Protein: 15%

Fat: 7%

Fiber: 1%

Calories: 10 kcal/treat

Why we recommended it: Spot & Tango Chicken Bites Dog Treats are made from 100% human-grade chicken breast, providing a lean, easily digestible source of protein essential for muscle development and energy in growing puppies. The freeze-drying process locks in nutrients and flavor without artificial preservatives or additives, ensuring a clean and healthy treat. Their small size and soft texture make them perfect for training or rewarding puppies during their developmental stages.

What sets it apart from competitors: The freeze-drying process preserves the natural nutrients and taste of the chicken, making them both healthy and highly palatable. Moreover, their single-ingredient, human-grade formulation eliminates the risk of allergens or unnecessary fillers often found in other puppy treats.

Other Healthiest Dog Treats

The Bottom Line

In conclusion, the healthiest dog treats are more than just tasty rewards—they’re an extension of your dog’s overall nutrition and well-being. By choosing treats made with clean, high-quality ingredients and free from artificial additives, you’re supporting your dog’s long-term health with every bite. Whether you’re training, rewarding, or simply showing love, opting for nutritious, purposeful treats ensures that every snack does good, not just tastes good.

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Sources

Canine Bible uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read our editorial process and product review methodology to learn more about how we fact-check, test products, and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.