The Top 5 Dog Treats for Large Breeds

Navigating the dog treat market can feel like trekking through an endless jungle of choices. As a pet owner and dog treat connoisseur, I’ve sampled a wide array of products designed for our larger canine compatriots.

From the savory to the sweet, and everything in between, I’ve narrowed down the top five dog treats for large breeds, considering factors such as nutritional value, taste, and chewability.

But before we jump into the detailed review, let’s first discuss what makes a dog treat truly stand out from the pack. Stay with me, you’ll want to know these details for your furry friend’s sake.

Amazon Brand – Wag Dog Treats Chicken and Waffle Bites 12oz

If your large breed pooch has been picky with treats, they’re bound to love Amazon Brand – Wag Dog Treats Chicken and Waffle Bites, especially since these treats are made with real, farm-raised American chicken – the #1 ingredient.

These treats contain no fillers like poultry by-products, corn, wheat, or soy, and you won’t find any artificial flavors either.

They’re soft, chewy, and have a pleasant smell that dogs find irresistible. Plus, they’re easy to break into smaller pieces for training or rewarding.

Packaged in a resealable bag for freshness, these treats are all sourced and made in the USA. And if you’re not satisfied, there’s a refund guarantee within a year of purchase.

So, why not give them a try? Your dog’s tail will be wagging in no time!

Best For:

Dog owners who want to feed their dogs a healthy, tasty, and nutritious treat that can also be used for training and rewarding.

Pros:

• Made with real, farm-raised American chicken as the #1 ingredient.
• Soft, chewy treats with a pleasant smell, easy to break for training purposes.
• Comes in a resealable bag for freshness, 100% sourced and made in the USA.

Cons:

• The bag needs to be sealed tightly to maintain the freshness of the treats.

Milk-Bone MaroSnacks Dog Treats, Beef, 40 Ounce

For large breed dogs who enjoy a meaty, crunch-filled experience, Milk-Bone MaroSnacks Dog Treats, Beef, 40 Ounce is a top choice.

These treats pack real bone marrow in a savory biscuit that’s baked with love and natural ingredients.

The treat is crunchy on the outside and meaty on the inside, providing a texture your dog will adore.

These snacks aren’t just tasty, they’re also packed with calcium, making them a healthy choice for your pet.

Customers rave about how their dogs, even those who are particularly picky, seem to love these treats.

They’re great for training rewards or just for a special snack. However, they do come with a higher price tag, so be prepared for that. Despite this, they’re a hit with large breed dogs and come highly recommended by many pet owners.

Best For: Large breed dogs who enjoy a savory, crunchy treat and can benefit from an added calcium boost.

Pros:

• Contains real bone marrow, providing a meaty inside and a crunchy outside texture.
• Highly praised by customers, even those with picky dogs.
• Not only tasty but also packed with calcium for added health benefits.

Cons:

• Higher price tag compared to other dog treats.

Pawstruck Dog Jerky Treats (15 Pack) for Joint Health

Large breed dog owners seeking a healthy, protein-rich snack for their pets will find Pawstruck Dog Jerky Treats an ideal choice.

These treats not only delight taste buds but also boost joint and dental health. Made from free-range, grass-fed cattle, these rawhide-free treats are packed with protein and contain no artificial ingredients.

They’re a clean, safe, and healthy snack option for your pet.

Moreover, these treats are packed with glucosamine and chondroitin, which are known to improve and strengthen joints and hips.

So, not only are you treating your furry friend to a taste they’ll love, but you’re also investing in their long-term health.

Plus, these treats help remove plaque and tartar, contributing to better overall dental health. Pawstruck Dog Jerky Treats are loved by dogs of all sizes and come with a handy autoship option.

Best For: Dog owners looking for a healthy, protein-rich snack that also supports their pet’s joint and dental health.

Pros:

• Made from free-range, grass-fed cattle, ensuring a high-quality, protein-rich treat.
• Contains glucosamine and chondroitin which boost joint and hip health.
• Assists in dental health by helping remove plaque and tartar.

Cons:

• Chewing times may vary depending on the size of the dog.

Old Mother Hubbard Natural Dog Treats, Large Size (6 pound box)

In the pursuit of delicious and effective training treats, Old Mother Hubbard Natural Dog Treats, Large Size (6 pound box), is a must-try for you.

These large, crunchy treats are made from real peanut butter, apples, carrots, and molasses. They’re not just tasty but also beneficial, as their texture helps clean your dog’s teeth.

Produced in North America, they contain no added artificial preservatives. Despite the quality, they’re a budget-friendly option.

Customers rave about their dogs loving the bones and flavors. However, be aware that some treats may arrive broken due to shipping.

Despite this, they’re generally seen as an affordable, healthy treat that offers great value and size for training or snacking.

Best For: Dog owners seeking a tasty, effective, and affordable training treat made with all-natural, wholesome ingredients.

Pros:

• Made with real peanut butter, apples, carrots, and molasses, providing an irresistible flavor.
• The crunchy texture of the treats helps clean your dog’s teeth.
• They’re a budget-friendly option despite their high quality and large size.

Cons:

• Some treats may arrive broken due to shipping.

Pur Luv K9 Kabob Dog Treats with Chicken, Duck and Sweet Potato

If your pooch is an aggressive chewer, Pur Luv K9 Kabob Dog Treats with Chicken, Duck, and Sweet Potato should be your go-to option.

These high-quality treats aren’t only packed with flavor but also last longer than other brands. Made with real ingredients, they’re easily digestible and keep your dog entertained for hours.

Their unique triple flavor kabobs are packed with chicken, chicken liver, and duck, offering a variety that dogs simply can’t resist.

You’ll appreciate the limited ingredient list that ensures transparency, and your dog will love the exciting smell that keeps them busy.

As a bonus, they’re vet-approved and contain pumpkin, which is known to be beneficial for dogs.

Despite their size, they remain a cost-effective alternative to other brands, offering good value for your money.

Best For: Dog owners with aggressive chewers who need high-quality, long-lasting, and flavor-packed treats to keep their pets entertained.

Pros:

• Made with real chicken, duck, and sweet potato, ensuring high-quality, easily digestible treats.
• Long-lasting chew keeps dogs entertained and busy, making it perfect for aggressive chewers.
• Packed with triple flavor kabobs and an exciting smell that dogs love.

Cons:

• Treats are large in size, which may not be suitable for smaller breeds.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Dog Treats Large Breed

When picking out treats for your large breed dog, there are several factors to consider.

It’s not just about taste; think about the size and texture of the treat, the quality of the ingredients, and its nutritional value.

Also, consider whether the treat offers any dental health benefits and how it can be used for training and rewards.

Treat Size and Texture

Choosing the right size and texture for your large breed dog’s treats is key to preventing choking hazards, dental issues, and maintaining a healthy diet.

Larger, denser treats tend to be more compatible with stronger jaws, while softer treats can be easier for digestion. The treat’s duration also matters – larger, harder treats can provide lasting enjoyment and mental stimulation.

Texture shouldn’t be overlooked; some dogs prefer crunchier treats for dental health, while others enjoy softer, chewier options.

Also, the treat’s size should match your dog’s dietary needs and portion sizes to prevent overfeeding and ensure weight control.

It’s all about finding what best suits your furry friend’s requirements and preferences.

Ingredient Quality

In the quest for top-quality treats for your large breed dog, the caliber of ingredients takes center stage. It’s vital to look for whole, recognizable ingredients at the top of the list, like real meat, fruits, and veggies. Steer clear of treats filled with artificial colors, flavors, preservatives, or fillers such as corn, wheat, or soy.

I recommend treats made in countries with strict food safety regulations like the USA or Canada. Opt for treats free from by-products and high in protein from animal sources. Select treats with natural, easily digestible ingredients, as these will best support your large breed dog’s overall health.

Quality ingredients ensure both tasty treats and a healthy, happy dog.

Nutritional Value

Beyond scrutinizing the quality of ingredients, it’s equally crucial to weigh the nutritional value of the treats you’re offering your large breed dog.

High-quality, natural ingredients should be the mainstay, boosted with added vitamins, minerals, and supplements for holistic health.

Protein and healthy fats are a must, supporting energy and muscle maintenance. If your dog’s prone to joint issues, find treats with glucosamine and chondroitin. Avoid anything with excessive fillers, artificial additives, and high salt or sugar levels – they’ll do more harm than good.

I can’t emphasize enough the importance of nutritional value when choosing treats. After all, our furry companions deserve nothing but the best for their health and happiness.

Dental Health Benefits

While we often focus on nutritional value, it’s also essential to consider the dental health benefits when selecting treats for our large breed dogs.

Dental health benefits can include aiding in the removal of plaque and tartar from your dog’s teeth, resulting in a cleaner mouth and fresher breath.

Some treats are specifically designed to enhance overall dental health, offering a much-needed boost to your pet’s oral hygiene. When choosing treats, I look for those that are odorless and low mess, contributing to better dental health. The texture of the treat also matters. A crunchy texture can help clean your dog’s teeth, improving their dental hygiene.

All these factors matter when considering the dental health benefits of dog treats.

Training and Reward Use

Choosing the right treats for training and rewarding your large breed dog involves several key considerations.

Firstly, size and texture are important factors to consider. The treat should be suitable for your dog’s mouth and chewing capabilities, making training and rewarding efficient and effective.

Secondly, the taste of the treats is crucial. It’s important to choose treats that are tasty to keep your dog interested and motivated during training sessions.

Additionally, the nutritional content of the treats should be considered. Look for treats that offer more than just empty calories. They should be beneficial to your dog’s diet and provide some nutritional value.

Digestibility is another factor to keep in mind. Choose treats that are easily digestible to prevent any stomach upset during training.

Lastly, consider the packaging and storage of the treats. Ensure that the treats are properly packaged and stored to keep them fresh and free from spoilage.

Packaging and Freshness

After considering the nutritional aspects and palatability of the treats, let’s not forget the importance of packaging and freshness when selecting the perfect reward for your large breed dog.

The packaging should be resealable to maintain freshness and sturdy enough to protect the treats from air and moisture. It’s vital that the packaging is well-sealed to preserve the freshness of the treats, as stale treats can be unappetizing and unhealthy for your pet.

Always check for information on the packaging indicating the freshness of the treats and the date of packaging. Remember, the freshness of the treats is as important as the nutritional value, so don’t overlook the packaging material and its ability to safeguard the treats.

Conclusion

After sampling and reviewing a range of treats, my top picks for large breed dogs are definitely the Wag Chicken and Waffle Bites, the Milk-Bone MaroSnacks, Pawstruck’s Dog Jerky, Old Mother Hubbard’s Natural Treats, and the Pur Luv K9 Kabobs.

Remember, when choosing treats, consider your dog’s size, dietary needs, and preferences. Treats are a great way to reward your furry friend, but always ensure they’re part of a balanced diet.