Did you know that a Great Dane needs a *lot* more calories than a Chihuahua? Finding the right dog treats for your giant friend can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack! Big dogs have big appetites, but they also have specific dietary needs. Giving them the wrong treats can lead to weight gain, digestive upset, or even worse. Choosing the right size, ingredients, and calorie count can be confusing and overwhelming.
Many pet owners struggle to find treats that are both satisfying and healthy for their large breeds. Too small, and your dog will just gobble them down in seconds. Too many calories, and your furry friend might pack on the pounds. This guide cuts through the confusion. We’ll explore the best types of treats for big dogs, considering factors like size, breed, and activity level.
By the end of this post, you’ll be able to confidently select treats that are delicious, nutritious, and perfectly sized for your best friend. You’ll learn how to read labels, identify healthy ingredients, and avoid common pitfalls. Let’s get started and find the perfect treats for your giant pup!
Our Top 5 Dog Treats For Big Dogs Recommendations at a Glance
| Image | Product | Rating | Links |
|---|---|---|---|
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Milk-Bone Original Dog Treats Biscuits for Large Dogs | 9.1/10 | Check Price |
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Pur Luv Dog Treats | 9.5/10 | Check Price |
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Rachael Ray Nutrish Soup Bones Dog Treats | 9.3/10 | Check Price |
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Pedigree Dentastix Large Breed Dog Treats | 8.8/10 | Check Price |
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Blue Buffalo Nudges Grillers Natural Dog Treats | 8.8/10 | Check Price |
Top 5 Dog Treats For Big Dogs Detailed Reviews
1. Milk-Bone Original Dog Treats Biscuits for Large Dogs
Rating: 9.2/10
These Milk-Bone Original Dog Biscuits are a classic choice for large dog owners. This 10-pound box provides a hefty supply of crunchy, meaty treats your dog will love. They’re a convenient way to reward good behavior, and the crunchy texture helps keep your dog’s teeth clean. Made in Buffalo, New York, these biscuits contain over twelve vitamins and minerals to support your dog’s health.
What We Like:
- The large 10-pound box offers great value for the price.
- Dogs love the meaty flavor.
- The crunchy texture helps clean teeth.
- These biscuits contain essential vitamins and minerals.
- They are made in the USA.
What Could Be Improved:
- Some dogs may be sensitive to the ingredients.
- The packaging can be bulky to store.
- The biscuits are large, so they may not be suitable for all large breeds or smaller dogs.
Overall, Milk-Bone Original Dog Biscuits are a dependable and affordable option for large dog treats. They offer a tasty reward and contribute to your dog’s dental health.
2. Pur Luv Dog Treats
Rating: 9.3/10
Spoil your furry friend with Pur Luv Chicken Jerky Dog Treats! These delicious treats are made with 100% real chicken breast, the first ingredient. They’re a healthy, high-protein snack perfect for satisfying your dog’s urge to chew. With limited ingredients and no artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives, you can feel good about giving your dog these tasty treats. The long-lasting texture provides extended chewing enjoyment. Each 16-ounce bag contains plenty of treats for your canine companion.
What We Like:
- Made with 100% real chicken breast – the best ingredient!
- Satisfies your dog’s natural chewing instincts.
- Contains limited ingredients. You know exactly what’s inside.
- Healthy and high in protein, low in fat.
- No artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives.
- Long-lasting chew for extended enjoyment.
- Nutritional analysis shows a high protein content (60.0%) and low fat (1.0%).
What Could Be Improved:
- Some dogs might find the texture a bit tough.
- The price might be higher than some other dog treat brands.
- More flavor options would be appreciated by some pet owners.
Overall, Pur Luv Chicken Jerky Dog Treats offer a healthy and delicious option for dogs who enjoy a good chew. They’re a great choice for responsible pet owners who want a high-quality treat.
3. Rachael Ray Nutrish Soup Bones Dog Treats
Rating: 9.1/10
Spoil your furry friend with Rachael Ray Nutrish Soup Bones Dog Treats! These tasty chicken and veggie flavored chews come in a bag of eleven long-lasting bones. They’re perfect for smaller dogs who love a good, satisfying chew. Made in the USA with high-quality ingredients, these treats are free of meat by-products and artificial flavors. Your dog will enjoy the tender, meaty center.
What We Like:
- The treats have a delicious chicken and veggie flavor that dogs love.
- They are long-lasting chews, providing hours of entertainment.
- The tender, meaty center makes them extra appealing to small dogs.
- They are made in the USA with quality ingredients.
- The treats lack meat by-products and artificial flavors.
- The eleven-bone bag offers good value.
What Could Be Improved:
- Some dogs may finish the bones quickly, depending on their chewing habits.
- The size might be too small for larger breeds.
- The price might be a bit high for some pet owners.
Overall, Rachael Ray Nutrish Soup Bones are a yummy and fun treat for small dogs. They offer a healthy and delicious chewing experience.
4. Pedigree Dentastix Large Breed Dog Treats
Rating: 9.2/10
Keep your large dog’s teeth clean and breath fresh with Pedigree Dentastix Large Breed Dog Treats! This 1.66 lb bag contains 32 delicious, original-flavored chews. These treats have a unique X-shape designed to clean hard-to-reach areas. They reduce tartar buildup and freshen breath. Your furry friend will love the tasty flavor, and you’ll appreciate the quality ingredients – no added sugar or fillers!
What We Like:
- Triple action formula cleans teeth, reduces tartar, and freshens breath.
- The X-shaped design helps clean hard-to-reach areas.
- Large breed dogs (40 lbs and up) enjoy one treat per day.
- Dogs love the delicious original flavor.
- The treats contain no added sugar or fillers.
- One 1.66 lb bag provides 32 long-lasting chews.
What Could Be Improved:
- Some dogs may find the texture too hard.
- The price might be higher than some other dental chews.
- Not all large dogs will like the flavor.
Pedigree Dentastix Large Breed Dog Treats offer a convenient and tasty way to support your dog’s dental health. They’re a good choice for many large breed dogs, but always supervise your pet while they chew.
5. Blue Buffalo Nudges Grillers Natural Dog Treats
Rating: 8.7/10
Spoil your furry friend with Blue Buffalo Nudges Grillers Natural Dog Treats! These delicious treats are made with real beef, the number one ingredient. Dogs love the taste. They’re perfect for training or just showing your pup some love. Each 16-ounce bag provides plenty of tasty rewards. These treats are oven-baked, not fried, and easy to break into smaller pieces for all dog breeds. They’re also made in the USA with wholesome ingredients. No artificial preservatives, corn, wheat, or soy are in these treats. Your dog will thank you!
What We Like:
- Real beef is the main ingredient. Your dog will love the taste!
- They’re easy to break into smaller pieces for any size dog.
- These treats are oven-baked, not fried.
- They contain no artificial preservatives, corn, wheat, or soy.
- The 16-ounce bag provides many treats.
- These treats are made in the USA.
What Could Be Improved::
- The physical bag’s design differs slightly from the online image.
- Some dogs might be sensitive to beef.
Overall, Blue Buffalo Nudges Grillers are a tasty and healthy option for rewarding your canine companion. They’re a great choice for dog owners who prioritize natural ingredients.
The Ultimate Buying Guide: Choosing the Perfect Dog Treats for Your Big Buddy
Finding the right dog treats for your large breed can feel overwhelming. This guide helps you navigate the world of big dog treats and find the perfect snack for your furry friend.
Key Features to Look For
- Size: Big dogs need big treats! Small treats might be a choking hazard. Look for treats appropriately sized for your dog’s breed and jaw strength.
- Ingredients: Read the ingredient list carefully. You want to see real meat or protein listed early, not fillers.
- Calorie Content: Large dogs need a lot of energy, but too many treats can lead to weight gain. Check the calorie count per treat and adjust accordingly.
- Durability: Some dogs are power chewers! Choose durable treats that last longer and satisfy their chewing needs. This also helps prevent choking.
- Taste and Smell: Your dog’s happiness matters! Choose treats with appealing smells and flavors that your dog loves.
Important Materials and Ingredients
The best dog treats for big dogs use high-quality ingredients. Look for:
- Real Meat: Chicken, beef, lamb, or fish are excellent protein sources.
- Whole Grains: Oats, brown rice, and barley provide healthy carbohydrates and fiber.
- Fruits and Vegetables: These add vitamins and minerals, but make sure they are safe for dogs (avoid grapes and raisins).
- Avoid Fillers: Corn syrup, artificial colors, and preservatives are generally not good for your dog’s health.
Factors that Improve or Reduce Quality
Several factors influence the quality of dog treats.
Higher Quality: Higher-quality treats use natural ingredients, are made in the USA or other reputable countries, and undergo rigorous testing.
Lower Quality: Lower-quality treats often contain fillers, artificial ingredients, and might be manufactured overseas with less strict regulations.
Pricing: Generally, higher-quality treats cost more. You get what you pay for. Investing in better ingredients means better health for your dog.
Reviews: Always check online reviews before buying a new treat. Other dog owners can offer valuable insights.
User Experience and Use Cases
Big dog treats have many uses:
- Training: Use treats as rewards during training sessions.
- Dental Chews: Some large-breed treats help clean teeth and improve dental health.
- Satisfying Chewing Needs: Chewing is natural for dogs. Durable treats can keep them entertained and prevent destructive chewing.
- Bonding: Sharing treats is a great way to bond with your dog and show affection.
10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What size treats are best for my giant breed dog?
A: Look for treats that are at least 2-3 inches long, depending on the size of your dog’s mouth. Avoid anything that could easily be swallowed whole.
Q: Are all “large breed” treats the same?
A: No, they vary widely in ingredients, quality, and nutritional value. Always check the ingredient list.
Q: How many treats should I give my dog daily?
A: This depends on your dog’s size, activity level, and the calorie content of the treats. Treats should only be a small part of your dog’s daily caloric intake.
Q: What ingredients should I avoid?
A: Avoid artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives. Also, be wary of excessive fillers like corn syrup.
Q: My dog is a picky eater. How do I find treats he’ll like?
A: Try different flavors and textures. Read reviews to see which treats other dogs enjoy.
Q: Are there treats for sensitive stomachs?
A: Yes, many brands offer treats made with easily digestible ingredients for dogs with sensitive stomachs.
Q: Can I use treats for dental hygiene?
A: Yes, some treats are designed to help clean teeth and improve dental health. Look for those that are specifically labeled as “dental chews.”
Q: Where can I buy high-quality dog treats?
A: You can find them at pet stores, online retailers, and sometimes even at your veterinarian’s office.
Q: How can I store dog treats properly?
A: Store treats in an airtight container in a cool, dry place to maintain freshness and prevent spoilage.
Q: My dog keeps stealing treats. What should I do?
A: Store treats securely out of reach. Train your dog to leave treats alone using positive reinforcement techniques.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.