Quick answer: The best dog training treats are small (pea-sized), soft, smelly, and quick to eat. Use high-value treats (cheese, liver) for new or difficult behaviours, and lower-value treats for practised commands. Keep treat calories under 10% of daily intake.
Quick Summary
Training treats are a cornerstone of positive reinforcement, helping your dog associate good behaviour with rewards. This guide covers what makes an effective training treat, which ingredients to look for in the UK, and how to use treats without overfeeding.
Part of our Dog Training & Behaviour guide.
Choosing the best dog training treats UK owners can rely on means finding rewards that are high-value enough to motivate, small enough for repetition and healthy enough for regular use. This guide covers treat types, ingredients and how to use rewards effectively.
Last updated: May 2026 | Reviewed quarterly
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Why the Right Dog Training Treats Make a Difference
In positive reinforcement training, the reward drives the behaviour. Low-value treats will not compete with distractions. High-value treats motivate your dog to work harder and learn faster. The trick is finding treats your dog loves that are also practical for training sessions.
How We Compare Dog Training Treats in the UK
We review publicly available ingredient lists, nutritional information and treat size. We compare protein content, calorie density and suitability for training use. We do not claim to have physically tested every product unless explicitly stated with evidence.
Types of Dog Training Treats Available in the UK
Soft Training Treats
Small, moist treats that can be eaten quickly without interrupting the training flow. The most practical option for repetitive training sessions where you may use dozens of treats per session.
Freeze-Dried Treats
Single-ingredient, high-protein treats made from freeze-dried meat, fish or liver. Minimal processing, no additives. Lightweight and easy to break into smaller pieces.
Natural Chew Treats
Dried meat, fish skins, tendons and similar natural products. Better suited as high-value jackpot rewards than repetitive training treats due to their size and chewing time.
Homemade Training Treats
Cheese cubes, cooked chicken, hot dog pieces and liver cake are popular homemade options. Cost-effective and often higher value than commercial treats. Store in the fridge and use within a day or two.
What Makes a Good Dog Training Treat
- Small size — pea-sized or smaller so your dog eats it in one bite
- Soft texture — eaten quickly, no crunching delay
- Strong smell — smelly treats are more motivating for most dogs
- High protein — meat or fish based treats are typically higher value
- Low calorie per treat — you will use many per session
Dog Training Treats UK: Price Guide
- Budget (£2-£5) — supermarket brands, basic biscuit treats
- Mid-range (£5-£10) — quality soft treats, freeze-dried single ingredient
- Premium (£10-£18) — specialist training treats, organic, novel protein
- Homemade — cost of ingredients only (chicken breast, cheese, liver)
Prices are approximate market ranges as of 2026 and may vary by retailer.
Product Recommendations
Product-specific recommendations will be added once our product evidence review is complete. We are currently verifying product claims, availability and pricing to ensure accuracy. Check back soon for updated picks.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many treats can I give my dog during training?
There is no fixed number, but treats should not exceed 10% of daily calorie intake. Use tiny pieces (pea-sized) and reduce meal portions on heavy training days. For extended sessions, use lower-calorie treats or part of the daily food allowance.
My dog is not food motivated. What can I do?
Try higher-value treats (real meat, cheese, liver). Train before meals when your dog is hungrier. Some dogs prefer toy or play rewards — use whatever motivates your individual dog.
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