Do you ever look at your long, low Dachshund waddling with pure joy and wonder what treat will make their day? These little sausages have big personalities, and finding the perfect treat to reward them can feel like a treasure hunt! It is easy to get overwhelmed in the pet store aisle. So many bags promise “healthy” or “delicious,” but what truly works for a sensitive tummy or those unique body shapes?
Dachshunds have specific needs. Their long backs need careful handling, which means treats should encourage good behavior without encouraging unhealthy weight gain. The wrong chew can be too hard, or the wrong flavor might cause tummy troubles. You want happy tail wags, not upset stomachs!
This guide cuts through the confusion. We will explore the best, safest, and most exciting treats tailored just for your Doxie. You will learn exactly what ingredients to look for and which ones to avoid. Get ready to become the ultimate treat expert for your favorite little wiener dog!
Top Dog Treats For Dachshunds Recommendations
- FREEZE-DRIED RAW BEEF LIVER DOG TREAT: Vital Essentials Freeze Dried Dog Treats pack more protein than industry standard into every bite to deliver the peak vitality your dog deserves. Our natural freeze-dried raw dog treats are made from responsibly sourced, premium butcher cut beef liver.
- BETTER PROTEIN = BETTER BENEFITS: The best freeze dried dog treats on the market use premium butcher cut raw protein to unlock the benefits of naturally occurring vitamins and minerals in raw muscle and organs, because pets deserve the energetic playtimes, healthy skin, shiny coats, strong teeth, and essential gut health that a high-protein diet delivers.
- PROUDLY AMERICAN CRAFTED: All our dog treats and food are responsibly sourced and humanely harvested to ensure the quality of our proteins. We go above industry standards to preserve flavor and ensure the highest quality of protein and nutrients in every Vital Essentials product.
- MADE WITHOUT: Dog treat additives, fillers, dyes, flavorings, artificial preservatives, grains, or rendered by-products. Vital Essentials also offers the widest variety of single-protein raw dog food and treats on the market—great for picky eaters and dogs with allergies!
- RAW DOG TREATS FREEZE DRIED FOR PEAK FRESHNESS: Our protein is frozen within 45-minutes of harvesting to lock in peak nutrients, flavor, and freshness. A slow-freeze-dry ensures minimal processing, while preserving the vital nutrients that our pets deserve, the way nature intended.
- BUDDY TRAINING BITES - These bite-sized treats are chock full of meaty flavor from appetizing pork liver as the 1st ingredient, so they are easy to eat and perfect for dogs of all ages.
- ALL THE GOOD STUFF - Our training treats are made in the USA and they are free of corn, soy, artificial flavors and preservatives. With Buddy, you can feel good about serving your best bud the treats they deserve!
- LOW CALORIE - Only 1.5 calories per treat to help make your dog training sessions last longer! The delicious aroma will have your pup coming back for more.
- 501 TREATS PER BAG - Reward your dog's good behavior with 500 treats per bag. Buddy is healthy, tasty & fun!
- EVERYBODY LOVES BUDDY: Buddy is the perfect companion for your best friend! Buddy's delicious flavors are sure bring your pup joy! Buddy has a range of treats - all made with real, simple ingredients that you can pronounce.
- Contains one (1) 36 ounce canister of mini dog biscuits in 3 tasty flavors: beef, chicken and bacon
- Tasty mini dog treats prepared with care and right-sized for treating more often
- Crunchy texture helps freshen breath and reduce tartar build-up, perfect for sloppy doggie kisses
- Wholesome goodness at only 5 calories per treat with 12 vitamins and minerals
- Bone-shaped deliciousness that makes dog life more fun
- Natural dog treats made with added vitamins and minerals and no corn, wheat, or soy at only 2 calories per treat
- Keeps dogs begging for more with soft dog treats featuring real ingredients like cherries and peanut butter
- Excellent dog training treats dogs can enjoy on the trail, or on any adventure, while encouraging bonding
- Chewy treats crafted in the USA using the Earth’s best ingredients
- Choose your adventure with other Zuke’s treats for dogs like Lil’ Links, Puppy Naturals, and Hip and Joint
- FRESH BAKED AROMA: Combining the aromas of oven-baked pumpkin, cinnamon, and yogurt, this treat delivers the warm, inviting scent of homemade pumpkin pie
- MADE with PUMPKIN: BLUE Health Bars dog treats prove that a healthy treat can be tasty, too; with ingredients like oatmeal, pumpkin, and cinnamon, these bars feature the ingredients you’ll be proud to feed your furry family members
- CRUNCHY DOG TREATS: For dogs who prefer a crunch, these dog biscuits are oven baked for a texture they’ll love
- WHOLESOME INGREDIENTS: These dog treats don’t contain any chicken (or poultry) by-product meals and are free from corn, wheat, and soy; plus, they’re free from artificial preservatives like BHA & artificial colors
- HEALTHY DOG TREATS: Made with only the finest natural ingredients and enhanced with vitamins and minerals, Blue Buffalo natural dog treats feature the ingredients you’ll love feeding as much as they’ll love eating
- SMALL CRUNCHY TREATS: These small crunchy dog biscuits make a great training treat and a great addition to your dog's diet; they feature all natural ingredients and assorted natural flavors including peanut butter, apples, carrots and molasses
- ALL NATURAL: Our yummy biscuit recipes include wholesome natural ingredients such as real peanut butter, fruits and vegetables; each biscuit is slowly oven baked to preserve the natural flavors
- Made in North America using only the finest globally sourced ingredients; we craft delicious recipes with simple, natural ingredients thoughtfully chosen for their nutritional benefits; no artificial preservatives or meat byproducts
- THE NATURAL CHOICE: From puppy to senior, small dog to large breed, crunchy to chewy, grained to grain free, treating to training, we've got an all natural recipe for every dog's needs and taste
- GIVE 'EM SOME SNACK LOVE: We've used the same simple methods to bake our snacks since 1926; each home style recipe is crafted from wholesome ingredients so you can feel good about giving your dog a reward that's healthy and heartfelt
- Contains one (1) 40 ounce package of small dog treats with real bone marrow
- The dog biscuit shell encases a real bone marrow center
- Crunchy on the outside and meaty on the inside, our MaroSnacks dog snacks are a satisfying combo of texture and mouthwatering flavor
- Savory treats with calcium, perfect for dogs of all sizes
- Baked with love in Buffalo, New York, USA, with colors from natural ingredients only
- PUMPKIN TREATS FOR DOGS: We believe in simple, real nutrition that your pet will adore. Our human grade dog treats are crafted with all natural, organic pumpkin. A mouth watering, healthy, vegan treat for even the pickiest of pups.
- EXCEPTIONAL FLAVOR: Each scrumptious snack is double baked with organic pumpkin puree, Bob’s Red Mill Garbanzo Bean Flour, peanut butter, molasses, and cinnamon. With 3 other flavors and mixed variety packs available, snack time just got a lot more 'pawsome'!
- LIMITED INGREDIENTS: Our tasty grain free dog treats are prepared with 7 ingredients or fewer with no preservatives, wheat, dairy, chicken, BHT, BHA, and no artificial colors. Ideal for dogs with allergies or sensitive stomachs, senior dogs, and picky eaters.
- GREAT FOR ALL SIZES: Our light and crunchy biscuit serves as an excellent training reward for all breeds, ages, and sizes, and can be easily snapped into smaller, bite-sized treats for small dogs.
- USA MADE: All of our gluten free dog treats are lovingly handcrafted using ingredients grown and sourced in the USA only. We use family recipes and package them in BPA-free bags. We’re here to support your pet's nutritional journey to eat well (and love it).
The Ultimate Buying Guide: Treats Your Dachshund Will Love
Dachshunds, with their long bodies and playful spirits, deserve treats that fit their unique needs. Choosing the right snack can boost training, support their health, and make them happy. This guide helps you pick the best treats for your little sausage dog.
Key Features to Look For
When shopping, look closely at the treat label. Certain features make a treat better for a Dachshund.
- **Size and Shape:** Dachshunds have short legs and long backs. Treats should be small enough for them to chew safely without choking. Avoid very large, hard biscuits.
- **Texture:** Since many Dachshunds enjoy chewing, consider softer treats for older dogs or those with sensitive teeth. Crunchy treats work well for dental health but ensure they crumble easily.
- **Calorie Count:** Dachshunds are prone to weight gain, which strains their backs. Look for low-calorie options, especially if you give treats often during training sessions.
Important Materials: What’s Inside Matters
The ingredients list tells the real story of the treat. Good ingredients support your dog’s health. Poor ingredients can cause problems.
Prioritize treats made with real, whole foods. Look for recognizable proteins like real chicken, beef, or salmon as the first ingredient. Good materials often include healthy additions like sweet potatoes, carrots, or pumpkin, which offer fiber and vitamins.
Materials to Avoid or Limit
Some ingredients reduce the quality of the treat. You should limit artificial colors and flavors. These offer no nutritional benefit. Also, watch out for fillers like corn, wheat, and soy, especially if your Dachshund has any known allergies. High amounts of sugar or unnamed “meat by-products” should also raise a red flag.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
The manufacturing process significantly impacts how good a treat is for your dog.
Quality Boosters
Treats that use gentle cooking methods, like slow baking or freeze-drying, often retain more natural nutrients. Treats fortified with supplements like Glucosamine and Chondroitin are excellent. These ingredients help support the joints in a breed already susceptible to back issues.
Quality Reducers
Treats loaded with preservatives (like BHA or BHT) are designed to last longer on the shelf, but they are less healthy for your dog. Highly processed treats, often made with cheap oils and rendered fats, offer very little nutritional value. These treats simply add empty calories.
User Experience and Use Cases
How you use the treat affects which type you should buy. Think about why you are giving the treat.
- **Training Rewards:** For quick rewards during training, you need small, high-value, soft treats. They should be easy to break into tiny pieces. Your dog needs to eat it fast and get back to listening.
- **Dental Chews:** If you use treats to help clean teeth, choose durable chews designed for slow consumption. These should be appropriately sized so your Dachshund does not swallow large chunks.
- **Special Occasions:** For birthdays or major milestones, you might choose a slightly richer, baked treat. Make sure these are still given in moderation due to weight concerns.
A positive user experience means your Dachshund is excited about the treat but doesn’t get an upset stomach afterward. Always introduce new treats slowly.
10 Frequently Asked Questions About Dachshund Treats
Q: How many treats should I give my Dachshund each day?
A: Treats should make up no more than 10% of your dog’s daily calorie intake. Check the feeding guide on the package and adjust based on your vet’s advice.
Q: Are human foods safe to give as treats?
A: Some are safe in small amounts, like plain cooked chicken or carrots. However, many human foods like chocolate, grapes, onions, and xylitol are toxic. Stick mostly to dog-specific treats.
Q: What is the best treat for a Dachshund puppy?
A: Puppies need soft, easily digestible treats. Look for options specifically labeled for puppies that support growth without being too rich.
Q: My Dachshund has a sensitive stomach. What should I look for?
A: Choose single-ingredient treats or those with limited, novel proteins (like venison or duck) to avoid common allergens. Grain-free options are often better for sensitive tummies.
Q: Should I buy hard biscuits or soft chews?
A: This depends on your dog. Soft chews are great for seniors or quick rewards. Hard biscuits help scrub teeth if your dog chews them thoroughly.
Q: Are dental treats truly helpful for Dachshunds?
A: Yes, if they have the right texture and your dog chews them long enough. They help reduce plaque, but they do not replace regular brushing.
Q: Why are some Dachshund treats expensive?
A: Higher quality treats use better ingredients, like real meat instead of fillers, and avoid artificial additives. This usually increases the cost.
Q: Can treats cause back problems in Dachshunds?
A: Treats themselves do not cause back problems, but overfeeding treats leads to obesity. Extra weight puts dangerous strain on their long spines.
Q: How do I know if a treat is high quality?
A: High-quality treats list whole, identifiable foods first on the ingredient panel. They also usually have fewer ingredients overall.
Q: Should I use treats for crate training?
A: Absolutely! Use high-value, long-lasting treats (like a stuffed chew toy) when introducing the crate. This creates a positive association.