Do you ever look at your giant, lovable dog and wonder if their tiny-looking treats are truly satisfying them? Big dogs need big rewards! Finding the perfect treat for your large breed can feel like a real puzzle. Many standard dog biscuits crumble too fast or simply don’t last long enough for a powerful chewer.
It is frustrating when you spend money on treats only to watch your Great Dane or German Shepherd gobble them down in two seconds flat. You want something healthy, durable, and sized right for their big jaws. The wrong treats can lead to quick consumption and maybe even an upset tummy.
Don’t worry! This guide cuts through the confusion. We will explore the best, most satisfying, and safest treats designed specifically for your large companion. Keep reading to discover durable chews and tasty snacks that match your dog’s impressive size. Let’s dive into making treat time truly rewarding for your big buddy!
Top Dog Treats For Big Dogs Recommendations
- Contains one (1) 10-lb. box of large dog treats
- Dog biscuits with tail-wagging meaty taste
- Crunchy texture helps clean teeth
- Made with more than 12 vitamins and minerals
- Produced in Buffalo, New York, USA
- Chicken First: Pur Luv dog chicken jerky treats are made with only whole proteins, featuring 100% Real Chicken as the very first ingredient
- Satisfying Treat: The chicken dog treats help to satisfy your dog’s natural instinct to chew
- Limited Ingredients: Pur Luv chicken treats for dogs feature limited ingredient decks so you know exactly what you’re feeding your dog
- Healthy Snack: The Pur Luv Chicken Jerky for dogs is a high protein and low fat snack with no artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives
- Pur Luv Chicken dog jerky treats satisfy your dog’s craving for real chicken and their natural desire to chew; dogs love chicken jerky treats and the flavor that comes from the real whole protein chicken breast, which makes Pur Luv treats so special
- Long-lasting 2-in-1 Chew - Designed to last, providing your dog with a long-lasting outer layer and a chewy flavorful center for hours of chewing fun.
- Highly Digestible and Rawhide Free - Highly digestible formula that will make any dog crave more. Long lasting as the best rawhide bones, but with none of the harmful chemicals or upset stomach.
- Versatile and Convenient - Easy to carry around, making them a great option for on-the-go treats. These dog treats are a convenient and versatile treat that dogs love.
- Promotes Good Dental Health - Chewing is a natural instinct for dogs, and Ultra Chewy Double Treat Bones are the perfect way to satisfy that instinct while promoting good dental health. As your dog chews, the treat helps to clean their teeth, reducing plaque and tartar build-up. This can lead to fresher breath and a healthier mouth.
- Ideal for Aggressive Chewers - Ultra Chewy Double Treat Bones are designed to withstand even the most aggressive chewers. These dog chews are durable and long-lasting, providing your dog with hours of chewing fun. They are also ideal for smaller breeds who love to chew.
- Long Lasting Dog Chews - Munchy Sticks are high protein, long lasting, & made from top quality oven-baked pork skin.
- Delicious Flavors Your Dog Will Love - Our Munchy Sticks come with 3 mouth watering flavors: Roasted Pork, Chicken, & Bacon.
- Available in 50 & 100 Count Options - Munchy Sticks come in generous quantities to keep your pup happy & satisfied. Remember, treats should always be larger than your dog's mouth to ensure safe chewing. Please feed responsibly.
- Perfect for Small, Medium & Big Dogs - Dogs of all sizes love our Pork Chomps. Supervise use. If your pet is unaccustomed to this product, serve in a limited quantity initially. Intended as a treat, not to replace food.
- Only the Best for Your Pet - Pork Chomps uses a patented process to remove 70% of the pork's fat to create a low-fat, cleaner and healthier dog chew.
- High Quality, Healthy Dog Treats: Pur Luv Triple Flavor Kabobs are made with delicious real chicken, chicken liver, and duck that dogs love wrapped
- Real Sweet Potato and Chicken Dog Treats: Pur Luv Kabobs are made with a sweet potato skewer for an easily digestible chew
- Long Lasting: These dog kabob treats are a long lasting chew, perfect for keeping your dog entertained
- Limited Ingredients: Pur Luv chicken treats for dogs feature limited ingredient decks so you know exactly what you’re feeding your dog
- Packed with Flavor: The Pur Luv Triple Flavor and Sweet Potato K9 kabobs dog treats pack three delicious flavors into a single treat
- Contains one (1) 25-ounce container of Milk-Bone Soft & Chewy Beef & Filet Mignon Recipe With Chuck Roast dog treats
- Soft and chewy dog treats made with real chuck roast
- Fortified with 12 vitamins and minerals
- Great for dogs of all sizes
- Loved since 1908
- Contains one (1) resealable bag of eleven (11) premium dog chews with real beef and barley
- Triple Action: These dental treats for large dogs reduce tartar buildup, clean teeth, and freshen breath for complete dental care
- X-Shape Design: Pedigree Dentastix large dog dental chews have a unique X-shape and chewy texture that helps scrape away plaque while chewing to help clean hard-to-reach areas around teeth
- Large Breed Formula: Treat your large breed dog (40+ lbs.) to dental sticks for large dogs. 1 treat a day to brighten your furry friend's smile
- Delicious Flavors: This variety pack of dog dental treats has three delicious flavors to choose from including Original, Beef, and Fresh Flavors.
- No Added Sugar: Snacks for dogs made with no added sugar or fillers for quality dental care
The Ultimate Buying Guide for Dog Treats for Big Dogs
Picking the right treat for your large dog is important. Big dogs need treats that are safe, satisfying, and good for their health. This guide helps you choose the best snacks for your giant friend.
Key Features to Look For
When you shop, look for specific things that make a treat great for a big dog.
- Size and Durability: Big dogs need bigger treats. A tiny biscuit will disappear too fast. Look for chews that take time to finish. This keeps them busy and happy.
- Calorie Control: Large breeds can gain weight easily. Choose low-calorie options, especially if you give treats often. Check the label for serving size.
- Dental Benefits: Many large dogs benefit from hard chews. These treats help clean their teeth as they gnaw. This is a bonus feature!
- Digestibility: Because of their size, stomach issues can be serious. Look for treats made with easily digestible ingredients.
Important Materials in Big Dog Treats
The ingredients list tells you a lot about the treat’s quality. Good materials mean a healthier dog.
Protein Sources
High-quality protein is essential for strong muscles in big dogs. Look for real meat listed first. Chicken, beef, or lamb are great choices. Avoid treats where “meat by-products” are the main ingredient.
Natural Fillers and Binders
Good treats use whole grains or vegetables as binders. Sweet potatoes, peas, or brown rice are better fillers. They provide energy without unnecessary fluff.
What to Avoid
Stay away from artificial colors, flavors, and too many preservatives. These offer no health benefits. High amounts of corn or soy can sometimes cause allergies or upset stomachs in sensitive dogs.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Treat quality directly affects your dog’s well-being. Understand what boosts quality and what lowers it.
Quality Boosters
- Limited Ingredients: Fewer ingredients often mean fewer chances for allergic reactions. This is especially true for sensitive giant breeds.
- Added Supplements: Treats containing glucosamine or chondroitin are excellent for large dog joints. This proactive support helps prevent common arthritis issues later on.
- Slow Baking or Dehydration: These methods preserve nutrients better than high-heat processing.
Quality Reducers
Low-quality treats often use cheap fillers. If the ingredient list is very long, it might contain unnecessary additives. Also, treats that crumble too easily suggest poor binding agents were used. These crumbs can be a choking hazard for enthusiastic chewers.
User Experience and Use Cases
Think about how you plan to use the treat. This helps narrow down your choice.
Training Rewards
For training big dogs, you need small, soft treats that can be given frequently. They must be easy to break into tiny pieces. A large, hard bone won’t work for quick rewards.
Long-Lasting Entertainment
When you need your dog to stay occupied (like when you are working or having guests), choose durable chews. Bully sticks or large dental chews work well here. These satisfy their natural urge to chew for a long time.
Meal Replacement vs. Supplement
Remember, treats supplement a balanced diet. They are not a substitute for complete dog food. Overfeeding treats leads to weight gain. Always check the packaging for recommended daily limits.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Big Dog Treats
Q: How often should I give my large dog treats?
A: Most veterinarians suggest treats make up no more than 10% of your dog’s total daily calories. Adjust this based on your dog’s activity level.
Q: Are rawhide treats safe for giant breeds?
A: Rawhide can sometimes swell in the stomach or cause blockages. Many owners prefer safer alternatives like natural pressed bones or durable rubber chews. Always supervise your dog when they chew rawhide.
Q: What is the best size treat for a Great Dane or a Mastiff?
A: Treats should be large enough that your dog cannot swallow them in one gulp. For very large breeds, look for items specifically labeled as “Giant Breed” or “Extra Large.”
Q: Can treats help with my big dog’s bad breath?
A: Yes, specially formulated dental chews can help reduce tartar buildup, which causes bad breath. Look for treats approved by veterinary dental societies.
Q: My puppy is growing fast. Should I buy puppy treats?
A: Giant breed puppies need special nutrition for slow, steady bone growth. Buy treats formulated for large breed puppies. These control calcium and phosphorus levels, which is vital for their joints.
Q: What if my big dog eats the treat too fast?
A: If your dog gulps down treats, try using a slow-feeder bowl for soft treats or switch to very hard, long-lasting chews. You can also hide small training treats inside puzzle toys.
Q: Do expensive, grain-free treats really offer more benefit?
A: Grain-free isn’t always better. If your dog does well on grains, they are fine. The benefit comes from high-quality protein and avoiding artificial junk, not just removing grains.
Q: How do I store large bags of treats?
A: Store treats in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. If the treats are soft or semi-moist, refrigeration might be necessary to prevent mold growth, especially in warm climates.
Q: Can I give my large dog bones from my dinner?
A: Never give cooked bones. Cooked bones splinter easily and can cause serious internal damage. Stick to commercially prepared, safe chews.
Q: Are natural jerky treats good for daily rewards?
A: Jerky is great, but it is often high in sodium. Use jerky sparingly as a high-value reward rather than an everyday snack, unless the label specifically states low sodium.