What’s the secret to a happy pup? Often, it’s a tasty reward! Every dog owner knows the joy of seeing their furry friend wag their tail for a favorite treat. But when you wander down the pet aisle at Target, that joy can quickly turn into confusion. Shelf after shelf, you face a mountain of choices: crunchy biscuits, soft chews, grain-free options, and flavors ranging from peanut butter to sweet potato.
Choosing the best dog treats from Target shouldn’t feel like a guessing game. You want quality ingredients that your dog loves, but you also need options that fit your budget and address any specific dietary needs. It can be tough figuring out which brands are worth the money and which ones your dog will actually eat.
Don’t worry! This post cuts through the noise. We have dug deep into Target’s best offerings, reviewing popular brands and spotlighting top-rated picks for training, snacking, and dental health. By the time you finish reading, you will know exactly which Target dog treats deserve a spot in your pantry.
Top Dog Treats From Target Recommendations
- FREEZE-DRIED RAW MINNOWS 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 minnows.
- 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.
- 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.
- RAWHIDE-FREE CHEWS: DreamBone Twists Wrapped with Chicken are easy-to-digest and 100% delicious.
- TWISTS MADE WITH REAL SIRLOIN: These tasty chews are made with real chicken, wholesome vegetables and savory sirloin, then wrapped with even more chicken on the outside!
- VITAMIN & MINERAL ENRICHED: DreamBone chews are a healthy alternative to rawhide.
- INGREDIENTS YOU CAN FEEL GOOD ABOUT: Made with no artificial preservatives or flavors added and no colors from artificial sources.
- QUANTITY: 15 chews per pack.
- CRUNCHY DOG TREATS - This 6 oz bag contains delicious and wholesome dog snacks made with chicken, blueberries, and a touch of tapioca. They provide a crunchy texture and are free from artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives.
- FAMILY OWNED & OPERATED - Fromm Family Foods is a fifth-generation family-owned-and-operated pet food company based in Wisconsin. Since 1904, our family has maintained a tradition of quiet innovation dedicated to the health and nutrition of animals.
- SPOIL YOUR DOG - These dog treats are a great way to show your dog some love and affection, while also providing them with a tasty snack.
- GREAT FOR ALL BREEDS & AGES - Our dog treats are carefully crafted for dogs of all breeds and ages, from Great Danes to Chihuahuas, puppies to seniors, and every breed and stage in between. There are only 2 calories per treat.
- CONVENIENT PACKAGING - Our treats for dogs come in a resealable bag, making them easy to store and keep fresh. You can take them on the go or use them as a training aid for your dog. Your dog will love the taste and look forward to treat time.
- HEALTHY EVERYDAY SNACK OPTION: These wholesome sweet potato dog treats are gently dried to create a chewy texture that keeps your pup happily occupied, offering a satisfying alternative to fatty dog treats while fitting easily into everyday routines for pet parents who want dog treats healthy enough for regular snacking.
- TARGETED WELLNESS SUPPORT: Thoughtfully crafted sweet potato dog treats provide sources of vitamin A and Beta Carotene to help maintain healthy skin, coat, and vision, while gentle dietary fiber and antioxidants help support everyday digestive balance and keep your dog feeling their best during play, rest, and training.
- SIMPLE, TRUSTED RECIPE STANDARDS: Crafted as healthy dog treats with just one primary ingredient, these sweet potato dog treats skip grains and common fillers to help you feel confident about every dog treat you share, ideal for pet parents who read every label.
- IRRESISTIBLE TEXTURE DOGS CRAVE: Specially crafted to satisfy your dog’s natural chewing instincts, these sweet potato dog treats offer a chewy, mouthwatering texture that keeps tails wagging while helping occupy your pup between meals, ideal for pet parents seeking dog treats healthy enough for everyday enjoyment.
- RELIABLE QUALITY YOU CAN TRUST: Healthfuls dog treats are carefully crafted and independently lab-tested in the USA, so you can feel confident every bite meets strict quality standards and supports your pup’s routine as dog treats healthy for everyday rewarding and training moments.
- CRUNCHY DOG TREATS - This 6 oz bag contains delicious and wholesome dog snacks that provide a recklessly crunchy experience. Our bacon dog treats for training are free from artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives.
- FAMILY OWNED & OPERATED - Fromm Family Foods is a fifth-generation family-owned-and-operated pet food company based in Wisconsin. Since 1904, our family has maintained a tradition of quiet innovation dedicated to the health and nutrition of animals.
- SPOIL YOUR DOG - These dog treats are a great way to show your dog some love and affection, while also providing them with a tasty snack.
- GREAT FOR ALL BREEDS & AGES - Our dog treats are carefully crafted for dogs of all breeds and ages, from Great Danes to Chihuahuas, puppies to seniors, and every breed and stage in between. There are only 2 calories per treat.
- CONVENIENT PACKAGING - Our treats for dogs come in a resealable bag, making them easy to store and keep fresh. You can take them on the go or use them as a training aid for your dog. Your dog will love the taste and look forward to treat time.
- HUMAN-GRADE: If you wouldn’t eat it, why would you feed it? From the ingredients they’re made with to the kitchens they’re made in, our treats meet strict USDA standards fit for human consumption.
- ALL NATURAL: Our kitchen-crafted Essential Chicken Tenders are made from quality, 100% all natural ingredients and chicken raised cage-free in the USA. Tear open a bag for lots of doggy kisses!
- HIGH QUALITY INGREDIENTS: Truth is our first ingredient. We carefully cook our natural Essential Chicken Tenders in small batches using honest ingredients like real chicken, cassava root, and rosemary extract—never any by-products or waste.
- NO GLYCERIN, GRAINS, CORN, WHEAT OR SOY: Our all natural treats are made from wholesome, healthy recipes. Every bite is free from fillers, artificial flavors, preservatives, and colors and chock full of real meat flavor.
- U.S.-GROWN CHICKEN: Full Moon treats are proudly made in the United States using regionally sourced ingredients, including USDA approved, antibiotic-free chicken.
The Ultimate Buying Guide: Finding the Best Dog Treats at Target
Target is a fantastic place to shop for your furry friend. They offer a huge variety of dog treats. Choosing the right one can feel overwhelming. This guide will help you pick the best snacks for your dog.
1. Key Features to Look For
When you grab a bag of treats, check these things first. These features tell you a lot about the treat’s value.
- Size and Shape: Treats come in many sizes. Small, soft treats work well for training. Harder biscuits last longer for casual snacking. Make sure the size fits your dog’s mouth safely.
- Texture: Do you need chewy treats for older dogs with sensitive teeth? Or maybe crunchy treats for a good dental clean? Pick the texture that suits your dog’s chewing style.
- Portion Control: Look for treats meant for specific purposes, like dental chews or training rewards. These often have calorie counts listed clearly.
2. Important Ingredients and Materials
What’s inside the treat matters most. Good ingredients make for a healthy snack. Poor ingredients can cause tummy trouble.
Protein Sources:
The best treats list a real meat source first. Chicken, beef, salmon, or lamb are excellent choices. Avoid treats where “meat by-products” are the main ingredient. High-quality protein fuels your dog.
Avoid Fillers:
Check the ingredient list for unnecessary fillers. Things like corn, wheat, or soy are often used to bulk up treats. Some dogs are sensitive to these. If your dog has allergies, look for grain-free options.
Natural Additives:
Look for beneficial additions. Ingredients like sweet potato, pumpkin, or blueberries add vitamins and fiber. These natural additions boost the treat’s quality.
3. Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
A treat’s quality changes based on how it is made and what it contains.
Factors That Improve Quality:
- Limited Ingredients: Treats with a short ingredient list are often higher quality. This means fewer chances for allergens.
- Real Food First: When the first ingredient is recognizable meat or vegetable, the quality is usually high.
- Made in the USA or Trusted Countries: Treats made under strict quality controls tend to be safer.
Factors That Reduce Quality:
- Artificial Colors and Flavors: These offer no nutritional benefit. They only make the treat look appealing to you, not your dog.
- Excessive Preservatives: While some preservatives keep food safe, too many artificial ones can reduce the overall health value.
- High Sugar Content: Treats should not be loaded with sugar or artificial sweeteners.
4. User Experience and Use Cases
How you use the treat changes what you should buy. Think about when and why you give snacks.
Training Rewards:
For quick training sessions, you need small, soft, and smelly treats. Target carries many soft-baked options. These are easy for dogs to chew quickly so training keeps moving fast.
Long-Lasting Chews:
If you need to keep your dog busy while you work, choose harder chews or jerky sticks. These take more time to consume. Always supervise your dog with long-lasting chews.
Dental Health:
Target stocks dental chews designed to scrape plaque. These are best used as part of a regular routine, along with brushing. They work best right after a meal.
Remember to always introduce new treats slowly. Watch your dog for any digestive upset. Happy shopping at Target!
10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Target Dog Treats
Q: Where can I find the healthiest treats at Target?
A: Look in the dedicated “natural” or “organic” sections, often near the premium food brands. Check the first five ingredients for real meat.
Q: Are Target’s store-brand treats (like Boots & Barkley) good quality?
A: Boots & Barkley offers many options ranging from basic to premium. You must read the label, as quality varies by specific product line within that brand.
Q: Can I buy treats suitable for puppies at Target?
A: Yes. Look for bags specifically labeled “Puppy Formula.” These treats are softer and have nutrient balances right for growing dogs.
Q: What should I do if my dog gets an upset stomach from a new Target treat?
A: Stop giving the treat immediately. If vomiting or diarrhea lasts more than a day, call your veterinarian. You can try giving only bland food for a short time.
Q: Are the large bags of treats a better value?
A: Usually, yes. Buying larger bags often lowers the cost per ounce. However, only buy large if your dog eats them quickly enough before they spoil.
Q: What are “limited ingredient” treats?
A: These treats use very few ingredients, often just one or two main components. They are great for dogs with many known food sensitivities.
Q: Do Target treats contain rawhide?
A: Some long-lasting chews might contain rawhide or similar products. If you prefer to avoid rawhide, choose jerky or dental chews instead.
Q: How often should I give my dog treats?
A: Treats should make up no more than 10% of your dog’s daily calories. Use them sparingly, especially during training.
Q: Are Target treats generally affordable?
A: Target offers treats across many price points, making them generally affordable. You can find budget-friendly options and higher-end specialty items.
Q: Should I buy hard biscuits or soft chews?
A: Soft chews are better for seniors or dogs learning to eat fast. Hard biscuits help clean teeth slightly and keep dogs busy longer.