Dog treats do more than just satisfy your pup’s cravings—they can support dental health, provide essential nutrients, reduce anxiety and even sneak in medication. But with so many treats on the market, it can be tough to know which are actually good for your furry friend. Whether you’re looking for dental chews, high-protein snacks, or calming CBD bites, this list highlights the 8 best dog treats that strike the perfect balance between healthy and irresistible.
Clean Teeth, Happy Pup: Greenies Original Dental Care Treats
Greenies are a classic favorite for a reason. These Greenies original dental chews are designed to help clean teeth and maintain healthy gums while also being tasty enough for dogs to look forward to. Their unique texture helps fight plaque and tartar and they’re approved by the Veterinary Oral Health Council.
- Type: Dental Chew
- Flavor: Original
- Best For: Dogs who need extra dental care
- Why It’s Great: Supports oral hygiene, freshens breath, easy to digest
Timeless Classic: Milk-Bone Original Dog Treats Biscuits for Large Dogs
If your dog loves a traditional crunchy treat, these Milk-Bone never disappoints. These original biscuits are fortified with 12 vitamins and minerals and come in sizes perfect for larger breeds. They’re a pantry staple that dogs recognize and adore.
- Type: Biscuit
- Flavor: Classic
- Best For: Large dogs who love crunchy snacks
- Why It’s Great: Affordable, enriched with nutrients, long-lasting value
Peanut Butter Goodness: Greenies Pill Pockets with Real Peanut Butter
Giving your dog medication can be a struggle, but Greenies Pill Pockets make it simple. These soft, moldable treats hide pills while delivering a natural peanut butter flavor that dogs can’t resist. Great for both daily vitamins and prescribed meds.
- Type: Soft Treat
- Flavor: Peanut Butter
- Best For: Dogs needing medication
- Why It’s Great: Makes medicine time easy, made with natural ingredients
Plant-Based Dental Delight: Virbac CET VEGGIEDENT FR3SH Tartar
Looking for a vegetarian dental treat? Virbac’s VEGGIEDENT chews are made with plant-based ingredients and help reduce tartar while freshening breath. Their Z-shape design cleans between teeth and along the gum line.
- Type: Dental Chew
- Flavor: Vegetable-based
- Best For: Dogs with sensitive stomachs or plant-based diets
- Why It’s Great: Hypoallergenic, VOHC approved, innovative shape
For more tips on improving your dog’s oral hygiene, check out 4 Proven Ways to Maintain Your Dog’s Dental Health and Fresh Breath.
Power Protein Boost: Vital Essentials Freeze-Dried Beef Liver Treats
High in protein and packed with flavor, these freeze-dried treats are made from a single ingredient: beef liver. They’re perfect for training sessions or a nutritious snack. Plus, being raw and minimally processed means maximum nutrition.
- Type: Freeze-Dried
- Flavor: Beef Liver
- Best For: Active dogs, training rewards
- Why It’s Great: Single ingredient, high protein, grain-free
If you’re interested in incorporating more raw options into your dog’s diet, don’t miss our guide on the 5 Best Freeze-Dried Dog Foods That Make Raw Feeding Simple and Safe.
All-in-One Wellness: Zesty Paws Senior Dog Multivitamin Treats
These zesty chewy supplements are more than treats—they support joint health, digestion, skin, coat and immune function. Designed for senior dogs, they include glucosamine, probiotics, and other essential nutrients in a soft, flavorful chew.
- Type: Soft Chew Supplement
- Flavor: Chicken
- Best For: Senior dogs needing daily support
- Why It’s Great: Multifunctional, senior-specific, vet-recommended ingredients
If you’re considering a canine companion for later in life, be sure to explore our list of the Top 5 Best Dog Breeds for Older Adults
CBD Calming: Grateful Pawz Treats with Hemp Oil
If your dog gets anxious during storms, travel, or vet visits, these calming CBD treats can help. They include hemp oil, chamomile, and other soothing ingredients to promote relaxation without drowsiness.
- Type: Soft Chew
- Flavor: Natural/Herbal
- Best For: Anxious dogs or dogs with joint pain
- Why It’s Great: Calms nerves, supports joints, natural formula
Fall Flavor Favorite: Blue Buffalo Health Bars with Pumpkin & Cinnamon
Crunchy, oven-baked, and made with wholesome ingredients, these health bars pumpkin treats deliver a delicious autumnal flavor dogs love. Pumpkin is also known for its digestive benefits, making these treats as functional as they are tasty.
- Type: Biscuit
- Flavor: Pumpkin & Cinnamon
- Best For: Dogs with sensitive stomachs or fall fanatics
- Why It’s Great: Wholesome ingredients, crunchy texture, supports digestion
Treats That Do More Than Taste Good
Choosing the right dog treat isn’t just about taste—it’s about what else the treat offers. Whether it’s dental support, nutritional supplements, high-quality protein, or calming benefits, today’s treats are designed to support your dog’s health in every bite.
Remember to consider your dog’s size, health needs and preferences. Always read labels and consult your vet if you’re unsure about introducing a new treat. With the right pick, treat time becomes both fun and functional for your pup.
If your pup has food sensitivities or digestive issues, be sure to check out our guide to the Top 8 Hypoallergenic Dog Treats for Sensitive Stomachs & Allergies for gentle, allergy-friendly options they’ll still love.
