10 Best Dog Treats For Small Breeds in 2026

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For most small-breed owners, the Milk-Bone Soft & Chewy Mini’s Dog Treats wins as the best overall. It combines a soft, easy-to-chew texture with real chicken and added vitamins in a bulk canister perfect for frequent rewards. The Purina Beggin’ Fun Size Dog Treats is our best bacon-flavor pick, and the Bil-Jac Little-Jacs Soft Dog Training Treats takes the spot for best low-calorie training treat.

Small dogs have tiny mouths, sensitive teeth, and fast metabolisms. A treat that works for a Labrador can be too large, too hard, or too calorie-dense for a Chihuahua or a Yorkshire Terrier. The wrong size or texture can cause choking, dental pain, or unwanted weight gain.

This guide is research-based. We evaluated specifications, manufacturer documentation, and patterns in owner feedback to find the treats that fit small breeds best. You get ten ranked picks with clear strengths and trade-offs, a buying criteria checklist, and answers to common questions.

Top 10 Dog Treats For Small Breeds in the Market

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The Best Dog Treats For Small Breeds, Reviewed

#1Best Overall

Milk-Bone Soft & Chewy Mini's Dog Treats

Milk-Bone Soft & Chewy Mini's Dog Treats
Size18 oz canister
TextureSoft and chewy
Protein18%
Key IngredientReal chicken breast
FortifiedVitamins and minerals
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What We Like

  • Soft, chewy texture for small mouths
  • Mini size ideal for frequent training rewards
  • Made with real chicken breast
  • Fortified with vitamins and minerals

Trade-offs

  • 18 oz canister is larger than some training bags
  • Contains chicken, not suitable for dogs with poultry allergies

Eighteen percent protein from real chicken breast gives these mini treats a savory edge that keeps small dogs coming back for more during training sessions. The soft, chewy texture means even tiny teeth or sensitive gums can handle repeated rewards without frustration. Fortified with vitamins and minerals, they add a bit of nutritional value beyond just empty calories, which matters when you’re doling out a dozen or more in a single training block. For owners who want a reliable, everyday training treat that doesn’t crumble into a mess in your pocket, this canister delivers exactly that.

The trade-off is the 18-ounce canister itself. It’s a generous size that works well for households with multiple small dogs or frequent training sessions. But if you prefer a smaller pouch for portability or want to rotate flavors more often, a bag like Pet Botanics Training Rewards Mini Soft Dog Treats offers a lighter 10-ounce option with 500 treats per bag. Still, for sheer value in a soft, chicken-based treat that’s built for repetition without turning to dust in your hand, this Milk-Bone canister is hard to beat.

Best for: Small breed owners who want a soft, protein-rich training treat in a bulk canister for frequent rewards. Not ideal for dogs with chicken sensitivities or those who need a smaller, more portable pouch.
#2Best Bacon Flavor

Purina Beggin' Fun Size Dog Treats

Purina Beggin' Fun Size Dog Treats
Calories per treat7 calories
First ingredientReal meat
TextureSoft, easy-to-chew
Artificial flavorsNone
Package size25 oz pouch
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What We Like

  • Real meat is first ingredient
  • Only 7 calories per strip
  • Soft texture for easy chewing
  • No artificial flavors

Trade-offs

  • Not suitable for dogs on a grain-free diet
  • Contains wheat, unsuitable for grain-free diets.

Real meat is the number one ingredient in these bacon-flavored strips, so the treat starts with protein rather than fillers. At just 7 calories per strip, they work well for training sessions or quick rewards without blowing through a daily calorie budget. The soft, easy-to-chew texture is a practical match for small mouths and older dogs who struggle with crunchy biscuits. No artificial flavors are listed, which keeps the ingredient list straightforward.

The resealable pouch helps keep the strips fresh between uses, which is handy when you’re handing out small treats over time. If you’re looking for a crunchy option for dental variety, pairing with a different treat type is a personal choice, but this pouch delivers a simple, low-calorie bacon reward that small dogs can actually chew.

Best for: Small breed owners who want a low-calorie, soft bacon treat with real meat as the first ingredient and no artificial flavors.
#3Best Low Calorie Training Treat

Bil-Jac Little-Jacs Soft Dog Training Treats

Bil-Jac Little-Jacs Soft Dog Training Treats
Calories per treatLess than 3
Key ingredientReal chicken liver (#1)
TextureSoft & chewy
Made inUSA
Size16 oz bag
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What We Like

  • Under 3 calories per treat
  • Real chicken liver as first ingredient
  • Soft texture won't crumble in pocket
  • No by-product meals or soy

Trade-offs

  • Soft texture limits use for dental cleaning
  • Not suitable for dogs needing dental scraping from kibble.

Less than 3 calories per treat means you can reward a small dog repeatedly during a training session without blowing past their daily calorie budget. That single number makes these the obvious choice for anyone who wants a high-value motivator that doesn’t double as a meal replacement. The real chicken liver as the first ingredient gives them an aroma that even picky eaters tend to find irresistible. The soft, chewy texture stays intact in a pocket or pouch instead of turning into crumbs. If you’re working on recall or loose-leash walking with a small breed, these are the kind of treats that keep a dog’s attention without adding inches to their waistline.

At less than 3 calories per treat, these soft morsels let you reward your dog repeatedly during training without piling on extra weight. The chicken liver is the #1 ingredient, giving them a strong aroma that picky dogs find hard to ignore. Because they’re soft and chewy, they break apart easily for tiny pups and won’t strain senior or small mouths the way a crunchy biscuit might. If your dog is motivated by liver and you want a lean, pocket-friendly training reward, this is the one to grab.

Best for: Owners of small or senior dogs who need a low-calorie, soft training treat with real meat as the first ingredient. Not ideal for dogs that prefer crunchy textures or owners looking for a dental-cleaning treat.
#4Best High-Value Training Treat

Pet Botanics Training Rewards Mini Soft Dog Treats

Pet Botanics Training Rewards Mini Soft Dog Treats
Calories1.5 per treat
Treats per bag~500
Key ingredientsPork liver, real bacon
SizeBite-sized for small dogs
Made inUSA
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What We Like

  • Only 1.5 calories per treat
  • ~500 treats per 10 oz bag
  • Soft & chewy texture for small mouths
  • No artificial flavors, colors or preservatives

Trade-offs

  • Soft texture won't help clean teeth
  • Not suitable for dogs needing dental cleaning.

At just 1.5 calories per treat and roughly 500 pieces in a 10-ounce pouch, these tiny bites let you reward your dog repeatedly during a training session without blowing their daily calorie budget. The soft, chewy texture is easy for small mouths to handle, and the pork liver plus real bacon flavor gives you the high-value motivation needed to hold a little dog’s attention when distractions are high. If you’re working on recall or teaching a new trick, having that kind of concentrated incentive in a tiny, low-calorie package is what makes these a go-to for owners who train often.

The soft texture won’t provide the crunch some dogs enjoy, and if your dog is picky about liver-based flavors, this treat may not appeal to them. If training efficiency and calorie control are your priorities, these deliver big motivation in a mini bite.

Each treat packs pork liver and real bacon into just 1.5 calories, so you can reward your dog repeatedly during a training session without overfeeding. The soft, chewy texture makes them easy for small dogs to eat quickly, keeping their attention on the next command. Owners who train often will appreciate that a 10-ounce bag holds roughly 500 pieces, meaning fewer refills between sessions.

Best for: Small-breed owners who train frequently and want a low-calorie, high-flavor reward. Not ideal for dogs that dislike liver flavor.
#5Best Natural Ingredients

Zuke's Mini Naturals Holiday Dog Training Treats

Zuke's Mini Naturals Holiday Dog Training Treats
Calories per treat2
Treat shapeTree-shaped
Made inUSA
Pouch size5 oz
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What We Like

  • Only 2 calories per treat
  • No corn, wheat, or soy
  • Soft and chewy texture

Trade-offs

  • 5 oz pouch is smaller than some training bags
  • Contains added vitamins some dogs dislike

At just 2 calories per treat, these are about as guilt-free as a reward gets for a small dog watching its waistline. The soft, chewy bites break apart easily for tiny mouths, and the ingredient list skips corn, wheat, and soy entirely, with turkey and cranberries as the recipe base. They’re made in the USA, which adds a layer of trust if you’re picky about sourcing.

Bag size is the main issue: at 5 ounces, you’ll go through this pouch faster than, say, the 18-ounce Milk-Bone Soft & Chewy Mini’s canister. That makes them better suited for occasional training sessions or travel than for daily treat-jar filling. The tree-shaped holiday cut is fun, but if you prefer a neutral look year-round, it might feel a bit seasonal. For a clean-ingredient training treat that won’t pad your pup’s calorie count, these deliver exactly what they promise.

Best for: Dog owners seeking a low-calorie, natural-ingredient training treat without corn, wheat, or soy. Not ideal for those who prefer a crunchy treat texture.
#6Best For Toy Breeds

Merrick Lil' Plates Small Dog Training Treats

Merrick Lil' Plates Small Dog Training Treats
First IngredientReal salmon
TextureSoft and chewy
SizePerfectly sized for toy breeds
Key AdditivesOmega fatty acids, prebiotic fiber
Protein SourceSalmon
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What We Like

  • Real salmon is first ingredient
  • Soft chewy texture for tiny mouths
  • Grain free with no artificial additives
  • Resealable pouch for freshness

Trade-offs

  • Only 5 oz pouch, smaller than some competitors
  • Not suitable for dogs with fish allergies

A 5-ounce pouch of soft, salmon-first bites means these treats are built around a single high-quality protein source. The omega fatty acids and prebiotic fiber target digestive health and coat condition, so every tiny piece offers more than just a reward during training sessions. This is the pick if you need a grain-free, salmon-first soft treat that matches the scale of a miniature dog’s mouth.

Portion size is the main issue: at 5 ounces, this pouch is smaller than the 18-ounce Milk-Bone Soft & Chewy Mini’s canister, so heavy trainers will need to restock more often. The soft texture also means no dental scrubbing action. But if your priority is a salmon-first ingredient list with no artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives, and your dog tolerates fish well, this is a straightforward training treat.

Best for: Owners of toy and miniature breeds who want a grain-free, salmon-first soft training treat with digestive support.

Product photos

#7Best Crunchy Biscuit

Milk-Bone Crunchy Small Dog Treats

Milk-Bone Crunchy Small Dog Treats
SizeSmall (for dogs under 20 lbs)
Protein15%
FlavorOriginal Beef
Quantity4 lb box
OriginBuffalo, New York, USA
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What We Like

  • Fortified with over 12 vitamins and minerals
  • Baked in the USA
  • Tailored for small breeds under 20 lbs

Trade-offs

  • Crunchy texture unsuitable for dogs with dental issues
  • Not suitable for dogs with sensitive teeth or gums

A 4-pound box of crunchy biscuits fortified with more than 12 vitamins and minerals means you get a substantial supply of treats that also contribute to your dog’s daily nutrition. These are baked in Buffalo, New York, and sized specifically for dogs under 20 pounds, so the crunch is scaled down to match a small mouth. If your dog enjoys a satisfying snap and you want a straightforward, no-fuss treat that doubles as a supplement delivery system, this is the one to grab.

The 15 percent protein content, fortified with more than 12 vitamins and minerals, means these biscuits offer nutritional support beyond just a tasty reward. That’s a solid step up from many simple treats that are mostly filler. For dogs under 20 pounds, the small size makes them easy to portion out without breaking them apart. They’re baked in Buffalo, New York, which gives them a classic biscuit texture, crunchy, not soft or chewy. If your dog has healthy teeth and you want a treat that doubles as a mini nutrition boost, this box delivers a lot of value for the size.

Best for: Owners of healthy adult small-breed dogs who want a crunchy, vitamin-fortified biscuit in bulk. Not ideal for puppies, seniors, or dogs with dental sensitivities.

Product photos

#8Best Natural Crunchy Biscuit

Wellness Old Mother Hubbard P-Nuttier Dog Biscuits

Wellness Old Mother Hubbard P-Nuttier Dog Biscuits
SizeMini
FlavorPeanut Butter
TextureCrunchy
Weight6.0 pounds
OriginMade in North America
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What We Like

  • All-natural ingredients, no artificial preservatives

Trade-offs

  • 6-pound box is heavy for small-breed owners carrying treats

The main drawback is the crunch itself: it’s a hard biscuit, so it won’t suit puppies with tender gums or senior dogs missing teeth the way a soft treat like Milk-Bone Soft & Chewy Mini’s would. That same hardness is what scrubs the teeth, though, so for an adult small breed with healthy chompers, it’s a fair swap for better dental benefits. Just be ready to lug a 6-pound box around if you plan to take it on walks.

Best for: Small-breed owners who want a natural, crunchy biscuit that helps clean teeth and comes in a bulk box. Not ideal for puppies or senior dogs that need a soft, easy-to-chew treat.

Product photos

#9Best Grain Free Soft Treat

Merrick Power Bites Salmon Grain Free Dog Treats

Merrick Power Bites Salmon Grain Free Dog Treats
First IngredientSalmon
TextureSoft and chewy
ShapeStar-shaped
Bag Size6 oz
Made InUSA
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What We Like

  • Real salmon as first ingredient
  • Grain-free with no corn, soy, or wheat
  • Star shape breaks easily for small mouths
  • Resealable pouch keeps treats fresh

Trade-offs

  • 6 oz bag is smaller than some training treat bags
  • Not suitable for dogs that need a crunchy texture

Salmon is the number one ingredient here, which means your small dog gets a protein-rich bite without fillers like corn, soy, or wheat. The soft, chewy texture works well for training sessions or quick rewards, and the star-shaped pieces can be snapped into smaller bits for even the tiniest mouths. That resealable pouch is a practical touch for keeping a bag in your pocket or car without crumbs spilling everywhere. If you want a grain-free treat that leans on a single, clean protein source, this one delivers exactly that.

Bag size is the main issue: at 6 ounces, it holds less than some larger bags on the market, so if you go through treats fast, you will be reordering sooner. But the ingredient list is straightforward, and the salmon base gives a distinct flavor that many dogs enjoy. If grain-free recipes and a soft bite are what you’re after, this is a straightforward, no-nonsense option.

Best for: Owners who want a grain-free, salmon-first soft treat for training or snacking. Not ideal for dogs that prefer crunchy textures.

Product photos

#10Best Low-Calorie Crunchy Treat

Buddy Biscuits Teeny Crunchy Dog Treats

Buddy Biscuits Teeny Crunchy Dog Treats
CaloriesLow-calorie
Ingredients5 simple ingredients
ShapeBite-sized biscuits
FlavorPeanut butter
OriginUSA baked
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What We Like

  • Made with 5 ingredients
  • Low-calorie treat
  • Bite-sized biscuits

Trade-offs

  • Peanut butter flavor only
  • Crunchy texture unsuitable for dogs with dental issues

The main drawback is the crunchy texture. If your dog is a senior with worn teeth or a pup that prefers to gulp, the hard biscuit may be less appealing than the soft, chewy texture of something like Milk-Bone Soft & Chewy Mini’s. But for a young, healthy small breed that enjoys a little resistance, the satisfying crunch and simple peanut butter flavor make this an easy daily go-to.

Best for: Owners of small, healthy dogs who want a low-calorie, crunchy training treat with minimal ingredients. Not ideal for senior dogs or those needing a soft chew.

Product photos

How We Evaluated Dog Treats For Small Breeds

We started with the physical realities of small-breed dogs: mouth size, bite force, calorie needs, and common health concerns like dental sensitivity and food allergies. From there, we researched treat dimensions, texture types, calorie counts, and ingredient lists across dozens of products.

The four criteria that mattered most were calorie density, texture appropriateness, ingredient quality, and treat size. A small dog needs far fewer calories than a larger dog, so calorie density is key. Soft treats work for seniors and puppies, while crunchy ones suit healthy adults. Real meat as first ingredient matters more than fillers, and the treat must be small enough to be a quick reward without overfeeding. Each criterion came directly from what small-breed owners report as their biggest frustrations.

A research-led evaluation has limits. What one dog loves, another may ignore. Our goal is to narrow the field so you can make an informed choice based on your dog’s specific needs.

What To Look For In Dog Treats For Small Breeds

Choosing a treat for a small breed means balancing calorie control, texture, and ingredient quality against your dog’s age, health, and preferences. The right treat fits in your pocket, breaks apart easily, and won’t add empty calories to a tiny frame.

Look for treats under 5 calories per piece for training, soft textures for dogs under 10 pounds or over 8 years old, and a protein source (meat or fish) as the first ingredient. Avoid treats larger than a pea for toy breeds.

Calorie Count and Portion Control

A small dog needs only a limited number of calories per day. A single treat can use up a noticeable portion of that daily budget. For training sessions that use many treats, each one should be low in calories. The Bil-Jac Little-Jacs and Pet Botanics Training Rewards both sit under three calories per piece, making them safe for repeat use without unbalancing a meal plan.

Texture and Chewability

Soft treats work best for small breeds because they require minimal chewing and won’t damage delicate teeth. Puppies, seniors, and dogs with missing teeth or gum disease need a treat that yields to light pressure. Crunchy biscuits like the Milk-Bone Crunchy Small Dog Treats can help scrape plaque on healthy teeth but pose a risk for dogs with dental issues. The best soft treats for small dogs, like Milk-Bone Soft & Chewy Mini’s, is a safe starting point for most small breeds.

Ingredient Transparency and Allergens

Small-breed dogs are prone to food sensitivities, especially to chicken, wheat, and soy. Reading the ingredient list is non-negotiable. Look for a named protein source (chicken, salmon, liver) as the first ingredient and avoid vague terms like “meat meal” or “animal digest. The best natural treats for small dogs, such as Zuke’s Mini Naturals, skip corn, wheat, and soy entirely. If your dog has a known allergy, stick to a single-protein treat like the Merrick Lil’ Plates salmon option.

  • Measure the treat against a pea: if it’s larger, break it in half for toy breeds.
  • Check the calorie count per treat, not per serving size listed on the bag.
  • Run your finger over the treat: if it leaves a greasy residue, it’s high in fat.
  • Smell the treat before buying: strong artificial scents often mean artificial flavors.
  • Read the “best by” date: small pouches are fresher than bulk boxes for infrequent use.

A treat should be small enough that your dog swallows it in one or two bites without gulping air.

Dog Treats For Small Breeds Compared

The table below compares all ten picks side by side, so you can see calorie counts, textures, and protein sources at a glance before deciding.

ProductTextureKey IngredientMade In
Milk-Bone Soft & Chewy Mini's Dog TreatsSoft and chewyReal chicken breastN/A
Purina Beggin' Fun Size Dog TreatsSoft, easy-to-chewReal meatN/A
Bil-Jac Little-Jacs Soft Dog Training TreatsSoft & chewyReal chicken liverUSA
Pet Botanics Training Rewards Mini Soft Dog TreatsSoft & chewyPork liver, real baconUSA
Zuke's Mini Naturals Holiday Dog Training TreatsSoft and chewyN/AUSA
Merrick Lil' Plates Small Dog Training TreatsSoft and chewyReal salmonN/A
Milk-Bone Crunchy Small Dog TreatsCrunchyN/ABuffalo, New York, USA
Wellness Old Mother Hubbard P-Nuttier Dog BiscuitsCrunchyN/AMade in North America
Merrick Power Bites Salmon Grain Free Dog TreatsSoft and chewySalmonUSA
Buddy Biscuits Teeny Crunchy Dog TreatsCrunchyN/AUSA

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best soft dog treats for small breeds?

Soft treats with real meat as the first ingredient and under 5 calories per piece are ideal. The Milk-Bone Soft & Chewy Mini’s and Bil-Jac Little-Jacs are top choices because they are easy to chew, low in calories, and made with real protein. Avoid any treat that feels hard or requires more than light pressure to break.

How many treats can I give my small dog per day?

Limit treats to no more than ten percent of your dog’s daily calorie intake. For a small dog, that means a modest number of calories from treats. If you are using a two-calorie treat like the Pet Botanics Training Rewards, you can safely give several pieces per day without affecting their balanced diet.

Are grain-free treats better for small dogs?

Grain-free treats help dogs with confirmed wheat or corn allergies, but they are not automatically healthier for every dog. The Merrick Lil’ Plates and Merrick Power Bites are grain-free options with salmon as the first ingredient. If your dog has no grain sensitivity, grain-inclusive treats like Milk-Bone are perfectly fine and often more affordable.

What treats are safe for small breed puppies?

Puppies need soft, small treats that are easy to chew and low in calories. The Bil-Jac Little-Jacs and Zuke’s Mini Naturals are safe options because they are soft, under 3 calories, and made with simple ingredients. Avoid hard biscuits and rawhide chews until the puppy’s adult teeth come in.

How do I choose training treats for a small dog?

Choose training treats that are under 3 calories, soft enough to eat in one bite, and small enough to fit in a treat pouch. The Pet Botanics Training Rewards and Bil-Jac Little-Jacs are designed specifically for frequent reward-based training. Avoid treats that crumble, as crumbs distract the dog from the training focus.

The Bottom Line

The Milk-Bone Soft & Chewy Mini’s Dog Treats is the best overall pick for most small-breed owners. It combines a soft texture that tiny mouths can handle, real chicken as the protein source, and added vitamins that make each treat more than empty calories. If you train frequently and need the lowest calorie option, the Bil-Jac Little-Jacs or Pet Botanics Training Rewards are better fits for repeat use.

For owners of toy breeds under 10 pounds, the Merrick Lil’ Plates salmon treat offers a grain-free, fish-first recipe in a resealable pouch. If your dog has healthy teeth and enjoys a crunch, the Milk-Bone Crunchy Small Dog Treats provides vitamin fortification in a familiar shape. The best dog treats for your dog come down to one factor above all others: the treat must be small enough and soft enough that your dog can eat it safely without choking or straining.