Target specific behaviors during holiday training with our review of specialized training treats.

Best Pet Training Treats for Specific Behaviors

Training your beloved pet, especially during the bustling holiday season, can be a rewarding experience. Whether you're teaching a new puppy basic obedience, refining an older dog's manners around guests, or working on specific behavioral challenges, the right training treats can make all the difference. Not all treats are created equal, and choosing ones specifically formulated or ideally suited for certain behaviors can significantly boost your success. This comprehensive guide will delve into the world of specialized training treats, offering insights into what makes them effective, recommending specific products, and comparing their features, uses, and price points.

Understanding the Role of Training Treats in Behavior Modification

Before we dive into specific products, let's understand why training treats are so crucial. Treats act as positive reinforcement, signaling to your pet that they've performed a desired action correctly. This immediate reward strengthens the association between the behavior and the positive outcome, making your pet more likely to repeat it. For specific behaviors, the type, size, and palatability of the treat can influence its effectiveness.

High Value vs. Low Value Treats for Training Success

In the world of pet training, treats are often categorized as 'high value' or 'low value.' High-value treats are those your pet absolutely loves and finds incredibly motivating. They are often soft, smelly, and easily digestible. Low-value treats are still enjoyable but less exciting. For challenging behaviors or in distracting environments (like a holiday gathering), high-value treats are essential to capture and maintain your pet's attention and motivation. For routine behaviors or maintenance training, low-value treats can be perfectly adequate.

Size and Texture Matters for Training Efficiency

The size and texture of a training treat are critical. You want treats that are small enough to be consumed quickly, allowing for rapid repetitions during a training session. If a treat takes too long to chew, it breaks the flow of training. Soft, chewy treats are generally preferred over hard, crunchy ones because they are easier to swallow and less likely to cause choking. They also often have a stronger aroma, which can be more enticing.

Training Treats for Basic Obedience and Puppy Training

For foundational behaviors like 'sit,' 'stay,' 'come,' and 'down,' as well as for house-training puppies, consistency and frequent rewards are key. Treats for these behaviors should be highly palatable, small, and easy to dispense.

Recommended Products for Basic Obedience and Puppy Training

• Zuke's Mini Naturals Dog Treats

  Description: These are a classic for a reason. Zuke's Mini Naturals are small, soft, and packed with flavor. They come in various protein sources like chicken, peanut butter, and salmon, making them appealing to most dogs. Their small size (about the size of a pea) is perfect for repetitive training without overfeeding.

  Use Case: Ideal for 'sit,' 'stay,' 'come,' leash training, and general puppy obedience. Their low calorie count per treat allows for frequent rewarding.

  Comparison: Compared to crunchy treats, their soft texture is less distracting and quicker to consume. They are also grain-free options available for sensitive stomachs.

  Price: Approximately $6-8 for a 5 oz bag.

• Wellness Soft Puppy Bites

  Description: Specifically designed for puppies, these soft, chewy treats are made with wholesome ingredients like lamb and salmon. They are small, easy to chew, and fortified with DHA for brain development.

  Use Case: Excellent for early puppy training, house-training, crate training, and teaching basic commands to young dogs.

  Comparison: Tailored for puppies' sensitive digestive systems and nutritional needs, unlike many adult dog treats. The soft texture is gentle on developing teeth.

  Price: Approximately $5-7 for a 4 oz bag.

• Blue Buffalo Blue Bits Soft-Moist Training Treats

  Description: These are another popular choice, known for their soft, chewy texture and natural ingredients. They come in chicken, salmon, and beef flavors and are free from corn, wheat, and soy.

  Use Case: Versatile for all basic obedience commands, especially good for dogs who might be picky eaters. Their strong aroma can be very motivating.

  Comparison: Similar to Zuke's in texture and size, but Blue Buffalo often emphasizes specific natural ingredients and absence of common allergens.

  Price: Approximately $7-9 for a 9 oz bag.

Training Treats for Focus and Attention in Distracting Environments

During the holidays, your home might be filled with new sights, sounds, and smells, making it challenging for your pet to focus. For these situations, you need high-value treats that can cut through distractions and keep your pet's attention firmly on you.

Recommended Products for Focus and Distraction Training

• Stella & Chewy's Freeze-Dried Raw Dinner Morsels (as treats)

  Description: While primarily a food, these freeze-dried raw morsels make incredibly high-value treats. They are lightweight, easy to break into smaller pieces, and intensely flavorful due to the raw ingredients. Available in various proteins like beef, chicken, and duck.

  Use Case: Perfect for training in highly distracting environments (e.g., holiday parties, busy parks, vet visits). Excellent for recall training or teaching complex behaviors where maximum motivation is needed.

  Comparison: Far more palatable and motivating than standard kibble or dry treats. The freeze-dried nature preserves nutrients and flavor without refrigeration.

  Price: Approximately $15-20 for a 3.25 oz bag (can be broken into many treats).

• PureBites Freeze-Dried Treats (Single Ingredient)

  Description: These treats are made from a single ingredient, such as 100% pure chicken, beef liver, or salmon. They are freeze-dried, retaining their natural flavor and aroma, making them incredibly appealing to pets. They are also very easy to break into tiny pieces.

  Use Case: Ideal for dogs with allergies or sensitive stomachs, as well as for high-value rewards in distracting settings. Great for 'look at me' exercises or maintaining focus during walks with holiday decorations.

  Comparison: Their single-ingredient nature makes them hypoallergenic for many pets. The intense natural flavor is a huge motivator.

  Price: Approximately $8-12 for a 2.1 oz bag (chicken) or 1.8 oz bag (beef liver).

• Pet Botanics Training Rewards

  Description: These soft, moist treats are specifically designed for training. They are small, palatable, and often infused with a strong aroma that captures a dog's attention. They come in various flavors like bacon and salmon.

  Use Case: Effective for maintaining focus during group classes, outdoor training, or when introducing your pet to new people or environments during the holidays.

  Comparison: More affordable than freeze-dried raw options but still offer a good level of palatability and a soft texture for quick consumption.

  Price: Approximately $5-7 for a 4 oz bag.

Training Treats for Calming and Anxiety Reduction

The holiday season can be stressful for pets due to increased noise, visitors, and changes in routine. Treats infused with calming ingredients can be a valuable tool to help manage anxiety during these times, especially when paired with counter-conditioning or desensitization training.

Recommended Products for Calming and Anxiety Reduction

• Zesty Paws Calming Bites for Dogs

  Description: These soft chews contain ingredients like Suntheanine (a patented form of L-Theanine), organic hemp powder, chamomile, and thiamine, all known for their calming properties. They are flavored to be palatable to dogs.

  Use Case: Administer before stressful events like holiday parties, fireworks, travel, or vet visits. Can be used as a reward during desensitization training to loud noises or new people.

  Comparison: Unlike regular treats, these offer a functional benefit beyond just taste. They are a supplement in treat form, making administration easy.

  Price: Approximately $25-35 for 90 soft chews.

• NaturVet Quiet Moments Calming Aid Soft Chews

  Description: Formulated with a blend of thiamine, L-tryptophan, chamomile, and ginger, these chews aim to reduce stress and tension. They are soft and easy to administer.

  Use Case: Useful for general anxiety, separation anxiety during holiday travel, or to help pets relax during thunderstorms or noisy holiday celebrations.

  Comparison: Similar to Zesty Paws, but with a slightly different blend of calming ingredients. Often a more budget-friendly option.

  Price: Approximately $15-20 for 70 soft chews.

• Pet Releaf CBD Hemp Oil Edibites (Calming)

  Description: These treats contain full-spectrum hemp extract with naturally occurring CBD, along with other calming ingredients like chamomile and baobab. They are organic and human-grade.

  Use Case: For more significant anxiety or chronic stress. Can be used as part of a broader calming strategy, especially during prolonged holiday periods with many changes.

  Comparison: CBD-infused treats offer a different mechanism of action for calming compared to herbal blends. It's important to choose reputable brands with third-party testing.

  Price: Approximately $20-30 for a 3.5 oz bag (around 30 treats, dosage varies by weight).

Training Treats for Potty Training and Marking Behavior

Potty training, especially for puppies or newly adopted adult dogs, requires immediate and highly motivating rewards. For marking behavior, positive reinforcement for appropriate elimination can help redirect the behavior.

Recommended Products for Potty Training and Marking Behavior

• Merrick Lil' Plates Grain-Free Training Treats

  Description: These are very small, soft, and grain-free, making them suitable for frequent rewards during potty training. They come in various flavors like Texas Beef and Chicken.

  Use Case: Perfect for rewarding immediate outdoor elimination. Their small size prevents overfeeding during frequent rewards.

  Comparison: Grain-free option for dogs with sensitivities, and their small size is ideal for the high frequency of rewards needed for potty training.

  Price: Approximately $5-7 for a 4 oz bag.

• Pup-Peroni Training Treats

  Description: These are soft, chewy, and have a strong meaty aroma that many dogs find irresistible. They are easy to break into smaller pieces.

  Use Case: Highly motivating for outdoor potty success, especially for dogs who need a strong incentive. The strong smell can help capture attention quickly.

  Comparison: While not specifically marketed as 'training treats,' their palatability and texture make them very effective for high-value rewards in potty training. Can be higher in calories, so break into tiny pieces.

  Price: Approximately $4-6 for a 5.6 oz bag.

• Charlee Bear Original Dog Treats

  Description: These are small, crunchy, and low-calorie treats. While crunchy, their small size makes them quick to consume. They come in various flavors like liver and cheese.

  Use Case: Good for dogs who prefer a crunchy texture and for frequent rewards where calorie intake is a concern. Can be used for potty training, especially if your dog isn't highly food motivated by soft treats.

  Comparison: A good low-calorie alternative to soft treats, suitable for dogs who need many rewards throughout the day without gaining weight.

  Price: Approximately $4-6 for a 16 oz bag.

Training Treats for Leash Manners and Loose-Leash Walking

Teaching a dog to walk politely on a leash, especially with the added distractions of holiday lights and decorations, requires consistent positive reinforcement. Treats for this behavior should be easy to dispense quickly and highly motivating.

Recommended Products for Leash Manners and Loose-Leash Walking

• Happy Hips Joint Support Dog Treats (Functional Treat)

  Description: While primarily for joint support, these soft, chewy treats are often very palatable. They contain ingredients like glucosamine and chondroitin, beneficial for active dogs.

  Use Case: Ideal for rewarding consistent loose-leash walking, especially for older dogs or breeds prone to joint issues. The functional benefit is a bonus.

  Comparison: Combines a training reward with a health supplement, offering dual benefits. Their soft texture is great for on-the-go rewarding.

  Price: Approximately $10-15 for a 6 oz bag.

• Pet 'n Shape All-Natural Chicken Training Treats

  Description: These are small, soft, and made with real chicken. They are easy to break into even smaller pieces if needed, and their strong chicken aroma is very appealing.

  Use Case: Excellent for rewarding every few steps of loose-leash walking, especially in distracting environments. Their quick consumption allows for continuous reinforcement.

  Comparison: A good mid-range option that balances palatability, size, and price for frequent outdoor training.

  Price: Approximately $7-9 for a 4 oz bag.

• Homemade Cooked Chicken or Hot Dogs (Cut Small)

  Description: For the ultimate high-value treat, small pieces of cooked chicken breast or hot dogs (cut into pea-sized bits) are often irresistible. They are soft, smelly, and highly motivating.

  Use Case: Best for initial stages of loose-leash training, or when working in highly distracting areas. Can be used to 'reset' focus if your dog gets overstimulated.

  Comparison: Unbeatable in terms of palatability for most dogs. Requires preparation and refrigeration, and should be used sparingly due to potential fat content (hot dogs).

  Price: Cost varies depending on ingredients, but generally very cost-effective for the amount of treats you get.

Training Treats for Crate Training and Confinement

Making the crate a positive and safe space is crucial. Treats play a vital role in building a positive association with the crate, especially during holiday travel or when guests are over.

Recommended Products for Crate Training and Confinement

• Kong Easy Treat Paste

  Description: This is a highly palatable, sprayable paste that can be squirted into a Kong toy or directly onto the crate floor. It's messy but incredibly motivating.

  Use Case: Excellent for creating a positive association with the crate. Squirt a small amount into a Kong and give it to your dog as they enter the crate. The licking action can also be calming.

  Comparison: Offers a different type of reward (licking) that can be more soothing than chewing. It's a high-value, long-lasting reward when paired with a Kong.

  Price: Approximately $6-8 for an 8 oz can.

• Pupford Freeze-Dried Training Treats

  Description: These are very small, low-calorie, and single-ingredient freeze-dried treats (e.g., beef liver, chicken). They are highly palatable and easy to sprinkle.

  Use Case: Sprinkle a handful into the crate for your dog to find, or use them as quick rewards for entering the crate voluntarily. Their low calorie count is good for frequent use.

  Comparison: Similar to PureBites but often marketed specifically for training, with a focus on low calories and high palatability.

  Price: Approximately $10-15 for a 2 oz bag.

• Stewart Freeze-Dried Liver Treats

  Description: A classic, highly popular freeze-dried liver treat. They are very aromatic and can be easily broken into small pieces.

  Use Case: A go-to high-value treat for making the crate a desirable place. Use them for 'crate games' where your dog goes in and out for a reward.

  Comparison: One of the original and most trusted freeze-dried liver treats, known for its consistent quality and high appeal to dogs.

  Price: Approximately $10-15 for a 4 oz bag.

Training Treats for Resource Guarding and Sharing

Resource guarding (when a dog protects food, toys, or space) can be a serious issue, especially with new people or pets around during the holidays. Training involves counter-conditioning, where the dog learns that people approaching their resources means good things happen. High-value treats are essential here.

Recommended Products for Resource Guarding and Sharing

• Cooked Meat Scraps (Chicken, Turkey, Beef)

  Description: Small, high-value pieces of cooked, unseasoned meat are often the best choice for resource guarding. They are incredibly motivating and signal a very positive interaction.

  Use Case: When approaching your dog's food bowl or a guarded toy, toss a piece of high-value meat from a distance. This teaches them that your approach means more good things, not a threat.

  Comparison: The ultimate high-value treat for many dogs, surpassing most commercial options in terms of desirability. Requires careful portioning and preparation.

  Price: Cost varies, but often uses leftover cooked meat, making it very economical.

• Wet Dog Food (Small Spoonfuls)

  Description: A small spoonful of your dog's favorite wet dog food can be a very high-value, soft, and easy-to-consume treat.

  Use Case: Similar to cooked meat, use small dollops to reward calm behavior around resources. Can be smeared on a lick mat for a longer-lasting, calming reward during meal times.

  Comparison: Offers a different texture and richness compared to dry treats, often more appealing for dogs who are highly food motivated.

  Price: Cost varies by brand, but a can can provide many training sessions.

• Rolled Rawhide-Free Chews (e.g., Earth Animal No-Hide Chews)

  Description: While not a quick treat, offering a safe, high-value, long-lasting chew can help redirect guarding behavior from other items. Earth Animal No-Hide Chews are digestible and made from natural ingredients.

  Use Case: Provide a safe, highly desirable chew when you need your dog to be occupied and content, especially when guests are present or other dogs are around. This can prevent guarding of less desirable items.

  Comparison: A safer alternative to traditional rawhide, offering a satisfying chew experience that can help manage guarding by providing an acceptable outlet.

  Price: Approximately $5-15 depending on size.

Training Treats for Counter Surfing and Jumping Up

These common behaviors, especially prevalent during holiday feasts and greetings, require consistent redirection and rewarding alternative behaviors. Treats should be used to reward 'four on the floor' or staying in a designated spot.

Recommended Products for Counter Surfing and Jumping Up

• Cloud Star Wag More Bark Less Soft & Chewy Treats

  Description: These are soft, chewy, and come in various flavors. They are easy to break into small pieces and are generally well-liked by dogs.

  Use Case: Reward your dog immediately when they keep 'four on the floor' as guests arrive, or when they stay off the counter. Their soft texture allows for quick rewards.

  Comparison: A good all-around soft training treat that is palatable enough to motivate without being overly rich.

  Price: Approximately $6-8 for a 5 oz bag.

• Fruitables Skinny Minis Soft & Chewy Dog Treats

  Description: These are very small, low-calorie, and soft treats made with fruits and vegetables. They come in appealing flavors like pumpkin and apple.

  Use Case: Ideal for frequent rewarding when teaching 'off' or 'place' commands to prevent jumping or counter surfing. Their low calorie count is great for multiple repetitions.

  Comparison: Focuses on natural ingredients and low calories, making them a healthier option for frequent training sessions.

  Price: Approximately $5-7 for a 5 oz bag.

• PetSafe Click 'n Treat Pouch with Treats

  Description: While not a specific treat, this system combines a treat pouch with small, palatable training treats. The pouch allows for quick access and dispensing.

  Use Case: Essential for behaviors like jumping or counter surfing where timing is critical. Having treats readily available in a pouch allows for immediate reward when your dog performs the desired alternative behavior.

  Comparison: The convenience of the pouch enhances the effectiveness of any small, high-value treat by ensuring timely delivery.

  Price: Pouch approximately $10-15, treats sold separately (often come with a starter pack).

Training Treats for Barking and Noise Reactivity

Excessive barking, especially at holiday visitors or noises, can be disruptive. Training involves redirecting the barking and rewarding quiet behavior or attention to you.

Recommended Products for Barking and Noise Reactivity

• Vital Essentials Freeze-Dried Mini Nibs (Single Ingredient)

  Description: These are tiny, highly palatable freeze-dried raw nibs made from single protein sources like beef or chicken. Their intense flavor and aroma are very motivating.

  Use Case: Use as a high-value reward for 'quiet' or 'look at me' commands when your dog starts to react to noise or visitors. Their small size is perfect for rapid-fire rewarding.

  Comparison: Similar to PureBites, but often come in even smaller, more uniform pieces, making them ideal for precise timing in reactivity training.

  Price: Approximately $10-15 for a 2.5 oz bag.

• Pet 'n Shape Beef Lung Dog Treats

  Description: These are crunchy, lightweight, and highly palatable treats made from beef lung. They can be easily broken into smaller pieces.

  Use Case: Good for rewarding calm behavior when a trigger (like a doorbell) occurs. The crunch can also be satisfying for some dogs.

  Comparison: A natural, single-ingredient option that offers a different texture than soft chews, appealing to dogs who enjoy a crunch.

  Price: Approximately $8-12 for a 4 oz bag.

• Kong Stuff'n Snacks (Small Size)

  Description: These are small, crunchy biscuits designed to fit into Kong toys, but can also be used as individual treats. They come in various flavors.

  Use Case: Can be used to reward quiet behavior, or stuffed into a Kong to provide a distraction when you anticipate a barking trigger (e.g., guests arriving).

  Comparison: Versatile as both a standalone treat and a Kong stuffer, offering flexibility in how you manage barking behavior.

  Price: Approximately $4-6 for a 7 oz bag.

Training Treats for Chewing and Destructive Behavior

Destructive chewing, especially on holiday decorations or furniture, can be frustrating. Training involves redirecting chewing to appropriate outlets and rewarding good choices.

Recommended Products for Chewing and Destructive Behavior

• Bully Sticks (Odor-Free or Low Odor)

  Description: These are long-lasting, digestible chews made from beef pizzle. They are highly appealing to dogs and provide a satisfying chewing experience.

  Use Case: Offer a bully stick when you need to occupy your dog and prevent them from chewing on inappropriate items. Great for keeping them busy during holiday meals or when you're out.

  Comparison: A natural, single-ingredient chew that is generally safer and more digestible than rawhide. Look for odor-free options for indoor use.

  Price: Approximately $5-15 per stick, depending on size and brand.

• Yak Chews (Himalayan Dog Chews)

  Description: These are very hard, long-lasting chews made from yak and cow milk, with a cheesy flavor. They soften with chewing and are digestible.

  Use Case: Excellent for power chewers who need a durable, long-lasting outlet for their chewing instincts. Offer when you need extended distraction from destructive chewing.

  Comparison: Extremely durable and long-lasting, making them a good investment for persistent chewers. They are also natural and generally well-tolerated.

  Price: Approximately $8-20 per chew, depending on size.

• Benebone Wishbone or Dental Chews

  Description: These are durable, flavored nylon chews designed for aggressive chewers. They come in various shapes and flavors like bacon, peanut butter, and chicken.

  Use Case: Provide as an appropriate chewing outlet to redirect destructive chewing from furniture or household items. Their unique shapes are easy for dogs to grip.

  Comparison: A non-edible chew that is very durable and provides a satisfying chewing experience. Good for dogs who destroy edible chews too quickly.

  Price: Approximately $10-20 per chew, depending on size.

Training Treats for Separation Anxiety and Alone Time

The holidays often involve leaving pets alone for longer periods. Training for separation anxiety involves building positive associations with alone time. Long-lasting, high-value treats are key.

Recommended Products for Separation Anxiety and Alone Time

• Stuffed Kongs (with Peanut Butter, Wet Food, or Frozen Broth)

  Description: A classic for a reason. Stuffing a Kong with a mix of wet food, peanut butter, or even frozen broth creates a long-lasting, engaging treat.

  Use Case: Give a stuffed Kong just before you leave to create a positive association with your departure. The licking action is also calming and can help reduce anxiety.

  Comparison: Highly customizable with various fillings, offering a mentally stimulating and long-lasting distraction. Freezing the Kong makes it last even longer.

  Price: Kong toy approximately $10-20, fillings vary in cost.

• Lick Mats (with Yogurt, Peanut Butter, or Pureed Pumpkin)

  Description: Silicone mats with textured surfaces designed for spreading soft treats. The licking action is soothing and can help reduce stress.

  Use Case: Offer a lick mat with a favorite spreadable treat just before you leave. It provides a calming, long-lasting activity that can distract from your absence.

  Comparison: Offers a different type of engagement than a chew toy, focusing on the calming effect of licking. Easy to clean and store.

  Price: Lick mat approximately $8-15, fillings vary in cost.

• Chew King Fetch Balls with Treat Dispenser

  Description: Durable rubber balls with an opening to stuff treats. They dispense treats as the dog plays with them, providing mental and physical stimulation.

  Use Case: Fill with small, dry treats and leave for your dog when you depart. It encourages independent play and problem-solving, making alone time more enjoyable.

  Comparison: Combines a toy with a treat dispenser, offering a dynamic and engaging activity that can last longer than a simple treat.

  Price: Approximately $10-15 per ball, treats sold separately.

Tips for Maximizing Training Treat Effectiveness

Beyond choosing the right treat, how you use them is equally important. Here are some tips to get the most out of your training treats:

Timing is Everything in Pet Training

Deliver the treat within 1-3 seconds of the desired behavior. This immediate reinforcement helps your pet understand exactly what they are being rewarded for. If you wait too long, they might associate the treat with a different action.

Vary Your Rewards for Sustained Motivation

Don't rely solely on treats. Incorporate praise, petting, and play as rewards. Varying your rewards keeps your pet engaged and prevents them from becoming solely dependent on food. Sometimes, a favorite toy or a quick game of tug can be an even higher-value reward than a treat.

Keep Treats Small and Healthy for Frequent Use

Especially during intensive training periods or for behaviors requiring many repetitions, use very small, low-calorie treats. This prevents overfeeding and ensures your pet remains motivated without getting full too quickly. You can often break larger treats into smaller pieces.

Use a Treat Pouch for Convenience and Speed

A treat pouch worn on your waist makes it easy to access treats quickly and discreetly. This is crucial for good timing and keeps your hands free for handling your pet or leash.

Consider Your Pet's Preferences and Sensitivities

Every pet is an individual. What one dog finds highly motivating, another might turn their nose up at. Experiment with different flavors, textures, and brands to find what your pet loves most. Also, be mindful of any allergies or dietary sensitivities your pet may have when selecting treats.

Fade the Treats as Behavior Becomes Reliable

Once your pet consistently performs a behavior, gradually reduce the frequency of treats. Start by rewarding every other time, then every few times, eventually moving to an intermittent reward schedule. This helps the behavior become ingrained and less dependent on constant food rewards. You can then transition to using treats only for maintenance or when introducing new challenges.

By understanding the nuances of different training treats and applying effective training techniques, you can help your pet navigate the holiday season with confidence and good manners. Happy training!