Best Dog Treats for Large and Giant Breeds (2026)

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Large and giant breed dogs present a unique set of challenges when it comes to treats. A treat that keeps a Beagle busy for twenty minutes might be demolished by a Great Dane in thirty seconds. Dental chews designed for medium breeds are often swallowed whole by a Mastiff. And the joint stress that comes with carrying 70, 90, or even 150 pounds of body weight means large breed dogs need treats that do more than just taste good.

If you own a Labrador Retriever, Golden Retriever, German Shepherd, Rottweiler, Great Dane, Bernese Mountain Dog, or any breed that tips the scale at 50 pounds or more, you know the struggle of finding treats that are appropriately sized, long-lasting, and nutritionally meaningful. Standard treats just are not built for the power and appetite of a large dog.

This guide focuses on treats that are specifically designed for or particularly well-suited to large and giant breeds. We cover long-lasting chews that can withstand powerful jaws, dental treats that actually fit in a big dog’s mouth, and joint support supplements that address the unique health needs of larger dogs. For treats designed for the opposite end of the spectrum, see our guide to the best dog treats for small dogs.

What to Look For in Large Dog Treats  

Durability and Chew Time  

The number one complaint from large dog owners is that treats do not last long enough. A treat that is devoured in seconds provides very little enrichment or dental benefit. For large dogs, look for chews that are rated for aggressive or powerful chewers, and choose sizes that are proportional to your dog’s jaw. A 6-inch chew for a 100-pound dog is like giving a toothpick to a human.

Size Appropriateness  

Treats that are too small for a large dog are not just unsatisfying, they can be dangerous. A large dog may attempt to swallow a small chew whole, creating a choking hazard. Always choose treats that are large enough that your dog must actually chew them. For dental chews, look for products labeled for dogs 50 to 100 pounds or even 100+ pounds.

Joint Support  

Large and giant breeds are disproportionately affected by joint problems, including hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, and arthritis. Treats that include joint-supporting ingredients like glucosamine, chondroitin, MSM, or collagen can provide supplemental benefits alongside your dog’s regular joint care routine. For a comprehensive look at joint-supporting treats, visit our best hip and joint treats for dogs guide.

Digestibility  

Large dogs may be more prone to digestive issues when consuming large quantities of certain treat materials. Avoid rawhide, which can swell in the stomach and cause blockages, and choose treats made from highly digestible materials like collagen, yak cheese, or bully sticks. For more on collagen-based options, see our best collagen sticks for dogs guide.

Calorie Considerations  

While large dogs have larger calorie budgets than small breeds, they can still gain weight from excessive treating, especially breeds prone to obesity like Labrador Retrievers. A 70-pound moderately active dog might need around 1,200 to 1,500 calories per day, giving a treat budget of 120 to 150 calories. Long-lasting chews can contain 50 to 100+ calories, so factor them into your dog’s daily intake.

Best Treats for Large Dogs: Our Top Picks  

1. EcoKind Premium Gold Yak Cheese Large (5ct) - Best Overall Chew  

Price Range: $30-37 | 3 Ingredients | Large Size

EcoKind Premium Gold Yak Cheese Large 5ct represent the gold standard in natural, long-lasting chews for large dogs. Made from just three ingredients, yak milk, cow milk, and a touch of salt and lime juice, these chews deliver an impressively long chewing experience without any artificial additives or preservatives.

The large size is specifically designed for dogs over 55 pounds, ensuring that your big dog gets a chew that is proportional to their jaw size and chewing power. Most large dogs will work on a single chew for hours over multiple sessions, making the per-session cost very reasonable despite the higher upfront price.

The beauty of yak cheese chews is their safety profile. They soften as the dog chews them, gradually wearing down rather than breaking into dangerous shards. When the piece gets small enough to be a choking risk, you can microwave it for 45 to 60 seconds to puff it into a safe, crunchy treat. Zero waste, zero risk.

For more options in this category, explore our best yak chews for dogs guide.

Pros:

• Only 3 simple ingredients, no chemicals or preservatives
• Large size specifically for dogs over 55 lbs
• Extremely long-lasting chewing experience
• Safe design that softens with chewing
• Can be microwaved when small to prevent waste
• 5-pack offers multi-week supply

Cons:

• Higher upfront cost
• Can develop an odor while being chewed
• Very aggressive chewers may go through them faster
• Hard texture may not suit dogs with dental issues

2. Pawstruck Monster Himalayan Yak Cheese - Best for Aggressive Chewers  

Price Range: $18-25 | XL Size | For Aggressive Chewers

Pawstruck Monster Himalayan Yak Cheese takes the yak cheese chew concept and supersizes it for the most powerful chewers. The Monster size is significantly larger and denser than standard yak cheese chews, making it appropriate for dogs that demolish regular-sized chews in a matter of minutes.

Pawstruck sources their yak cheese from traditional Himalayan recipes, using minimal ingredients and no artificial additives. The extra-large format means that even giant breeds like Great Danes, Saint Bernards, and English Mastiffs get a chew that provides genuine, extended engagement.

This is the chew you turn to when everything else gets destroyed too quickly. The dense, hard texture stands up to serious jaw pressure, and the gradual wearing action provides both dental scraping benefits and long-lasting satisfaction.

Pros:

• XL size specifically for aggressive chewers
• Denser than standard yak cheese chews for longer lasting
• All-natural ingredients with no artificial additives
• Provides dental scraping action during chewing
• Suitable for giant breeds

Cons:

• Premium price for a single chew
• May be too hard for senior dogs or dogs with weak teeth
• Significant odor during chewing
• Some dogs may not immediately take to the taste

3. Greenies Large Dental Chews - Best Dental Treat  

Price Range: $30-35 | For Dogs 50-100 lbs | VOHC-Accepted

Greenies Large Dental Chews are the most widely recognized dental chew on the market, and the Large size is specifically engineered for dogs weighing 50 to 100 pounds. These chews carry the Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC) seal of acceptance, meaning they have been scientifically proven to help control plaque and tartar when used as directed.

The unique toothbrush-like shape is designed to clean down to the gumline as your dog chews, reaching areas that regular brushing often misses. The flexible texture bends with your dog’s mouth shape, providing comprehensive cleaning action across all surfaces.

Greenies are also formulated to be highly digestible, an important factor for large dogs who may consume the entire chew relatively quickly. They contain added vitamins, minerals, and nutrients that support overall health.

For dogs over 100 pounds, Greenies also offers a jumbo size, though the Large size works well for most big dogs. For a comprehensive comparison of dental chew options, see our best dental chews for dogs guide.

Pros:

• VOHC-accepted for plaque and tartar control
• Specifically sized for 50-100 lb dogs
• Highly digestible formula
• Toothbrush shape cleans down to the gumline
• Added vitamins and minerals
• Widely available and trusted brand

Cons:

• One chew per day adds up in cost over time
• Some dogs consume them very quickly
• Not a substitute for veterinary dental care
• Dogs over 100 lbs may need the jumbo size

4. Pawstruck Collagen Sticks 12" - Best Collagen Chew  

Price Range: $18-25 | 12 Inches | Joint-Supporting

Pawstruck Collagen Sticks 12" offer a long-lasting chewing experience with the added benefit of collagen, which naturally supports joint health, skin elasticity, and connective tissue repair. For large breeds that are prone to joint issues, this makes collagen sticks a treat that serves double duty as a supplemental joint support.

The 12-inch length is ideal for large dogs, providing enough material for an extended chewing session without the risk of the stick being too small and swallowed prematurely. Collagen sticks are made from the inner layer of beef or pork skin (the collagen-rich corium layer), making them a natural, single-source product.

Compared to traditional bully sticks, collagen sticks tend to have less odor, fewer calories, and better digestibility. They are also generally more affordable, making them an excellent value for owners who want to provide daily or regular chewing enrichment.

For an in-depth comparison of collagen sticks versus bully sticks, check out our collagen sticks vs bully sticks guide. You can also explore our full best collagen sticks for dogs roundup.

Pros:

• 12-inch length appropriate for large dogs
• Collagen naturally supports joint health
• Less odor than bully sticks
• Highly digestible and safe
• More affordable than many bully sticks
• Long-lasting chewing experience

Cons:

• Not as long-lasting as yak cheese for aggressive chewers
• Some sticks may be thinner than expected
• Collagen content varies by product
• Not a replacement for dedicated joint supplements

5. Bully Bunches 12" Collagen Wrapped Bully Stick - Best Combo Chew  

Price Range: $30-40 | 12 Inches | Dual-Layer Design

Bully Bunches 12" Collagen Wrapped Bully Stick combines two of the most popular natural chew materials into a single, long-lasting product. The outer collagen wrap surrounds a traditional bully stick core, creating a dual-layer chew that takes significantly longer to work through than either material on its own.

This innovative design means your large dog first has to chew through the collagen layer before reaching the bully stick inside. The result is a chew that can keep a large dog occupied for a remarkably long time, even breeds known for destroying chews quickly.

Both materials are natural, highly digestible, and provide complementary benefits. The collagen supports joints and skin, while the bully stick core delivers high-protein satisfaction. The 12-inch length is well suited for dogs over 50 pounds.

Pros:

• Dual-layer design significantly extends chew time
• Combines collagen and bully stick benefits
• 12-inch length ideal for large dogs
• Both materials are natural and highly digestible
• High protein from the bully stick core
• Joint support from the collagen wrap

Cons:

• Premium price point
• Bully stick core has a noticeable odor
• Higher calorie content than collagen alone
• May still be consumed quickly by extreme chewers

6. Nutramax Cosequin Max Strength with MSM (120ct) - Best Joint Support  

Price Range: $28-38 | 120 Soft Chews | Glucosamine + Chondroitin + MSM

Nutramax Cosequin Max Strength 120ct is not a traditional treat but a soft chew joint supplement that large breed dogs actually enjoy eating. For breeds susceptible to hip dysplasia, arthritis, and other joint conditions, Cosequin is one of the most veterinarian-recommended joint supplements on the market.

Each soft chew contains glucosamine, chondroitin sulfate, and MSM, the three most clinically studied ingredients for canine joint health. The maximum strength formula is designed for large dogs who need significant joint support, whether for prevention or management of existing conditions.

The soft chew format makes daily administration easy since most dogs treat Cosequin like a reward rather than a medication. The 120-count container provides a multi-month supply for most large dogs, and the per-chew cost is reasonable for a veterinary-grade supplement.

For more joint support options, see our best hip and joint treats for dogs guide.

Pros:

• Veterinarian-recommended joint supplement
• Contains glucosamine, chondroitin, and MSM
• Maximum strength formula for large breeds
• Soft chew format dogs enjoy eating
• 120-count provides multi-month supply
• Clinically studied ingredients

Cons:

• Not a traditional treat, more of a supplement
• Results take 4-6 weeks of consistent use to become apparent
• Some dogs may experience mild digestive upset initially
• Expensive compared to standard treats

Large Dog Treats Comparison Table  

Chewing Safety Tips for Large Dogs  

Large dogs generate tremendous bite force, which means chewing safety requires extra attention. Here are essential guidelines for safe treat management with big dogs.

Always Supervise  

Even with treats designed for large dogs, supervision is important. Watch for signs that a chew has become small enough to swallow whole, and remove it before it reaches that point. This is especially important during the first time you give your dog a new type of treat, as you learn how aggressively they chew.

Size Up, Not Down  

When in doubt, choose a larger size. A 12-inch collagen stick is safer than a 6-inch one for a large dog, even if the 6-inch version is technically “large breed.” The extra length prevents the dog from getting the entire stick into their mouth at once.

Avoid Weight-Bearing Bones  

Despite their popularity, weight-bearing bones from cattle and other large animals (like marrow bones and femur bones) can crack and break a large dog’s teeth. The extremely hard texture poses a risk that softer, natural chews like yak cheese and collagen do not.

Rotate Chews  

Providing the same chew every day can lead to jaw fatigue, dental wear in the same spots, and loss of interest. Rotate between different types of chews to distribute the wear and keep your dog engaged.

Frequently Asked Questions  

How long should a chew last for a large dog?  

A good chew for a large dog should last at least 15 to 30 minutes, with the best options providing hours of engagement over multiple sessions. If your dog destroys a chew in under 5 minutes, it is either too small, too soft, or not designed for their chewing power. Move up to a larger or harder option.

Are bully sticks or collagen sticks better for large dogs?  

Both are excellent choices, but they serve slightly different purposes. Bully sticks are higher in protein and appeal to dogs who prefer intense flavors. Collagen sticks are lower in calories, less smelly, and provide joint-supporting benefits. Many owners rotate between both. For a detailed comparison, see our collagen sticks vs bully sticks guide.

How much should I budget for large dog treats per month?  

Large dog treat costs vary significantly depending on type and frequency. Budget roughly $30 to $60 per month for regular chewing enrichment (2 to 3 long-lasting chews per week) plus $15 to $25 for training treats. Joint supplements add another $25 to $35 per month. Total monthly treat budget for a large dog typically runs $45 to $120.

Do large dogs need joint supplements?  

Not all large dogs need joint supplements, but many benefit from them, especially breeds genetically predisposed to joint issues (German Shepherds, Golden Retrievers, Labrador Retrievers, Rottweilers, Great Danes). Starting joint supplementation early, even before symptoms appear, may help maintain joint health long term. Consult your veterinarian for personalized recommendations.

Can I give my large dog treats designed for medium dogs?  

You can give them training-size treats without issue since the calorie content per piece is low. However, for chews and dental treats, always choose the size appropriate for your dog’s weight. Using a medium-sized dental chew for a large dog reduces effectiveness and may pose a choking risk if swallowed whole.

What is the safest chew for a large dog?  

Yak cheese chews and collagen sticks are generally considered among the safest chews for large dogs. Both soften as the dog chews, both are highly digestible, and neither is known to splinter into sharp pieces. Avoid cooked bones, antlers (for some dogs), and rawhide, which can pose various safety concerns.

Conclusion  

Large and giant breed dogs deserve treats that match their size, power, and nutritional needs. The treats on this list are specifically selected for their appropriateness for big dogs, from long-lasting chews that actually provide engagement to joint supplements that address breed-specific health concerns.

For the best all-around long-lasting chew, the EcoKind Premium Gold Yak Cheese delivers hours of safe, natural chewing with just three simple ingredients. For dental health, the Greenies Large are the proven, VOHC-accepted choice sized specifically for dogs 50 to 100 pounds. And for proactive joint care, Nutramax Cosequin Max Strength provides veterinarian-trusted joint support in a format your dog will actually look forward to taking.

Big dogs bring big joy. Give them treats that are worthy of their size.