Best Dog Treats for Small Dogs and Toy Breeds (2026)

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Small dogs and toy breeds have unique needs when it comes to treats. A treat that is perfectly sized for a Labrador could be a choking hazard for a Chihuahua. A chew designed for a German Shepherd’s powerful jaws could be impossible for a Maltese to enjoy. And a treat with 25 calories might be fine for a 70-pound dog but could represent a significant chunk of a 6-pound Yorkie’s daily caloric needs.

Despite making up a huge portion of the pet population, small dogs are often an afterthought in the treat aisle. Many products are designed for medium to large breeds, and owners of small dogs are left breaking treats into pieces or simply accepting that the portions are too big. Thankfully, a growing number of brands now offer treats specifically sized and formulated for small and toy breeds.

In this guide, we have identified the best treats for small dogs across several categories: training treats, dental chews, soft treats, and long-lasting chews. Whether you have a Pomeranian, a Dachshund, a Shih Tzu, or any other small breed, these treats are designed to fit their smaller mouths and lower calorie budgets.

What to Look For in Treats for Small Dogs  

Size Matters Most  

The most important factor when choosing treats for small dogs is physical size. Treats should be small enough to be consumed in one or two bites without any risk of choking. For training purposes, treats should be pea-sized or smaller so they can be eaten almost instantly. For chewing enjoyment, look for products specifically labeled for small breeds or dogs under 15 to 25 pounds.

Calorie Consciousness  

Small dogs have correspondingly small daily calorie needs. A 10-pound Chihuahua might need only 275 to 350 calories per day, depending on activity level. The general rule that treats should not exceed 10 percent of daily calories means a small dog’s treat budget might be just 28 to 35 calories for the entire day. That makes low-calorie treats essential, not optional. For more options that keep the calorie count in check, see our guide to the best low-calorie dog treats.

Texture and Chewability  

Many small and toy breeds are prone to dental issues, including tooth crowding, tartar buildup, and premature tooth loss. Treats that are too hard can actually damage their smaller, more fragile teeth. Soft treats or treats specifically designed for small dog dental health are generally safer choices than rock-hard bones or oversized rawhides.

Ingredient Quality  

Small dogs eat smaller quantities overall, which means every bite carries more nutritional weight proportionally. Opt for treats made with real meat, whole ingredients, and minimal fillers. Avoid treats with artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives, as small dogs may be more sensitive to these additives due to their lower body weight.

Best Dog Treats for Small Dogs: Our Top Picks  

1. Zuke’s Mini Naturals Training Treats (16oz) - Best Training Treat  

Price Range: $12-16 | Calories: ~2 per treat | Grain-Free

Zuke’s Mini Naturals 16oz are practically synonymous with small-dog training. At just 2 calories per treat, these tiny morsels were designed from the ground up for frequent rewarding without calorie overload. Their small size makes them perfect for dogs with tiny mouths, and the soft, chewy texture means even the smallest breeds can eat them quickly and comfortably.

Available in multiple flavors including chicken, salmon, peanut butter and oats, duck, rabbit, and pork, Zuke’s lets you rotate flavors to keep your small dog excited about training. The grain-free formula uses real meat as the first ingredient and avoids corn, wheat, and soy.

With over 30,000 five-star reviews on Amazon and a consistent Best Seller ranking, these treats have been validated by a massive community of dog owners. They work just as well for a 5-pound Papillon as they do for a 20-pound Cocker Spaniel.

These treats are also an excellent choice for puppies learning their first commands. For more puppy-specific options, check out our best puppy treats for training guide.

Pros:

• Only 2 calories per treat, ideal for small dog calorie budgets
• Perfectly sized for small and toy breed mouths
• Multiple flavor options to prevent treat fatigue
• Grain-free with real meat first ingredient
• Soft texture easy on small teeth

Cons:

• Can become crumbly, leaving small pieces in the bag
• Some dogs may develop preferences for specific flavors
• The 16oz bag may be more than needed for a single small dog

2. Greenies Teenie Dental Chews - Best Dental Treat  

Price Range: $15-20 | For Dogs 5-15 lbs | VOHC-Accepted

Greenies Teenie Dental Chews are specifically designed for small dogs weighing 5 to 15 pounds, making them one of the few dental chews that truly caters to the toy and small breed market. These treats carry the Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC) seal of acceptance, meaning they have been scientifically proven to reduce plaque and tartar buildup.

Small dogs are notoriously prone to dental disease, so a dental chew that is actually sized for their mouths is invaluable. The Teenie size is small enough for a small dog to hold and chew comfortably, while still providing the mechanical cleaning action that promotes dental health.

Greenies are also highly digestible, which is important for small dogs with faster metabolisms and smaller digestive tracts. They are made with natural ingredients and added vitamins and minerals. For a deeper look at dental chew options across all sizes, visit our best dental chews for dogs guide.

Pros:

• Specifically sized for 5-15 lb dogs
• VOHC-accepted for plaque and tartar reduction
• Highly digestible formula
• Addresses dental disease common in small breeds
• Natural ingredients with added vitamins

Cons:

• Higher price per chew compared to training treats
• Some very small dogs may still struggle with the Teenie size
• Should be given under supervision to prevent choking
• Not suitable for dogs under 5 lbs

3. Wellness Soft Puppy Bites - Best Soft Treat  

Price Range: $7-10 | Small Size | Easy to Chew

Wellness Soft Puppy Bites are not just for puppies. Their ultra-soft texture and small size make them an excellent treat for adult small dogs, especially those with dental issues or missing teeth. The lamb and salmon recipe provides high-quality protein along with omega fatty acids for healthy skin and coat.

These grain-free treats are soft enough that even senior small dogs with compromised dental health can enjoy them without difficulty. They break apart easily if you need to make them even smaller for the tiniest toy breeds.

The combination of an accessible price point and premium ingredients makes Wellness Soft Puppy Bites a go-to choice for small dog owners who want quality without breaking the bank.

Pros:

• Extremely soft, perfect for small dogs with dental issues
• Small size appropriate for tiny mouths
• Lamb and salmon provide quality protein and omegas
• Grain-free formula
• Affordable price point

Cons:

• Marketed as puppy treats, which may cause confusion
• Small bag sizes require frequent repurchasing
• Very soft texture means they can get mushy in warm temperatures

4. Blue Buffalo Blue Bits Soft-Moist Treats - Best Soft-Moist Option  

Price Range: $10-14 | Small Pieces | DHA Included

Blue Buffalo Blue Bits are small, soft-moist pieces that work beautifully for small dogs. Each piece is just the right size for a small dog to eat in a single bite, and the soft-moist texture is easy to chew and swallow without any choking risk.

Blue Buffalo includes DHA in their formula, which supports brain health and cognitive function. While this is particularly beneficial for puppies, it is also valuable for senior small dogs who may benefit from cognitive support. The treats are free from chicken by-product meals, corn, wheat, soy, and artificial preservatives.

Available in multiple flavors including chicken, beef, turkey, and salmon, Blue Bits give you plenty of variety to keep your small dog interested. The 19oz bag provides solid value, and the consistent small piece size makes portion control straightforward.

Pros:

• Small, consistent piece size perfect for tiny mouths
• Soft-moist texture easy to chew
• Contains DHA for cognitive support
• Multiple flavor options
• No artificial preservatives

Cons:

• Slightly higher calorie count per piece than some alternatives
• Moist treats can dry out if not sealed properly
• May not satisfy dogs who prefer a crunchier texture

5. EcoKind Small Yak Cheese Chews (8ct) - Best Long-Lasting Chew  

Price Range: $28-31 | Sized for Small Dogs | 3 Ingredients

EcoKind Small Yak Cheese Chews 8ct solve one of the biggest challenges for small dog owners: finding a long-lasting chew that is actually sized appropriately. These chews are made from just yak milk, cow milk, salt, and lime juice, creating a hard, long-lasting treat that small dogs can work on over multiple chewing sessions.

Unlike bully sticks or collagen sticks that often come in sizes designed for medium to large dogs, EcoKind specifically offers a small size that is manageable for dogs under 20 to 25 pounds. The chews are grain-free, gluten-free, and contain no preservatives or binding agents.

One clever feature of yak cheese chews is that once the piece gets small enough to be a choking hazard, you can microwave it for about 45 seconds to puff it into a crunchy, airy treat that is safe and easy to eat. This means virtually no waste.

At 8 chews per pack, the cost per chew is reasonable given the extended chewing time each one provides.

Pros:

• Specifically sized for small dogs
• Long-lasting chewing experience
• Only 3-4 simple ingredients
• Can be microwaved when small for safety
• Grain-free and preservative-free
• 8-count pack provides good value

Cons:

• Higher upfront cost than softer treats
• Some dogs may lose interest in the hard texture
• Not suitable for aggressive chewers who might break off large pieces
• Can smell slightly when chewed

6. Buddy Biscuits Trainers (14oz, ~500 treats) - Best Budget Training Treat  

Price Range: $8-12 | Calories: ~1.5 per treat | ~500 Treats Per Bag

Buddy Biscuits Trainers 14oz offer an exceptional combination of small size, low calories, and outstanding value. At just 1.5 calories per treat and approximately 500 treats per bag, these are among the most economical training treats available. For small dog owners who train frequently, this kind of value is hard to beat.

The tiny size of each treat is ideal for small and toy breeds. They are small enough to be swallowed quickly during training, keeping the session moving at a brisk pace. The bacon flavor is a crowd-pleaser that motivates most dogs regardless of breed.

These treats are made in the USA with simple, straightforward ingredients. They are not grain-free, which is worth noting if your dog has grain sensitivities, but for most small dogs they are a perfectly wholesome option.

Pros:

• Only 1.5 calories per treat, the lowest on this list
• Approximately 500 treats per bag, incredible value
• Tiny size perfect for small breed mouths
• Bacon flavor most dogs love
• Made in the USA

Cons:

• Crunchy texture, not ideal for dogs with dental issues
• Only one flavor option
• Not grain-free
• Can be crumbly

Small Dog Treats Comparison Table  

Feeding Guidelines for Small Dogs  

Small dogs require careful attention to treat portions because the margin for error is much smaller than with larger breeds. Here are some guidelines to keep your small dog healthy and happy.

Daily Treat Calorie Budgets by Weight  

With treats like Zuke’s at 2 calories each, a 10-pound dog could receive 14 to 17 treats per day and still stay within the 10 percent guideline. That is plenty for multiple training sessions.

Treat Safety for Small Dogs  

Always supervise your small dog when giving chews or larger treats. Small dogs are more susceptible to choking, and treats that would be harmless for a larger dog can pose a risk. If a chew gets small enough to swallow whole, remove it immediately. For hard chews like yak cheese, the microwave trick mentioned above is a great safety measure.

Frequently Asked Questions  

What size treats are best for small dogs?  

For training, look for treats that are pea-sized or smaller, roughly the size of a blueberry. For chewing enjoyment, choose products specifically labeled for small breeds or dogs under 15 to 25 pounds. The key is that the treat should be consumable without requiring excessive chewing or creating a choking risk.

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

Follow the 10 percent rule: treats should not exceed 10 percent of your dog’s daily caloric intake. For a typical 10-pound small dog, that means about 28 to 35 calories in treats per day. With low-calorie treats at 1.5 to 2 calories each, you can give 14 to 23 treats daily and still stay within healthy limits.

Are dental chews important for small dogs?  

Yes, extremely. Small breeds are disproportionately affected by dental disease, with studies suggesting that up to 80 percent of small dogs show signs of dental disease by age three. Regular dental chews, like the Greenies Teenie, can help reduce plaque and tartar buildup between professional cleanings.

Can I give my small dog treats designed for larger dogs?  

It is possible if you break them into appropriately small pieces, but it is not ideal. Treats designed for larger dogs may have calorie counts, textures, or ingredient ratios that are not optimized for smaller breeds. Whenever possible, choose treats that are specifically designed or sized for small dogs.

My small dog is a picky eater. What treats should I try?  

Picky small dogs often respond well to freeze-dried single-ingredient treats like beef liver or chicken breast, which have an intense aroma and flavor. Strong-smelling soft treats like the Blue Buffalo Blue Bits or Wellness Soft Puppy Bites are also good options. Try different proteins to see which one your dog finds most motivating.

Are there any treats small dogs should avoid?  

Small dogs should avoid large rawhide chews, full-sized bully sticks, and any treat or chew that could be swallowed whole or break into large pieces. Also avoid very hard treats like antlers or weight-bearing bones, which can crack small dog teeth. Always choose treats that are size-appropriate and supervise chewing sessions.

Conclusion  

Treating a small dog right means choosing products that respect their size, their calorie needs, and their dental health. All six treats on this list have been selected specifically because they work well for small and toy breeds.

For everyday training, Zuke’s Mini Naturals remain the gold standard with their 2-calorie, perfectly-sized format. For dental health, Greenies Teenie are one of the only VOHC-accepted chews specifically designed for dogs as small as 5 pounds. And for a satisfying long-lasting chew experience, the EcoKind Small Yak Cheese Chews prove that small dogs can enjoy extended chewing sessions too.

Your small dog may be tiny, but their treat experience does not have to be.