Best Treats for Diabetic Dogs: Low-Glycemic Options (2026)

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Important Disclaimer: The information in this article is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. If your dog has been diagnosed with diabetes, always consult your veterinarian before introducing any new treats or making changes to your dog’s diet. Your vet knows your dog’s specific condition, insulin regimen, and dietary needs, and their guidance should always take priority.

A diabetes diagnosis for your dog can feel overwhelming, and one of the first questions many owners ask is: “Can I still give my dog treats?” The answer is yes, but with careful consideration. The right treats can actually be a positive part of managing your diabetic dog’s condition, providing small rewards for good behavior and training without causing dangerous blood sugar spikes.

The key to treating a diabetic dog safely lies in understanding how different foods affect blood sugar. High-glycemic treats loaded with sugars, simple carbohydrates, and starchy fillers can cause rapid blood sugar elevation, which is exactly what you need to avoid. Instead, you want low-glycemic options that are high in protein, low in sugar, and moderate to low in carbohydrates. Single-ingredient freeze-dried treats, lean protein jerky, and carefully formulated low-calorie options are your best allies.

In this guide, we will review the six best treats for diabetic dogs in 2026, explain what to look for and what to avoid, and give you the information you need to treat your dog safely and confidently.

What to Look For in Treats for Diabetic Dogs  

High Protein, Low Carbohydrate  

Protein has a minimal impact on blood sugar compared to carbohydrates. Treats that are primarily protein based, such as freeze-dried meats, will cause the least disruption to your dog’s blood glucose levels. Look for treats where a named animal protein is the first (and ideally only) ingredient.

Zero or Very Low Sugar  

This should go without saying, but always check the guaranteed analysis and ingredient list for sugar content. Avoid treats that list sugar, molasses, corn syrup, honey, or other sweeteners in their ingredients. Even some “natural” treats contain added sugars that can be problematic for diabetic dogs.

Low Glycemic Index Ingredients  

The glycemic index (GI) measures how quickly a food raises blood sugar. Low-GI ingredients like sweet potato (in moderation), pumpkin, and most animal proteins are better choices than high-GI ingredients like white rice, white potato, and wheat flour. Keep in mind that even low-GI treats should be given in controlled portions.

Minimal and Recognizable Ingredients  

The shorter the ingredient list, the easier it is to understand exactly what your diabetic dog is consuming. Single-ingredient treats are ideal because there are no hidden sugars, fillers, or additives to worry about. If a treat has multiple ingredients, make sure you can identify and understand each one.

Low Calorie Count  

Many diabetic dogs also struggle with weight management, and excess weight worsens insulin resistance. Low-calorie treats (under 5 calories per treat) let you reward your dog without significantly impacting their daily caloric budget. This is especially important because diabetic dogs typically need consistent caloric intake aligned with their insulin schedule.

Consistent Sizing  

For diabetic dogs, consistency matters. Treats that are uniform in size and calorie content make it easier to account for them in your dog’s daily food and insulin plan. Treats that vary wildly in size from piece to piece make accurate calorie tracking more difficult.

Best Treats for Diabetic Dogs: Our Top 6 Picks  

1. PureBites Chicken Breast Freeze-Dried ($18-24) - Best Overall for Diabetic Dogs  

Price range: $18-24

PureBites Chicken Breast Freeze-Dried is the gold standard for diabetic dog treats because of its absolute simplicity: one ingredient – 100% pure chicken breast. At only 3 calories per treat with zero sugar, zero carbohydrates, and pure protein, this is as blood-sugar-friendly as a treat can possibly be. The freeze-drying process preserves the protein and flavor without requiring any additives, preservatives, or processing agents.

For diabetic dogs, the predictability of this treat is invaluable. Each piece delivers the same nutritional profile, making it easy to account for in your dog’s daily meal and insulin plan. The high protein content also means your dog gets a satisfying, flavorful reward that feels substantial despite its low calorie count.

Pros:

• Single ingredient: 100% chicken breast
• Only 3 calories per treat with zero sugar
• Pure protein with no carbohydrates
• Freeze-dried format requires no additives or preservatives
• Consistent sizing for reliable calorie tracking
• Highly palatable – most dogs love the taste

Cons:

• Freeze-dried texture can be crumbly and messy
• Higher price per bag compared to conventional treats
• Some dogs prefer a chewier or softer texture
• The bag can lose freshness quickly once opened if not sealed properly

2. Wholesome Pride Sweet Potato Chews ($8-14) - Best Plant-Based Option  

Price range: $8-14

Wholesome Pride Sweet Potato Chews offer a single-ingredient treat with a different nutritional profile. Made from 100% dehydrated sweet potato, these chews are high in dietary fiber, which helps slow the absorption of natural sugars and provides a more gradual impact on blood glucose compared to simple carbohydrates. Sweet potato has a moderate glycemic index, placing it in the middle ground between high-GI starches and low-GI proteins.

The high fiber content is a genuine advantage for diabetic dogs, as fiber helps regulate blood sugar by slowing digestion. However, sweet potato does contain natural sugars, so portion control is essential. These work best as an occasional treat rather than a daily staple for diabetic dogs, and you should monitor your dog’s blood sugar response when first introducing them.

Pros:

• Single ingredient: 100% dehydrated sweet potato
• High fiber content helps moderate blood sugar absorption
• Rich in vitamins A, C, and B6
• Grain-free and naturally vegan
• Chewy texture provides engagement and satisfaction
• Affordable price point

Cons:

• Sweet potato has a moderate glycemic index – not as blood-sugar-friendly as pure protein treats
• Natural sugars present, requiring careful portion control
• Should be given in smaller amounts for diabetic dogs than the package suggests
• Can be tough for senior dogs or dogs with dental issues

3. Vital Essentials Freeze-Dried Beef Liver ($12-18) - Best High-Protein Option  

Price range: $12-18

Vital Essentials Freeze-Dried Beef Liver delivers a single-ingredient, high-protein treat with virtually no carbohydrates. Beef liver is one of the most nutrient-dense foods available, packed with B vitamins, iron, copper, and vitamin A in addition to high-quality protein. For diabetic dogs, the absence of carbohydrates means this treat has minimal impact on blood sugar levels.

Vital Essentials is known for its commitment to raw, minimally processed nutrition, and these freeze-dried liver treats reflect that philosophy. The intense flavor of beef liver makes these treats exceptionally appealing to dogs, which is helpful when you need a high-value reward for training or medication compliance.

Pros:

• Single ingredient: 100% beef liver
• High protein with virtually no carbohydrates
• Nutrient-dense with B vitamins, iron, and vitamin A
• Intense flavor makes them a high-value reward
• No additives, preservatives, or fillers
• Freeze-dried format preserves raw nutrition

Cons:

• Rich flavor may cause soft stools if given in excess
• Beef liver is very high in vitamin A, which can be an issue in large quantities
• Some dogs may find the flavor too intense
• Price per ounce is higher than many conventional treats

4. Stewart Pro-Treat Freeze Dried Liver ($10-14) - Best Value Freeze-Dried  

Price range: $10-14

Stewart Pro-Treat Freeze Dried Liver offers a single-ingredient beef liver treat at a more accessible price point than some premium competitors. Made in the USA with 100% beef liver, these treats deliver the same blood-sugar-friendly profile of high protein and negligible carbohydrates. The low calorie count per treat makes them easy to fit into a diabetic dog’s tightly managed daily intake.

Stewart has been making freeze-dried liver treats for decades and has built a strong reputation for consistency and quality. The resealable tub packaging helps maintain freshness, and the treats break apart easily for dogs of different sizes. This is an excellent everyday choice for diabetic dog owners who want a reliable, affordable, blood-sugar-safe treat.

Pros:

• Single ingredient: 100% beef liver
• Low calorie with high protein and negligible carbs
• More affordable than many premium freeze-dried brands
• Resealable tub helps maintain freshness
• Made in the USA with a long track record
• Easy to break into smaller pieces for portion control

Cons:

• Liver treats can be pungent, which some owners find unpleasant
• Freeze-dried texture can crumble in pockets during training
• Not as nutrient-dense as some competing liver treat brands
• Some dogs may tire of liver flavor if used exclusively

5. Fruitables Skinny Minis ($5-8) - Best Low-Calorie Option  

Price range: $5-8

Fruitables Skinny Minis are specifically designed for calorie-conscious dogs, with each treat containing only 3 calories. Made with real pumpkin and sweet potato as primary ingredients, these treats are gluten-free and provide a gentle, fiber-rich snacking option. The low calorie count makes them particularly useful for diabetic dogs who also need to manage their weight.

While these treats do contain some carbohydrates from the pumpkin and sweet potato, the portions are so small that the blood sugar impact per treat is minimal. The pumpkin content also provides beneficial fiber that helps moderate blood sugar response. Available in multiple flavors, they offer variety without the risk associated with changing treat brands entirely.

Pros:

• Only 3 calories per treat
• Real pumpkin and sweet potato provide beneficial fiber
• Gluten-free formula
• Very affordable and widely available
• Multiple flavor options for variety
• Small, consistent size makes calorie tracking easy

Cons:

• Not zero-carb, so less ideal than pure protein options for strict diabetic management
• Contains some plant-based ingredients beyond the primary ones
• Soft texture means a shorter shelf life once opened
• Not single-ingredient, though the ingredient list is still short

6. Zuke’s Mini Naturals ($12-16) - Best for Training Diabetic Dogs  

Price range: $12-16

Zuke’s Mini Naturals are a staple in the training world, and their tiny size makes them exceptionally useful for diabetic dogs who need frequent rewards during training sessions. At only 2 calories per treat, you can use many of these throughout a training session without significantly impacting your dog’s blood sugar or daily caloric budget. The grain-free formula avoids common high-glycemic grain fillers.

Available in multiple protein flavors including chicken, peanut butter and oats, duck, and salmon, Zuke’s Minis offer enough variety to keep your diabetic dog engaged and motivated during training. The soft, chewy texture is appealing to dogs of all ages and sizes, and the small size means each treat is consumed quickly, which is ideal for rapid-fire training repetitions.

Pros:

• Only 2 calories per treat, the lowest on our list
• Tiny size is perfect for training without overfeeding
• Grain-free formula avoids high-glycemic grains
• Multiple flavor options for variety
• Soft, chewy texture is universally appealing
• Best Seller with an established reputation

Cons:

• Not single-ingredient, so more complex nutritionally
• Contains some carbohydrates from pea and chickpea ingredients
• Soft texture means the bag should be consumed within a few weeks of opening
• Higher price per bag than some conventional training treats

Comparison Table  

Treats to Avoid for Diabetic Dogs  

Knowing what to avoid is just as important as knowing what to buy. Steer clear of treats that contain:

• Added sugars, molasses, or corn syrup – These cause rapid blood sugar spikes.
• White flour and wheat – High glycemic index ingredients that quickly convert to glucose.
• Excessive starchy fillers – Corn, white potato, and tapioca in large amounts can raise blood sugar.
• High-fat treats – Diabetic dogs are at increased risk for pancreatitis, and high-fat treats can trigger an episode.
• Rawhide and long-lasting chews – These are difficult to account for in daily calorie and carbohydrate budgets because consumption rates vary.
• Semi-moist treats with humectants – Propylene glycol and similar humectants can affect blood sugar levels.

Tips for Treating a Diabetic Dog Safely  

Time treats with meals and insulin. The best time to give treats to a diabetic dog is shortly after they have eaten and received their insulin, when blood sugar is being actively managed. Avoid giving treats on an empty stomach or at random times between meals.

Account for treats in daily calories. Treats should make up no more than 5-10% of your diabetic dog’s daily caloric intake. Keep a running count so you can report accurate numbers to your vet.

Be consistent. Diabetic management relies on routine. Give the same types and amounts of treats at the same times each day. Sudden changes in treat type or quantity can disrupt blood sugar stability.

Monitor blood sugar responses. When introducing a new treat, test your dog’s blood sugar before and 2-4 hours after giving the treat to understand its specific impact on your individual dog. Every dog responds differently.

Keep emergency supplies nearby. If your dog’s blood sugar drops too low (hypoglycemia), having corn syrup or honey available to rub on their gums can be lifesaving while you contact your vet.

For more low-calorie options that pair well with diabetic management, check out our guide to the best low-calorie dog treats. Many of the freeze-dried options in our best freeze-dried dog treats roundup are also excellent choices for diabetic dogs. And for overall senior dog wellness (since diabetes is more common in older dogs), see our guide to the best treats for senior dogs.

Frequently Asked Questions  

Can diabetic dogs have any treats at all?  

Yes, diabetic dogs can absolutely have treats, but the types and amounts need to be carefully managed. High-protein, low-carbohydrate, and low-sugar treats are the safest options. Always consult your veterinarian about appropriate treat choices and quantities for your specific dog’s insulin regimen.

How many treats per day can a diabetic dog have?  

This depends on your dog’s size, insulin dose, and the specific treats you are using. As a general guideline, treats should not exceed 5-10% of your dog’s daily caloric intake. For a small dog on 400 calories per day, that means 20-40 calories from treats. Always coordinate with your vet.

Are freeze-dried treats the best option for diabetic dogs?  

Single-ingredient freeze-dried protein treats are generally the safest option because they are pure protein with no added sugars or carbohydrates. They provide a satisfying, flavorful reward with minimal blood sugar impact. However, your vet may have specific recommendations based on your dog’s individual needs.

Can I give my diabetic dog fruits and vegetables as treats?  

Some fruits and vegetables are acceptable in small amounts. Blueberries, green beans, and cucumber slices are lower on the glycemic index. However, avoid high-sugar fruits like bananas, grapes (which are toxic to dogs), and mangoes. Always introduce new foods slowly and monitor blood sugar response.

Will low-calorie treats keep my diabetic dog satisfied?  

Yes, most dogs respond to the act of receiving a treat rather than the size of the treat itself. Small, flavorful treats like freeze-dried liver or 2-calorie training treats provide the same positive reinforcement as larger treats. The flavor and the ritual matter more than the volume.

Should I change my dog’s treats if their insulin dose changes?  

Not necessarily, but you should discuss it with your veterinarian. If your dog’s insulin dose or feeding schedule changes, the timing and quantity of treats may need to be adjusted to maintain stable blood sugar throughout the day.

Conclusion  

Managing diabetes in your dog does not mean the end of treat time. With the right products and a thoughtful approach, you can continue to reward, train, and bond with your diabetic dog through treats that support their health rather than undermining it. PureBites Chicken Breast Freeze-Dried is our top recommendation for its single-ingredient purity, zero sugar, and pure protein profile. For budget-conscious owners, Stewart Pro-Treat Freeze Dried Liver offers similar single-ingredient benefits at a lower price, and Zuke’s Mini Naturals at just 2 calories per treat are unbeatable for training sessions.

Above all, work closely with your veterinarian to develop a treat plan that fits your dog’s specific diabetes management protocol. With consistency, the right products, and veterinary guidance, your diabetic dog can enjoy treats safely for years to come.