What are high-value dog treats?

When you're working on teaching your pup a new trick or navigating a particularly distracting environment, high-value treats can be powerful training tools. These special rewards are the dog equivalent of getting an ice cream sundae instead of a handful of almonds as a snack. Understanding what makes a treat "high value" and knowing when to use them can transform your training sessions from frustrating to successful.

What makes a dog treat high-value?

High-value treats are the rewards that make your dog's eyes light up and their tail wag with extra enthusiasm. These aren't your everyday training biscuits — they're special foods that your pup finds irresistibly appealing. The most effective high-value treats will depend on your dog’s personal preferences but share several key characteristics: they're typically soft and moist rather than crunchy, have a strong aroma that catches your dog's attention and are packed with protein from real meat sources. Think of them as the difference between a plain salad and your favorite dessert — both are food, but one definitely gets you more excited.

The key to a treat being truly "high value" is that it's something your dog doesn't get regularly. If chicken becomes an everyday snack, it loses its special appeal. Reserve these premium rewards for challenging training situations, teaching complex behaviors or working through distractions.

Best types of high-value treats for training

Freeze-dried meats top the list of most effective high-value treats. These concentrated protein bites — usually with beef, chicken or liver — pack intense flavor into small, convenient pieces. Their strong scent makes them particularly appealing to dogs, and the texture allows for quick consumption during training sessions.

For homemade options, small pieces of plain cooked chicken or turkey work well. String cheese cut into tiny cubes offers another protein-rich option that most dogs adore. Turkey hot dogs, sliced into pea-sized pieces, provide that perfect combination of smell, taste and soft texture that keeps dogs motivated.

Commercial soft and chewy training treats designed specifically for training sessions offer convenience without sacrificing appeal. Look for options that can be easily broken into smaller pieces, allowing you to reward frequently without overfeeding. Your dog will be excited about the treat itself, not its size. The best training treats are small enough for your dog to eat quickly — you want them focused on the task, not spending time chewing.

When to use high-value treats vs. regular rewards

Save your high-value treats for moments when you really need your dog's full attention. Teaching a challenging new behavior like "stay" or "leave it" calls for premium rewards. Working on recall in a distracting environment like a dog park? That's definitely high-value treat territory. If you're trying to help your dog overcome fear or anxiety around something specific, these special rewards can help create positive associations.

For everyday behaviors your dog already knows well — like sitting before meals or waiting at doors — regular treats or even praise might be sufficient. The goal is to match the reward to the effort required. Think of high-value treats as your training ace in the hole, not your everyday currency.

Safety tips for using high-value treats

"When introducing new high-value treats, start with small amounts to ensure they don't upset your dog's digestive system," Dr. Aliya McCullough, Fetch's Chief Veterinary Officer, says. "Some dogs can be sensitive to rich proteins or new foods, so gradual introduction helps prevent stomach upset."

Always supervise your dog when they're enjoying treats, especially new ones. Choose treats appropriately sized for your dog — what works for a Great Dane could be a choking hazard for a Chihuahua. Keep portions small during training to avoid overfeeding; those pea-sized pieces add up quickly during an intensive session.

Store high-value treats properly to maintain freshness and prevent spoilage. Refrigerate homemade options like cooked chicken, and follow storage instructions on commercial treats. Remember that treats should make up no more than 10% of your dog's daily caloric intake, even when using them for training.

Making the most of high-value treats in training

Timing matters when using high-value treats. Deliver the reward within 3 seconds of the desired behavior to create a clear connection in your dog's mind. Keep training sessions short and positive — multiple 5-minute sessions work better than one exhausting half-hour marathon.

Vary your high-value treats to maintain interest. If you use the same treat every time, even the most exciting reward can become boring. Rotate between different proteins and textures to keep your dog guessing and engaged.

By understanding what makes these treats special and using them strategically, you're setting both you and your pup up for training success. Remember, the "highest-value" treat is the one your individual dog finds most motivating — and discovering your dog's personal favorites is part of the fun of training together.