Best Dog Treats for German Shepherds: Yummy Snacks For Your Pup

Treats are not just a way to reward your dog, but they can also be a valuable tool for training and motivation. For a breed like the German Shepherd, known for its intelligence, athleticism, and size, the right treat can support their active lifestyle and maintain their health.

Treats come in various forms such as biscuits, chewables, dental sticks, and training morsels, all tailored to suit different purposes. While biscuits might offer a satisfying crunch, chewables and dental sticks can help in maintaining oral health. Training treats, on the other hand, are smaller and ideal for obedience work since they do not fill the dog up too quickly and keep their focus on the task.

When shopping for dog treats, it’s crucial to look at ingredients, size, and nutritional value. Treats, just like bones for German Shepherds, should be made with high-quality, wholesome ingredients that contribute positively to your dog's diet.

The size of the treat is also important – it should be appropriate for the German Shepherd's large mouth and strong jaws to prevent choking hazards and ensure they're chewed properly, promoting good dental health.

Taking into account our experience and extensive research, we’ve found that treats catering specifically to the needs of large breeds can significantly contribute to their well-being and training success. Let’s explore what we've found about the best dog treats for German Shepherds.

Top Picks for German Shepherd Treats

When it comes to rewarding our furry friends, we want to ensure we're giving them something that's not only tasty but also healthy and suited to their specific needs. From training treats to help with obedience drills, to chews that support dental health, here's our carefully selected list of the best treats for your German Shepherd.

Solimo Duck Jerky

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We think these Solimo Duck Jerky Treats are a game-changer for treating our German Shepherds, thanks to their high-quality ingredients and irresistible flavor.

Pros

• Duck is the leading ingredient, so you know your pup is getting a tasty and high-protein snack
• Free from common allergens like corn, wheat, soy, and gluten, which is excellent for sensitive dogs
• Our pups go wild for the chewy texture, and we appreciate that we can break it into smaller pieces for training

Cons

• Since jerky is chewier, always supervise your dog and ensure they have water
• The strong smell is appealing to dogs but might be a bit much for our human noses
• Some dogs might need a gradual introduction to this treat if they have sensitive stomachs

Upon first opening the bag of Solimo Duck Jerky, we were greeted with a wholesome, meaty aroma that immediately got our German Shepherds' tails wagging. It's evident that duck isn't just one fragment of the recipe; it proudly sits at the forefront, providing a protein kick we feel good about.

The treats are notably free from unnecessary fillers that often cause hassle for pups with allergies. We especially appreciate this thoughtfulness in production, as it makes snack time stress-free.

When it came time to train, breaking the jerky into smaller bits was simple, and it helped us keep our furry friends' attention laser-focused on the task at hand. Each successful command was followed by a rewarding chew that seemed to satisfy their instinctual love for something a bit tough.

While the durability of the treat is a pro, it's also a reminder to watch our dogs enjoy their jerky. Especially because they can get pretty absorbed by the delectable chewiness, we keep a bowl of water nearby to assist in safe snacking.

Lastly, for newcomers to Solimo Duck Jerky, starting with a modest portion is wise. Tender tummies might require adaptation to the rich flavor and dense texture, but patience pays off when we see our pups relishing their special treat.

Buddy Biscuits Bacon Flavor

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We think these treats are a game-changer for training your German Shepherd, thanks to their size, taste, and low calories.

Pros

• Enticing bacon flavor that dogs go crazy for
• Ideal size for repetitive training without overfeeding
• Made with natural ingredients without common allergens like corn or soy

Cons

• Some dogs may prefer larger treats
• Bacon scent might be too enticing, causing distraction
• May not be suitable for dogs with specific dietary requirements

Training our furry pals with Buddy Biscuits' Bacon Flavor treats turned out to be a breeze. Their tiny size meant we could keep our German Shepherd focused without worrying about overindulgence, which is especially important for maintaining their strong and active bodies.

Our experience showed that these treats are not just tasty but also versatile. Whether it was simple obedience exercises or more complex games, they proved to be an excellent motivator. Plus, with over 500 pieces per bag, we weren't running out anytime soon.

Another thing we appreciated was the emphasis on clean ingredients. Knowing that we're giving our German Shepherd treats free from corn, soy, and artificial flavors was reassuring and sat well with us. It's always a top priority to ensure what we're feeding our dog is as healthy as it is tasty.

Pur Luv K9 Kabobs

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We think your German Shepherd would find these treats irresistibly tasty and fun to munch on.

Pros

• Made with real chicken and duck, which is a hit with dogs
• The chewy texture keeps dogs engaged longer
• Simple ingredients list for peace of mind

Cons

• They might not last as long with voracious chewers
• Beefhide might not suit dogs with sensitive stomachs
• Contains grains, which could be a drawback for grain-free diets

After handing these K9 Kabobs out to our German Shepherds, they were ecstatic. The combination of chicken, duck, and beef wrapped around a skewer was an instant hit, and we felt good knowing we were giving them high-quality, flavorful treats.

Let's face it, our furry friends need entertainment, and these treats double up as a fun challenge. Unlike other snacks that disappear in seconds, these kabobs give our pups a decent amount of chew time, keeping them occupied and out of mischief.

However, if you've got a dog that chews through everything, keep in mind these kabobs might not last as long as you'd hope. On the plus side, we've had fewer concerns with upset stomachs since we switched to these treats, although that could vary from dog to dog.

Overall, if you're after a treat that's both tasty and engaging for your German Shepherd, these Kabobs are a strong contender. Just watch if your dog tends to be sensitive to certain ingredients or is a heavyweight chewer, but don't let that deter you from trying them out - ours loved every bite.

Cloud Star Chewy Treats

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We've found an absolute gem for training sessions with our German Shepherds: Cloud Star Chewy Treats are both motivational and delicious, which could be just what you need.

Pros

• Ideal size for repetitive training without overfeeding
• Soft texture that our dogs go crazy for
• Wholesome ingredients that we feel good about giving

Cons

• The salmon scent might be too strong for some people
• Higher cost compared to conventional treats
• May not suit dogs with specific protein allergies

Our German Shepherds couldn't resist the taste of these Cloud Star Chewy Treats while we were working on new commands. The small size meant we could reward them frequently without worrying about their caloric needs.

The soft texture was just perfect; they could easily chew these treats, which kept their focus locked on us and the task at hand. To us, these treats felt like a little secret weapon to ensure training success.

We were after something that wouldn't disrupt their diet, and these treats hit the mark. The ingredients list gave us peace of mind—no mysterious additives, just straightforward, nourishing components.

While the price is a notch above the rest, we think it's a fair trade for the quality provided. Just keep in mind, if your pooch has a sensitivity to salmon or other proteins, you might want to consider other options.

If you're training your German Shepherd, these bites are a great pick—tasty for them and packed with quality ingredients that make us feel like responsible pet owners.

Nature Gnaws Turkey Treats

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We think these treats should be in your cart if you're looking for a natural, satisfying chew that keeps both puppies and adult German Shepherds busy and supports their dental health.

Pros

• Grain-free, high-protein snack that satisfies our dogs' chewing instincts
• Steers clear of causing bad breath, leaving our furry friends' kisses as fresh as before
• Helps maintain good dental hygiene by reducing plaque and tartar build-up

Cons

• Price point might be higher when compared to other treats on the market
• The pieces may vary in size, which could be an issue for consistency in training rewards
• Some picky eaters might not take to them on the first go, making initial acceptance a hit or miss

We've recently given our German Shepherds these Nature Gnaws turkey tendons, and they've been a hit! Particularly well-received during training sessions, it seems like they're willing to do anything for a bite of these tasty morsels.

These treats are also almost as chewable as the best chew toys for German Shepherd pups. Even our most energetic chewer spent a good deal of time working on a single tendinous stick. It's comforting to know they're not just busy, but also getting a dental clean in the process.

Lastly, we've found that these treats are great for all ages which is a relief, no need to buy different treats for the puppy and the adult dogs anymore. They all seem to appreciate the natural turkey flavor and the longer-lasting chew time compared to other treats we've used. Plus, not having to deal with any smelly aftermath is a bonus for us as well.

Stella & Chewy's Wild Weenies

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A must-try for German Shepherd owners seeking nutritional treats that dogs find irresistible.

Pros

• Packed with a high-protein punch that maintains pooch muscles
• Made from natural, raw ingredients supporting overall health
• No artificial additives makes them a safe snack

Cons

• Pricier than some other treat options
• The bag's bottom tends to have excess crumbs
• Can be too rich for dogs with sensitive stomachs

When we tossed a Stella & Chewy's Wild Weenie to our German Shepherd, the excitement was palpable. There's something about the raw, freeze-dried chicken that gets our pup's tail wagging every time, making these treats a hit for reinforcement during training sessions.

It was not just the splendid taste that had us adding these treats to the top of our list; their wholesome composition aligns with our beliefs in feeding pets a natural diet. And because they're made from 97% chicken and organs, we've noticed an enjoyable boost in vitality and health in our dog.

However, while our furry family member rejoices at treat time, our wallet does feel a bit lighter. We've also had to deal with the crumb situation at the bottom of the bag, which can be wasteful. Plus, if your German Shepherd is known to have a sensitive tummy, these rich treats may need to be given sparingly.

Redbarn Beef Cheek Rolls

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In our experience, these chews are a hit with the pups, offering a safe and long-lasting treat that supports joint health.

Pros

• Ideal for teething pups or dogs that love to chew
• Promotes dental health through natural chewing motion
• Odor-free and stain-free keeps our homes clean

Cons

• Pricier than some other treat options on the market
• Not suitable for dogs with beef allergies
• May not be as appealing for finicky eaters

The moment we gave these to our German Shepherds, they were head over paws. The unique shape offered them both a challenge and entertainment, keeping them engaged far longer than their usual snacks. It's a huge relief to find a treat that doesn't leave any stains on our carpets and is totally free from that typical dog treat smell.

For those on the hunt for grain-free options, the Redbarn's Beef Cheek Rolls fit the bill perfectly. It's heartwarming to see our dogs improving their dental health while enjoying their treats, chomping away happily—these rolls are quite the multitaskers.

Lasting longer than the typical chew, these rolls have become our go-to for keeping the dogs busy on a lazy afternoon. Plus, we take comfort in the fact that they are contributing to our dogs' joint health with their collagen content. It's a win on multiple fronts, and seeing our dogs content and busy is all the proof we need of the product's value.

Do you want to invest in more upkeep for your best friend? Check out the best collars for German Shepherds, combining fashion and comfort at the same time!

Buying Guide

When we're on the lookout for the best dog treats for our German Shepherds, it's essential to consider a few critical features that ensure we're picking the right snack for our furry friends. Let's dive into what we should keep our eyes peeled for:

Nutritional Value

We want to provide our dogs with treats that are more than just tasty. They should also be nutritious. Look for treats that contain:

• High-quality protein sources
• Essential fatty acids
• Vitamins and minerals
• No artificial preservatives or colors

Ingredient Quality

It's all about what's inside that counts. Quality ingredients lead to better health for our German Shepherds. We should aim for treats with:

• Whole food ingredients
• A clear list of contents
• Minimal fillers like corn or soy

Size and Texture

Since German Shepherds are a larger breed, the size and texture of the treats are important to prevent choking and support dental health.

• Large or medium-sized treats: Avoid those tiny treats meant for smaller breeds.
• Various textures: Chewable and hard options for dental health, and softer ones for training.

Taste Factor

Let's not forget, treats should be enjoyable for them!

• Flavor variety: Rotating between flavors can keep our dogs interested.
• Palatability: If our German Shepherd doesn't love it, it's not the right treat.

Purpose

Understanding why we're giving a treat helps us to choose the right type:

• Training: Smaller, low-calorie treats are preferable.
• Dental Health: Choose treats designed to clean teeth and freshen breath.
• Joint Health: Look for added glucosamine or chondroitin.

By keeping these factors in mind, we'll be sure to pick out treats that not only make our German Shepherds wag their tails but are also beneficial for their overall well-being.