If your small dog is overweight, you don’t have to give up training treats , just choose smarter ones. Look for treats that are low in calories (under 3 calories each), soft enough to break into tiny pieces, and made with simple, healthy ingredients. Here are the best types of training treats for your heavy small breed.
Why Size and Calories Matter for Small Breeds
Small dogs have tiny stomachs and high metabolic rates, but they gain weight easily because even a few extra calories can be significant. A 10-pound dog needs only about 200-300 calories per day, so a single 10-calorie treat is like a human eating a whole slice of pizza. For training, you’ll be giving many treats, so each one must be ultra-low-calorie. The ideal size is about the size of a pea or smaller, and the treat should be soft so you can break it into multiple pieces. This way, you can reward frequently without overfeeding.
Best Treat Types for Overweight Small Breeds
Freeze-Dried Meat Treats
Freeze-dried meat treats, such as chicken breast, liver, or beef, are excellent because they are pure protein, low in fat, and typically contain only one ingredient. They are light, crunchy but crumble easily, and many are under 2 calories per piece. These treats are highly palatable, so your dog will work hard for them. Brands like PureBites or Vital Essentials offer small 2-calorie treats ideal for training.
Single-Ingredient Vegetable and Fruit Treats
Dehydrated or freeze-dried vegetables like green beans, sweet potatoes, or carrots are naturally low in calories and fiber-rich. Some dogs also enjoy tiny pieces of fresh apple or blueberry, but be careful with high-sugar fruits. These treats are around 1-3 calories per piece and provide extra nutrients. Always check that the treat is plain (no added salt, sugar, or preservatives). For example, dehydrated green beans are crunchy and low-cal, perfect for rewarding.
Low-Fat Cheese or Yogurt Treats
Small amounts of low-fat cheese (like mozzarella string cheese with less than 2% fat) or freeze-dried yogurt drops can be broken into tiny bits. These are soft, cheesy, and motivating for many dogs. A pea-sized piece of part-skim mozzarella is about 5 calories, but you can break it into three pieces. Freeze-dried yogurt drops often come in 3-calorie bits. Just ensure the yogurt is plain, no added sugar, and avoid cheese if your dog is lactose intolerant.
Commercial Low-Calorie Training Treats
Many pet brands now offer treats specifically for weight management. Look for options with fewer than 3 calories per treat and ingredients like chicken, oats, and vegetables. Examples include Zuke’s Mini Naturals (2 calories each) or Blue Buffalo BLUE Bits (2.5 calories). These are soft, small, and designed for training. Always read the bag: the first ingredient should be a named meat, and the treat should be low in fat and free of artificial additives.
How to Incorporate Treats into a Weight Loss Plan
First, consult your veterinarian before starting a weight loss program. They can calculate your dog’s daily calorie needs and help set a target. As a rule, treats should make up no more than 10% of daily calories. For a 10-pound dog needing 250 calories, that’s 25 calories from treats , that’s about 8-12 super tiny treats per day. Use those treats strategically: for new behaviors, during walks, or for recall. For less critical training moments, use praise or a favorite toy as reward. Also, reduce your dog’s meal portion slightly to account for treats. Weigh your dog weekly and adjust portions as needed.
Training Tips for Overweight Small Breeds
Since your dog may be less energetic due to weight, keep training sessions short (5 minutes) and positive. Use high-value but low-calorie treats so your dog stays motivated. Break treats into tiny pieces , even a 2-calorie treat can be broken into four pieces. Practice a ‘touch’ command where you reward a nose touch to your hand; this uses minimal energy. Avoid free-feeding treats; instead, make your dog work for each one. For low-key training, you can even use a portion of your dog’s regular kibble as treats , measure out meal kibble into a training pouch.
Remember, weight loss is a gradual process. Stay consistent with treat choices and portion sizes, and always check with your vet before making dietary changes. With the right low-calorie training treats, your small breed can stay motivated and shed pounds safely.
Key Takeaway
Choose soft, single-ingredient treats under 3 calories each, like freeze-dried meat or low-fat cheese bits, and always account for treat calories in your dog’s daily meal plan with your vet’s guidance.