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Dog Training Treats for Boston Terriers That Deliver

Boston Terriers need low-cal, limited-ingredient treats to avoid obesity and allergies. We compare Zuke's Mini Naturals and 4 more top picks for effective training.

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๐ŸพNew to the breed? Read our full Boston Terrier breed guide for temperament, care, health and lifespan. Zuke's Mini Naturals Dog Training Treats, Peanut Butter & Oats โ˜… Top Pick: Zuke's Mini Naturals Dog Training Treats, Peanut Buโ€ฆ Check Price on Amazon →
2-5
Calories per treat (ideal for training)
50+
Treats per bag (varies by brand)
95%
Digestibility of high-quality treats
1/4 inch
Ideal treat size for Boston Terriers
โšก Key takeaways
  • Best Overall: Zuke's Mini Naturals Dog Training Treats, Peanut Butter & Oats. These soft, mini treats are only 2 calories each, perfect for frequent training without ov.
  • Best Dental Chew: Greenies Teenie Dental Dog Treats. VOHC-accepted for dental health, these small chews help reduce plaque and tartar.
  • Best for Sensitive Stomachs: Blue Buffalo Blue Bits Natural Soft-Moist Training Dog Treats, Salmon. Made with salmon as the first ingredient, these treats are free from chicken, corn, wheat,.
  • Best Grain-Free: Wellness Soft WellBites Natural Grain-Free Dog Treats, Lamb & Salmon. These grain-free, soft treats are made with lamb and salmon, providing novel proteins for.
  • Best Budget: Pet Botanics Training Rewards Natural Dog Treats, Bacon & Peanut Butter. Affordable and widely available, these treats are small, soft, and highly palatable.
At a Glance

Quick Comparison

Quick answer

Our top pick for Boston Terrier training treats is Zuke’s Mini Naturals. These soft, bite-sized morsels are perfect for frequent rewards during training sessions. Their small size and low calorie count (just 2 calories per treat) make them ideal for Boston Terriers, who can be prone to weight gain. For a more durable option that also supports dental health, consider Greenies Teenie Dental Dog Treats. If your Boston Terrier has food sensitivities, try Blue Buffalo Blue Bits.

What to consider for Dog Training Treats For Boston Terriers

Boston Terriers have a unique set of needs when it comes to training treats. Their brachycephalic (short-nosed) structure can make breathing difficult, so treats should be small and soft to avoid choking hazards. They are also prone to food allergies, particularly to grains and chicken, so limited-ingredient or novel protein treats are often a good choice. Additionally, Boston Terriers are intelligent and food-motivated, but they can gain weight easily, so low-calorie options are important. Finally, their sensitive stomachs mean you should avoid treats with artificial additives or high fat content.

What to look for in a toy or chew (chew toy, puzzle, lick mat or dental chew)

When selecting a toy or chew for your Boston Terrier, consider size: choose a toy that is too large to swallow but small enough for their mouth. Durability is key, as Boston Terriers can be moderate chewers; look for rubber or nylon toys that are tough but not too hard. Non-toxic materials are a must, as is a VOHC seal for dental chews to ensure effectiveness. For enrichment, puzzle toys that dispense treats can keep their active minds engaged. Lick mats are great for calming anxious dogs and can be used with soft treats like peanut butter or yogurt.

How we chose these picks

  • Evaluated ingredient quality, focusing on natural, limited-ingredient recipes suitable for sensitive stomachs.
  • Considered calorie density to prevent overfeeding during training sessions.
  • Checked for appropriate size and texture for brachycephalic breeds.
  • Reviewed customer feedback for palatability and digestibility.
  • Prioritized treats with no artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives.
  • Selected options across different price points to suit various budgets.
  • Never ranked a product higher just because it pays a commission.

What to avoid

  • Hard treats or bones that could crack teeth or cause choking.
  • Treats with high fat content that may cause pancreatitis.
  • Large treats that take too long to chew, as Boston Terriers may gulp them.
  • Treats containing common allergens like corn, wheat, soy, or chicken.
  • Leaving your dog unsupervised with any treat, especially dental chews.

For more guidance, check out our dog guides, dog food, and dog health sections.

Why this matters

Boston Terriers are prone to obesity and food allergies, making low-calorie, limited-ingredient training treats essential for effective training without compromising health.

The Options

Types Explained

Soft Training Treats

Small, chewy morsels that are easy to break into smaller pieces. Ideal for frequent rewards during training sessions.

Best for: Boston Terriers with sensitive teeth or those who prefer a soft texture.

Dental Chews

Specially shaped chews that help reduce plaque and tartar. They often have a VOHC seal for effectiveness.

Best for: Dental health maintenance, but should be given in moderation due to higher calorie content.

Freeze-Dried Treats

Single-ingredient treats made from raw meat or fish, freeze-dried to preserve nutrients. They are crunchy but easily crumbled.

Best for: Dogs with allergies or those on a raw diet. However, they can be high in protein and should be fed sparingly.

Training Chews

Longer-lasting chews like bully sticks or tendon strips that can be used for extended training sessions.

Best for: Providing mental stimulation and satisfying the urge to chew, but supervise to prevent choking.
The Rankings

Top 5 Picks

#1
Zuke's Mini Naturals Dog Training Treats, Peanut Butter & Oats
Best Overall

Zuke's Mini Naturals Dog Training Treats, Peanut Butter & Oats

View on Amazon

These soft, mini treats are only 2 calories each, perfect for frequent training without overfeeding. Made with real peanut butter and oats, they are easily digestible for Boston Terriers. However, they contain chicken fat, which may not suit dogs with poultry allergies.

#2
Greenies Teenie Dental Dog Treats
Best Dental Chew

Greenies Teenie Dental Dog Treats

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VOHC-accepted for dental health, these small chews help reduce plaque and tartar. Their unique texture is gentle on teeth yet effective. However, they are higher in calories (about 50 calories each) and should be used sparingly for training.

#3
Blue Buffalo Blue Bits Natural Soft-Moist Training Dog Treats, Salmon
Best for Sensitive Stomachs

Blue Buffalo Blue Bits Natural Soft-Moist Training Dog Treats, Salmon

View on Amazon

Made with salmon as the first ingredient, these treats are free from chicken, corn, wheat, and soy. They are soft and small, ideal for Boston Terriers with food sensitivities. A downside is that they can be crumbly, leaving residue in pockets.

#4
Wellness Soft WellBites Natural Grain-Free Dog Treats, Lamb & Salmon
Best Grain-Free

Wellness Soft WellBites Natural Grain-Free Dog Treats, Lamb & Salmon

View on Amazon

These grain-free, soft treats are made with lamb and salmon, providing novel proteins for allergy-prone Boston Terriers. They are low in calories (4 calories each) and have a soft texture. However, some dogs may not like the strong fish smell.

#5
Pet Botanics Training Rewards Natural Dog Treats, Bacon & Peanut Butter
Best Budget

Pet Botanics Training Rewards Natural Dog Treats, Bacon & Peanut Butter

View on Amazon

Affordable and widely available, these treats are small, soft, and highly palatable. They contain no artificial flavors or preservatives. On the downside, they include chicken meal, which might be an issue for dogs with chicken allergies.

Before You Buy

Key Buying Factors

01

Calorie Content

Training treats should be low in calories to prevent weight gain. Look for treats with 2-5 calories each, especially for small breeds like Boston Terriers who need frequent rewards.

02

Ingredient Quality

Choose treats with real meat or fish as the first ingredient, and avoid artificial additives. Boston Terriers often have sensitive stomachs, so limited-ingredient or novel protein treats are beneficial.

03

Size and Texture

Treats should be small (about 1/4 inch) and soft to avoid choking and to be easily chewed by brachycephalic dogs. Hard treats can pose a risk.

04

Allergen Profile

Many Boston Terriers are allergic to chicken, corn, wheat, or soy. Opt for treats that are free from these common allergens, or choose novel proteins like salmon or lamb.

05

Training Purpose

For high-value rewards during training, choose treats with strong aroma and taste. Soft, moist treats are often more motivating than dry biscuits.

Living With It

Care, Cost and Maintenance

Storage

Store treats in a cool, dry place. For soft treats, reseal the bag or use an airtight container to maintain freshness. Freeze-dried treats should be kept away from moisture.

Portion Control

Treats should make up no more than 10% of your dog's daily caloric intake. Adjust meal portions accordingly to prevent weight gain.

Monitoring

Always supervise your Boston Terrier when giving treats, especially dental chews or longer-lasting chews. Watch for any signs of digestive upset or allergies.

Pro tip

Break larger treats into smaller pieces to extend training sessions and reduce calorie intake. This also helps prevent overfeeding while keeping your Boston Terrier motivated.

Frequently asked questions

Are these training treats safe for heavy chewers?
Training treats are generally not designed for heavy chewing; they are meant to be consumed quickly. For heavy chewers, consider using a durable chew toy or a dental chew that is appropriately sized. Always supervise your dog to ensure they do not swallow large pieces.
How do I choose the right size treat for my Boston Terrier?
Choose treats that are small, about the size of a pea or a dime. Boston Terriers have small mouths and can choke on larger pieces. Soft treats are preferable as they are easier to chew and digest. If using dental chews, select the 'Teenie' size specifically designed for small breeds.
Do I need to supervise my dog while giving training treats?
Yes, supervision is always recommended, especially with soft treats that can be gulped down. While training treats are generally safe, any treat can pose a choking hazard if your dog eats too quickly. Monitor your dog's behavior and ensure they chew properly.
What are the benefits of dental chews for Boston Terriers?
Dental chews help reduce plaque and tartar buildup, which is important for Boston Terriers as they are prone to dental issues. The VOHC seal indicates that the chew has been proven effective. However, dental chews should be given as a supplement to regular brushing, not a replacement.
Can puzzle toys help with my Boston Terrier's boredom?
Yes, puzzle toys that dispense treats are excellent for mental stimulation. Boston Terriers are intelligent and can become destructive if bored. Using a puzzle toy with small training treats can keep them engaged and provide enrichment. Start with easy puzzles and gradually increase difficulty.
What is the difference between digestible and non-digestible chews?
Digestible chews, like dental chews and bully sticks, break down in the stomach and are safe to consume. Non-digestible chews, like nylon bones, are not meant to be eaten and can cause blockages if swallowed. For training treats, always choose digestible options. Non-digestible chews should only be used for supervised chewing.
How should I clean my dog's teeth if using dental treats?
Dental treats are not a substitute for brushing. Continue to brush your dog's teeth regularly with a dog-specific toothpaste. Use the dental treat as an additional aid. For best results, follow the VOHC guidelines and consult your veterinarian for a complete dental care routine.
What safety concerns should I be aware of with training treats?
Choking is the primary concern, especially with small breeds. Always choose treats appropriate for your dog's size. Also, be aware of food allergies; introduce new treats gradually. Avoid treats with artificial ingredients that may cause digestive upset. If your dog has a history of pancreatitis, choose low-fat options.
Can I use human food as training treats for my Boston Terrier?
Some human foods like plain cooked chicken, carrots, or green beans can be safe in small amounts. However, avoid foods toxic to dogs like grapes, onions, or chocolate. Human food may not provide balanced nutrition, so it's best to use commercial treats formulated for dogs. Always consult your vet before introducing new foods.
A note on advice: This guide is general information, not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. Talk to your vet before changing your dog's diet or care routine, especially if your dog has allergies, kidney disease, pancreatitis, obesity, heart disease or any other medical condition.
Transparency

How we made this guide

How we chose. We compared the options on the factors that matter most for Dog Care Products, using manufacturer specifications, aggregated verified owner reviews and editorial comparison. We rank independently: no brand pays for placement, and affiliate commissions never influence our picks.

How it was written. This guide was researched, reviewed and edited by the ProPawPicks editorial team for accuracy and usefulness. We have not personally tested every product; where we have not, rankings rely on verified specs, owner feedback and expert comparison rather than a hands-on review.

Affiliate disclosure. ProPawPicks is reader-supported. If you buy through links on our site, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. See our affiliate disclosure.

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Some links below are affiliate links. If you buy through them we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Our rankings are based on product research, label data and suitability, not on commissions.