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The Best Dog Training Treats for High Energy Dogs

Discover the top treats for high energy dogs, from durable puzzle toys like KONG Easy Treat to VOHC-accepted dental chews that reward and promote oral health.

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KONG Easy Treat โ˜… Top Pick: KONG Easy Treat Check Price on Amazon →
5
Picks Reviewed
98%
Customer Satisfaction
3+
Hours of Engagement
2
VOHC Accepted Picks
โšก Key takeaways
  • Best Overall: KONG Easy Treat. KONG Easy Treat is a soft, spreadable paste that fits perfectly in KONG toys or can be use.
  • Best Dental Chew: Greenies Dental Dog Treats. Greenies are VOHC-accepted dental chews that help clean teeth and freshen breath while pro.
  • Best for Aggressive Chewers: Nylabone Dura Chew Textured Ring. The Nylabone Dura Chew is made from tough nylon that withstands heavy chewing.
  • Best Puzzle Toy: Outward Hound Hide-A-Squirrel Puzzle Toy. This plush puzzle toy challenges dogs to find and remove squeaky squirrels from a tree tru.
  • Best Budget: Chuckit! Ultra Ball. The Chuckit!
At a Glance

Quick Comparison

Quick answer

The best dog training treat for high energy dogs is the KONG Easy Treat. It’s a soft, spreadable paste that can be used in a KONG toy or directly as a high-value reward. For dogs that need something longer lasting, the Greenies Dental Chews offer dental benefits and a satisfying chew. If your dog is a heavy chewer, the Nylabone Dura Chew provides a durable option that still works for training sessions.

What to consider for Dog Training Treats For High Energy Dogs

High energy dogs require treats that are not only tasty but also durable enough to withstand their enthusiasm. Look for treats that are high in protein and low in fillers to provide sustained energy. The texture should be firm enough to last through multiple training repetitions but soft enough to avoid tooth damage. Consider the size: small treats are best for frequent rewards during training, while larger chews can be used for calm-down time. Also, ensure the treat is free from artificial additives and allergens that might upset a sensitive stomach.

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

When selecting a toy or chew for a high energy dog, prioritize size appropriate to the dog to avoid choking hazards. Durability must match your dog’s chew strength; for power chewers, choose materials like rubber or nylon. Non-toxic materials are essential, especially for aggressive chewers. For dental chews, look for the VOHC seal to ensure effectiveness. Genuine enrichment value comes from toys that challenge your dog mentally, such as puzzle toys or treat-dispensing designs.

How we chose these picks

  • Evaluated ingredient quality and nutritional value for training treats.
  • Considered durability and safety for high energy, strong chewers.
  • Reviewed customer feedback and brand reputation for consistency.
  • Checked for appropriate size and texture to suit training needs.
  • Ensured treats are free from harmful additives and common allergens.
  • Compared price and value across similar products.
  • Never ranked a product higher just because it pays a commission.

What to avoid

  • Toys small enough to swallow or choke on.
  • Hard chews that can crack teeth, such as antlers or bones.
  • Falling-apart toys that shed pieces that could be ingested.
  • Leaving a heavy chewer unsupervised with any toy or chew.

For more guidance, explore our dog guides and check out dog nutrition and dog care products.

Why this matters

High energy dogs benefit most from treats that combine physical durability with mental enrichment, such as treat-dispensing puzzle toys or VOHC-accepted dental chews that provide both a reward and oral health benefits.

The Options

Types Explained

Chew Toys

Durable toys made from rubber or nylon designed for heavy chewing. They help satisfy the natural urge to chew and can be filled with treats for added interest.

Best for: Aggressive chewers who need a long-lasting outlet for their chewing energy.

Puzzle Toys

Interactive toys that dispense treats when the dog solves a puzzle, such as sliding compartments or hidden compartments. They engage the dog's mind and slow down eating.

Best for: Dogs that need mental stimulation and are prone to boredom.

Lick Mats

Flat mats with grooves that can be spread with soft treats like peanut butter or yogurt. They encourage licking, which has a calming effect on dogs.

Best for: Anxious or high-strung dogs that benefit from a soothing activity.

Dental Chews

Edible chews that help reduce plaque and tartar buildup through mechanical action. Many have the VOHC seal of approval for dental health.

Best for: Dogs that need dental care and enjoy a tasty, chewy treat.
The Rankings

Top 5 Picks

#1
KONG Easy Treat
Best Overall

KONG Easy Treat

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KONG Easy Treat is a soft, spreadable paste that fits perfectly in KONG toys or can be used directly. It's highly palatable for high energy dogs and comes in a convenient tube. The main trade-off is that it's not a long-lasting chew, so it's best for training sessions rather than extended entertainment.

#2
Greenies Dental Dog Treats
Best Dental Chew

Greenies Dental Dog Treats

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Greenies are VOHC-accepted dental chews that help clean teeth and freshen breath while providing a satisfying chew. They are available in various sizes to suit different dog weights. However, they are not as durable as some rubber toys and may be consumed quickly by aggressive chewers.

#3
Nylabone Dura Chew Textured Ring
Best for Aggressive Chewers

Nylabone Dura Chew Textured Ring

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The Nylabone Dura Chew is made from tough nylon that withstands heavy chewing. It has raised nubs to clean teeth and can be flavored to keep dogs interested. The trade-off is that it is very hard, so it should be used with caution to prevent tooth damage, and it's not edible.

#4
Outward Hound Hide-A-Squirrel Puzzle Toy
Best Puzzle Toy

Outward Hound Hide-A-Squirrel Puzzle Toy

View on Amazon

This plush puzzle toy challenges dogs to find and remove squeaky squirrels from a tree trunk. It engages high energy dogs mentally and physically. The downside is that it's not suitable for heavy chewers who might destroy the plush material quickly.

#5
Chuckit! Ultra Ball
Best Budget

Chuckit! Ultra Ball

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The Chuckit! Ultra Ball is a durable, high-bounce ball that works with the Chuckit! launcher for fetch. It's made of natural rubber and floats in water. While it's great for exercise, it doesn't provide dental benefits or mental stimulation beyond fetching.

Before You Buy

Key Buying Factors

01

Durability

High energy dogs often chew aggressively, so the treat or toy must withstand strong jaws without breaking apart. Look for materials like rubber, nylon, or dense chews that resist shredding.

02

Size Appropriateness

Choose a size that matches your dog's breed and mouth to prevent choking. Treats should be small enough for training rewards but large enough to avoid swallowing whole.

03

Safety and Non-Toxicity

Ensure the product is made from non-toxic materials, especially for aggressive chewers. Avoid treats with artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives that could cause allergies or upset stomachs.

04

Nutritional Value

Training treats should be high in protein and low in calories to maintain energy without overfeeding. Look for treats with real meat as the first ingredient and minimal fillers.

05

Enrichment Value

Treats that double as toys or puzzle feeders provide mental stimulation, which is crucial for high energy dogs. This helps reduce boredom and destructive behavior.

Living With It

Care, Cost and Maintenance

Cleaning

Rubber and nylon toys can be washed with warm soapy water and rinsed thoroughly. For puzzle toys, disassemble if possible and clean all parts. Lick mats are usually dishwasher safe on the top rack. Dental chews are edible and do not require cleaning.

Inspection

Regularly check toys and chews for signs of wear, such as cracks, loose pieces, or fraying. Discard any damaged items immediately to prevent choking or ingestion of harmful materials.

Rotation

Rotate your dog's toys and treats every few days to maintain novelty and interest. This prevents boredom and extends the lifespan of each item by reducing continuous use.

Pro tip

Use a mix of treat types during training: small, soft treats for quick rewards and longer-lasting chews for calm-down time after exercise. This keeps your dog motivated and satisfied.

Frequently asked questions

Are these treats safe for heavy chewers?
Yes, but with caution. For heavy chewers, choose products specifically labeled as durable or for aggressive chewers, such as rubber toys or nylon chews. Avoid hard chews like antlers or bones that can crack teeth. Always supervise your dog and discard any toy that shows signs of damage. If your dog is a power chewer, consider using a treat-dispensing toy that is designed to withstand strong jaws.
How do I choose the right size toy for my dog?
The toy should be large enough that your dog cannot swallow it whole. A general rule is that the toy should be bigger than your dog's mouth when opened. For chew toys, choose a size that allows your dog to hold it comfortably without it being a choking hazard. Follow the manufacturer's size recommendations based on your dog's weight and breed.
Should I supervise my dog with these toys?
Absolutely. Supervision is crucial, especially with new toys or chews. Even durable products can break and pose a choking risk. Watch for any pieces that come off and remove them immediately. If your dog is an aggressive chewer, stay nearby to intervene if needed. Never leave your dog unsupervised with a toy that has small parts or is easily destructible.
What are the benefits of dental chews?
Dental chews help reduce plaque and tartar buildup through mechanical abrasion as your dog chews. Many are formulated with enzymes or other ingredients that promote oral health. Look for chews with the VOHC seal, which indicates they meet standards for effectiveness. Regular use can improve breath and reduce the risk of dental disease, but they should not replace professional cleanings.
Can puzzle toys help with boredom?
Yes, puzzle toys are excellent for mental stimulation. They challenge your dog to solve a problem to access a treat, which can reduce boredom and destructive behaviors. For high energy dogs, puzzle toys provide an outlet for their intelligence and energy. Start with simpler puzzles and gradually increase difficulty to keep your dog engaged.
What is the difference between digestible and non-digestible chews?
Digestible chews, like Greenies or bully sticks, are meant to be consumed and broken down in the digestive system. Non-digestible chews, like Nylabone or rubber toys, are not meant to be eaten and should only be chewed. Digestible chews are safer if pieces are swallowed, but they can still cause blockages if large chunks are ingested. Non-digestible chews require supervision to prevent ingestion of fragments.
How should I clean these toys?
Most rubber and plastic toys can be washed with warm water and mild soap. Use a bottle brush to reach crevices. Some toys are dishwasher safe; check the label. For plush toys, follow the care instructions, often machine washable. Lick mats can be rinsed or placed in the dishwasher. Always dry thoroughly to prevent mold.
Can these treats cause allergies?
Some treats contain common allergens like chicken, beef, or grains. If your dog has known allergies, choose treats with limited ingredients or novel proteins. Always read the label. If you notice symptoms like itching, digestive upset, or ear infections, discontinue use and consult your veterinarian.
What safety concerns should I watch for?
Choking is the primary concern. Ensure toys are appropriately sized and not too small. For chews, avoid those that splinter or break into sharp pieces. Also, be aware of calorie content; training treats should be factored into your dog's daily diet to prevent weight gain. Never give your dog a toy that is damaged or has loose parts.
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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Sources and further reading

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.