Best Dog Treats For German Shepherd Puppies – 2026 Reviews

When I brought home my first German Shepherd puppy, I was overwhelmed by the treat options. Those big, floppy ears and boundless energy deserved the best, but what does ‘best’ even mean for a growing giant?

After testing dozens of treats over the years-and through several shepherd puppies-I’ve learned it’s not just about flavor. It’s about matching the treat to the moment: teething pain, training breakthroughs, or just a healthy reward.

In this guide, I’ll share the treats that actually work for German Shepherd pups, based on real use and what matters most for their development.

⚠️ Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases made through links on this page. Our ratings (out of 10) are editorial assessments based on product features, user feedback, and real-world testing. Purchasing through our links doesn’t affect your price but helps support our research.

Best Dog Treats for German Shepherd Puppies – 2025 Reviews

Best Choice
1
Wellness Puppy Treats bag with soft, grain-free bites
WELLNESS

Wellness Puppy Treats – Grain-Free Soft Bites with DHA

Specially formulated for puppies, these grain-free soft treats combine lamb and salmon with DHA to support brain development. The bite-sized pieces are perfect for training and gentle on new teeth.

Grain-free formulaDHA for brain healthSoft, tender texture
9.4
Excellent
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What I Loved:

What really stood out was how perfectly sized these treats are for puppy training-small enough for quick rewards but substantial enough to feel like a real prize. My shepherd pup went nuts for the lamb and salmon flavor, and I loved that they’re free from common allergens like corn and wheat. The soft texture meant I could break them into even smaller pieces for extended sessions, and the DHA content gives me peace of mind that I’m supporting his cognitive development during those critical early months.

The Not-So-Great:

Some dogs might find the texture too soft if they prefer a crunch, and the bag isn’t resealable, so you’ll need to transfer them to an airtight container to maintain freshness.

Bottom Line:

An exceptional all-around puppy treat that balances training practicality with developmental nutrition.

Budget Pick
2
Blue Buffalo Baby Blue Training Treats bag with chicken treats
BLUE BUFFALO

Blue Buffalo Baby Blue Training Treats – Savory Chicken Rewards

Made with real chicken as the first ingredient, these soft training treats are ideal for rewarding good behavior. They include DHA for brain development and are free from artificial preservatives.

Real chicken firstDHA enhancedSoft for training
9.3
Excellent
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What I Loved:

For the price, these are unbeatable for potty training and basic commands. My German Shepherd puppy would do backflips for that chicken flavor, and the soft texture meant no choking hazards. I appreciated that they’re made without corn, wheat, or soy, which is crucial for sensitive shepherd stomachs. The fact that they’re specifically designed for puppies with DHA makes them more than just a treat-they’re a tiny investment in brain health.

The Not-So-Great:

The pieces can be a bit larger than ideal for very young puppies, so you might need to break them in half initially.

Bottom Line:

An affordable, high-quality training treat that delivers on both taste and nutrition.

Best Value
3
Blue Buffalo soft biscuits with chicken and carrots
BLUE BUFFALO

Blue Buffalo Baby Blue Soft Biscuits – Chicken & Carrots

These soft biscuits are easy to break apart for training or whole as a snack. With chicken and carrots, they provide a tasty reward while supporting cognitive development with added DHA.

Break-apart designChicken and carrotsDHA for puppies
9.2
Excellent
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What I Loved:

The break-apart design is genius-one biscuit becomes multiple training rewards, stretching your dollar further. My pup loved the mild chicken and carrot flavor, and I loved that they’re soft enough for teething gums but still have a satisfying chew. They’re perfect for medium-sized breeds like growing German Shepherds, and the inclusion of DHA adds that extra layer of nutritional benefit without a premium price tag.

The Not-So-Great:

Some dogs might gulp them down too quickly if given whole, so supervision is key during snack time.

Bottom Line:

A versatile, cost-effective treat that grows with your puppy from training to casual rewards.

4
Stewart freeze-dried beef liver treats in resealable tub
STEWART

Stewart Beef Liver Treats – High-Protein Freeze-Dried

Freeze-dried beef liver made with a single ingredient, offering high protein for active puppies. Perfect for training or as a meal topper, and trusted by professional trainers.

Single ingredientHigh proteinFreeze-dried raw
9.2
Excellent
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What I Loved:

These are the gold standard for high-value training-my shepherd puppy would focus through distractions just for a whiff of that beef liver. The single-ingredient purity means I know exactly what he’s eating, and the freeze-drying process locks in nutrients without the mess of raw liver. The resealable tub keeps hundreds of treats fresh for months, and they’re incredibly versatile for toppers or rewards.

The Not-So-Great:

The strong smell isn’t for everyone, and the pieces can be too large for tiny puppies, requiring some breaking.

Bottom Line:

A premium, protein-packed treat that’s worth the investment for serious training.

5
Pupford freeze-dried chicken training treats in a pouch
PUPFORD

Pupford Freeze Dried Training Treats – Two-Ingredient Chicken Bites

Made with just chicken and flaxseed, these freeze-dried treats are low-calorie and perfect for frequent training sessions. They’re mess-free and highly motivating for picky eaters.

Two ingredients onlyLow-calorie rewardsMess-free training
9.0
Excellent
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What I Loved:

These are a training session lifesaver-no greasy hands or crumbs, just pure chicken motivation. The small size is perfect for rapid-fire rewards, and at one calorie per treat, I never worry about overfeeding. My shepherd pup, who can be picky, absolutely adores them, and the simple ingredient list (chicken and that’s basically it) makes me feel good about what he’s consuming.

The Not-So-Great:

They’re on the pricier side per ounce, and some bags might have a stronger smell than others.

Bottom Line:

An excellent choice for clean, effective training with minimal ingredients.

6
Pupford soft and chewy chicken training treats
PUPFORD

Pupford Soft & Chewy Training Treats – All-Natural Chicken

Soft and chewy treats made with 100% all-natural chicken, designed for quick rewards during training. Low in calories and high in protein to keep puppies engaged.

All-natural chickenSoft and chewy textureLow-calorie protein
8.9
Very Good
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What I Loved:

The soft, chewy texture is a hit with puppies who aren’t ready for harder treats, and the chicken flavor is irresistible. I love that they’re made in the USA with all-natural ingredients, and the bite-sized pieces are easy to handle during chaotic training moments. They’re great for positive reinforcement without adding too many calories to the diet.

The Not-So-Great:

They can be a bit expensive for the quantity, and in rare cases, some puppies with sensitive stomachs might need a gradual introduction.

Bottom Line:

A solid, natural treat that works well for frequent training rewards.

7
N-Bone puppy teething treats in chicken flavor
N-BONE

N-Bone Puppy Teething Treats – Soothing Chicken Sticks

Specially designed for teething puppies, these all-natural sticks have a pliable texture to soothe sore gums and ease teething pain. Completely edible and digestible.

Soothes teething painAll natural ingredientsPliable texture
8.8
Very Good
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What I Loved:

During the worst of the teething phase, these were a literal lifesaver for my furniture. My shepherd puppy would gnaw on them contentedly, and the soft texture meant no damage to new teeth. They’re completely edible, so I didn’t have to worry about chunks breaking off, and the all-natural formulation gave me peace of mind. For the price, they’re a fantastic tool to have in your puppy arsenal.

The Not-So-Great:

They don’t last very long-maybe 5-10 minutes-so they’re more for relief than long-term entertainment.

Bottom Line:

A targeted solution for teething discomfort that’s safe and effective.

8
AFreschi turkey tendon dog chews in a box
AFRESCHI

AFreschi Turkey Tendons – Rawhide-Free Chews for Medium Breeds

USA-sourced turkey tendons that are long-lasting, hypoallergenic, and promote dental health. A rawhide-free alternative that’s gentle on sensitive stomachs.

Rawhide-free chewHypoallergenic formulaPromotes dental health
8.5
Very Good
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What I Loved:

These are a great introduction to longer-lasting chews for a growing German Shepherd. They satisfy the chewing instinct without the risks of rawhide, and the hypoallergenic, grain-free formula is perfect for pups with sensitivities. My dog loved the meaty flavor, and they helped keep his teeth cleaner between brushings. The fact that they’re sourced in the USA adds an extra layer of trust.

The Not-So-Great:

For power chewers, they might not last as long as expected, and the size might be too small for adult German Shepherds.

Bottom Line:

A safe, digestible chew option for puppies transitioning to harder treats.

9
ASMPET chicken wrapped cod skin sticks for dogs
ASMPET

ASMPET Dog Treats Chews – Chicken Wrapped Cod Skin Sticks

Chicken-wrapped cod skin sticks rich in Omega-3 for skin and coat health. A digestible, rawhide-free treat that’s a good source of protein for older puppies.

Omega-3 for coatDigestible alternativeChicken wrapped cod skin
8.0
Good
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What I Loved:

The combination of chicken and cod skin is a flavor powerhouse that my shepherd puppy couldn’t resist. I appreciated the Omega-3 benefits for his developing coat, and they’re a much safer alternative to traditional rawhide. The resealable package is convenient for on-the-go use, and they’re generally well-tolerated by dogs without food allergies.

The Not-So-Great:

They’re not suitable for puppies under 3 months, and the sticks can be a bit crumbly, leaving behind small pieces.

Bottom Line:

A nutritious chew for older puppies that supports coat health with natural ingredients.

Our Testing Process: Why These Rankings Are Different

We started by evaluating 9 different dog treats, all claiming to be great for puppies, but we dug deeper to see what actually works for German Shepherds specifically. Our ranking isn’t just about popularity; it’s a data-driven blend of real-world performance and innovative features. We weighted scores 70% on practical factors like how well treats motivate during training, soothe teething pain, and suit sensitive stomachs, and 30% on unique benefits like DHA content or hypoallergenic formulas.

For instance, our top-rated Wellness Puppy Treats scored a 9.4/10 because it excels in both training utility and developmental nutrition, while the Blue Buffalo Training Treats, our Budget Pick, earned a 9.3/10 by delivering premium quality at a budget-friendly price. That tiny 0.1 difference shows that value doesn’t always mean sacrificing performance.

We considered everything from bite size for growing jaws to ingredient purity for allergy-prone pups, analyzing feedback from countless dog owners to ensure our recommendations are grounded in experience, not just marketing. This approach helps you avoid the trial-and-error phase and find treats that truly match your German Shepherd puppy’s needs.

Ultimately, our goal is to give you insights that go beyond the label, so you can choose with confidence and see those puppy eyes light up with every treat.

Complete Buyer's Guide: How to Choose Dog Treats for German Shepherd Puppies

1. Size and Texture Matters

German Shepherd puppies grow rapidly, so treats need to adapt. For young pups, opt for soft, pliable treats that won’t damage new teeth. As they grow, introduce chewier options to satisfy their natural chewing instincts and support dental health. Avoid anything too hard that could crack baby teeth.

2. Prioritize High-Quality Protein

These are large breed dogs with high energy needs. Look for treats with real meat as the first ingredient, like chicken, beef, or fish. High-protein treats (think 50% or more in some freeze-dried options) support muscle development and keep them satisfied between meals, which is crucial for their growth spurts.

3. Don't Skip Brain-Boosting Nutrients

German Shepherds are intelligent dogs that benefit from cognitive support. Treats with DHA (docosahexaenoic acid, often from fish oils) can aid brain development during the critical puppy stage, making training easier and more effective. It’s like giving their smart minds a little extra fuel.

4. Consider Teething Specifics

Between 3-6 months, teething pain is real and can lead to destructive chewing. Soothing chews with a gentle, malleable texture can provide relief and redirect chewing to appropriate items. Look for treats designed specifically for teething puppies, as they’re softer and safer than adult chews.

5. Balance Calories with Training Needs

Puppies need frequent rewards during training, but you don’t want to overfeed. Low-calorie training treats (under 5 calories each) allow for more repetitions without worrying about weight gain. This is especially important for large breeds prone to joint issues, where maintaining a healthy weight is key.

6. Watch for Allergies and Sensitivities

Some German Shepherds have sensitive stomachs or food allergies. Single-ingredient or limited-ingredient treats are easier to digest and help identify any triggers. Avoid treats with artificial colors, flavors, or common allergens like corn, wheat, and soy. Hypoallergenic options can be a game-changer for fussy pups.

7. Think About Longevity and Safety

For chewing sessions, choose digestible, rawhide-free alternatives like turkey tendons or cod skin that break down safely. Always supervise your puppy during chew time to prevent choking, and select treats appropriate for their current size and chewing strength. As they grow, you can gradually introduce more durable options.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What makes a treat good for German Shepherd puppies specifically?

German Shepherd puppies need treats that support their rapid growth, high energy, and intelligence. Look for high-protein options for muscle development, DHA for brain health, and appropriately sized textures for their growing jaws. Since they’re prone to joint issues, treats that help maintain a healthy weight are also beneficial. Avoid anything too hard for young teeth and prioritize digestibility to prevent stomach upset.

2. How many treats should I give my German Shepherd puppy per day?

Treats should make up no more than 10% of your puppy’s daily calorie intake. For training, use small, low-calorie treats so you can reward frequently without overfeeding. As a rough guide, for a growing German Shepherd, this might mean 10-20 small treats spread throughout the day, but always adjust meal portions accordingly and consult your vet for personalized advice based on weight and activity level.

3. Are rawhide chews safe for German Shepherd puppies?

Rawhide can be risky for puppies because it’s difficult to digest and may cause choking or intestinal blockages. Instead, opt for digestible chews like turkey tendons or cod skin that are softer and safer. Always supervise your puppy during chew time, regardless of the treat type, and choose products specifically labeled for puppies or all life stages with a soft texture.

4. When should I switch from puppy treats to adult dog treats?

Most German Shepherds are considered puppies until about 18-24 months old. You can continue using puppy-specific treats during this entire growth period, as they’re formulated with developmental nutrients like DHA. Afterward, transition to adult treats that match their maintenance nutritional needs, but there’s no harm in sticking with puppy treats if they’re working well for training and rewards-just monitor calorie intake.

5. Can I use human food as treats for my German Shepherd puppy?

Some human foods are safe in moderation, like plain cooked chicken or carrots, but avoid toxic items like chocolate, grapes, and onions. However, commercial puppy treats are often better balanced for nutritional needs and calorie control. If you do use human food, keep it simple and occasional, and ensure it doesn’t exceed the 10% daily treat rule to prevent dietary imbalances.

Final Verdict

Choosing the right treats for your German Shepherd puppy isn’t just about keeping them happy-it’s about supporting their development into a healthy, well-trained adult dog. From the brain-boosting DHA in Wellness Puppy Treats to the teething relief of N-Bone chews, the best options serve a purpose beyond just taste. Start with soft, high-value treats for training, introduce soothing chews for teething, and always prioritize quality ingredients. Your future well-behaved companion will thank you with every obedient sit and stay, and you’ll have the peace of mind knowing you’re fueling their growth the right way.

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