A Guide to High‑Value Dog Treats That Make Training Easier (and Tastier)

Some treats just aren’t exciting enough to hold your dog’s attention, especially when you’re trying to teach something new or reinforce good behavior. While dry kibble or dog biscuits might do the trick at home, they often fall short when your pup needs real motivation.

In this guide, we’ll explore what qualifies as a high-value dog treat, how to use them effectively during training, and what sets them apart from standard commercial treats. We'll also take a look at five high-value options from Pawstruck that stand out for flavor, nutrition, and convenience.

What Makes a Treat “High‑Value” for Dogs

High value dog treats are rewards your pup treats as extra special. They tend to offer richer aromas, tastier flavors, and more appealing textures than regular treats.

These treats matter because they hold your dog’s attention when regular snacks fall flat. If you’re training in a distracting environment or teaching something tricky like “leave it,” they help your pup stay motivated and on task.

In everyday routines, lower-value snacks like kibble or plain biscuits may work. But when training needs full focus, high value treats show your dog what effort gets rewarded.

Key Features to Look For

When choosing high value dog treats, it helps to know exactly what sets them apart. Not all dog treats are created equal, especially when it comes to keeping your dog’s focus during a training session.

Look for soft or breakable treats that can be given quickly and don’t interrupt the flow of training. If your dog has to stop and chew, it can slow down progress. The right timing is key – soft training treats work perfectly during training sessions, while longer-lasting chews are ideal as post-training rewards.

Strong smell is another key factor. Dogs experience the world through their noses, so treats that have a rich aroma are more likely to hold their attention. Dried chicken, dried liver, or even cooked beef are all enticing options.

Nutrition matters as well, so go for protein-rich or single-ingredient treats instead of options with fillers and preservatives. If the ingredient list is long and complicated, it’s best to move on.

And don’t forget convenience. High value treats should be easy to carry, store, and portion out. Whether it’s a store-bought option or something you prepare at home, it should fit smoothly into your training routine.

Using High‑Value Treats Effectively

High value treats work best when used intentionally. During active training, soft, small bites let you reward your dog quickly and keep things moving. The timing of the reward reinforces the behavior more effectively.

After a training session, it’s a good idea to offer a longer-lasting chew like a collagen stick or a Himalayan yak chew. These help your dog relax and give them a satisfying way to wind down.

To avoid overfeeding, adjust meal portions or use very small amounts of high-value treats. Break treats into bite-sized pieces or use pre-portioned treats for easy training and controlled rewards.

Most importantly, match the treat’s value to the task. Basic commands might call for something simple like a bit of carrot or kibble. For more complex or challenging behaviors, go with something more exciting. The bigger the ask, the bigger the reward.

Pawstruck’s Top 5 High‑Value Treats

Not sure which high value dog treats to try first? These five favorites from Pawstruck each bring something unique to the table, whether you're rewarding in the moment or offering a post-training chew. Here’s a closer look at what makes them stand out:

1) Beef Collagen Chews

Pawstruck Beef Collagen Chews are thicker than standard bully sticks and made from beef skin collagen. These long-lasting chews support joint, skin, and coat health while keeping dogs happily occupied. They're a great post-training treat to help your pup relax and chew away any leftover excitement.

2) Bully Sticks

Made from 100% natural beef pizzle, Pawstruck Bully Sticks are fully digestible and promote dental health through firm, satisfying chewing. They come in straight, braided, and shaped options to suit different chewer styles. Bully sticks are perfect as a high-reward treat after your dog masters something big.

3) Beef Jerky Strips

Pawstruck Beef Jerky Joint Health Treats are made from pure beef esophagus and naturally contain chondroitin to support joint health. Soft enough to break into smaller pieces, they’re ideal for training moments that require quick, irresistible rewards. Plus, they’re free from artificial ingredients and come with a long shelf life.

4) Bully Slices

Pawstruck Bully Slices are thin beef hide slices coated in bully stick gravy, with added benefits from chicken cartilage, salmon oil, and blueberries. They offer a satisfying chew, support dental and immune health, and serve as a safer rawhide alternative. Great as a reward when your pup needs a little more chewing time – but not too much.

5) Himalayan Yak Dog Chews

Handcrafted in the Himalayas from yak and cow milk, lime juice, and salt, Pawstruck HimalayanYak Dog Chews are longer-lasting than bully sticks. Available in a variety of sizes, they’re protein-rich, all-natural, grain-free, and odorless. Ideal for strong chewers when they've really earned something special.

FAQs About High‑Value Dog Treats

What’s the difference between high-value and regular treats?

High value dog treats usually smell stronger, taste better, and have a more appealing texture. They’re often made with real meat like chicken or beef and are used when you really need to hold your dog’s attention.

How many high-value treats can I give my dog each day?

That depends on your dog’s size, activity level, and the treat’s calorie content. Use small portions and adjust your dog’s meals as needed to keep everything balanced.

Are high-value treats okay for puppies?

Yes, as long as the treats are safe and easy to chew. Just be sure to break them into small pieces and supervise as your puppy eats.

Key Takeaways

●     High‑value treats motivate more. These treats are more exciting to dogs because they smell stronger, taste better, and feel more satisfying to chew. They’re especially helpful during difficult training sessions, as rewards, or when teaching new behaviors.

●     Choose treats with the right features. Look for options that are soft or easy to break, packed with real meat or single ingredients, and strong-smelling enough to catch your dog’s attention. Avoid fillers, preservatives, and overly processed snacks.

●     Use them strategically during training. Offer tiny bites during active training to keep your dog focused and reinforce behaviors instantly. Save longer-lasting chews for post-training relaxation or to reward a big win.

●     Watch the calorie count. High‑value doesn’t have to mean high-calorie. Break treats into small pieces and adjust regular meals to maintain a healthy balance, especially during frequent training.

●     Match treat value to the task. Keep everyday tasks low-stakes with low value treats like kibble or carrots. Save the really tasty stuff for behaviors that require more effort, focus, or confidence.

●     Try Pawstruck’s variety of options. From Beef Collagen Chews to Himalayan Yak Dog Chews, we offer treats that fit different training scenarios and chewing needs. Each product has its own unique benefits for flavor, health, and convenience.

What Should You Remember About High‑Value Dog Treats?

High value dog treats are a simple but powerful tool for training. They hold your pup’s attention, increase motivation, and help build lasting behaviors. Whether it’s a quick bite during training or a satisfying chew after, the right treat can make a big difference.

If you're committed to effective dog training, using the right treats isn’t just helpful – it’s essential. Choose rewards your dog truly values, and you’ll see better focus, faster learning, and a stronger bond over time.