Do you know what DOG ESSENTIALS you are missing out? Find out now!
Zack Keithy, our author, is a certified veterinarian technician (UC Blue Ash) for over 6 years (contact him here). The articles written here are based on his expertise and experience, combined with a review by our expert vet reviewers including Dr M. Tarantino. Learn more about us here.
Some dogs like to eat their food enthusiastically; others will pick up a treat and inspect it like you are trying to give them a soggy leaf.
For these picky eaters, normal dog treats are no longer sufficient.
High-reward treats are made with lots of scent, soft to the touch, and are made to keep your dog’s attention, making them the perfect type of dog food to use for training, recall, or simply winning over a picky eater.
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What Makes a Treat “High-Reward”?
Not all treats are equal in a dog’s eyes. The difference lies in smell, texture, and intensity.
The Three Keys to Success
- Strong scent: Warm, meaty, or slightly oily smells grab attention fast
- Soft texture: Easier to chew quickly during training
- Small size: Keeps focus without overfeeding
Think of it this way: If your dog ignores kibble but runs for chicken, you’ve found your “high reward.”
1. Warm Chicken Training Bites
A classic that rarely fails—even with stubborn eaters.
Why It Works
Fresh chicken has a strong, natural aroma that cuts through distractions.
Ingredients
- 1 boneless chicken breast
How to Make
- Boil or bake until fully cooked
- Let cool, then shred or cube into tiny pieces
- Store in fridge and use within 3–4 days
Pro Tip: Slightly warming the pieces before training makes them even more irresistible.
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2. Tuna & Oat Soft Cubes
Soft, smelly, and perfect for quick rewards.
Why It Works
Tuna’s scent is powerful enough to grab even the most distracted dog.
Ingredients
- 1 can tuna (in water, drained)
- 1 egg
- 1/2 cup oat flour
How to Make
- Mix all ingredients into a thick batter
- Spread into a thin layer on a lined tray
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15 minutes
- Cut into tiny cubes
3. Peanut Butter Banana Drops
A softer, slightly sweet option for dogs who prefer milder flavors.
Why It Works
The combination of fat and natural sugar makes these highly appealing.
Ingredients
- 1 ripe banana
- 2 tbsp peanut butter (xylitol-free)
- 1/2 cup oat flour
How to Make
- Mash and mix all ingredients
- Spoon small drops onto baking sheet
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 12–15 minutes
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4. Sardine Power Bites
Not for the faint of heart—but dogs adore them.
Why It Works
Sardines are intensely aromatic and packed with omega-3 fatty acids.
Ingredients
- 1 tin sardines in water (no salt added)
- 1 egg
- 1/2 cup oat flour
How to Make
- Mash sardines thoroughly
- Mix with egg and flour
- Shape into small balls or flatten
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15–18 minutes
Warning: Your kitchen will smell like the sea—but your dog will think you’re a genius.
5. Freeze-Dried Yogurt & Berry Drops
A cool, tangy option for sensitive or picky eaters.
Why It Works
The creamy texture and slight tartness make these unique and appealing.
Ingredients
- 1 cup plain yogurt
- 2 tbsp mashed blueberries
How to Make
- Mix ingredients
- Spoon into small drops
- Freeze until solid
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When to Use High-Reward Treats
These are not everyday snacks—they’re strategic tools.
- Recall training: Getting your dog to come back reliably
- Distraction training: Parks, walks, busy environments
- New commands: When learning something difficult
- Behavior breakthroughs: Reinforcing calm or focus
Portion Control Matters
Because these treats are richer:
- Use pea-sized pieces
- Adjust meal portions slightly if training heavily
- Avoid overuse to keep them “special”
Storage Tips
- Cooked meat: Fridge, 3–4 days
- Baked treats: Airtight, up to 1 week
- Frozen treats: Up to 2 months
Always discard if smell or texture changes.
📖 Don’t Miss This…
Need more ideas on what to cook for your dog? Then you must check out my library of homemade dog food recipes today!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Why is my dog so picky with treats?
Some dogs simply have lower food motivation, while others are used to variety. Rotating high-value treats can help maintain interest.
Can I use these treats every day?
Yes, but in moderation. Reserve the highest-value options (like sardines or chicken) for training to keep their effectiveness.
What if my dog still refuses treats?
Try training before meals when your dog is slightly hungry, or experiment with different textures and temperatures (warm vs. cold).
Are these suitable for puppies?
Yes—just keep pieces very small and choose softer options to protect developing teeth.
