Treats for French Bulldogs: Tastiest Rewards for Training

Treats are a universal way to show affection to dogs, and just one of these tasty morsels can make their day brighter. However, as responsible pet owners, it’s important to choose treats that are not only tasty but also nutritious, especially for a breed as sensitive as the French Bulldog.

From premium store-bought goodies to homemade creations fit for a gourmet meal, we’ll guide you through the safest and most delicious treats for French Bulldogs! Just a heads-up: reading this article might lead to excessive tail wagging, uncontrollable drooling, and an overwhelming desire to pamper your furry friend. Possible side effects include a happier, healthier dog. If you’re willing to take on these risks, then let’s dive in!

Best Types of Treats for French Bulldogs

When it comes to pampering your French Bulldog, not all treats are the same. First, let’s take a look at the most favored types of snacks that every Frenchie enjoys:

Low-fat, High-protein Treats

Your furry companion may believe they are a large dog in a small body, but their metabolism tells a different story. The best foods for French Bulldogs contain low-fat, high-protein, and the same can be said for treats. These treats help preserve muscle mass without adding extra weight.

These types of treats are typically made from lean meats such as chicken, turkey, or fish. The most common low-fat, high-protein snacks available are freeze-dried meat, but you can also prepare your own at home using lean meats like chicken or turkey. These protein-rich options will satisfy your Frenchie’s cravings while keeping their waistline in check.

Vegetable-based Treats

Who claims that treats can’t be nutritious? Vegetable-based snacks are a great choice for French Bulldogs. They are not only low in calories but also offer significant nutritional benefits.

Crunchy carrots or fresh green beans serve as wonderful treats. They act like natural toothbrushes, assisting in keeping those charming Frenchie teeth clean while delivering a delightful crunch.

Dental Chews

When it comes to maintaining clean teeth, dental chews serve a dual purpose. Since French Bulldogs are often susceptible to dental problems, offering them a treat that promotes oral health is a great idea. These chews can assist in minimizing plaque and tartar accumulation, all while giving your Frenchie a delicious snack and freshening their breath. It’s a beneficial situation for both you and your pet!

Soft Treats

While many French Bulldogs enjoy a satisfying crunch, others lean towards softer choices. This is particularly relevant for senior dogs or those with dental problems. Soft treats are easy on the teeth and gums yet still deliver the delicious taste your Frenchie loves. They are also ideal for training since your dog can consume them quickly and return to mastering that new trick you’re teaching.

Popular Packaged Treats for French Bulldogs

Okay, it’s time for a tour of the grocery store! We’ll explore some of the top treats for French Bulldogs available on the market. Our team has carefully examined customer feedback and product ratings from different platforms to create this list. Additionally, we’ve tested these treats ourselves, and our own Frenchies at home absolutely adore them!

Zuke’s Mini Naturals

These small snacks are bursting with flavor! Zuke’s Mini Naturals are soft and moist treats available in different flavors such as chicken, duck, and peanut butter. Each treat contains fewer than three calories, making them ideal for training or giving out frequently without feeling guilty.

Additionally, these delightful bites are produced in the USA using wholesome ingredients and contain no artificial flavors.

Blue Buffalo Wilderness Trail Treats

If your French Bulldog has a wild side, they may enjoy Blue Buffalo Wilderness Trail Treats. These treats are grain-free and high in protein, available in flavors such as salmon and chicken. They are small and filled with natural ingredients, making them a nutritious choice for your little meat lover.

Wellness Soft Puppy Bites

Don’t be misled by the name—these snacks are suitable for dogs of all ages, not just puppies. Wellness Soft Puppy Bites are small, tender treats that French Bulldogs can easily enjoy. Crafted from whole food ingredients and enriched with vitamins, they promote your dog’s overall well-being while delighting their palate.

Greenies Dental Dog Treats

Remember our discussion about dental care? Greenies are a favored option for maintaining your Frenchie’s dental hygiene. These treats are specifically made to clean up to the gumline, helping to freshen breath and minimize plaque and tartar buildup. Just make sure to select the appropriate size for your Frenchie—typically, the Petite or Teenie sizes are ideal.

Fruitables Skinny Minis

For a fruity variation, consider Fruitables Skinny Minis. These low-calorie snacks are available in distinctive flavors such as watermelon and apple bacon. Each treat contains just 3 calories, making them an excellent choice for guilt-free rewards or training sessions.

Homemade Treat Ideas

Although store-bought snacks are easy to obtain, making homemade treats for your Frenchie has a unique charm. Similar to home-cooked meal recipes, you can manage the ingredients, guaranteeing that your dog receives only the finest and healthiest choices.

Here are some nutritious recommendations from our pet nutrition experts:

Chicken Jerky Strips

For dogs that love a meaty treat, these homemade chicken jerky strips are sure to please. They are packed with protein and do not contain the preservatives or additives commonly found in store-bought options.

To prepare this tasty snack, follow these steps:

• Preheat your oven to 170°F (75°C) or its lowest setting.
• Cut chicken breasts into thin strips, approximately 1/8 to 1/4 inch thick.
• Arrange the strips on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
• Bake for 2 hours, then flip the strips over.
• Continue baking for an additional 2 hours or until the strips are dry and leathery, but not brittle.
• Allow them to cool completely before serving.

Be sure to keep these in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consume within a week. These strips are not only tasty but also provide a great source of lean protein for your French Bulldog.

Sweet Potato Chews

Who would have thought that a simple sweet potato could be transformed into a chewy, tasty snack? Sweet potatoes are rich in vitamins and fiber, making them a nutritious treat for your Frenchie. Additionally, their chewy consistency can help clean your dog’s teeth while they enjoy the snack.

Here’s how to prepare them:

• Clean and peel a sweet potato
• Cut it into thin, uniform strips (approximately 1/4 inch thick)
• Arrange the strips on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper
• Bake at 250°F (120°C) for 2-3 hours, turning them halfway through
• Allow them to cool completely before serving

The outcome? A chewy, sweet delight that your Frenchie will love!

Frozen Yogurt Treats

On a hot day, there’s nothing quite like a cool and refreshing snack. These frozen yogurt treats offer beneficial probiotics that support your Frenchie’s digestive health. The best part? They’re incredibly simple to prepare!

• Combine 1 cup of plain, unsweetened yogurt with 1/2 cup of mashed banana.
• Pour the blend into an ice cube tray or small silicone molds.
• Freeze for several hours or overnight.
• Remove them from the molds and let your Frenchie enjoy!

Feel free to try other dog-friendly fruits such as blueberries or strawberries for some variety.

Pumpkin Biscuits

Pumpkin is a fantastic superfood for dogs, supporting digestion and packed with essential vitamins. These pumpkin biscuits are an excellent way to add this healthy ingredient to your Frenchie’s treat collection. They are crunchy, delicious, and ideal for those moments when you want to pamper your furry friend.

To create these tasty treats, follow these steps:

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• In a bowl, combine 1 cup of pumpkin puree, 2 eggs, and 2.5 cups of whole wheat flour.
• Roll the dough out to about 1/4 inch thick.
• Use small cookie cutters (bone shapes are fun!) to cut out shapes.
• Arrange them on a baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes until they turn golden brown.
• Allow them to cool completely before serving.

Treating in Moderation

While giving treats is an excellent way to connect with your French Bulldog and encourage positive behavior, it’s important to do so in moderation. Treats should account for no more than 10% of your dog’s total daily calories. Here are some tips for treating responsibly:

• Weigh treats: Use a kitchen scale to measure treats and avoid overfeeding.
• Cut treats into smaller pieces: This allows you to reward your dog more often without increasing calorie intake.
• Adjust meal sizes: If you’re using treats for training, slightly decrease your Frenchie’s regular food portions to balance it out.
• Utilize a treat dispenser: This can help slow down how quickly treats are consumed and provide mental engagement.
• Mix in non-food rewards: Praise, affection, or playtime can be equally rewarding for many dogs.

Using Treats for Training

Known for their large appetites, French Bulldogs are often food-driven, which makes training with treats especially effective. If you plan to incorporate treats into your training, here are some best practices:

• Opt for high-value treats: Use especially enticing treats for more difficult tasks to boost motivation.
• Vary the treats: This keeps training engaging and prevents your dog from losing interest in a single type of treat.
• Time the treat correctly: Give the treat right after the desired behavior to establish a clear connection.
• Gradually decrease treat usage: As your dog becomes proficient with a command, slowly substitute treats with praise and affection.
• Keep training sessions brief: Since French Bulldogs may have short attention spans, aim for several short sessions throughout the day.

Wrapping Up

We’ve discussed quite a bit about treats for French Bulldogs! These adorable pups may plead for more, but it’s important to practice moderation. Choose high-quality snacks that are appropriate for their breed and use them judiciously for training or special occasions. Remember to factor those treats into their daily calorie intake to maintain your Frenchie’s health.

With the right combination of affection, care, and occasional treats for French Bulldogs, you’ll have a very happy dog. Just keep things balanced, and you can both enjoy those special treat moments without any concerns. Your Frenchie will appreciate it!