Best Dog Treats for German Shepherds: Yummy Snacks For Your Pup

Looking for the best dog treats for German Shepherds? Treats are more than quick rewards—they’re powerful training tools and daily motivators. For a breed as smart, athletic, and strong-jawed as the German Shepherd, the right snack can sharpen focus, satisfy natural chewing instincts, and fit an active lifestyle.

Treats come in many forms—biscuits, chewy strips, dental sticks, and tiny training bites—each with a purpose. Dental chews can help control plaque and tartar; for extra assurance, look for products with VOHC acceptance. Training treats are small and soft so you can reward often without filling your dog up too quickly.

When shopping, check ingredients, size, and nutrition. Treats, just like bones for German Shepherds, should be made with wholesome, high-quality ingredients that complement your dog’s main diet. As a simple rule of thumb, keep treats at 10% or less of daily calories per the AAHA guidelines. If questions pop up about allergies, stomach sensitivity, or weight, check with your veterinarian.

Size matters, too. Choose pieces suited to a German Shepherd’s large mouth and powerful bite to reduce choking risks and encourage proper chewing, which also supports dental health. If your GSD is extra selective about flavors, our mealtime tips for picky eaters can help you keep motivation high during training.

Based on hands-on testing and research, we’ve highlighted treats that work for big breeds—whether you’re polishing a heel cue or offering a long-lasting chew. Below are our top picks and a quick buying guide to help you choose confidently.

Best Dog Treats for German Shepherds: Top Picks

We all want rewards that are both tasty and appropriate for a large, active dog. Match the treat to the task: small, soft bites for obedience drills; tougher chews for enrichment and stress relief. Always supervise chewing and pick the right size; rare obstruction cases have been documented in the veterinary literature, which is why fit and oversight matter (JAVMA report).

Solimo Duck Jerky

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We think these Solimo Duck Jerky Treats are a game-changer for treating our German Shepherds, thanks to their high-quality ingredients and irresistible flavor. The meaty strips are easy to tear into bite-size rewards for training or to serve as a high-value jackpot.

Pros

• Duck is the leading ingredient, so you know your pup is getting a tasty and high-protein snack
• Free from common allergens like corn, wheat, soy, and gluten, which is excellent for sensitive dogs
• Our pups go wild for the chewy texture, and we appreciate that we can break it into smaller pieces for training

Cons

• Since jerky is chewier, always supervise your dog and ensure they have water
• The strong smell is appealing to dogs but might be a bit much for our human noses
• Some dogs might need a gradual introduction to this treat if they have sensitive stomachs

Upon first opening the bag of Solimo Duck Jerky, we were greeted with a wholesome, meaty aroma that immediately got our German Shepherds' tails wagging. It's evident that duck isn't just one fragment of the recipe; it proudly sits at the forefront, providing a protein kick we feel good about.

The treats are notably free from unnecessary fillers that often cause hassle for pups with allergies. We especially appreciate this thoughtfulness in production, as it makes snack time stress-free.

When it came time to train, breaking the jerky into smaller bits was simple, and it helped us keep our furry friends' attention laser-focused on the task at hand. Each successful command was followed by a rewarding chew that seemed to satisfy their instinctual love for something a bit tough.

While the durability of the treat is a pro, it's also a reminder to watch our dogs enjoy their jerky. Especially because they can get pretty absorbed by the delectable chewiness, we keep a bowl of water nearby to assist in safe snacking.

Lastly, for newcomers to Solimo Duck Jerky, starting with a modest portion is wise. Tender tummies might require adaptation to the rich flavor and dense texture, but patience pays off when we see our pups relishing their special treat.

Buddy Biscuits Bacon Flavor

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We think these treats are a game-changer for training your German Shepherd, thanks to their size, taste, and low calories. The small shape lets you deliver rapid-fire rewards without derailing your dog’s meal plan.

Pros

• Enticing bacon flavor that dogs go crazy for
• Ideal size for repetitive training without overfeeding
• Made with natural ingredients without common allergens like corn or soy

Cons

• Some dogs may prefer larger treats
• Bacon scent might be too enticing, causing distraction
• May not be suitable for dogs with specific dietary requirements

Training our furry pals with Buddy Biscuits' Bacon Flavor treats turned out to be a breeze. Their tiny size meant we could keep our German Shepherd focused without worrying about overindulgence, which is especially important for maintaining their strong and active bodies. For hard tasks, we like to pair a few of these with a bigger “jackpot” treat to keep drive high.

Our experience showed that these treats are not just tasty but also versatile. Whether it was simple obedience exercises or more complex games, they proved to be an excellent motivator. Plus, with over 500 pieces per bag, we weren't running out anytime soon.

Another thing we appreciated was the emphasis on clean ingredients. Knowing that we're giving our German Shepherd treats free from corn, soy, and artificial flavors was reassuring and sat well with us. It's always a top priority to ensure what we're feeding our dog is as healthy as it is tasty.

Pur Luv K9 Kabobs

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We think your German Shepherd would find these treats irresistibly tasty and fun to munch on. They also make a nice “calm time” chew for after training or as a reward for settling quietly on a mat.

Pros

• Made with real chicken and duck, which is a hit with dogs
• The chewy texture keeps dogs engaged longer
• Simple ingredients list for peace of mind

Cons

• They might not last as long with voracious chewers
• Beefhide might not suit dogs with sensitive stomachs
• Contains grains, which could be a drawback for grain-free diets

After handing these K9 Kabobs out to our German Shepherds, they were ecstatic. The combination of chicken, duck, and beef wrapped around a skewer was an instant hit, and we felt good knowing we were giving them high-quality, flavorful treats.

Let's face it, our furry friends need entertainment, and these treats double up as a fun challenge. Unlike other snacks that disappear in seconds, these kabobs give our pups a decent amount of chew time, keeping them occupied and out of mischief.

However, if you've got a dog that chews through everything, keep in mind these kabobs might not last as long as you'd hope. On the plus side, we've had fewer concerns with upset stomachs since we switched to these treats, although that could vary from dog to dog.

Overall, if you're after a treat that's both tasty and engaging for your German Shepherd, these Kabobs are a strong contender. Just watch if your dog tends to be sensitive to certain ingredients or is a heavyweight chewer, but don't let that deter you from trying them out - ours loved every bite.

Cloud Star Chewy Treats

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We've found an absolute gem for training sessions with our German Shepherds: Cloud Star Chewy Treats are both motivational and delicious, which could be just what you need. They’re non-greasy, pocketable, and easy to feed quickly between reps.

Pros

• Ideal size for repetitive training without overfeeding
• Soft texture that our dogs go crazy for
• Wholesome ingredients that we feel good about giving

Cons

• The salmon scent might be too strong for some people
• Higher cost compared to conventional treats
• May not suit dogs with specific protein allergies

Our German Shepherds couldn't resist the taste of these Cloud Star Chewy Treats while we were working on new commands. The small size meant we could reward them frequently without worrying about their caloric needs.

The soft texture was just perfect; they could easily chew these treats, which kept their focus locked on us and the task at hand. To us, these treats felt like a little secret weapon to ensure training success.

We were after something that wouldn't disrupt their diet, and these treats hit the mark. The ingredients list gave us peace of mind—no mysterious additives, just straightforward, nourishing components.

While the price is a notch above the rest, we think it's a fair trade for the quality provided. Just keep in mind, if your pooch has a sensitivity to salmon or other proteins, you might want to consider other options.

If you're training your German Shepherd, these bites are a great pick—tasty for them and packed with quality ingredients that make us feel like responsible pet owners.

Nature Gnaws Turkey Treats

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We think these treats should be in your cart if you're looking for a natural, satisfying chew that keeps both puppies and adult German Shepherds busy and supports their dental health. Chewing action helps scrub teeth; some dental treats have also shown short-term reductions in oral bacteria and odor in an AJVR study.

Pros

• Grain-free, high-protein snack that satisfies our dogs' chewing instincts
• Steers clear of causing bad breath, leaving our furry friends' kisses as fresh as before
• Helps maintain good dental hygiene by reducing plaque and tartar build-up

Cons

• Price point might be higher when compared to other treats on the market
• The pieces may vary in size, which could be an issue for consistency in training rewards
• Some picky eaters might not take to them on the first go, making initial acceptance a hit or miss

We've recently given our German Shepherds these Nature Gnaws turkey tendons, and they've been a hit! Particularly well-received during training sessions, it seems like they're willing to do anything for a bite of these tasty morsels.

These treats are also almost as chewable as the best chew toys for German Shepherd pups. Even our most energetic chewer spent a good deal of time working on a single tendinous stick. It's comforting to know they're not just busy, but also getting a dental clean in the process.

Lastly, we've found that these treats are great for all ages which is a relief, no need to buy different treats for the puppy and the adult dogs anymore. They all seem to appreciate the natural turkey flavor and the longer-lasting chew time compared to other treats we've used. Plus, not having to deal with any smelly aftermath is a bonus for us as well.

Stella & Chewy's Wild Weenies

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A must-try for German Shepherd owners seeking nutritional treats that dogs find irresistible. Because these are freeze-dried raw, handle and store them with care per FDA guidance.

Pros

• Packed with a high-protein punch that maintains pooch muscles
• Made from natural, raw ingredients supporting overall health
• No artificial additives makes them a safe snack

Cons

• Pricier than some other treat options
• The bag's bottom tends to have excess crumbs
• Can be too rich for dogs with sensitive stomachs

When we tossed a Stella & Chewy's Wild Weenie to our German Shepherd, the excitement was palpable. There's something about the raw, freeze-dried chicken that gets our pup's tail wagging every time, making these treats a hit for reinforcement during training sessions.

It was not just the splendid taste that had us adding these treats to the top of our list; their wholesome composition aligns with our beliefs in feeding pets a natural diet. And because they're made from 97% chicken and organs, we've noticed an enjoyable boost in vitality and health in our dog.

However, while our furry family member rejoices at treat time, our wallet does feel a bit lighter. We've also had to deal with the crumb situation at the bottom of the bag, which can be wasteful. Plus, if your German Shepherd is known to have a sensitive tummy, these rich treats may need to be given sparingly.

Redbarn Beef Cheek Rolls

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In our experience, these chews are a hit with the pups, offering a safe and long-lasting treat that supports joint health. They’re a good match for power chewers who need something more substantial than a biscuit.

Pros

• Ideal for teething pups or dogs that love to chew
• Promotes dental health through natural chewing motion
• Odor-free and stain-free keeps our homes clean

Cons

• Pricier than some other treat options on the market
• Not suitable for dogs with beef allergies
• May not be as appealing for finicky eaters

The moment we gave these to our German Shepherds, they were head over paws. The unique shape offered them both a challenge and entertainment, keeping them engaged far longer than their usual snacks. It's a huge relief to find a treat that doesn't leave any stains on our carpets and is totally free from that typical dog treat smell.

For those on the hunt for grain-free options, the Redbarn's Beef Cheek Rolls fit the bill perfectly. It's heartwarming to see our dogs improving their dental health while enjoying their treats, chomping away happily—these rolls are quite the multitaskers.

Lasting longer than the typical chew, these rolls have become our go-to for keeping the dogs busy on a lazy afternoon. Plus, we take comfort in the fact that they are contributing to our dogs' joint health with their collagen content. It's a win on multiple fronts, and seeing our dogs content and busy is all the proof we need of the product's value.

Do you want to invest in more upkeep for your best friend? Check out the best collars for German Shepherds, combining fashion and comfort at the same time!

Buying Guide

When we're on the lookout for the right snacks for our German Shepherds, a few key features help us choose wisely. Here’s how we narrow it down—and how to match treat type to your dog’s goals and chewing style.

Nutritional Value

We want treats that are more than tasty—they should contribute to overall nutrition. Look for:

• High-quality protein sources
• Essential fatty acids (omega-3s can support skin, coat, and joint comfort; see this Cornell overview)
• Vitamins and minerals
• No artificial preservatives or colors

Keep total treat calories modest—ideally 10% or less of the day’s intake per AAHA guidelines—so the main diet stays balanced.

Ingredient Quality

It’s all about what’s inside. Quality ingredients support better health for our German Shepherds. Aim for treats with:

• Whole-food ingredients
• A clear, simple ingredient list
• Minimal fillers like corn or soy

If your dog struggles with itching or sensitivities, consider single-protein or limited-ingredient options and talk to your vet. Our nutrition picks for skin allergies offer helpful ideas you can apply to treats, too.

Size and Texture

Because German Shepherds are a large breed, treat format matters for both safety and dental benefits.

• Right-sized pieces: Choose medium to large chews for enrichment, and small, soft bits for training.
• Texture variety: Tougher chews help satisfy the urge to gnaw; soft treats are best for fast, frequent rewards.

Chewing can aid oral care, and some dental treats have demonstrated short-term reductions in plaque bacteria and halitosis in dogs in an AJVR study. For products designed to reduce plaque or tartar, look for VOHC acceptance.

Taste Factor

Let’s not forget—treats should be enjoyable!

• Flavor variety: Rotating proteins can keep interest high.
• Palatability: If your German Shepherd doesn’t love it, it won’t motivate training.

Purpose

Knowing the “why” behind a treat helps you choose the right type:

• Training: Small, soft, low-calorie bites help you reward often without overfeeding.
• Dental Health: Choose chews designed to scrub teeth and freshen breath; prioritize products with VOHC acceptance.
• Joint Health: Look for added glucosamine or chondroitin if recommended by your veterinarian.

If you use freeze-dried raw treats, practice careful hygiene and storage (see FDA guidance). And whenever you’re unsure, your veterinarian can help tailor treat choices to your dog’s age, activity, and health needs.

German Shepherd Treats FAQs

How Many Treats Can My German Shepherd Have Each Day?

As a general guide, keep treats to about 10% or less of your dog’s daily calories so the main diet stays balanced and complete. This helps prevent weight gain and nutrient dilution. For a personalized plan, ask your vet and see the AAHA guidelines.

Do Dental Chews Replace Brushing?

No. Dental chews can complement daily home care and may help reduce plaque and tartar, but they don’t replace brushing or professional cleanings. For products shown to help with plaque or tartar control, look for VOHC acceptance and follow your veterinarian’s dental-care recommendations.

Are Freeze-Dried Raw Treats Safe?

Many dogs love them, but raw and freeze-dried raw products can carry bacteria if not handled properly. Store, prepare, and serve them with care; wash hands and bowls after feeding. For safe-handling tips and cautions, see this FDA guidance and talk to your veterinarian.

What Treat Texture Works Best for Power Chewers?

Choose durable, appropriately sized chews that match your dog’s bite strength, and supervise all chewing. Reserve softer treats for training so you can reward quickly without interruptions. If your dog gulps or shreds chews, select larger pieces and remove small fragments for safety.