This post contains affiliate links. We will be compensated if you buy after clicking on our links.
When it comes to feeding your husky, we always want to find the best food for them. And we should do the same at snack time! From irresistible flavors to ingredients that support their health and well-being, we’ve scoured the market to bring you a comprehensive guide to the best dog treats for huskies.
Whether you’re looking for rewards during training sessions or a delicious treat for their daily routine, these delectable options are sure to keep your husky happy, healthy, and wagging their tail with joy.
12 Best Dog Treats For Huskies
Best Dog Treats For Husky Puppies
👉 Get Naked Puppy Chews
The Get Naked Puppy Chews treats are truly a blessing if you have a husky puppy that is going through the mouthy, biting phase! The texture of these chews is soft and pliable, so the chewing process helps alleviate pain and soreness associated with teething. In essence, it allows them to massage their sore gums!
It is made up of wholesome ingredients like chicken, potatoes, fish oil, flaxseed, and even cranberries. They even have a little bit of a fresh minty smell to them, so if you don’t love puppy breath, this will help get their breath fresh! Many people have said that they have helped tremendously with nipping and biting issues when pups are in that teething phase.
✅ Pros:
- Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids
- Soft and pliable
- Helps alleviate sore teeth and gums
❌ Cons:
- They don’t last very long
Best Chew Treats For Huskies
👉 Best Bully Sticks
This is definitely going to sound gross to some of us, but some of the best chews I’ve come across for my dogs are Best Bully Sticks. If you don’t know what bully sticks are, they are a single-ingredient chew made from the pizzle (penis) of a bull. 😂 I try not to think too much about what they are made up of because they are truly an excellent alternative to rawhide and are safer than traditional dog chews.
Depending on how aggressive of a chewer you have, they can last for hours. However, I will say that it is important to only give these to your dog when you can supervise. Like many chews, once they get down to the last bite, they can, unfortunately, become a choking hazard.
However, there are bully stick holders that you can buy at pet stores and online that you essentially clamp the bully stick into so that your dog can’t get all the way down to that last bite that can be a choking hazard.
For an alternative to bully sticks, you could try giving your husky uncooked meaty bones.
Read our guide to the best bones for huskies. 👈
✅ Pros:
- All-natural
- Long-lasting
- Safer than most chews
❌ Cons:
- Requires supervision
Best Calming Treats For Huskies
👉 Hemp Calming Chews
Dog calming chews help provide a gentle sedative effect. Best of all, these Hemp Calming Chews do not contain any artificial chemicals that can cause unwanted side effects. It contains natural ingredients that are known to have a calming effect, including ginger, turmeric, hemp oil, valerian extract, chamomile extract, passion flower, and L tryptophan.
I’ve found that these are really helpful to give in advance of situations that can be a little stressful for some dogs, like long car rides, going to the vet, or moving to a new place. They can even help with daily things like separation anxiety.
✅ Pros:
- Natural ingredients
- Calming and soothing effect
❌ Cons:
- It may work better for some dogs than others
Best Training Treats For Huskies
👉 American Journey Chewy Training Bits
Soft treats are my preferred go-to treat when it comes to training my dogs. They don’t take nearly as long to chew as baked treats which comes in handy during training sessions.
One of my favorites right now is the Salmon Recipe Chewy Training Bits by American Journey. They also have a beef recipe as well as a chicken recipe. I really like the salmon recipe in particular, though, since it provides essential omega-3 fatty acids that help promote healthy skin and coats in dogs! And not to mention, it is a great source of protein with 18% protein per serving!
Moreover, it only contains four calories per treat, so you really don’t have to worry about your pup getting too full for dinner on just snacks. It’s also made with ingredients that are known to be gentle on digestion, like peas, sweet potatoes, and chickpeas, which is especially important since huskies so often tend to have sensitive tummies.
Further reading: How to train a husky
✅ Pros:
- Little bites are the perfect size to use as a training treat
- Only four calories per treat
- No corn, wheat, or soy
❌ Cons:
- They do harden if left out of their bag for too long, so only take what you need or keep them in the original container
Best Freeze Dried Treats For Huskies
👉 Stewart Freeze Dried Dog Treats
Another popular choice is freeze-dried meat treats, such as freeze-dried chicken or beef, which retain their flavor and aroma while offering a convenient, mess-free option. These treats are protein-rich and can also serve as a motivating reward for Huskies during training sessions.
One of my favorite brands is the Stewart Freeze-Dried Beef Liver Dog Treats. They are loaded with protein containing 50% crude protein! They also have tons of other important vitamins and minerals like iron, zinc, vitamin A, etc.
For a dog the size of the husky, the feeding recommendation is no more than four treats per session, but it can be given up to three times a day. This is likely because they are a bit larger in size and are so nutrient and calorie-dense.
However, I’ve found that a little goes a long way with these treats, and I can break them up into 4 or 5 tiny pieces per treat, which works out well for training. And dogs often go crazy for them as they are really high-value treats. These are great options if you are going to be doing a training session in an area with more distractions.
✅ Pros:
- High in protein
- It can be broken into smaller pieces
- High-value reward
❌ Cons:
- High calories
Best Low Calorie Dog Treats For Huskies
👉 Fruitables Skinny Minis Grilled Bison Flavor Chews
Sometimes it is best to opt for a low-calorie treat option, especially when you are planning on doing a lot of training! We don’t want our pups getting too full from treats or getting too many snacks. When I know I’m going to be doing a lot of training, sometimes I like to opt for low-calorie options like these ones from Fruitables.
They have all sorts of flavors, but these ones, in particular, are made up of sweet potatoes, oatmeal, brown rice, and bison. They are a really healthy option but still have that yummy bison flavor that dogs love. And they are only 3.5 calories per treat! So you really don’t have to be overly conscious of how many treats your pup is getting during a training session, even if your husky is overweight. I also like that they are already the perfect treat size and don’t have to be broken down anymore.
✅ Pros:
- Healthy and low calorie
- Natural ingredients
❌ Cons:
- Very small in size
Best Dental Treats For Huskies
👉 Greenies Dental Dog Treats
I’ve tried several different brands of dental treats over the years for my dogs, and I always come back to Greenies. I’m not sure exactly what it is about Greenies that my dogs love so much since they are made up primarily of wheat flour, but they go absolutely crazy for them!
One of my dogs is absolutely obsessed, and I have to limit him to one every other day or so. Otherwise, he will start begging for them. At one point, he would sniff all over the house, looking for where I was hiding them from him! That being said, though, they have worked wonders for my dogs’ teeth and really help significantly reduce the amount of plaque build-up they both have.
✅ Pros:
- Dogs love them
- Helps reduce bad breath and plaque build-up
❌ Cons:
- No animal protein source
Best Dog Treats For Hiding Medication
👉 Milk-Bone Pill Pouches
One of my dogs is getting up there in age and has to take a couple of different medications every day. I’ve tried a couple of different brands of treats designed for hiding medications, but so far, the best one I’ve tried is the Milk Bone Pill Pouches. My dog is a bit of a stinker and with many of the other brands, he would find a way to manage to eat the treat but spit out the medication! 😂
With these pill pouches, my dog gobbles them right up, medication included. I like that chicken is the primary ingredient in these and that it doesn’t rely on byproducts or artificial flavors. Additionally, they are soft and moist enough that I can easily hide medication inside of them. With other brands, I’ve noticed that they are too dry to really adequately hide the medication, but with these, the med is completely hidden once you mold the treat around the med.
Further reading: Common husky health problems
✅ Pros:
- Soft and pliable
- Stinky enough to distract dogs from the medications
- Less expensive than many other leading brands
❌ Cons:
- Can’t be left out in the open, or they will lose all their moisture
Best Jerky Treats For Huskies
👉 American Journey Beef Jerky
Jerky treats are often loved by dogs for their chewy texture and intense flavors. This category can include jerky treats made from different types of meat, such as chicken, beef, or fish.
One brand in particular that my dogs seem to really like is American Journey Jerky. They make three different recipes, one with chicken, one with beef, and one with turkey. And for all of these recipes, they only contain three ingredients, namely the meat source and then sugar and salt to make the jerky. They never use corn, wheat, soy, byproducts or artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives. As a side note, these jerky strips need to be refrigerated after opening.
✅ Pros:
- Natural ingredients
- Limited ingredients
❌ Cons:
- Pricey
Best Dog Treats For Senior Huskies
👉 Get Naked Senior Health Bites
Sometimes it is beneficial to get treats that are specially crafted to cater to senior dogs. As dogs get on in their golden years, they can greatly benefit from having treats and food that cater to their senior needs. For example, Get Naked’s Senior Bites contain New Zealand green-lipped muscle, which is an excellent source of antioxidants that are known to promote brain and heart health. Additionally, these treats contain chondroitin, which is known to help support joint health.
✅ Pros:
- Good source of antioxidants
- chondroitin
❌ Cons:
- Pricey
Best Grain Free Dog Treats For Huskies
👉 Full Moon Chicken Strips
Many treats are naturally grain-free, but one treat in particular that I really like that is grain-free is Full Moon Chicken Strips. They are made with human-grade ingredients. And they only contain four ingredients! They are made with chicken, organic cane sugar, vinegar, and rosemary extract. While they are long and in the shape of a chicken strip, they can easily be broken up into smaller pieces too.
✅ Pros:
- Limited ingredients
- Grain-free
- It can be broken into smaller pieces
❌ Cons:
- Expensive
Best Crunchy Dog Treats For Huskies
👉 Nutro Crunchy Treats
My dogs seem to prefer soft treats on most occasions, but one brand of crunchy treats that they love is Nutro’s Crunchy Treats. These contain whole brown rice, oatmeal, chicken meal, as well as blueberries, cranberries, and cherries. I love the healthy ingredients, and they are crunchy enough that they are probably helping to reduce tartar build-up on my dog’s teeth!
✅ Pros:
- Wholesome ingredients
- Help reduce plaque and tartar build-up
❌ Cons:
- It might be too crunchy for dogs with dental concerns
Guide to Buying the Best Dog Treats for Huskies
What ingredients should I look for in dog treats?
Organic, locally sourced meat
Organically sourced meat is minimally processed and does not include artificial ingredients. Meat that is locally sourced assists in providing the freshest option without the carbon footprint!
Meat for protein is not enough as your Husky needs a balanced diet. Even its ancient ancestor, the wolf, would eat plants in addition to meat in the wild. Giving your Husky a balanced diet will ensure they develop a strong immune system.
Further reading:
Omega-3 fatty acids
These are essential for a nutritious diet. Benefits include keeping a healthy coat and the promotion of cognitive development. Omega-3 fatty acids also help your Husky’s eyesight. This regulates blood flow while preventing inflammation.
Natural humectants
Ever wonder why dog treats have a long shelf life? Well, this is due to the inclusion of humectants. This is a substance used to preserve moisture in your dog’s treats. Two forms of this substance include synthetic and natural forms.
It is recommended that you give your Husky treats that contain natural and safe alternatives to humectants. Examples of these are ones that include molasses and vegetable glycerin.
Opt for freeze-dried
The freeze-drying process allows food to remain without preservatives, additives, or chemicals. It allows the protein to retain all its vitamins, minerals, and fat content. It helps preserve all of the benefits found in the initial raw protein.
Another good factor freeze-drying brings is shelf stability without adding preservatives. This is due to the process ultimately decreasing oxidation.
Freeze drying process
- The freeze-drying process begins with flash-freezing fish or meat in a vacuum chamber at -50 to -60 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Then, low-level heat is applied to evaporate crystals and remove about 98% of the moisture in the protein. Standard cooking reduces amino acids and denatures peptides. It also alters flavors and aromas.
- Lastly, standard cooking decomposes vitamins and fatty acids, according to White Oak Animal Hospital located in Fairview, Tennessee.
What ingredients should I avoid?
It is equally important to understand what ingredients should be avoided. Huskies have sensitive stomachs by nature. Your Husky could have a greater sensitivity, which you will find through the process of elimination.
Wheat and grains
However, it is a good idea to avoid wheat and grains in your dog’s diet. Grains include seeds like wheat, rice, oats, corn, barley, millet, oatmeal, and quinoa, according to the American Kennel Club. Grain-free diets use other plant sources such as potatoes, sweet potato, carrots, pumpkin, peas, tapioca, butternut squash, parsnips, spinach greens, and a myriad of fruits.
High amounts of calcium
Another ingredient to avoid is high amounts of calcium. The reason for this is that Huskies are prone to zinc deficiency and high amounts of calcium tend to make this issue more problematic.
Signs of zinc deficiency include hair loss, poor growth, thickened footpads, redness and weeping between the toes, as well as open and crusted skin lesions around the mouth and eyes. Diarrhea can also be a symptom of zinc deficiency.
Artificial ingredients
Lastly, artificial ingredients should be avoided. This includes food dyes, artificial preservatives such as synthetic humectants like propylene glycol, and artificial preservatives like sodium nitrate.
Now that we understand which foods to include in your Husky’s diet and which to avoid, let’s take a look at the best types of dog treats and which are our recommended picks!
Calories and macronutrients
The Husky’s heritage is known for being hardened snow dogs. Their active lifestyle requires a diet that supports high energy as well as healthy muscle and bone development.
So it’s important to take your Husky’s physical activity into account and adjust their calories and macronutrients accordingly, especially when giving them treats. The Siberian Husky, for example, could decrease their protein intake by 20% during the summer season. In the wintertime, they could increase their protein intake by 20%.
Why does this matter? Well, chances are your Husky is not as active during the hot summer months as they are throughout the rest of the year. Decreasing their protein intake by 20% would help ensure they do not gain weight during periods of low activity levels. Similarly, increasing your pup’s protein intake by 20% during winter months supports the energy they need during times of increased activity.
Note that the amount you adjust your Husky’s diet will depend on their age and actual physical activity. Talk to your vet for specifics.
So when giving your Husky dog treats, make sure you are considering their calories and macronutrients.
10% rule
Treats should never exceed 10% of your pup’s daily caloric intake. This is a rule of thumb when it comes to treats for dogs of any size, breed, and age.
Training Treats
Another consideration before buying treats is the type of training you are doing. Certain behaviors might require a yummier reward than others. e.g. when potty training your Husky, try using extra delicious treats. This will speed up the potty training process!
If you are brain-training your Husky, adding treats inside a Kong is a great way to improve their problem-solving skills. Check out these Kong recipes for Huskies and other ingredients you can add to their Kong.
We recommend buying a wide range of treats for all sorts of different situations.
Choosing the best dog treats for huskies is essential for their overall health and happiness. Huskies are active, energetic dogs with specific dietary needs, so it’s important to select treats that are both tasty and nutritious.
To easily store treats on your next adventure, consider the best dog backpacks for huskies.
Final Thoughts
Selecting the right treats for your beloved canine companion is a crucial aspect of their overall well-being. From training aids to dental care, and low-calorie options to natural and grain-free treats, there is a wide range of choices available to cater to every dog’s unique needs and preferences.
By considering factors such as ingredient quality, nutritional value, and your dog’s specific requirements, you can ensure that the treats you offer not only provide a delightful snacking experience but also contribute to their health and happiness.
Remember, moderation is key when it comes to treat consumption, and always consult with your veterinarian if you have any concerns or questions. We hope you feel equipped to make informed decisions and find the best treats that will make your furry friend’s tail wag with joy.
Note: Your husky’s diet should provide the majority of nutrition, not treats.
See our guide to the best dog food for huskies. 👈
You might also like our guide to the best supplements for huskies. 👈
Does your husky have a favorite dog treat?
Let us know in the comments below.
Further reading:
- Best dog food for husky puppies
- Best dog food for senior huskies
- Best dog food for huskies to gain weight
- Best dog food for picky huskies
- Best dog food for pregnant huskies
- Best dog food for shedding huskies
- Best dog food for huskies with diarrhea
- Best dog food for huskies with zinc deficiency
- Best raw food for huskies
FAQ
What are the best treats for huskies?
The best treats for huskies are those that are healthy and specifically made for dogs. Treats that contain real beef or dehydrated meats are a good option. It’s important to choose treats that taste delicious to motivate your husky.
How many treats should I give my husky?
The number of treats you should give your husky depends on their age, weight, and overall health. Generally, it’s recommended to give your dog no more than 10% of their daily caloric intake in treats per day.
What are some healthy treats for huskies?
Some healthy treats for huskies include dental chews, natural and organic treats, and treats made with ingredients like sweet potatoes, pumpkin, or salmon. These treats can help keep your husky’s teeth clean and their coat healthy.
Can treats for huskies cause weight gain?
Yes, treats can contribute to weight gain in huskies if given in excessive amounts. It’s important to monitor your husky’s treat intake and ensure they are receiving a balanced diet. If your husky needs to lose weight, consider using treats as rewards during training sessions instead of for regular snacking.
Can I use treats to reward my husky?
Yes, treats can be a useful tool in training and rewarding your husky. Positive reinforcement with treats can motivate your husky to learn new commands and behaviors. Just remember to use treats in moderation and choose healthy options.
What can I do if my husky has allergies to certain treats?
If your husky has allergies to certain treats, it’s best to avoid those specific ingredients and opt for treats that are made with alternative ingredients. There are many hypoallergenic treat options available on the market that can be suitable for dogs with allergies.
Are there any treats that are specifically made for huskies?
While there are no treats specifically made only for huskies, there are treats that are suitable for all dog breeds, including huskies. Look for treats that are labeled as suitable for all dog breeds or consult with your veterinarian for recommendations.
How often should I give treats to my husky?
It’s best to incorporate treats into your husky’s diet in moderation. You can use treats as rewards during training sessions or as occasional indulgences. Avoid overfeeding your husky treats throughout the day to maintain their health and weight.
How do treats contribute to my husky’s overall health?
Treats can contribute to your husky’s overall health by providing additional nutrients and promoting dental health. Many treats are made with real, high-quality ingredients that can support your dog’s skin and coat health, as well as provide them with a tasty and enjoyable snack.
