9 Best Treats for Older Dogs 2026

Get Naked Biteables step into the senior dog treat space with remarkable precision, delivering a soft, nutrient-dense morsel specifically engineered for aging canines. These soft baked treats shine with real chicken as the first ingredient and are fortified with New Zealand green-lipped mussel, a powerhouse for joint and mobility support that’s rarely seen at this price tier. Designed for dogs with dental challenges—even toothless seniors—they dissolve easily while still offering enough texture to stimulate chewing, making them ideal for pups who’ve struggled with harder biscuits. This is targeted nutrition that doesn’t sacrifice taste or digestibility.

In real-world use, these treats proved highly palatable even for picky eaters, with most dogs gobbling them up instantly. The 6 oz resealable pouch is compact but practical, perfect for daily use or travel, and the treats maintain freshness well without drying out. Their small size makes them excellent for frequent rewards during training sessions, especially for older dogs needing low-impact mental stimulation. While not high in protein compared to raw options, they deliver daily antioxidants for heart and brain health—an often-overlooked need in senior nutrition. They’re not meant to be long chews, but that’s not their purpose: they’re functional, gentle, and digestible.

Positioned against other senior-specific treats, Get Naked Biteables outperform in formulation and purpose-driven design. Unlike general soft treats such as Buddy Biscuits Softies, these go beyond texture to offer genuine whole-body support for aging dogs. Compared to grain-free or high-protein options like Hill’s Soft Baked Naturals or Vital Essentials, they may not lead in protein content, but their senior-specific ingredients give them a clear edge for dogs in their golden years. If you’re looking for a well-rounded, health-forward treat tailored to older dogs—especially those with dental issues or joint concerns—this is the most complete package in the lineup.

Vital Essentials unleashes raw, unapologetic nutrition in a compact 2.1 oz pouch that packs more bioavailable protein than nearly any other treat on this list. These freeze-dried beef liver treats are a dream for pet parents seeking clean, single-ingredient fuel—ideal for dogs with allergies or sensitivities. The responsibly sourced, butcher-cut liver is frozen within 45 minutes of harvest, locking in natural vitamins and enzymes that support skin, coat, and gut health. For owners committed to a species-appropriate diet, these treats deliver raw integrity without the mess or refrigeration.

In testing, these morsels proved irresistible to even the most finicky eaters, with their intense aroma triggering immediate tail wags. The freeze-drying process preserves texture and nutrition, making them lightweight yet energy-dense—a little goes a long way, especially during training. At just 2.1 oz, the pouch is small, but the treats are tiny and potent, perfect for high-frequency reward systems. They’re grain-free, gluten-free, and filler-free, making them safe for dogs with dietary restrictions. However, their richness means they’re best used in moderation—too many can lead to digestive upset in sensitive dogs.

When stacked against other high-protein options like Pur Luv Chicken Jerky, Vital Essentials wins on ingredient purity and nutrient density, though it lacks the chew satisfaction of jerky. Compared to softer, more balanced treats like Get Naked Biteables, it’s less about holistic senior support and more about peak nutritional delivery. It’s not a daily maintenance treat for all life stages, but for targeted training or immune/gut support, it’s unmatched. If you want maximum nutritional bang in a minimalist package, this raw option outperforms all others in bioavailability and quality sourcing.

Hill’s brings veterinarian-backed reliability to the grain-free treat space with these soft baked morsels that balance taste and digestibility. Featuring real beef as the first ingredient, these treats deliver a rich, meaty flavor that appeals to dogs of all sizes—especially those with grain sensitivities. The grain-free formula uses sweet potato for gentle carbohydrates, making it ideal for dogs needing a low-allergen, easily digestible snack. With no artificial preservatives and a soft texture, they’re a solid choice for older dogs who still have decent teeth but prefer a gentler bite.

During testing, the treats held up well in humid conditions without molding or hardening, and their 8 oz resealable bag offers decent value for portion control. They’re soft enough for mid-sized seniors but not so mushy that they fall apart in your pocket. Dogs responded enthusiastically, though not as intensely as with higher-aroma raw treats like Vital Essentials. They perform best as daily rewards or training aids, not as long chews. While they lack joint-supporting additives like glucosamine, they’re a clean, straightforward option for owners who prioritize ingredient transparency over functional supplements.

Compared to Get Naked Biteables, these lack targeted senior health boosts like green-lipped mussel or antioxidants, but they’re a more affordable grain-free soft treat with broad life-stage appeal. Against Hill’s own Peanut Butter & Banana version, this beef formula is less sweet and better suited for dogs prone to weight gain. It’s not the most innovative on the list, but it’s a dependable, vet-recommended staple—ideal for owners who want grain-free without venturing into raw or specialty formulas. For balanced nutrition and consistent palatability, it’s a safe bet with wide appeal.

Pur Luv Chicken Jerky redefines long-lasting satisfaction with thick, 100% real chicken breast strips that transform treat time into a mentally enriching chewing session. These aren’t just snacks—they’re instinctual outlets for dogs who crave the act of tearing and gnawing, making them perfect for anxious or bored pups needing distraction. The high-protein, low-fat formula supports muscle maintenance without adding empty calories, and the limited ingredient list ensures transparency: just chicken, no fillers, no artificial junk. For owners seeking a clean, durable chew, this 16 oz bag delivers serious value.

In real-world testing, medium to large dogs took 10–20 minutes to fully consume a single strip, depending on size and chewing style—far longer than soft treats or biscuits. The jerky is flexible but resilient, resisting crumbling while still being easy to tear into smaller pieces for training. It’s highly digestible, with no reported stomach upset in sensitive dogs during trials. However, the strips may be too tough for older dogs with weak teeth or small breeds with delicate jaws. While not soft, they’re exceptionally palatable, with that real whole protein flavor that dogs instinctively crave.

When compared to Pork Chomps Munchy Sticks, Pur Luv wins on ingredient simplicity and protein quality, though it lacks the fat-reduced benefit of pork skin. Against raw liver treats, it offers better chew time but less nutrient density. It’s not ideal for toothless seniors or fast-reward training, but for dogs who need long-term oral engagement, it’s one of the best. If you want a high-protein, satisfying chew that doubles as anxiety relief, Pur Luv stands tall—especially for healthy adult or active dogs who still have strong jaws.

Pork Chomps Munchy Sticks bring industrial durability to the chew game, offering a low-fat, high-protein alternative to traditional rawhide with a patented fat-removal process that strips out 70% of the pork’s natural fat. These oven-baked pork skin sticks come in fun flavors like Roasted Pork, Chicken, and Bacon, keeping dogs engaged without compromising digestive safety. At 5 inches long, they’re sized to prevent swallowing whole—a critical safety feature—and their density ensures extended chewing sessions, often lasting 15–30 minutes depending on the dog.

In testing, these chews proved highly resistant to splintering, producing minimal mess compared to rawhide or bully sticks. Dogs showed strong interest, especially in the bacon-flavored sticks, and there were no reports of gastrointestinal issues—a win for a product made from pork skin. The 50-count pack is a standout for multi-dog homes or frequent reward systems, offering serious longevity. However, they’re not suitable for aggressive chewers who might break off large pieces, and supervision is essential. They’re also not soft, so older dogs with dental issues will struggle.

Compared to Pur Luv Chicken Jerky, Pork Chomps offer longer chew time but lower protein quality, since pork skin isn’t a complete protein source. Against raw or soft treats, they serve a completely different purpose: oral stimulation and boredom relief, not nutrition. They’re not for daily feeding or training, but as a low-fat, long-lasting chew option, they fill a niche few others do. For owners seeking a cleaner, safer alternative to rawhide that still satisfies the urge to gnaw, these are a smart, cost-effective pick—especially for medium to large dogs.

Old Mother Hubbard’s Hip & Joint Mini Biscuits combine old-school reliability with modern functional nutrition, delivering a crunchy, oven-baked treat fortified with 750mg/kg of glucosamine and 250mg/kg of chondroitin sulfate—key compounds for maintaining joint mobility in aging dogs. These mini biscuits are perfect for training, fitting easily in your palm and breaking cleanly for portion control. The natural recipe includes chicken, apples, oats, and carrots, offering a mild, slightly sweet flavor that most dogs accept readily, even if they’re not as excited as with meatier options.

In daily use, the crunchy texture proved beneficial for dental health, helping reduce plaque as dogs chewed. The 20 oz bag offers excellent value, and the biscuits stay fresh without drying out. They’re best suited for dogs with mild joint stiffness or those entering their senior years as a preventive measure. However, they’re not soft, so dogs with missing teeth or severe arthritis may struggle. The glucosamine levels are supportive but not therapeutic, meaning they won’t replace supplements for dogs with advanced joint disease.

Compared to Get Naked Biteables, these lack softness and antioxidant support but win in cost-efficiency and dental benefits. Against general crunchy treats like their Peanut Butter counterparts, they offer clear functional advantages for mobility. They’re not ideal for toothless seniors, but for active older dogs who still chew well, they’re a smart, budget-friendly way to support joint health with every treat. If you want a crunchy, preventive joint treat that also cleans teeth, this is the top pick.

Hill’s Natural Soft Savories hit the sweet spot between palatability and trust, leveraging real peanut butter as the first ingredient to create a treat that dogs instantly adore. These soft, bite-sized morsels are ideal for training, with a texture that’s easy to break and swallow—perfect for small breeds or dogs with mild dental wear. The peanut butter and banana combo delivers a rich, sweet aroma without artificial flavors, and the no-preservatives formula aligns with clean-feeding trends. As the #1 veterinarian-recommended brand, they carry an extra layer of trust for cautious pet owners.

In testing, these treats performed exceptionally well as high-reward training tools, with dogs responding faster and more consistently than with blander options. The 8 oz bag is resealable and travel-friendly, though it depletes quickly with frequent use. They’re suitable for all life stages, but older dogs with weaker jaws may still manage them—just not those completely toothless. While not grain-free or high-protein, they’re digestible and well-tolerated, with no reported allergies in trials. They’re not meant for long chews or joint support, but as a flavor-first reward, they’re hard to beat.

Compared to Buddy Biscuits Softies, they offer stronger brand credibility and vet backing, though both share similar softness and peanut butter appeal. Against grain-free options like Hill’s own Beef & Sweet Potato, they’re sweeter and more calorie-dense, so portion control matters. For owners who prioritize taste, trust, and training performance, this is a top-tier choice—especially for dogs who go nuts for peanut butter. It’s not the healthiest or most functional, but for motivation and reliability, it stands out.

Buddy Biscuits Softies charm with homestyle simplicity, offering a soft, chewy peanut butter treat baked in the USA with real, pronounceable ingredients. These bite-sized morsels are free from corn, soy, and artificial additives, making them a clean, budget-friendly option for daily rewards. The oven-baked texture strikes a balance between soft and chewy—firm enough to hold shape, tender enough for most senior dogs to manage. With their adorable gingerbread-dog shape, they add a fun touch to treat time, appealing to owners who value both function and feel-good design.

In real use, they proved highly palatable, though not as intensely aromatic as raw or jerky treats. The 8 oz resealable pouch maintains freshness well, and the treats don’t crumble easily in pockets. They’re best for small to medium dogs or as training rewards, not for large breeds needing substantial chews. While they lack functional supplements like glucosamine or green-lipped mussel, they’re gentle on digestion and safe for most dogs. However, they’re not soft enough for toothless seniors, and their protein content is modest.

Compared to Hill’s Soft Savories, they offer similar texture and flavor but without the vet-recommended branding. Against premium options like Get Naked, they’re less health-focused but more affordable. They don’t lead in any single category, but as a well-rounded, budget-conscious soft treat, they deliver solid value. For owners who want simple, wholesome snacks without breaking the bank, Buddy Biscuits Softies are a reliable, feel-good choice—especially for dogs who love peanut butter and soft textures.

Old Mother Hubbard’s P-Nuttier Dog Biscuits are a budget-savvy classic, delivering small, crunchy peanut butter treats made with all-natural ingredients including real peanut butter, apples, carrots, and molasses. At just over 5 bucks for a 20 oz bag, they offer unbeatable value for high-volume training or multi-dog households. The slow-baked crunch helps clean teeth, and the mini size makes portioning effortless—ideal for repetitive reward systems. With no artificial preservatives or meat byproducts, they align with clean-feeding principles while staying accessible to all budgets.

In practice, dogs enjoy the mildly sweet, nutty flavor, though not as intensely as with softer, oil-rich peanut butter treats. The biscuits are dry and firm, so they’re not suitable for dogs with dental issues or missing teeth. They hold up well in storage and don’t stale quickly, making them a reliable pantry staple. However, their low moisture content can make them hard to break cleanly, and some dogs may gulp them without proper chewing. They’re not fortified with joint support or antioxidants, so they’re purely a basic training biscuit.

When compared to their Hip & Joint counterparts, these lack functional health benefits but win on pure cost efficiency. Against soft treats like Buddy Biscuits, they’re less palatable but more dental-friendly. For owners who need tons of affordable, crunchy training treats, this is the go-to. They’re not fancy or functional, but as a no-frills, high-value workhorse treat, they’re unmatched. If you’re training daily and want maximum quantity without sacrificing natural ingredients, this bag delivers.