11 Best Dog Jerky Treats As Of 2024 | Reviews & Guide
Last updated: December 3, 2023
Summary
Our top pick for the Best Dog Jerky Treat is Full Moon Chicken Jerky Dog Treats, which offer a healthy and delicious option crafted from antibiotic-free, human-grade chicken. With stringent USDA standards for human consumption, these treats bring exceptional quality and safety to your dog's snack time. They are made in the USA, support American businesses, and are free from grains, glycerin, or soy, embodying a commitment to natural, whole-food ingredients and the well-being of your pet.
Have you ever considered jerky as a healthy, tasty treat for your beloved canine companion? You may be surprised to learn that this flavorful, salty snack offers a compelling alternative to traditional dog treats.
As we go through the potential health benefits of jerky for pups and highlight some great picks available today, one truth becomes clear: with mindful selection guided by your dog's unique needs and preferences, the right jerky could provide the perfect snacktime solution.
In the following article, we'll outline key factors to weigh when shopping, from ingredients to texture and more. You'll also discover a curated selection of top-rated jerkies suited for dogs of all breeds and sizes.
Let's get started.
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Do Dogs Like Eating Jerky & Why?
In short, the answer is a resounding yes! The vast majority of dogs are absolutely crazy for jerky treats. There are several clear reasons why jerky is such a beloved snack for our furry friends.
First, jerky typically has an intensely meaty flavor that dogs find extremely palatable. The meat used in jerky, as well as the seasonings applied, contain compounds that naturally appeal to a dog's senses. The rich, smoky, salty flavors that we also enjoy are magnified for our canine companions. Their taste buds detect and crave these meaty qualities.
Also, the dry, chewy texture of jerky aligns perfectly with a dog's chewing instincts. Dogs retain more ancestral urges to tear into and break down tough materials with their teeth. The firm, leathery consistency and dried texture of jerky allow for this satisfying chewing behavior. The mouthfeel and chewing action dogs can apply to jerky treats make for an enriching experience beyond just the taste.
Between the irresistible meaty flavor and the chewy, durable texture jerky provides, these specialty treats check all the boxes for what dogs crave. It's no wonder our furry friends can't get enough jerky! When given the choice, most dogs would likely choose jerky above all else.
Should You Give Your Dog Human Jerky?
My answer would be no, humans should avoid sharing their own jerky with dogs. Jerky made for human consumption contains ingredients and properties that can be problematic or even dangerous for canines if consumed regularly.
The most pressing issue is that human jerky is generally extremely high in sodium from all the flavoring salts and preservatives added during processing. Excessive sodium is detrimental to dogs, potentially causing toxicity or poisoning in extreme cases. Even small amounts over time tax a dog's system.
On top of salt content, various herbs and spices we find tasty contain compounds like garlic, onions, pepper, paprika, and more that can irritate dogs or cause gastrointestinal issues. Also, sugar is added to many human jerkies, which dogs struggle to digest properly. Ultimately, it's safest to enjoy people jerky yourself and stick to treats labeled for canine consumption when rewarding your furry companions.
Our Top Picks for Dog Jerky Treats of 2024
The following is a list of the best dog jerkies you can buy today. These are products that a lot of dog owners recommend as healthy snacks for pups. Our team also tested these treats with our own dogs over an extended period of time to see which ones are loved by dogs of different races, sizes and taste preferences.
Full Moon Natural Dog Treats - Beef / Chicken Recipes
The Full Moon Chicken/beef Jerky Tenders are all-natural, human-grade dog treats made in the USA. They are crafted from high-quality ingredients including antibiotic-free chicken raised cage-free in the USA. As a healthy dog treat option, the jerky tenders contain no glycerin, grains, corn, wheat, or soy - only natural whole-food ingredients.
With a 4.7 out of 5-star rating, these jerky treats are a popular choice for dog owners. They meet USDA standards for human consumption, meaning the ingredients and manufacturing practices adhere to strict quality standards. Full Moon carefully prepares the treats in small batches using humanely raised chicken, cassava root, and rosemary extract.
The end result is a natural, protein-rich snack made from ingredients you might feed your own family. Dogs love these jerky tenders, which have a smoked, roasted flavor thanks to Full Moon's cooking methods, which help retain nutrients and flavor.
The Full Moon Chicken Jerky Dog Treats are a premium, all-natural choice perfect for the owner who wants to pamper their pup. With their high-quality American-sourced ingredients and small batch preparation, these jerky tenders make an exceptional healthy treat. They meet exceptional safety and quality standards unmatched by mass producers without extra fillers.
Pros
- Human-grade ingredients safe for human consumption
- 100% all-natural with no artificial additives
- Made in the USA supporting American businesses
- Delicious smoky chicken or beef flavors dogs love
- Retains nutrients through careful cooking methods
- Good source of protein
- Grain/glycerin/soy-free recipe
Cons
- More expensive than some mass-produced treats
- Strong aroma some owners may dislike
For owners seeking grain and additive-free recipes packed with meaty flavor, Full Moon's Jerky Tenders deliver nutritious, responsible indulgence. They promote local businesses supplying ethically raised ingredients for true peace of mind. With so many benefits over grocery store varieties, these artisanal tenders provide safe, tail-wagging enjoyment that owners feel good about.
Triumph Free Spirit Grain Free - Turkey / Salmon Recipes
Our next pick - the Triumph Turkey and Vegetable dog treats (available with Salmon & sweet potato) is a high-quality jerky option for canine companions. With real turkey (or salmon) as the main ingredient, these grain-free sticks offer a protein-packed meaty texture that dogs crave. The treats also incorporate nutritious fruits and vegetables like sweet potatoes, peas, chickpeas, blueberries and cranberries. This wholesome blend provides antioxidants, vitamins and minerals to complement the turkey or salmon proteins.
The jerky-style preparation offers a long-lasting chewy texture that helps clean teeth and satisfies dogs' natural urge to gnaw. The sticks are easily digestible as well, with no corn, wheat, soy or by-products that may cause stomach upset. You can feel confident offering these treats for training or any time without artificial colors, flavors or preservatives.
Pros
- Real turkey or salmon as the first ingredient
- Includes nutritious fruits and vegetables
- Grain-free formula with digestible ingredients
- Long-lasting chewy texture for chewing satisfaction
- No artificial colors, flavors or preservatives
Cons
- Strong smoke flavor may not suit some dogs
- Crumbles easily when dogs bite off pieces
With quality ingredients and a flavor profile that mimics classic jerky, these turkey/salmon sticks check all the boxes for nutritious, meat-based training treats. The price point may give some owners pause, but the exceptional ingredients make these an excellent grain-free option for dogs with sensitivity or allergies.
Blue Buffalo True Chews Premium Jerky Cuts - Multiple Recipes
The Blue Buffalo True Chews Premium Jerky Cuts are a high-quality dog treat made with wholesome ingredients and real chicken, duck, turkey, beef, or steak as the first ingredients (depending on the recipe you choose). As part of the Blue Buffalo family of products, these jerky cuts offer proven healthy formulas backed by Blue's nutritional standards and strict quality control.
Analyzing the key features shows that these jerky cuts have compelling advantages for nutritious daily treating. The treats offer dogs a tasty source of protein. They skip fillers, by-product meals, artificial preservatives, and other unwanted extras that can undermine quality. Instead, quality ingredients like vegetables and vinegars naturally enhance flavor and nutrition.
The jerky cuts also win points for their oven-baked texture, making them easy to tear into tasty bite-sized pieces. This controlled process creates the meaty chewiness dogs love. As an added bonus, the ingredients include natural smoke flavoring for extra yummy goodness.
For dog owners seeking the best jerky cuts for regular rewarding and bonding, True Chews deserves consideration. They provide whole-food nutrition in an authentic format dogs love, avoiding many of the pitfalls of mass-marketed treats.
These jerky treats are available in the following flavors, providing a lot of variety:
- Chicken
- Beef burger
- Steak
- Duck
- Chicken & Turkey
- Chicken & apple
- Chicken & bacon
- Chicken & pot pie
- Chicken & pork
- Chicken bacon
Pros
- Leads with real protein sources
- Wholesome ingredients with no fillers or by-products
- Oven-baked for tempting texture
- Trusted Blue Buffalo quality standards
- Delivers great nutritional value through whole ingredients
Cons
- Some recipes contain salt and sugar for flavor
For those seeking healthy, responsibly-made jerky cuts for rewarding pets, True Chews' Premium Jerky is a smart choice. Their oven-baked process creates a center-of-plate treat delivering savory protein in an easily-torn format brimming with authentic flavor. As an extension of Blue Buffalo's product line, pet owners can confidently serve these jerky cuts knowing quality nutrition takes center stage.
Solimo Duck Jerky Dog Treats (Amazon Brand) - Duck / Chicken / Mix
I can confidently say Solimo's jerky treats are among the best dog treats on the market. Made with real duck or chicken as the first ingredient, these jerky strips are a protein-packed snack perfect for rewarding good behavior or supplementing your pup's diet.
Solimo only uses natural, high-quality ingredients in these treats - you won't find any artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives. The strips are gently dried to lock in flavor and preserve nutrients. One bag contains enough hearty, chewy jerky to last for months of daily treating.
The smoky, savory flavor and pleasant aroma are irresistible to canine taste buds. These natural treats will keep your dog(s) focused during training and leave them satisfied but not stuffed. Solimo jerky is also easy on sensitive stomachs.
The only downside is the variation in strip sizes towards the bottom of the bag. Still, breaking these into smaller pieces solves the problem. For quality, ingredients, and palatable flavor, Solimo duck jerky is a superb value and a great addition to any dog owner's treat arsenal.
These treats are available in the following flavors:
- Chicken
- Duck
- Chicken & sweet potato
- Duck & sweet potato
Pros
- Real duck or chicken as first ingredient
- No artificial flavors or colors
- Gently dried to preserve nutrients
- Irresistible flavor
- Protein-rich and satisfying
Cons
- Variation in strip sizes
- Can get costly depending on dog size
For quality ingredients, tasty flavor, and nutritional value, I highly recommend these duck jerky strips as a healthy, rewarding treat for your dog. The pure protein keeps dogs focused, provides a nutritional boost, and satisfies those cravings for something meaty and delicious.
Newman's Own Grain-Free High Protein Beef Jerky
Next on our list, Newman's Own jerky bundles offer two tasty flavors - original beef recipe and beef & sweet potato - made with high-quality ingredients. The grass-fed beef delivers an exceptionally delicious, meaty flavor.
Having tried many jerky treats over the years, I appreciate that Newman's Own contains no preservatives, artificial colors, or flavors. The resealable pouches help maintain freshness between treats. My dog absolutely devours these jerky sticks, which are packed with protein and easy to digest. I've noticed her energy levels seem higher after enjoying these treats.
The price for this two-flavor bundle is very reasonable, especially for the generous 5 oz bag size. Newman's Own is a reputable brand when it comes to quality ingredients. As an added benefit, profits from the company's food products support charitable causes, so you can feel good about what you’re feeding your pup.
Pros
- Tasty, meaty flavor
- Grass-fed beef
- No artificial ingredients
- Generous 5 oz bag size
- Gives back to charity
- Packed with digestible protein
Cons
- Strong smell
- Staining/crumbs
- Hard texture, not ideal for all dogs
Overall, Newman's Own beef jerky bundles are a nutritious and delicious treat option I enthusiastically recommend - especially the two-flavor combo to add variety. The quality ingredients provide outstanding nutrition and taste to reward your furry friend.
Pur Luv Chicken Jerky & Jerky Wraps Dog Treats
Pur Luv Chicken Jerky Dog Treats are a high-quality option for pet owners looking for healthy, natural treats. With chicken as the first and primary ingredient, you can feel good about what you're feeding your dog. The jerky is made entirely from whole chicken protein without any artificial flavors, preservatives or colors.
These limited-ingredient treats will satisfy your dog's natural chewing instinct while providing a tasty, protein-packed snack. The chicken jerky is low in fat, supporting your dog's nutrition and energy levels between meals. Since the ingredients are clearly listed, you'll know exactly what's in each treat.
These jerky treats have an appealing texture and flavor for even picky dogs. Ultimately, pet owners looking for an all-natural, healthy jerky treat need look no further.
Pros
- Made with 100% real chicken
- No artificial flavors, colors or preservatives
- Limited ingredients for nutritional transparency
- High in protein, low in fat
- Satisfies natural chewing instinct
- Also available in jerky wraps
Cons
- May not appeal to some picky eaters
When compared to lower quality jerky treats, Pur Luv does cost more, but you get what you pay for. Some picky pups may turn up their nose if they prefer softer textures. Overall, Pur Luv Chicken Jerky Dog Treats & wraps provide a healthy, responsible option made from quality ingredients.
Waggin' Train Chicken Jerky Treats for Dogs
Waggin' Train's chicken jerky is another great jerky treat for good reason - these treats are made with just two prime ingredients - 100% real chicken breast and vegetable glycerin - they offer incredibly tasty, protein-packed morsels.
The chicken breast pieces are tender yet chewy, with bold chicken flavor that drives dogs wild. I like that Waggin' Train chicken jerky contains no artificial additives. It's also grain-free and corn-free, so easy on sensitive tummies.
Portioned into long strips, these treats last longer than soft chews. You get 30 ounces per resealable pouch, an ample supply for training rewards and spontaneous treats. The jerky is suitable for dogs both big and small. My friend's Chihuahua loves snacking on the smaller broken pieces.
Pros
- 100% real chicken breast
- Only 2 ingredients
- Grain-free and corn-free
- Long-lasting chewy texture
- 30 oz. resealable pouch
Cons
- Can get pricey for frequent use
- Dries out if pouch left open
For supremely tasty chicken jerky treats packed with meaty flavor, Waggin' Train is a top contender. If you want single-ingredient protein treats made with real chicken, look no further. These jerky pieces earn my hearty recommendation for quality and craveable flavor.
Wag Soft & Tender American Jerky - Beef / Duck / Turkey / Chicken
WAG's Beef Jerky Dog Treats offer an appealing option for pet owners who prioritize quality ingredients and care about the nutritional needs of their canine companions. The use of American beef (and other meats) as the main ingredient reflects a commitment to quality and offers a protein-rich treat for dogs of all ages.
The treat comes in a variety of sizes ranging from a compact 6 ounces up to a hefty 24 ounces. This allows you to choose the right quantity based on your dog's consumption and your storage preferences.
The treats are designed with a soft and tender texture, which is an essential feature for younger or older dogs with dental sensitivities. The ability to easily break the jerky by hand without a mess makes it an excellent tool for training, as it allows you to apportion precisely the right size for your dog's reward.
Much thought has been given to the preservation of freshness in the product, with the inclusion of a resealable bag. This ensures that the treats remain as appealing on the last day as on the first.
Available flavors:
- Beef
- Chicken
- Turkey
- Duck
- Turkey & sweet potato
Pros
- Main ingredient is American meat
- Soft, easily breakable texture
- No grains or artificial additives
- Made in the USA with global ingredients
- Resealable bag for freshness
Cons
- Contains glycerin and gelatin
- Includes cane molasses
The WAG Beef Jerky Dog Treats are a high-quality, nutritious option for training and rewarding your dog. You'll appreciate the consistent quality, thoughtful packaging, and ingredient transparency that WAG offers.
Milo's Kitchen Dog Treats - Beef / Chicken / Steak Grillers
This succulent jerky is crafted with real chicken or beef as the primary ingredient, a promise of quality that presents a wholesome snack option for dogs of all life stages.
The treat's chewy texture is ideal for satisfying your dog’s natural chewing instinct. It also provides a high-protein snack that's beneficial to your dog’s muscle development and energy levels. While the jerky is undeniably tough and chewy, it may also serve as a good dental aid, helping to scrape away plaque as your pooch gnaws on them.
Milo's Kitchen Chicken Jerky is manufactured in the USA, and meets the stringent standards and specifications of the USDA, FDA, and AAFCO. This adds a layer of trust and assurance about the treat's quality and safety.
The absence of meat by-products and artificial flavors in the ingredients list is notable. Instead, the treats contain natural smoke flavor and seasonings, which enhance the flavorful experience for your dog without the need for artificial additives.
Pros
- Real beef or chicken is the #1 ingredient.
- Satisfying chewy texture for dogs.
- No artificial flavors or meat by-products.
- Made in the USA, adhering to strict standards.
- Suitable for dogs at all life stages.
Cons
- Garlic and onion extract inclusion
While the presence of sugar and salt can be seen as an issue — as these ingredients should generally be limited in a dog’s diet — the fact that these treats are meant to be given in moderation as part of a well-balanced diet mitigates this concern. Additionally, while garlic and onion extracts are included, they are in such minimal amounts that they should not pose a risk.
You can get the treats in multiple recipes and forms: chicken, beef sausage slices, chicken meatballs, steak grillers, and chicken & apple sausage slices.
Rocco & Roxie Jerky Dog Treats - Beef / Chicken
Rocco & Roxie Supply Co. offers premium, slow-roasted jerky treats made in the USA specifically for dogs. Prepared using whole muscle meats in a 10-hour roasting process, these jerky sticks deliver authentic texture and flavor. The irresistible aroma and chewy consistency mirror genuine beef or chicken jerky in a formulation safe and delectable for dogs of all sizes.
These USA-sourced jerky sticks start with quality ground meat as the first ingredient, avoiding artificial enhancers and common fillers. The proprietary dry roasting intensifies real meat flavor without heavy salt or spices. What remains is pure, unadulterated protein packed with savory meat essence. These whole-food attributes make Rocco & Roxie's jerky a great motivational treat for training or everyday rewarding.
The mini size caters perfectly to dogs large and small, tearing off into manageable pieces. Also, the roasting eliminates moisture for less messy handling and tear-free enjoyment.
Pros
- Single-ingredient, slow-roasted ground beef or chicken
- No artificial flavors, corn, soy, gluten or byproducts
- Tender and easy to tear into small pieces
- Intense beef aroma and flavor
Cons
- Canine obsessive chewers may gulp rather than savor
- Occasional overly thick pieces in bag
For a premium meat-based chewing motivation without forsaking quality for convenience, Rocco & Roxie Beef Jerky hits the bullseye. Building upon beloved jerkies from pet parents' own pantries, this purpose-made beef jerky transplant gives dogs the real thing safely.
Cadet Gourmet Duck Breast Dog Treats
Imagine the delight in your dog's eyes as you reach into the bag of Cadet Gourmet Dog Treats, a savory choice to indulge your furry companion with something special and nutritious. Crafted from oven-roasted duck breast fillets, these treats are not just mouthwatering but also a rich source of protein, essential for your dog's active lifestyle and muscle health.
The treats boast a limited ingredient list, free from artificial colors, fillers, flavors, or by-products, ensuring that your pup is snacking on wholesome goodness. Plus, you can feel confident about the quality, knowing that each treat has been inspected and rigorously tested right here in the USA to meet all quality standards.
Pros
- High-quality, oven-roasted duck breast fillets
- High in protein, low in fat content
- Free from artificial additives and by-products
- Ideal for dogs at all life stages and sizes
- Substantial quantity with 2.5 pounds of treats
Cons
- Not cheap
With their natural ingredients and rigorous quality standards, these treats are indeed some of the best dog jerky options available. They are great for any dog owner looking to spoil their pet in the healthiest way possible.
For more variety, the Cadet Gourmet treats are available in other flavors, other than duck breast; they are available in chicken breast, chicken & biscuit wraps, sweet potato & chicken wraps, sweet potato & duck wraps, and duck jerky.
Buying Guide - Things To Consider When Choosing Jerky for Your Dog
There are countless options to choose from when looking for jerky treats for your canine companion. That's why we came up with a list of things to bear in mind to ensure you make the best choice for the health and well-being of your beloved dog. You want to find the optimal mix of flavor, nutrition and affordability.
Composition & Ingredients
Carefully scan jerky ingredients to avoid those with added sugars, salt, unnecessary preservatives or spices.
Seek single-protein, whole-cut meat jerkies for purity, such as True Chews Premium Jerky which contains just beef and coconut glycerin (but is also available in other flavors). USA-sourced proteins are the safest.
Country of Manufacture - USA-Made Jerky
Made in the USA jerky adheres to tighter regulations throughout production, storage and handling compared to imports. Though pricier, US-made jerky meets higher safety standards worth the premium.
While it's not a hard requirement, seeking jerky and pet treats verifiably manufactured in a US-based plant provides greater peace of mind regarding your pup's snack. Reputable treats like Stewart Pro-Treat Beef Liver differ from random unregulated bulk jerky. Knowing treats abide by certified safety processes makes rewarding your furry friend more enjoyable.
Processing Method
Many mass-produced jerkies use harsh chemical processes detrimental to nutrients.
Seek “low and slow” air-dried, humanely raised jerky, like Primal Freeze-Dried Beef Nibs, to retain more nutrients.
Moisture Content
Jerky moisture content indicates digestion ease. Around 15% moisture is ideal for safety. Overly dry jerky carries a greater choking risk. Testing helps determine the ideal consistency.
Sourcing Transparency
Reputable brands like American Journey provide ingredient sourcing information and processing details covering animal diets, antibiotic usage, hormone levels, and ethical farming conditions.
Try your best to choose treats with clear ingredient composition and sources to make sure your dog will be healthy.
Your Dog's Diet
Consider your individual dog's ingredient sensitivities, stomach issues, or allergies needing accommodation in their diet and jerky selections.
Suiting the treats to your dog's preferences will help avoid any potential issues and health problems.
Value
Jerky prices range widely from 10 cents to over $1 per ounce based on protein types, preparation processes and ingredients.
Find your price-to-quality sweet spot through experimentation. You don't necessarily need to buy the priciest option available, but you also shouldn't look for options that are so cheap to the point of losing quality and being (potentially) dangerous for your companion's health.
Testing small bags first helps determine which flavors and textures your pup prefers so you can determine their perfect jerky treat reward! Leading treats span chicken, beef, duck, venison; etc.
Final Thoughts
Jerky presents dog owners with a compelling treat alternative that delivers on both taste and nutrition. As we've explored, top-rated jerkies avoid questionable ingredients in favor of wholesome, protein-packed selections that suit canine palates. While specific needs vary by breed, age, etc., the right jerky has the potential to supplement any pup's routine.
However, pet owners know their companions best. Be sure to monitor your dog's reaction to introducing jerky as well as any effects on their appetite, energy, weight, and so on over time. Adjust their snack schedule or explore other flavors and textures accordingly. Work closely with your veterinarian if you have outstanding questions.
Now we'd love to hear from you in the comments below! What jerky varieties thrill your dog? Have you noticed any benefits from adding jerky to their diet? Please share your experiences and feel free to ask this community any lingering questions.
