Small dogs and large dogs don’t just look different — their chewing habits, digestive needs, and treat preferences vary more than many owners realize. While both need safe, nutritious snacks, the size, texture, and purpose of a treat can change depending on the dog.
If you’ve ever wondered whether big dogs can safely eat small treats, or if small dogs should avoid large chews, this guide breaks everything down clearly.
Can Big Dogs Have Small Dog Treats?
Yes — big dogs can eat small treats, but that doesn’t mean they always should.
Small treats are fine for:
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Training sessions
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Quick rewards
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Low-calorie reinforcement
However, large dogs tend to swallow small treats whole, which removes the chewing benefit and may create a choking risk for some. Larger dogs usually do better with more substantial options like Bully Sticks or Beef Collagen Sticks that make them work a bit harder.
Small dogs, on the other hand, benefit from tiny training treats like Peanut Butter & Honey Training Treats that match their bite size and chewing ability.
What’s the Difference Between Small and Large Dog Treats?
Treats designed for large dogs vs small dogs differ in several key ways:
1. Size & Portion Control
Large dogs need treats big enough not to be swallowed instantly.
Small dogs need bite-sized pieces that won’t overwhelm their smaller jaws.
2. Texture
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Large dogs: benefit from firmer chews like Beef Cheek Rolls or 12" Bully Sticks.
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Small dogs: do best with softer or thinner treats like Cow Ear Slivers or Sweet Potato Sticks that are easier to break down.
3. Chew Duration
Big dogs need durable, long-lasting options to stay mentally satisfied.
Small dogs often need lighter chews that won’t strain their teeth.
4. Calories
Large dogs burn calories faster.
Small dogs can gain weight easily, so treats must be lower-calorie or smaller in portion.
Many dog nutrition blogs note that treat sizing plays a big role in avoiding overfeeding — especially in small breeds.
Do Dogs Care About the Size of Treats?
Not in the way humans do — but the experience matters.
Dogs don’t care whether a treat is “small dog” or “large dog” labeled. They care about:
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Smell
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Texture
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Ease of chewing
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Flavor
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How satisfying it feels
A Chihuahua might love the smell of a bully stick but physically struggle to chew it. A Great Dane might enjoy the taste of a tiny training treat but swallow it instantly without any chewing satisfaction.
This is why choosing treats based on chew strength and size is more important than the label on the bag.
How Are Small Dogs Different From Large Dogs When It Comes to Treats?
Here’s how the two categories differ in treat needs:
Small Dogs
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Smaller jaws = benefit from softer textures
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At risk of weight gain = need small, low-calorie treats
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Sometimes picky = prefer fragrant treats like Chicken & Sweet Potato Jerky
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Dental sensitivity is common = avoid very hard chews
Large Dogs
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Strong jaws = need durable chews like Bully Sticks, Beef Cheek Rolls, or Collagen Sticks
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More destructive = require long-lasting options
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Tend to swallow quickly = need larger, slower-to-eat treats
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Benefit from bigger chew pieces for dental health
For multi-dog homes, having different treat sizes for each dog is often the safest approach.
Best Treat Options for Small Dogs
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Cow Ear Slivers — thin, light, and easy to chew
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Sweet Potato Sticks — gentle and digestible
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Training Treats — small and low-calorie
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Lamb Lung — breaks into tiny training bits
These treats digest easily and won’t overwhelm small jaws or small stomachs.
Best Treat Options for Large Dogs
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Bully Sticks — durable and fully digestible
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Beef Cheek Rolls — long-lasting for aggressive chewers
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Beef Collagen Sticks — firm, satisfying texture
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Pig Ears — flavorful and substantial
These are ideal for big dogs who need tougher chewing satisfaction.
Final Thoughts
Small dogs and large dogs may enjoy similar flavors, but their treat needs are not the same. Large dogs need larger, more durable treats for safety and satisfaction, while small dogs need manageable textures and controlled portions.
Using options like Sweet Potato Sticks, Cow Ear Slivers, Bully Sticks, and Beef Cheek Rolls ensures every dog — no matter the size — gets a treat that fits their needs perfectly.