Best Training Treats for Bluetick Coonhounds (2026)
Bluetick Coonhounds are high-energy hunting dogs bred for stamina and endurance, requiring frequent, high-value rewards during training sessions to maintain focus and motivation. Their independent streak and natural prey drive mean training treats must be compelling enough to compete with instinctive behaviors, especially during outdoor work.
The best training treats for Blueticks balance caloric content with motivational value. Since these 45- to 80-pound dogs are prone to weight gain when overfed, low-calorie options allow extended training without excess. Simultaneously, treats must be aromatic and palatable enough to capture the attention of a breed naturally driven by scent and hunting instinct.
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Our Top Pick
Merrick Power Bites Real Texas Beef
Substantial, beefy rewards for large and working breeds that need a more satisfying treat.
Merrick
Merrick Power Bites Real Texas Beef
Best high-protein training rewardHigh-protein beef treats satisfy Bluetick Coonhounds' natural hunting drive and larger appetites, while glucosamine supports joint health critical for this active, muscular breed.
- Deboned beef as #1 ingredient — satisfying for larger, more food-motivated breeds
- Grain-free with added glucosamine and chondroitin for joint health
- Chewy texture holds up in outdoor training without crumbling
Stella & Chewy's
Stella & Chewy's Freeze-Dried Raw Dinner Patties
Best high-value reward treatThese raw meat morsels deliver intense scent that Bluetick Coonhounds find irresistible during tracking work, while grain-free formulas suit dogs with meat-sensitive stomachs.
- 100% real meat — freeze-dried raw retains maximum scent and palatability
- Grain-free and limited ingredient — excellent for dogs with food sensitivities
- Crumble into tiny pieces for precision reward delivery
Wellness
Wellness Soft WellBites
Best grain-free soft treatSoft, grain-free rewards allow Blueticks to stay focused during training without digestive upset, while varied protein flavors prevent reward monotony during repetitive drills.
- Grain-free with no artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives
- Soft, semi-moist texture easy to break into smaller pieces
- Multiple protein flavors to rotate and maintain interest
Natural Balance
Natural Balance L.I.T. Limited Ingredient Treats
Best treat for dogs with allergiesSingle-ingredient formulas help identify and eliminate triggers for Blueticks prone to food sensitivities, making them ideal during dietary troubleshooting or elimination protocols.
- Single animal protein and single starch — easy to identify and avoid allergens
- No artificial preservatives, colors, or flavors
- Vet-recommended for elimination diet protocols
Zuke's
Zuke's Mini Naturals
Best overall training treatSoft, low-calorie chicken and salmon options match Blueticks' scent-driven motivation while accommodating extended training without weight gain or dental stress.
- Only 3 calories per treat — won't fatten up dogs in long training sessions
- Soft texture works for puppies, seniors, and dogs with dental issues
- Real chicken, salmon, or rabbit as first ingredient
Bil-Jac
Bil-Jac Liver Treat
Best for picky or stubborn dogsChicken liver's pungent aroma captures Blueticks' predatory attention in competitive outdoor environments where standard treats lose their motivational edge.
- Real chicken liver as first ingredient — consistently ranked among most motivating treats
- Soft, moist texture that holds scent well in outdoor training environments
- Resealable bag keeps treats fresh throughout the day
Pupford
Pupford Freeze-Dried Training Treats
Best variety pack for trainingDesigned for high-repetition training, these ultra-low-calorie freeze-dried morsels let Bluetick owners deliver hundreds of scent-driven rewards without exceeding daily caloric budgets.
- Only 1–2 calories per treat — designed specifically for high-repetition reward training
- Freeze-dried retains real meat aroma that dogs respond to reliably
- Available in 475+ treat counts per bag for extended training sessions
What to Look for in Training Treats for Bluetick Coonhounds
Bluetick Coonhounds have a well-developed prey drive and keen sense of smell, making scent intensity a critical factor when selecting training treats. High-drive hunting dogs respond best to meat-based, aromatic treats like freeze-dried raw or liver products that trigger their natural hunting instincts. Crunchy biscuits or bland options often fail to maintain engagement during outdoor training or when competing against environmental distractions.
Calorie density matters significantly for this breed, as Blueticks are prone to obesity without careful portion control. Low-calorie treats (under 5 calories per piece) enable extended training sessions without adding unnecessary weight, which is essential for a breed predisposed to joint issues. Look for treats you can portion into tiny pieces for rapid-fire reward training without exceeding daily caloric limits.
Blueticks often tolerate a wide variety of proteins, but individual sensitivities do occur. Rotate protein sources and monitor for digestive upset, especially if your dog hasn't been exposed to a particular ingredient. Soft or freeze-dried textures work better than hard kibble for this breed, as they maintain scent potency in outdoor hunting environments and won't damage teeth during vigorous work.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many training treats can I give my Bluetick Coonhound per day?
Training treats should comprise no more than 10% of your Bluetick's daily caloric intake. For a 60-pound dog eating roughly 1,200 calories daily, that's approximately 120 calories from treats. Ultra-low-calorie options (1–3 calories each) allow 40–120 rewards during training, while higher-calorie treats limit sessions to 20–40 rewards. Adjust based on your dog's weight and activity level.
What's the best treat texture for training Bluetick Coonhounds outdoors?
Soft, moist, or freeze-dried treats work best for outdoor Bluetick training. Hard biscuits lose scent potency in wind and don't provide enough sensory stimulation for scent-driven dogs. Freeze-dried raw and liver treats retain maximum aroma in field conditions, while chewy textures won't crumble in rain or dirt—maintaining motivation during extended hunting and tracking sessions.
Are Bluetick Coonhounds prone to food allergies or sensitivities?
While Blueticks don't have breed-specific allergies, individual dogs vary widely. Common triggers include chicken, beef, and wheat. Start with limited-ingredient treats featuring novel proteins (rabbit, venison) if your dog shows digestive upset, itching, or ear issues. Rotate protein sources during training and introduce new treats gradually over 7–10 days to identify sensitivities early.
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