Best Training Treats for English Setters (2026)
English Setters are high-energy sporting dogs bred for all-day hunting, meaning they require frequent training sessions to channel their intelligence and strong drive. This breed's eager-to-please attitude and food motivation make them highly trainable, but their athletic build demands treats that won't contribute to unwanted weight gain during intensive training.
The best training treats for English Setters balance low calories with high palatability—this breed needs rewards frequent enough to reinforce commands during long outdoor sessions, but small enough to avoid overfeeding an active dog. Look for treats with real protein sources and soft textures that maintain scent in outdoor environments where English Setters naturally excel.
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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 rewardThis beef-rich, joint-supporting formula matches English Setters' strong-willed, food-motivated temperament and provides glucosamine for the athletic wear-and-tear from hunting and high-energy play.
- 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
Zuke's
Zuke's Mini Naturals
Best overall training treatZuke's soft texture and 3-calorie count perfectly balance English Setters' need for frequent rewards during training with their lean athletic build and tendency toward sensitive digestion.
- 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
Stella & Chewy's
Stella & Chewy's Freeze-Dried Raw Dinner Patties
Best high-value reward treatThis high-value, freeze-dried option harnesses English Setters' keen nose and strong food drive, making it ideal for reinforcing complex commands during outdoor hunting scenarios.
- 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
Bil-Jac
Bil-Jac Liver Treat
Best for picky or stubborn dogsLiver's intense aroma appeals directly to English Setters' natural hunting instincts and strong-willed personality, making it exceptionally motivating for stubborn dogs resistant to standard rewards.
- 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
Wellness
Wellness Soft WellBites
Best grain-free soft treatGrain-free and breakable into precise portions, Wellness Soft WellBites suit English Setters prone to food sensitivities while accommodating their need for frequent, calorie-conscious training rewards.
- 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 allergiesThis limited-ingredient formula suits English Setters with allergies or sensitivities, allowing owners to train without triggering digestive upset or skin irritation during active outdoor sessions.
- Single animal protein and single starch — easy to identify and avoid allergens
- No artificial preservatives, colors, or flavors
- Vet-recommended for elimination diet protocols
Pupford
Pupford Freeze-Dried Training Treats
Best variety pack for trainingAt just 1–2 calories per treat, Pupford's high-count bags enable the marathon training sessions English Setters' energetic, intelligent temperament demands without calorie overload.
- 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 English Setters
English Setters are driven by both praise and food motivation, making calorie density critical. With their athletic build and high exercise needs, even small treats add up during multiple daily training sessions. Opt for treats under 5 calories per piece, or choose low-calorie formulas specifically designed for frequent-reward training. This prevents unintended weight gain while supporting their lean, muscular physique.
Since English Setters often train outdoors in field conditions, treat texture matters significantly. Soft, semi-moist treats hold scent better in wind and moisture than hard kibble—essential for a breed that relies on their nose during work. Avoid overly crunchy treats that may crumble when stored in training vests or outdoor pockets.
English Setters can develop food sensitivities, particularly to grain and common allergens. If your dog shows digestive issues or itchy skin, prioritize grain-free formulas with limited ingredients. Single-protein treats make elimination diets easier if you're working with a veterinarian to identify triggers. Always introduce new treats gradually, especially with this breed's sensitive digestive systems.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many training treats can I give an English Setter per day?
English Setters typically need 10–15% of daily calories from treats. For a 50–65 pound dog eating roughly 1,200–1,500 calories daily, that's 120–225 treat calories maximum. Low-calorie treats (3–5 calories each) allow 20–75 treats daily, supporting their energetic nature and frequent training sessions. Always adjust main meal portions to account for training treats to prevent overfeeding.
Are English Setters prone to food allergies in training treats?
Yes, English Setters frequently develop sensitivities to chicken, wheat, corn, and soy. If your dog shows itching, ear infections, or digestive issues during training, switch to limited-ingredient or grain-free treats with novel proteins like beef or rabbit. Work with your vet to identify triggers, and introduce new treats gradually over 7–10 days to monitor reactions.
What makes a good training treat for a stubborn English Setter?
Strong-willed English Setters respond best to high-value, strongly scented rewards like freeze-dried meat or liver treats. Soft, aromatic treats work better than hard kibble in outdoor training environments. Reserve these premium options for teaching difficult commands while using lower-value treats for repetition work, maintaining motivation throughout training sessions without desensitizing the breed to rewards.
English Setter Full Breed Profile
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