Best Training Treats for Xoloitzcuintlis (2026)
Xoloitzcuintlis are intelligent, alert companions with a natural eagerness to please, making them highly trainable—but their small to medium size means calorie management during training is critical to prevent unwanted weight gain. These ancient dogs have sensitive, exposed skin and often benefit from limited-ingredient diets, as their unique physiology makes them prone to food sensitivities and allergies that can manifest as skin irritation.
The best training treats for Xolos balance low calorie counts with high palatability, allowing frequent rewards without derailing their diet. Look for soft textures that suit their sometimes-sensitive mouths, grain-free or limited-ingredient formulations to minimize allergen exposure, and real meat proteins that leverage their natural food drive for reliable training motivation.
This page contains affiliate links to Chewy and Amazon. When you purchase through our links, pupprofiles.dog may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
Our Top Pick
Stella & Chewy's Freeze-Dried Raw Dinner Patties
Ultra-high-value rewards for stubborn or easily distracted dogs who need extra motivation.
Stella & Chewy's
Stella & Chewy's Freeze-Dried Raw Dinner Patties
Best high-value reward treatFreeze-dried raw meat appeals powerfully to Xolos' natural hunting instincts and limited ingredients suit their sensitive skin, making this ideal for high-value training moments.
- 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
Charlee Bear
Charlee Bear Original Bear Crunch
Best low-calorie treat for frequent rewardsAt only 3 calories per treat, these crunchy bears let you reward your Xolo constantly during training sessions without weight gain concerns common in small, intelligent breeds.
- Only 3 calories per treat — train all day without guilt
- Crunchy texture helps clean teeth between brushings
- Tiny size perfect for small and toy breeds
Natural Balance
Natural Balance L.I.T. Limited Ingredient Treats
Best treat for dogs with allergiesSingle-protein formulations let you identify and avoid allergens triggering skin issues in Xoloitzcuintlis, making these essential for dogs with documented food sensitivities.
- 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 treatThese 3-calorie treats with soft texture perfectly match Xoloitzcuintlis' delicate mouths and frequent training reward needs without contributing to obesity in this compact breed.
- 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 intense aroma and moist texture consistently motivate intelligent Xolos through training while keeping treats small enough for rapid-fire reward delivery.
- 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, breakable soft treats suit Xolos prone to food sensitivities while rotating flavors maintains interest during long training sessions with this alert, intelligent breed.
- 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
Pupford
Pupford Freeze-Dried Training Treats
Best variety pack for trainingAt just 1–2 calories per treat, these high-repetition rewards sustain training motivation in food-driven Xolos while preventing overfeeding this small-to-medium-sized breed.
- 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 Xoloitzcuintlis
Xoloitzcuintlis come in three size varieties, and treat selection must match your dog's size to ensure safe, effective training. Medium Xolos need treats that won't overwhelm their mouths but deliver enough substance to feel rewarding—too-tiny treats may frustrate their training focus, while oversized ones require constant breaking. Consider your specific dog's size within the medium range and prioritize treats designed for small to medium breeds or those explicitly crumbleable for portion control.
Because Xolos often have sensitive skin and digestive systems, ingredient transparency is non-negotiable. Single-protein or limited-ingredient treats help you identify and avoid potential allergens that could trigger skin flare-ups or GI upset. Grain-free options are worth exploring, especially if your Xolo shows signs of food sensitivity, though consult your vet before making major dietary shifts during training.
Xoloitzcuintlis are food-motivated but intelligent enough to lose interest in low-value rewards during extended sessions. Balance ultra-low-calorie treats (3 calories or fewer) for frequent reinforcement with occasional high-value options like freeze-dried meat to maintain engagement during advanced training. This strategy keeps training productive without overfeeding your compact companion.
Frequently Asked Questions
What size treats are best for a medium Xoloitzcuintli during training?
Medium Xolos benefit from treats they can consume in one or two bites without choking risk. Look for treats the size of a pea to small marble, or products explicitly crumbleable for portion control. Treats designed for small-to-medium breeds or those marketed as 'mini' work well. Avoid oversized biscuits that require constant breaking, which slows training momentum and frustrates your dog's natural eagerness to continue.
How do I know if a treat is causing my Xolo's skin irritation?
Xoloitzcuintlis' exposed skin makes them prone to food-triggered reactions like itching, redness, or dryness. If skin issues appear after introducing new treats, switch to limited-ingredient or single-protein options and note improvements within 2–4 weeks. Common allergens include chicken, beef, and grains. Keep a food log and consult your vet before eliminating multiple ingredients, as they may recommend an elimination diet to pinpoint the culprit.
Can I use the same training treats for a small and medium Xoloitzcuintli?
Yes, but with modifications. Medium Xolos can handle slightly larger treats, while smaller individuals need crumbleable or naturally tiny options to prevent choking and ensure appropriate portion sizes. Low-calorie treats (3 calories or fewer) and freeze-dried options that crumble easily work for both sizes. Always supervise and adjust quantities based on your dog's individual size and daily calorie needs, regardless of breed size category.
Xoloitzcuintli Full Breed Profile
Temperament, health conditions, care guides, and adoption resources.