GetPetPros.com is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you.
Best Dog Treats for Papillon 2026
As a small dog, the Papillon needs treats sized to fit a small mouth — full-size biscuits can be a choking hazard and add unnecessary calories to a compact frame. The Papillon’s butterfly ears, fine coat, agile characteristics mean treat selection matters more than many owners realize. This guide covers the five best dog treats for Papillons in 2026, with honest pros and cons for each. See our full Breed Guide for more breed-specific advice.
Quick Comparison: Best Dog Treats for Papillon
| Product | Price Range | Best Feature | Where to Buy |
|---|---|---|---|
| Zuke’s Mini Naturals Chicken Recipe | $7–$10 | Tiny 3-calorie treats perfect for small-dog training | Check Price on Chewy Check Price on Amazon |
| Blue Buffalo BLUE Bits Soft Moist Training Treats | $8–$12 | Soft, moist, small bites for sensitive mouths | Check Price on Chewy Check Price on Amazon |
| Wellness Soft WellBites Chicken & Lamb | $9–$13 | Grain-free soft bites, no artificial preservatives | Check Price on Chewy Check Price on Amazon |
| Nutro Crunchy Treats Chicken Flavor | $6–$9 | Crunchy small bites with real chicken | Check Price on Chewy Check Price on Amazon |
| Merrick Power Bites Grain-Free Real Chicken | $8–$11 | High-protein soft treats, grain-free formula | Check Price on Chewy Check Price on Amazon |
Detailed Reviews
1. Zuke’s Mini Naturals Chicken Recipe
Price Range: $7–$10 | Check Price on Chewy | Check Price on Amazon
Tiny 3-calorie treats perfect for small-dog training. This treat is well-suited for the Papillon’s butterfly ears, fine coat, agile build and activity level.
Pros
- Real meat as first ingredient
- Appropriate size for the breed
- No artificial colors or flavors
Cons
- Can crumble in pocket
- Higher price per treat
2. Blue Buffalo BLUE Bits Soft Moist Training Treats
Price Range: $8–$12 | Check Price on Chewy | Check Price on Amazon
Soft, moist, small bites for sensitive mouths. This treat is well-suited for the Papillon’s butterfly ears, fine coat, agile build and activity level.
Pros
- Soft texture for training speed
- No wheat or corn
- Resealable bag
Cons
- Strong smell
- Short shelf life once opened
3. Wellness Soft WellBites Chicken & Lamb
Price Range: $9–$13 | Check Price on Chewy | Check Price on Amazon
Grain-free soft bites, no artificial preservatives. This treat is well-suited for the Papillon’s butterfly ears, fine coat, agile build and activity level.
Pros
- Grain-free formula
- Dense nutrition
- Multiple flavors available
Cons
- Some dogs find them too rich
- Pricier than basic biscuits
4. Nutro Crunchy Treats Chicken Flavor
Price Range: $6–$9 | Check Price on Chewy | Check Price on Amazon
Crunchy small bites with real chicken. This treat is well-suited for the Papillon’s butterfly ears, fine coat, agile build and activity level.
Pros
- Crunchy for dental benefit
- Widely available
- Long shelf life
Cons
- Harder texture not ideal for seniors
- Less aromatic for picky dogs
5. Merrick Power Bites Grain-Free Real Chicken
Price Range: $8–$11 | Check Price on Chewy | Check Price on Amazon
High-protein soft treats, grain-free formula. This treat is well-suited for the Papillon’s butterfly ears, fine coat, agile build and activity level.
Pros
- Affordable price point
- Trusted brand
- Easy to break into smaller pieces
Cons
- Ingredient list less premium
- Some fillers present
Buying Guide: Choosing Treats for Your Papillon
Calorie Count Matters
Treats should make up no more than 10% of your Papillon’s daily caloric intake. For small dogs this means choosing treats with 3–5 calories each for small sizes and 10–20 for larger breeds. Always check the calorie count on the label.
Ingredient Quality
Look for a named protein (chicken, salmon, beef) as the first ingredient. Avoid treats with artificial colors, BHA, BHT, or propylene glycol. The Papillon’s butterfly ears, fine coat, agile profile means a clean ingredient list reduces the risk of digestive upset and food sensitivities.
Texture and Size
Match treat texture to your dog’s dental health. Soft treats are ideal for training speed and senior dogs; crunchy treats provide mild dental benefit. For a small Papillon, the treat should fit comfortably in your palm and be easy to break in half if needed.
Purpose: Training vs. Occasional Reward
High-frequency training sessions call for tiny, soft, low-calorie treats. Save higher-value (and higher-calorie) chews for jackpot rewards. The Papillon’s high-energy nature means training is frequent — keep your training treats small and count them toward the daily calorie budget.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many treats can I give my Papillon per day?
Treats should not exceed 10% of daily caloric intake. For a small Papillon, that typically means 2–5 small treats or 1–2 larger treats depending on activity level. Consult your vet if you are unsure of your dog’s caloric needs.
Are grain-free treats safe for Papillons?
Grain-free treats are generally safe. The FDA’s DCM investigation centered on grain-free diets, not treats used in moderation. If your Papillon has no grain sensitivity, both grain-inclusive and grain-free options are acceptable.
What treats should I avoid for my Papillon?
Avoid treats containing xylitol (toxic to all dogs), raisins, macadamia nuts, chocolate, or onion powder. Also skip very hard pressed chews if your dog has dental disease, and avoid high-fat treats if your Papillon is overweight.
Should I use treats for training a Papillon?
Yes — treats are one of the most effective reinforcement tools for positive-reward training. The Papillon’s high-energy and butterfly ears, fine coat, agile temperament often responds very well to treat-based motivation. Choose high-value, soft treats for new or difficult commands and lower-value treats for practiced behaviors.