By David | Updated: July 2025
Is your pup carrying a few extra pounds? You’re not alone—and neither are they. Canine obesity affects over 50% of dogs in the U.S., leading to serious health concerns like joint pain, heart disease, and a shortened lifespan. But here’s the good news: managing your dog’s weight doesn’t mean cutting out treats altogether.
The key? Choosing low-calorie, nutrient-dense dog treats that satisfy cravings without expanding the waistline.
In this guide, you’ll find 7 vet-approved low-calorie dog treat ideas that are healthy, easy to make (or buy), and dog-approved. Each option is packed with natural ingredients that support weight loss, digestion, and energy—without adding empty calories.
Why Low-Calorie Treats Matter for Overweight Dogs
Many commercial dog treats are loaded with fillers, sugars, and fat—basically junk food in a cute bag. Even healthy-seeming options often pack more calories than you realize.
Here’s what to aim for:
- Less than 10% of your dog’s daily calories should come from treats.
- Choose treats that are under 10 calories each for small dogs, and under 25 calories for large breeds.
- Focus on fiber-rich or high-protein snacks that keep your dog feeling fuller longer.
1. 🫐 Frozen Blueberry Yogurt Bites
These antioxidant-rich treats are perfect for hot days and weight-conscious pups. Blueberries are low in sugar, and unsweetened Greek yogurt adds gut-healthy probiotics.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries
- ¾ cup plain, unsweetened Greek yogurt
Instructions:
- Blend ingredients until smooth.
- Spoon into silicone molds or ice cube trays.
- Freeze 2–3 hours until firm.
- Serve 1–2 bites per day.
💡 Why it works: Blueberries support brain health and are low in calories (~0.8 kcal/berry). Yogurt boosts digestion and helps reduce cravings.
2. 🥕 Carrot & Flax Crunchers (Baked or Raw)
Carrots are crunchy, low-calorie, and high in vitamin A. This upgraded version includes ground flaxseed for omega-3s and fiber.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup grated raw carrots
- 1 egg
- 1 tbsp ground flaxseed
- ½ cup oat flour
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
- Mix ingredients and form small, flattened balls.
- Bake for 20 minutes or until slightly golden.
🥕 Raw option: Simply slice fresh carrots into sticks and refrigerate.
💡 Bonus tip: Raw carrots also help clean teeth naturally.
3. 🍠 Sweet Potato Chews
One ingredient, zero guilt. Sweet potatoes are high in fiber and beta-carotene—great for digestion and immune support.
Instructions:
- Slice sweet potato into ¼-inch thick strips.
- Bake at 250°F (120°C) for 2.5–3 hours, flipping halfway.
- Cool completely. Store in an airtight container.
🥩 Optional: Rub with coconut oil before baking for a shinier coat.
4. 🍏 Dehydrated Apple Slices with Cinnamon
Apples are hydrating, fiber-rich, and naturally sweet. Just skip the seeds—they contain cyanide and are toxic to dogs.
Instructions:
- Core and slice apple into thin rounds.
- Sprinkle lightly with cinnamon (optional).
- Bake at 200°F (93°C) for 2–3 hours until crisp.
🍎 Serving size: 1–2 slices daily.
5. 🟢 Green Bean Crunchies
Low in calories and high in iron, vitamin C, and manganese, green beans make an excellent daily snack for dieting dogs.
Options:
- Serve raw (if your dog prefers crunchy).
- Steam or boil until tender, then cool and refrigerate.
💡 Serving tip: Mix with kibble as a filler to reduce portion sizes without leaving your dog hungry.
6. 🎃 Pumpkin Pupsicles
Pumpkin is a doggy superfood. It promotes healthy digestion, especially in dogs with constipation or soft stools.
Ingredients:
- ½ cup pure pumpkin purée (not pie filling)
- ½ cup low-sodium chicken broth or goat’s milk
Instructions:
- Mix ingredients in a bowl.
- Pour into molds or trays.
- Freeze for 4–6 hours.
- Store frozen up to 2 weeks.
💡 Pumpkin is only 15 calories per ½ cup.
7. 🛒 Healthy Store-Bought Low-Cal Treats
Not a DIYer? No problem. These low-calorie treats are vet-recommended, affordable, and perfect for busy pet parents.
Top Picks:
- Zuke’s Mini Naturals – 3.2 calories per treat
- Fruitables Skinny Minis – ~3.5 calories each
- Wellness Core Bowl Boosters – Freeze-dried and great as toppers
✅ Look for:
- <5 ingredients
- No corn, soy, wheat, or artificial flavors
- Under 10 kcal per treat
Expert Tips for Treating Overweight Dogs
- Track calories: Treats count! If your dog needs 500 kcal/day, treats should be no more than 50 kcal.
- Break treats in half to reduce calories without reducing joy.
- Use treats for training, not boredom.
- Introduce new treats slowly, especially if your dog has a sensitive stomach.
- Pair treats with exercise: Use walk time or playtime as the reward trigger.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: How do I know if my dog is overweight?
Run your fingers along their ribs. If you can’t feel them easily, or they have no visible waist from above, it’s time to reassess their diet.
Q2: Can I use these treats daily?
Yes, in moderation. Stick to 1–2 small treats per day, or adjust meal portions accordingly.
Q3: Are fruits like banana safe for overweight dogs?
Yes, but bananas are higher in sugar—limit to small pieces occasionally.
Q4: Are these recipes safe for diabetic dogs?
Most are, especially the veggie-based options. Avoid high-sugar fruits and consult your vet for specific conditions.
Q5: Can puppies have these treats?
Absolutely! Just reduce serving size and avoid any known allergens.
Final Thoughts
Keeping your dog healthy doesn’t mean cutting out all the fun. With the right low-calorie dog treats, you can spoil your pup and support their weight loss goals at the same time.
These homemade and store-bought options are affordable, easy to prep, and backed by sound canine nutrition. Combine them with regular exercise and portion control, and you’ve got a recipe for a happy, healthier dog.
🐾 Because every dog deserves to be loved—and live longer doing it.