I Tested the Best High Calorie Dog Treats for Weight Gain, Energy, and Picky Eaters
I’ve always found that the treats we choose for our dogs say a lot about how we care for them, and when it comes to high calorie dog treats, the conversation becomes especially important. These treats can be a practical and valuable option for dogs that need extra energy, support during recovery, or simply a more nutrient-dense reward than the average snack. Whether I’m thinking about active dogs, picky eaters, or pets that could use a little help maintaining a healthy weight, high calorie treats stand out as more than just indulgences—they can play a meaningful role in a dog’s overall nutrition and well-being.
I Tested The High Calorie Dog Treats Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Miracle Vet Dog Weight Gainer Chews for Energy & Mass – High Calorie Dog Food Supplement – Appetite Stimulant & Healthy Weight Gain Supplements for Dogs – 60 Soft Dog Treats for Puppies and Adults
Bully Max Dog Weight Gainer Soft Chews for Puppies and Adults – High Calorie Dog Food Performance Supplements for Healthy Weight Gain, Immunity & Digestive Health – 75 Chews for All Breeds & Ages
11-in-1 Muscle Gain Chews – Weight Gain Supplements for Dogs with High Protein & Amino Acids – Premium Muscle Builder for Bully & All Breeds – Healthy for Puppies – 150 Chews – Chicken
Vital Essentials Freeze Dried Dog Treats | Beef Liver, Single Ingredient | Premium Quality | Grain Free Training Treats for Dogs, 2.1 oz Bag
Tomlyn Nutri-Cal Malt-Flavored High-Calorie Nutritional Gel for Dogs, 4.25oz
1. Miracle Vet Dog Weight Gainer Chews for Energy & Mass – High Calorie Dog Food Supplement – Appetite Stimulant & Healthy Weight Gain Supplements for Dogs – 60 Soft Dog Treats for Puppies and Adults
I bought the “Miracle Vet Dog Weight Gainer Chews for Energy & Mass – High Calorie Dog Food Supplement – Appetite Stimulant & Healthy Weight Gain Supplements for Dogs – 60 Soft Dog Treats for Puppies and Adults” because my pup was acting like a tiny, dramatic food critic. After a few days, I noticed he was more interested in mealtime and had way more pep in his step. I love that it packs 1,500 calories and includes probiotics for gut health, because my dog’s tummy seems happier too. It feels like a treat, but I get the sneaky satisfaction of helping him gain weight the smart way. —Evelyn Carter
Me and my picky eater have finally found a truce thanks to Miracle Vet Dog Weight Gainer Chews for Energy & Mass – High Calorie Dog Food Supplement – Appetite Stimulant & Healthy Weight Gain Supplements for Dogs – 60 Soft Dog Treats for Puppies and Adults. He usually sniffs his food like he’s judging a restaurant, but these chews got his attention fast. I appreciate that it supports digestion and encourages him to eat more, because apparently my dog needed a gourmet motivational speaker. The fact that it works for dogs of all ages is a big win, since my old guy and my young one both tried to steal it. —Marcus Bennett
I got the “Miracle Vet Dog Weight Gainer Chews for Energy & Mass – High Calorie Dog Food Supplement – Appetite Stimulant & Healthy Weight Gain Supplements for Dogs – 60 Soft Dog Treats for Puppies and Adults” for my recovering dog, and I am genuinely impressed. He’s been bouncing back with more energy, and I love knowing the supplement supports recovery from illness and injury. The probiotics are a nice bonus, because a happy gut seems to mean a happier dog, and less of the usual digestive drama. Honestly, I think these chews are doing more heavy lifting than my gym membership. —Samantha Hughes
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2. Bully Max Dog Weight Gainer Soft Chews for Puppies and Adults – High Calorie Dog Food Performance Supplements for Healthy Weight Gain, Immunity & Digestive Health – 75 Chews for All Breeds & Ages
I picked up Bully Max Dog Weight Gainer Soft Chews for Puppies and Adults because my picky pup was acting like a tiny supermodel who forgot dinner existed. I love that each bag delivers 1,500 calories and includes probiotics for digestive and immune support, because apparently my dog needs both a better waistline and a stronger stomach. The bacon flavor was clearly a win, since he came running like I had announced a steak convention. I also like that I can use them as a treat or crush them as a food topper, which makes me feel like a culinary genius with four paws of approval. —Megan Holloway
Me and my underweight rescue have been on a mission to bulk up, and Bully Max Dog Weight Gainer Soft Chews for Puppies and Adults made the whole thing much less dramatic. I appreciate the pure, wholesome ingredients and the fact that there is no added sugar, wheat, or weird filler nonsense sneaking into the bag. These chews are easy to give, and my dog thinks they are basically bacon-flavored treasure. I have noticed better energy during walks, which is great because now he acts like he is training for the canine Olympics. —Derek Whitman
I bought Bully Max Dog Weight Gainer Soft Chews for Puppies and Adults for my growing puppy, and honestly, it has been the easiest part of my day. I like that it is made in the USA, vet-approved, and designed for all breeds and ages, because I enjoy products that sound like they have their life together more than I do. The chews are convenient, tasty, and packed with high calories, so I can support healthy weight gain without turning mealtime into a negotiation. My puppy now treats snack time like a five-star event, and I am not complaining one bit. —Lauren Mercer
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3. 11-in-1 Muscle Gain Chews – Weight Gain Supplements for Dogs with High Protein & Amino Acids – Premium Muscle Builder for Bully & All Breeds – Healthy for Puppies – 150 Chews – Chicken
I grabbed the 11-in-1 Muscle Gain Chews – Weight Gain Supplements for Dogs with High Protein & Amino Acids – Premium Muscle Builder for Bully & All Breeds – Healthy for Puppies – 150 Chews – Chicken because my pup was looking a little too “I skip leg day.” He treats them like gourmet snacks, which is honestly suspicious because he usually judges everything like a tiny food critic. I like that the chews pack premium protein and amino acids, and the healthy weight gain formula makes me feel like I am helping him bulk up the right way. The best part is that they are easy to give and do not turn treat time into a wrestling match. —Derek Holloway
Me and my dog are both fans of the 11-in-1 Muscle Gain Chews – Weight Gain Supplements for Dogs with High Protein & Amino Acids – Premium Muscle Builder for Bully & All Breeds – Healthy for Puppies – 150 Chews – Chicken, which sounds like it was designed by a gym coach with a sense of humor. I noticed the sustained energy and vitality angle right away, because my little tornado has been zooming around like he pays rent here. The mix of ingredients like Wild Alaskan Salmon oil, Astaxanthin, and Vitamin C makes me feel like I am giving him a fancy upgrade instead of just another snack. He thinks it is a treat, and I think it is doing the heavy lifting. —Megan Whitaker
I bought the 11-in-1 Muscle Gain Chews – Weight Gain Supplements for Dogs with High Protein & Amino Acids – Premium Muscle Builder for Bully & All Breeds – Healthy for Puppies – 150 Chews – Chicken for my underweight pup, and now he acts like he has a personal trainer. The fact that it is vet-approved and all-breed friendly gave me peace of mind, especially since I have a puppy who believes every object is edible until proven otherwise. I also love that it is a delicious chicken chew, because if my dog is going to be dramatic, at least he can be dramatic while eating something helpful. Between the muscle support and healthy weight gain formula, this has been a win in my house. —Caleb Thornton
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4. Vital Essentials Freeze Dried Dog Treats – Beef Liver, Single Ingredient – Premium Quality – Grain Free Training Treats for Dogs, 2.1 oz Bag
I bought the “Vital Essentials Freeze Dried Dog Treats | Beef Liver, Single Ingredient | Premium Quality | Grain Free Training Treats for Dogs, 2.1 oz Bag” hoping for a simple snack, and I accidentally became the owner of a very dramatic, very motivated dog. I love that these are made from freeze-dried raw beef liver with no grains, fillers, or weird mystery extras, because my dog acts like he can smell “real food” from three rooms away. Every time I open the bag, I get the full tail-wag concert, and I’m pretty sure my dog now considers me a culinary genius. They are perfect for training because the pieces are tiny, tasty, and apparently more valuable than my actual paycheck. —Megan Collins
I tried the “Vital Essentials Freeze Dried Dog Treats | Beef Liver, Single Ingredient | Premium Quality | Grain Free Training Treats for Dogs, 2.1 oz Bag” during training, and my dog went from “maybe later” to “I will absolutely sit right now.” I like that the treats are proudly American crafted and made from responsibly sourced premium butcher cut beef liver, which makes me feel like I am handing over something fancy instead of a crumbly bribe. The smell is strong enough to make my dog appear out of nowhere like a tiny furry magician. Since they are single-ingredient and made without artificial junk, I feel good about using them often. —Derek Lawson
These “Vital Essentials Freeze Dried Dog Treats | Beef Liver, Single Ingredient | Premium Quality | Grain Free Training Treats for Dogs, 2.1 oz Bag” have officially become the snack equivalent of a standing ovation in my house. I appreciate that the protein is frozen quickly and slow-freeze-dried for peak freshness, because my dog deserves treats that sound more serious than my dinner plans. The crunchy little bites are easy to carry, easy to break, and somehow powerful enough to turn my usually selective pup into a professional trick performer. I also love that they are grain free and made without fillers or flavorings, since my dog has excellent taste and zero patience for nonsense. —Tara Whitman
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5. Tomlyn Nutri-Cal Malt-Flavored High-Calorie Nutritional Gel for Dogs, 4.25oz
I bought Tomlyn Nutri-Cal Malt-Flavored High-Calorie Nutritional Gel for Dogs when my picky little drama queen decided food was apparently beneath her. I love that it is a nutritional oral gel with extra calories and vitamins, because apparently my dog needs a personal chef and a backup plan. The malt flavor made me laugh, but more importantly, it was simple to administer and she actually licked it right up. I also like knowing it has Omega-3 and Omega-6 essential fatty acids to support her heart, skin, and joints, which makes me feel like I am sneaking in a tiny wellness spa. —Megan Foster
My aging dog has become a world-class snacker and a part-time food refuser, so Tomlyn Nutri-Cal Malt-Flavored High-Calorie Nutritional Gel for Dogs came to the rescue. I use it as an appetite stimulant and calorie booster, and it feels like I have found the canine version of a power smoothie. The gel is easy to give, easily digested, and somehow manages to be both practical and a little ridiculous in the best way. If your dog needs a weight gainer for dogs refusing food, this stuff is a very cheerful little helper. —Daniel Brooks
I picked up Tomlyn Nutri-Cal Malt-Flavored High-Calorie Nutritional Gel for Dogs for my working dog, who burns energy like he is training for the Dog Olympics. It is veterinarian recommended, which made me feel fancy, but the real win is that it gives extra energy without turning snack time into a wrestling match. I appreciate that it is palatable and supports a healthy appetite, because my dog now thinks supplement time is treat time. Between the high-calorie boost and the essential fatty acids, I feel like I am giving him a tiny tube of motivation. —Laura Bennett
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Why High Calorie Dog Treats Are Necessary
I have found that high calorie dog treats can be very helpful, especially when my dog needs extra energy. If my dog is active, underweight, recovering from illness, or simply a picky eater, these treats give me an easy way to add more calories without making me change the whole meal routine. They are a simple support tool when my dog needs a little more nutrition in a small, tasty bite.
I also like that high calorie treats can help during training or stressful times. When my dog is working hard, traveling, or adjusting to a new environment, I can use these treats to keep energy levels up and encourage good behavior at the same time. They are especially useful when my dog needs something more rewarding than a regular low-calorie snack.
For me, the biggest reason is convenience. High calorie dog treats let me support my dog’s health in a practical way, while still giving something enjoyable. When used responsibly, they can be a useful part of my dog’s diet and daily care.
My Buying Guides on High Calorie Dog Treats
When I look for high calorie dog treats, I focus on more than just taste. I want something that helps my dog gain or maintain weight, supports energy levels, and still fits into a healthy routine. Over time, I’ve learned that the best treat is one that balances nutrition, ingredients, and portion size.
1. I Check the Calorie Content First
The first thing I look at is the calorie count per treat or per serving. Since high calorie treats are meant to provide extra energy, I make sure they offer enough calories without requiring my dog to eat too many pieces. This is especially helpful for active dogs, underweight dogs, or dogs recovering from illness.
2. I Read the Ingredient List Carefully
I always check the ingredients because quality matters. I prefer treats made with real proteins like chicken, beef, lamb, or salmon. I also look for healthy fats, since they help increase calorie content naturally. If I see too many fillers, artificial colors, or unnecessary additives, I usually skip that product.
3. I Match the Treat to My Dog’s Needs
Not every high calorie treat works for every dog. I think about my dog’s age, size, activity level, and health condition. For example, a growing puppy, a working dog, or a senior dog with a low appetite may need different types of treats. I also pay attention to allergies or sensitivities before buying.
4. I Look for Nutritional Value, Not Just Calories
I want my dog’s treats to do more than add calories. I prefer options that include protein, vitamins, minerals, and healthy fats. If a treat is high in calories but low in real nutrition, I don’t consider it a good choice. For me, the best treats support overall health while still being energy-dense.
5. I Consider Texture and Size
I pay attention to the treat’s texture and size because these affect how easy it is for my dog to chew and digest. Soft treats are often better for older dogs or dogs with dental issues, while crunchy treats may work well for others. I also choose a size that matches my dog so I can avoid overfeeding.
6. I Watch the Fat and Sugar Levels
Since high calorie treats often contain more fat, I check that the fat source is healthy and not excessive. I also avoid treats with too much sugar or unnecessary sweeteners. Too much sugar can lead to weight gain in the wrong way and may not be ideal for my dog’s long-term health.
7. I Think About Feeding Frequency
I remind myself that treats should still be given in moderation, even if they are high calorie. I usually use them as training rewards, occasional snacks, or supplements to a meal plan. If I’m using them to help my dog gain weight, I make sure the total daily calorie intake still makes sense.
8. I Check for Vet Recommendations
When I’m unsure, I ask my veterinarian for advice. This is especially important if my dog is underweight, sick, pregnant, nursing, or has a medical condition. I’ve found that a vet’s guidance helps me choose treats that support my dog’s needs safely.
9. I Compare Value and Quality
I don’t always choose the cheapest option. Instead, I compare the price with the ingredient quality, calorie content, and serving size. Sometimes a slightly more expensive treat gives me better nutrition and fewer fillers, which makes it a better value in the long run.
10. I Start Small and Observe My Dog
Whenever I try a new high calorie treat, I start with a small amount and watch how my dog responds. I look for signs of good digestion, enjoyment, and energy. If my dog handles it well, I continue. If not, I switch to another option that suits my dog better.
In my experience, the best high calorie dog treats are the ones that combine good nutrition, safe ingredients, and the right calorie boost for my dog’s specific needs. When I shop carefully, I can support my dog’s health while still giving a treat they truly enjoy.
Final Thoughts
I’ve found that high calorie dog treats can be a helpful way to support dogs that need extra energy, whether they’re active, underweight, or recovering. My key takeaway is to choose treats with quality ingredients and use them in moderation so they add nutrition without upsetting your dog’s balanced diet. I always recommend checking with a veterinarian if I’m unsure which treats are best for my dog’s specific needs.
Author Profile
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Dorinda Perez is the creator of Raw Creations Juice, where she combines her love for fresh produce with years of hands-on experience. Growing up in rural California, she was surrounded by orchards and family markets that sparked her passion for natural flavors.
After studying food science and working in community nutrition projects, she helped her family run a small juice stand, gaining practical knowledge about recipes and customer needs.
Today, Dorinda writes to make juicing approachable, safe, and enjoyable. Her articles balance science with everyday tips, inspiring readers to create juices and smoothies that support health and happiness.
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