Many dog-owners love to give their pups an occasional treat, and chicken jerky treats are a great way to not only reward your dog but also keep him busy for a few minutes. Most chicken jerky for dogs is chewy and takes a little while to eat, so handing your pooch one of these treats can buy you some time to do some chores or make a phone call without being followed by four cute little feet and a pair of curious eyes.
We’ve looked at dozens of brands of chicken jerky for dogs so we could tell you about the best. We considered different types, the ingredients they include, and how Amazon users rated them.
Our favorite chicken jerky for dogs overall is Wag Jerky Dog Treats. This is a nice, big one-pound package of chewy chicken jerky treats that will have your dog begging for more. This one is the whole-muscle chicken variety; there’s also one that includes flaxseed, as well as other poultry varieties available. This product is made in the USA with USA-sourced ingredients, so you can feel good about the safety and consistency of the product.
In This Article
The 5 Top-Rated Chicken Jerky for Dogs
| Editor's Picks | Brand | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Best Chicken Jerky for Dogs Overall | Wag Jerky Dog Treats | 4.5 |
| Best Organic Chicken Jerky for Dogs | Full Moon Natural Organics Dog Treats | 4.6 |
| Best Budget Chicken Jerky for Dogs | Solimo Jerky Dog Treats | 4.5 |
| Best Tender Chicken Jerky for Dogs | Nudges Grillers | 4.7 |
| Best Single-Ingredient Chicken Jerky for Dogs | Dog Bark Naturals Jerky Dog Treats | 4.5 |
*Ratings are from Amazon and might change over time.
Best Chicken Jerky for Dogs Overall: Wag Jerky Dog Treats
Wag Jerky Dog Treats made the top of our list of the best chicken jerky for dogs. The only two ingredients are chicken breast and vegetable glycerin, which makes it a good choice for dogs who can’t digest other types of protein or who have allergies. It’s grain, soy, corn, and wheat free, and it’s 55 percent protein. This is a one-pound package, which contains between 12 and 20 treats, depending on their size.
These jerky treats have a strong, chewy texture, so they should keep your dog occupied for some time. They can be given to dogs of all ages and sizes, but they can be challenging for very small, young, or old dogs (or dogs with missing teeth) to chew through. Because they are made in the USA with limited ingredients, you can be confident of their safety.
Right now, you can save 40% on your first order of Wag Jerky Dog Treats if you choose to “subscribe & save.” Just choose that option before placing the treats in your cart.
Wag Jerky Dog Treats Key Features:
- One pound (12-20 treats)
- Made with real chicken
- Limited ingredients
- Strong, chewy texture
- For dogs of all ages and sizes
- Made in the USA
Best Organic Chicken Jerky for Dogs: Full Moon Natural Organics Dog Treats
The Full Moon Natural Organics Dog Treats made the top of our list of the best organic chicken jerky for dogs. This is a 2-pound package of tasty organic treats that all dogs will love. This company prides itself in using human-grade ingredients, which means that the jerky would be safe for you to eat (but it is not recommended–save them for your dog!). In addition to organic, free-range chicken, this product also contains organic whole grains.
These are a bit softer than some of the other jerky treats, which makes them good for smaller dogs or older dogs who don’t have all of their teeth. You can also break off pieces to use for training or to make the package last longer. There are no fillers or artificial colors or preservatives, and this brand is made in the USA.
Are you also shopping for an organic dog food? We have reviewed 25 of the best organic dog foods on the market.
Full Moon Natural Organics Dog Treats Key Features:
- 2 pounds
- Organic, human-grade ingredients
- Contains organic whole grains
- Fairly soft texture
- Can break off pieces
- Made in the USA
Best Budget Chicken Jerky for Dogs: Solimo Jerky Dog Treats
Solimo Jerky Dog Treats are our recommendation if you are looking for a budget-friendly chicken jerky to feed your dog. These are made from chicken, pea protein, glycerin, and salt. They don’t contain gluten, soy, or corn. Amazon users say that the pieces of chicken jerky are smaller than in similar bags of jerky, so these are good for smaller dogs. This particular product is chicken jerky, but the brand also carries duck varieties of jerky.
The Solimo brand is made by Amazon. Please note that this jerky is made in China with safe, tested ingredients. Amazon has a strict protocol that the supplier in China follows to ensure your dog’s safety. There is a money-back guarantee, so if your dog does not like the treats, you can return them for a full refund.
Solimo Jerky Dog Treats Key Features:
- 2 pounds
- Amazon brand
- No gluten, soy, or corn
- Made in China with strict safety protocols
- Money-back guarantee
Best Tender Chicken Jerky for Dogs: Nudges Grillers
If you have a dog who doesn’t like treats that are hard to chew, consider Nudges Grillers, which made our top spot among tender chicken jerky for dogs. These are not traditional jerky, but they are made with real chicken and will give your dog plenty of flavor without hurting sensitive gums or teeth. These are good for all dogs, but particularly perfect for puppies, small dogs, or senior dogs.
This is a one-pound package of tender jerky treats. They do contain rice, so they’re not appropriate for dogs who are on a grain-free diet. They don’t contain corn, wheat, soy, or any artificial fillers, flavors, or preservatives. This brand is made in the USA, too, so you don’t have to worry about safety.
Nudges Grillers Key Features:
- One pound
- Tender jerky treats
- Great for puppies and senior dogs
- Contains rice
- No corn, wheat, soy, or artificial flavors or fillers
- Made in the USA
Best Single-Ingredient Chicken Jerky for Dogs: Dog Bark Naturals Jerky Dog Treats
Dog Bark Naturals Jerky Dog Treats are made with exactly one ingredient: chicken. Whether your dog has allergies or you simply want to minimize the number of ingredients and additives that he is eating, these jerky treats make a great choice. The chicken is human-grade and thinly sliced, so dogs of all ages and sizes can eat it. Many users say that the jerky comes in small pieces, which is great for small dogs.
This company sources and processes their chicken in the USA. Also, portions of every sale are donated to dog rescue and shelter groups, so you can feel good about helping other dogs while your provide yours with a completely natural, delicious snack!
Dog Bark Naturals Jerky Dog Treats Key Features:
- 4 ounces
- Single ingredient
- Human-grade chicken
- Thin, small pieces
- Made in the USA
- Portion of proceeds goes to dog charities
Who Should Buy Chicken Jerky for Dogs
If you have a dog who loves treats and can safely eat chicken, then chicken jerky can be a great option to keep on hand. It’s particularly useful for keeping your pup happy and occupied while you need to greet a visitor or take a shower without a furry audience. There are also softer chicken jerky treats, which are great for small dogs as well as for older dogs who might be missing teeth.
Important Features to Consider
When looking at the various options, you might have some difficulty deciding which chicken jerky product is best for your dog. Here are some features to consider as you make your choice:
- Ingredients. Some chicken jerky is made with only chicken, while other brands and types are made with various other ingredients and additives. In general, if you want softer jerky, there will be ingredients in addition to chicken. If your dog has allergies or food sensitivities, be sure to read the label to ensure that you buy a product without the troublesome ingredients. If you need grain-free dog food, check out our list of the best ones in this category.
- Health issues. Some chicken jerky is made for dogs who might have joint pain (you’ll find some in their own category below). Also, if your dog is older and missing teeth or if you have a small or young dog, softer jerky might be better than the hard, crunchy varieties.
- Country of origin. If you feel strongly about feeding your dog only products made in the USA, be sure to look for that designation on the package of the jerky you are considering.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is chicken jerky safe for dogs?
In general, yes. Some brands might have had recalls or a poor reputation, however. And some are hard and brittle, which some dogs don’t mind, but they can cause gum bleeding or even stomach issues in other dogs. Talk to your veterinarian about whether chicken jerky is safe for your dog, and be sure that you always have fresh water available for your dog when he’s eating chicken jerky (and at all other times, as well).
Can I make my own chicken jerky for my dog?
Yes! You can take raw boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut it into 1/4-inch slices, and put it in a dehydrator for up to 12 hours, depending on how chewy you want the jerky to be. Making your own chicken jerky ensures that you know exactly what is in the treats. Do not add salt, sugar, garlic, or onion powder to the treats.
How can I soften chicken jerky for dogs?
If your jerky is too hard for your dog, you can soak it briefly in boiling water to reconstitute it a bit. Another option is to place it in a microwave-safe bowl with some water and microwave in 15-second increments until it’s soft. Let it cool to room temperature before giving it to your dog.
Can dogs eat jerky made for people?
No, it is not a good idea to give your dog jerky made for human consumption. These usually contain high levels of salt, sugar, and spices that are not appropriate (and can even be dangerous) for dogs. Either purchase jerky made for dogs or make your own with chicken in a dehydrator.
Other Chicken Jerky for Dogs We Reviewed
In addition to the ones reviewed above, we also looked at 20 other brands making chicken jerky for dogs. These have been separated into a few different categories to help you shop for exactly what you are looking for.
- Chicken Jerky for Small Dogs
- Chicken Jerky for Hip and Joint Health
- Single-Ingredient Chicken Jerky for Dogs
- Other Chicken Jerky for Dogs
Chicken Jerky for Small Dogs
These mini jerky treats contain glucosamine and chondroitin for good hip and joint health. They’re also small, chewy pieces for little pooches.
Key Features:
- 4 ounces
- Contains New Zealand green mussels
- Good for hip and joint health
Cost: $7
These chicken jerky treats are made with real chicken. They are a chewy treat that is perfectly sized for small chompers.
Key Features:
- 12 ounces
- Human-grade chicken
- Chewy treats
Cost: $10
Hank & Harley Chicken Jerky Sticks
These jerky treats are made with chicken and pumpkin, leaving them nice and soft. This makes them easy to eat for small dogs or dogs without all of their teeth.
Key Features:
- One pound
- Made with pumpkin
- Good for finicky dogs
Cost: $20
Hill’s Natural Jerky Mini Strips
These mini chicken jerky dog treats will keep your small dog’s tail wagging. These bite-sized treats have been developed by nutritionists.
Key Features:
- 7 ounces
- Chicken is #1 ingredient
- No artificial flavors or preservatives
Cost: $5
This is a three-pound bag of tender jerky treats that your small dog will happily gnaw through. These are processed in the USA.
Key Features:
- 3 pounds
- Tender treats
- Processed in the USA
Cost: $30
These soft jerky bites contain both chicken and lamb. They are chewy and great for small mouths. They contain a lot of protein for giving your dog energy.
Key Features:
- 4 ounces
- Contains lamb
- Grain-free
Chicken Jerky for Hip and Joint Health
Dogswell 100% Meaty Soft Treats for Dogs
This soft jerky contains glucosamine and chondroitin for your dog’s hip and joint health. It’s high in protein and good for dogs of all sizes.
Key Features:
- 20 ounces
- Easy to eat
- Grain-free
Cost: $22
Happy Hips 100% Meat Jerky Dog Treats
This is a grain-free chicken jerky that also contains glucosamine and chondroitin. It’s 50 percent protein and has no sugar, corn, wheat, soy, or artificial colors or flavors.
Key Features:
- 24 ounces
- Grain-free
- Contains glucosamine and chondroitin
Cost: $18
Spot Farms Chicken Jerky for Hip and Joint
This is another jerky that is grain-free and contains joint-friendly ingredients. This brand also makes a similar product that is for a healthy coat.
Key Features:
- 12 ounces
- Antibiotic-free chicken
- Made in the USA
Single-Ingredient Chicken Jerky for Dogs
BRUTUS & BARNABY Chicken Jerky Dog Treats
Containing only 100% USA chicken breast, this natural chicken jerky is a good treat for dogs with allergies or who need weight management.
Key Features:
- 10 ounces
- Thick and chewy
- Minimally processed
Cost: $20
Emmy’s Best Premium Chicken Jerky Dog Treats
This company uses only USDA grade A chicken breasts in their jerky. They are dehydrated and packaged up right here in the USA.
Key Features:
- 8 ounces
- Good for all sized dogs
- Made in the USA
Cost: $25
Green Butterfly Brands Chicken Jerky
If your dog prefers thin, crispy jerky, this 100% USDA chicken jerky might fit the bill. It’s high in protein and low in fat, which is good for sensitive tummies.
Key Features:
- 8 ounces
- Thin, crispy jerky
- Chickens sourced from American farms
Cost: $24
Green Valley Treats Chicken Jerky
These high-quality treats are made to order in the USA. These are a crisper jerky but they can be reconstituted with water for dogs who need a softer treat.
Key Features:
- 10 ounces
- Made to order
- Made in the USA
Cost: $23
Pet Eden Chicken Jerky Dog Treats
This is a one-pound bag of chicken jerky treats sourced from and made in the USA from chickens who haven’t had growth hormones.
Key Features:
- One pound
- Grain-free
- Great for training
Other Chicken Jerky for Dogs
Blue Dog Bakery Natural Chicken Sticks
These natural chicken jerky sticks are grain-free and packed with healthy protein. Every ingredient is human-grade and made in the USA.
Key Features:
- 7.8 ounces
- Grain-free
- Human-grade ingredients
Cost: $6
Farmland Traditions Dogs Love Chicken
This is a three-pound bag of treats that are made in the USA with limited ingredients. They contain just chicken and vegetable glycerin.
Key Features:
- 3 pounds
- Limited ingredients
- Made in the USA
Cost: $30
Hillside Farms Filler Free Chicken Jerky & Sweet Potato Twists
Give your dog some variety with these delicious chicken and sweet potato jerky twists. These are low in fat and can be broken easily.
Key Features:
- 2 pounds
- Easy to break for smaller dogs
- Contains soy
Cost: $21
Kingdom Pets Filler Free Chicken Breast Jerky
This three-pound bag of chicken jerky is made with limited ingredients to keep dogs with allergies and sensitivities safe and happy.
Key Features:
- 3 pounds
- Good for dogs of all sizes
- Limited ingredients
Cost: $30
Made with only three ingredients, this chicken jerky is high in protein and tastes great to your pooch. These are grain-free and good for dogs of all sizes.
Key Features:
- 12.5 ounces
- Limited ingredients
- Grain-free
Cost: $12
Purina Waggin’ Train Chicken Jerky Tenders
This grain-free chicken jerky contains only two ingredients, the first of which is real chicken. These should be broken for small dogs.
Key Features:
- 30 ounces
- Grain-free
- Limited ingredients
Cost: $23
