7 Low Calorie Dog Treats For Overweight Dogs

Let’s face it: many dogs gain weight faster than we expect. Over my 20+ years grooming dogs and preparing homemade meals for everything from lazy lap dogs to working breeds, I’ve seen how quickly extra pounds creep on—usually from well-meaning treats and leftovers. The good news is that helping an overweight dog slim down doesn’t mean taking away treats entirely.

Low-calorie dog treats let you reward good behavior, support training, and still protect your dog’s joints, heart, and lifespan. According to veterinary data, even a 10–15% reduction in body weight can significantly improve mobility and reduce arthritis risk in dogs.

Key Takeaways

• Over 55% of pet dogs are classified as overweight or obese
• Low-calorie treats should make up less than 10% of daily calories
• Fruits and vegetables can be safe, filling treat alternatives
• Portion size matters more than treat type
• Homemade treats give you full ingredient control

In this article, I’ll share seven healthy, low-calorie treats I’ve personally used with overweight dogs that truly work—and dogs genuinely enjoy.

1. Frozen Blueberry Bites

Blueberries are one of my favorite low-calorie treats. They’re naturally sweet, easy to portion, and packed with antioxidants that support brain and heart health. I’ve used these with senior dogs and younger overweight pups alike, especially during summer.

You can serve blueberries raw or blend them with yogurt and freeze them into small bites.

Ingredients
1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries
1 cup plain yogurt

Instructions
Rinse the blueberries thoroughly.
Blend with yogurt until smooth.
Spread onto a baking sheet or spoon into molds and freeze for 2–3 hours.
Store in a freezer-safe container for up to one month.

Pro Tip: Blueberries contain about 1 calorie per berry, making portion control incredibly easy. I recommend starting with 2–3 for small dogs and up to 6 for large breeds.

2. Carrots (Or Carrot Crunchers)

Carrots are a classic for a reason. They’re crunchy, satisfying, and extremely low in calories. I’ve given carrots to hundreds of dogs over the years, especially those who constantly beg for snacks.

Ingredients
1–2 fresh carrots

Instructions
Wash and peel the carrots.
Cut into bite-sized sticks or rounds.
Serve raw or lightly steamed for softer texture.

FYI: Chewing carrots can help reduce plaque buildup. One medium carrot has about 25 calories, but most dogs eat far less than that per serving.

3. Sweet Potato Chews

Sweet potatoes are filling without being fattening. When prepared correctly, they’re one of the best chewy alternatives to processed treats. I often recommend these to dogs who need something to gnaw on.

Ingredients
1 large sweet potato

Instructions
Preheat oven to 250°F (120°C).
Slice sweet potato into thin strips.
Bake for 2–3 hours, flipping halfway, until chewy.

Note: Sweet potatoes are higher in calories than some veggies, so moderation is key. I usually limit these to 1–2 small chews per day for overweight dogs.

4. Apple Slices

Apples are refreshing, crunchy, and naturally low in calories. I’ve used them frequently during grooming sessions as a distraction treat.

Ingredients
1 apple

Instructions
Wash the apple thoroughly.
Remove the core and seeds completely.
Slice into thin pieces and serve fresh or frozen.

Fun Fact: Apples provide fiber and vitamin C, and one thin slice averages under 5 calories.

5. Plain Green Beans

Green beans are one of the best weight-loss foods for dogs. Many vets even recommend replacing part of a dog’s meal with green beans for weight control.

Ingredients

1 cup fresh or frozen green beans

Instructions
Steam or boil until tender.
Allow to cool fully before serving.
Refrigerate leftovers for up to 3 days.

Pro Tip: I’ve successfully helped dogs lose weight by replacing 10–20% of kibble with green beans, under vet supervision.

6. Pumpkin Pupsicles

Pumpkin is excellent for digestion and incredibly low in calories. I’ve relied on pumpkin for years when dogs struggle with constipation or loose stools.

Ingredients
1/2 cup pure pumpkin puree
1/2 cup water or low-sodium broth

Instructions
Mix pumpkin with liquid.
Pour into ice cube trays or molds.
Freeze for 4–6 hours.

FYI: Pumpkin contains soluble fiber that supports gut health and can help dogs feel full longer—perfect for weight management.

7. Store-Bought Low-Calorie Treats

While homemade is my preference, there are decent store options available. Look for treats with short ingredient lists, no added sugar, and clear calorie labeling.

Pro Tip: Choose treats under 5 calories each and break them into smaller pieces for training to avoid calorie overload.

FAQs

1. How many treats should I give my overweight dog?

Treats should stay under 10% of daily calories. For many overweight dogs, that’s just 1–2 small treats per day.

2. Can I give my dog fruits and vegetables every day?

Yes, in moderation. I recommend rotating options and introducing new foods slowly.

3. Are there any fruits or vegetables dogs should avoid?

Yes. Never give grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, or avocado.

4. How do I know if my dog is overweight?

You should be able to feel ribs without pressing hard and see a waistline from above. If not, consult your vet.

5. Can I use these treats for training?

Absolutely. Cut them into tiny pieces—dogs care more about frequency than size.

Final Thoughts

Helping your dog lose weight doesn’t mean removing joy from their life. I’ve watched countless dogs regain energy, reduce joint pain, and live longer simply by switching to smarter treats. These low-calorie options let you reward your dog without guilt—and without compromising their health.

Consistency, portion control, and love go a long way. Your dog doesn’t need more treats—they need better ones.