Small, soft bites perfect for training sessions - high-value rewards dogs love
Note: Use low-fat cheese to keep calories reasonable. Some dogs are lactose intolerant - monitor your pet after first feeding. See our Essential Ingredients Guide for more information.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. These small treats bake quickly, so having everything ready is important.
Gather all ingredients and ensure cheese is at room temperature for easier mixing. Shredded cheese works best, but you can also use grated cheese.
In a medium bowl, combine the whole grain flour and shredded cheese. Mix well to distribute cheese evenly throughout the flour.
The cheese adds flavor and helps bind the treats together. Using whole grain flour provides additional fiber and nutrients compared to white flour.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg, water, and olive oil. Gradually add this mixture to the dry ingredients, stirring until a soft dough forms.
The dough should be slightly sticky but manageable. If it's too dry, add water one tablespoon at a time. If too wet, add a bit more flour.
Roll dough into very small balls, about 1/4 to 1/2 inch in diameter. These should be bite-sized for quick training rewards. Place on prepared baking sheet.
For training, smaller is better - dogs can eat them quickly without interrupting the training flow. You can also flatten them slightly with your thumb for a more uniform shape.
Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until treats are firm and slightly golden. Since these are small, they bake quickly - watch carefully to avoid over-baking.
The treats should be soft but not doughy. They should hold together but still be easy to break. For more on achieving the right texture, see our Baking Techniques guide.
Remove from oven and allow to cool completely. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
Due to the cheese content, refrigeration is recommended. For longer storage, freeze in portion-sized bags for up to 2 months. Learn more about proper storage methods.
These treats are specifically designed for training, where you may give many treats in a session. The small size and low calorie count allow for frequent rewards without overfeeding. Learn more about portion control for training.
Keep treats very small (1/4 inch) for training sessions. Dogs can eat them quickly without getting distracted. Larger sizes work for regular rewards but aren't ideal for intensive training.
Try different types of low-fat cheese: mozzarella, cheddar, or Swiss. Avoid high-sodium cheeses. Some dogs prefer stronger flavors, while others like milder options.
If your dog is lactose intolerant, reduce or eliminate cheese and increase egg content for binding. You can also try lactose-free cheese alternatives. Monitor your dog for digestive issues.
For softer treats (easier to break apart), reduce baking time by 2-3 minutes. For firmer treats, bake 2-3 minutes longer. Most dogs prefer softer training treats.