Training Treat Pouches: Quick Picks
- #1 PetSafe Treat Pouch [Best Overall] — With its hinged design and treat pocket divider to hold to two types of treats, this is by far the best pouch for intense, focused training sessions, allowing you to whip out treats quickly and choose between different types of treats depending on the task.
- #2 AUDWUD Silicone Dog Treat Pouch [Best Dishwasher-Safe Option] — A container-like treat pouch made of dishwasher-safe silicone, the AUDWUD Treat Pouch is a great choice for owners who prize convenience and hygiene.
- #3 barkOutfitters Large Treat Pouch [Best High-Capacity Option] — This treat pouch is capable of holding more treats (and even larger items, like tennis balls) than most other options on the market. It’s a great choice for large-dog owners.
- #4 RUFFWEAR Treat Trader [Best Magnetic-Closure Potion] — If you want an easy-to-access treat pouch, it’s hard to beat the Treat Trader. It even features an internal spine that let’s you change the shape of the opening.
Food is the way to a dog’s heart. That’s why treats are an essential training tool!
But toting goodies around by hand can be a drag. Not only can it be tricky to give proper hand signals, but you might accidentally drop a treat and throw off your pooch’s focus.
That’s where training treat pouches come into play.
Treat pouches keep treats out of the way, yet easy to reach, which allows you and your pup to focus on the task at hand rather than handling (and chasing) treats.
Modern snack sacks are much more convenient than old-school solutions, like fanny packs (though those are coming back in style).
Every owner and trainer has his or her own set of needs, so we’ve dug into the basics and compiled a list of our favorites for you to explore.
Read on to learn everything you need to know about treat pouches, or just check out our quick picks below if you’re in a hurry!
Dog Treat Pouch-Buying Considerations
Different training treat pouches work best in different circumstances, so it’s important to consider your needs before making a purchase.
Here are some key aspects to consider when making your choice:
1. Easy to Open
Nothing is worse than fumbling with a bag repeatedly during training.
Not only is it frustrating, but it can throw off your dog’s focus. While the pouch should hold treats securely, it should also be easy to access on the go.
Different treat pouches utilize various methods for keeping your pup’s treats safe and secure, with a variety of closure styles including:
- Drawstrings
- Zippers
- Velcro flaps
- Magnetic closures
None of these styles are inherently better than the others, so just consider which would work best for you and your training needs.
That said, most owners tend to go for the drawstring or magnetic closure design, as these are generally the most popular and prevalent designs.
2. Capacity
Treat pouches vary significantly in size. Some may only hold a few tiny niblets, and others store enough full-size treats to share with a fur friend or two.
When selecting a pouch, take your dog’s size and the nature of your training sessions into account. Is he a small dog content with a few piece of kibble for his efforts, or is he a larger pup that requires a bit more motivation?
Among other things, you’ll want to consider:
- Your dog’s size. As we noted, bigger dogs will likely have bigger appetites!
- Training session duration. Are you getting a treat pouch to use for a one-hour obedience class? In that case, you’ll want a decent-sized pouch. However, if you plan on just using treats while training on short walks or around the house, a smaller sized pouch may work just fine (just have refills ready for when you need to top up).
- Training difficulty. If you’re working on basic commands in your house without many distractions, small treats or pieces of kibble will work fine. However, if you’re working on more complex training goals, you’ll need higher value treats, which may mean bigger, juicer treats requiring a larger pouch!
- Number of dogs. If you work with multiple dogs at once, obviously, a bigger pouch is preferred.
3. Waist vs. Over-The-Shoulder Strap
Training pouches aren’t a one-style tool anymore. You can find styles that fasten a variety of ways, such as:
- Around the Waist Strap
- Over the Shoulder
- Waist Clip
Each attachment style has advantages and drawbacks.
Waist Clips
Training pouches that rely on a waist clip to attach right to your pants or belt don’t have a strap to contend with; these are ideal if you dislike restriction, or want something you can easily pop on and off.
However, waist clips may be a nuisance to manage if you don’t wear a belt or have high or low waisted pants. They can also be difficult to manage if you’re wearing a very thick or long winter coat. Waist clip pouches also tend to have smaller capacities than strap-based designs.
Waist Straps
Waist straps can be more constricting but are much easier to use and access when wearing a thick winter jacket. A waist strap also allows you to position the treat pouch wherever you’d like on your body, whether that means on the side of your hip or directly in front of you.
Over-The-Shoulder Straps
Shoulder strap pouches tend to have the largest capacity and also usually have a plethora of extra pockets and pouches. This can result in a larger and bulkier pouch, with the inability to adjust or position the pouch exactly where you’d like, besides simple heigh adjustments.
Choosing between the three will boil down to your personal preference, so just pick the one that you think will be most comfortable and easy to use.
4. Extra Pockets for Poop Bags and Other Supplies
Some treat pouches come equipped with additional compartments for backup treats, poop bags, or other items you may want to keep handy. If you plan on long or multi-dog training sessions, these are pawsome.
Extra pouches certainly aren’t mandatory, but they’re often the difference between a treat pouch that is “just OK,” and one that you’ll love.
5. Liner
A lining will help keep your treat pouch clean and tidy — especially if the lining is waterproof. This is a must-have if you use oily or wet treats (which generally tend to be the highest value treats).
A washable liner also makes it easy to keep things clean, and it’ll help prevent smells from lingering in the pouch too.
6. Style
Since you’ll be rocking it on the regular, it’s a good idea to choose something that will look good and fit in your everyday wardrobe.
On the flip side, pouches with flashy colors can be easy to spot if you’re prone to misplacing the buggers.
7. Bonus Items
Extra goodies are sometimes included with treat pouches, such as:
- Training clickers
- Poop bags
- Carabiners
If you’re planning on buying any of these items in the future anyway, it will benefit you to look for a pouch that packs them for you.
The 11 Best Training Treat Pouches for Dogs
Now that you understand the things you’ll want to look for in a treat pouch, it’s time to pick out the best one for your needs.
Below, we identify some of the ones we like best!
If you prefer video, make sure to watch out video review of the best dog treat pouches (featuring many of the pouches here and a few others).
1. PetSafe Treat Pouch Sport
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About: PetSafe’s Sport Treat Pouch is a worthy contender for toting your dog’s most precious valuables — tasty treats!
This pouch is one of the only ones we’ve seen that includes two inner treat pouches, allowing you to carry both high-value treats when serious canine motivation is required, as well as more low-value treats (like kibble) for reinforcing basic manners.
The spine of the main pouch opening is flexible and can remain, so you won’t have to fuss with clasps or zippers during training.
Features:
- Waist clip or waist strap attachment options
- Magnetic closure
- Two-panel divided treat pocket
- Large front storage pocket & metal carabiner clip
- Standard size measures 7.75″ x 6.25″
- Mini size measures 6.25″ x 5″
- Made from water- and stain-resistant material
- Machine washable (use the cold cycle)
Options: Offered in two sizes (Mini and Standard) and three colors: Black, Red, and Blue
Pros
- Hinged opening makes it easy to access treats
- Magnetic closure keeps contents secure
- Additional pocket for carrying alternate treats, poop bags, clicker, or other items
Cons
- Standard size option was too bulky for some owners
- Some owners expressed durability concerns (may not be ideal for professional trainers)
Our Take: I love that this treat pouch is one of the few with two treat pockets. This allows me to carry kibble for basic rewards during walks, while also keeping more high-value treats like hot dog pieces on hand for when we come across other dogs and need more enticing goodies to work on leash reactivity.
2. AUDWUD Silicone Dog Treat Pouch
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About: The Silicone Dog Treat Pouch is a hygienic approach to treat dispensing. No matter how hard we try, some treats have a scent that keeps on giving, but this carrier’s dishwasher-safe silicone kicks odors to the curb.
Features:
- Made from food-grade, 100% BPA-free silicone
- Dishwasher safe
- Waist clip attachment
- Magnetic closure
- Simple design with no extra pockets
- Measures 4″ x 5″
- Lightweight and easy to carry
Options: Available in one size and four colors: Sky Blue, Navy Blue, Yellow, and Grey
Pros
- No-fuss cleanup — just toss it in the dishwasher
- Flap is very easy to hold open, making it easy to access treats
- Simple, one-pocket design appeals to some owners and trainers
Cons
- Won’t hold your cellphone, clicker, or other items
- Some owners complained that the clip was flimsy
- Appears easy to spill for some owners and trainers
Our Take: I’m a huge fan of how convenient this pouch is. I know some people have an issue with the clip, but I’ve always found it plenty sturdy. I usually use stinky wet treats like hot dog pieces on walks, and I love how the silicone material makes this pouch so easy to clean with just a quick rinse. The magnetic closure is super easy to open and close for quick treat dispensing. I have noticed that if I have too much sweatshirt or jacket material pushing against the top of the pouch, it will sometimes fall open and treats will drop out when I lean over. However, for the convenience I still find this pouch worth it – it’s my personal favorite!
3. barkOutfitters
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About: The barkOutfitters Large Dog Treat Pouch has the space you need for all your pup’s favorite goodies. This versatile bag can be attached to your belt via its included clip or loop.
Features:
- Waist attachment
- Drawstring closure
- Two mesh pockets included on either side
- Deep, large capacity pouch will also hold large items (e.g. a tennis ball)
- Nylon construction with a lined interior
- Machine-washable
- Includes D-ring for clipping on accessories
- Reflective material on sides
Options: Offered in one size, pup parents have two color choices: Orange and Blue
Pros
- Provides lots of storage space
- Drawstring closure keeps your treats secure
- Large opening makes it easy to access treats quickly
- Features main compartment as well as two auxiliary mesh pockets
Cons
- Some owners (particularly those on the shorter side) found that it sits awkwardly
- A few owners reported that the seams frayed quickly
Our Take: This is definitely a decent-sized pouch with large capacity. It’s my favorite pouch for taking with me to obedience classes, but I don’t love it for day-to-day use because I do find that it sits a bit awkwardly on me.
4. Ruffwear Treat Trader
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About: The Ruffwear Treat Trader is a petite treat pouch pick that frees your hands and keeps you moving smoothly with its low-profile design that won’t get in your way. The magnetic closure keeps treats neatly tucked away, and its audible click closure helps prevent accidental spills.
Features:
- Waist strap or waist clip attachment options
- Magnetic closure
- One small outer pocket included
- Inner “spine” allows you to adjustable the bag’s shape
- Lightweight & compact
- Water-resistant exterior and waterproof interior
- Measures 6″ x 5″
- Loop for clipping on clickers or other accessories
Options: Made in one size and one color: Gray
Pros
- Very durable (like most Ruffwear gear)
- Retains shape instead of flopping open like some pouches
- Magnetic closure is secure, yet easy to open with one hand
Cons
- Limited storage capacity — won’t hold a cellphone, for example
- Only one color available
5. Paw Lifestyles Training Treat Pouch
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About: A standout in the over-the-shoulder category is the Paw Lifestyle Training Treat Pouch, a durable bag made for multipurpose use.
Equipped with multiple compartments, it can carry more than just treats, allowing you to stow your phone, keys, and more within its zippered enclosures or netted sections for hands-free training or exploration.
Features:
- Shoulder, waist strap, or waist clip attachment options
- Drawstring enclosure
- 2 bonus zippered pouches (large enough for a smartphone)
- Easy-access mesh pocket and a poop bag dispenser
- Included D-rings make it easy to clip on accessories
- Nylon material is waterproof and easy to clean
- Measures 7″ x 5″
Options: Offered in one size and one color: Grey
Pros
- Convenient and easy-to-use design
- Large capacity
- Poop bag holder and D-rings are helpful
- Multiple storage pockets are nice for owners and trainers carrying a lot of gear
Cons
- Some owners found the bag large and unwieldy
- Can be heavy once loaded up with all your training equipment
Our Take: This is definitely an impressive all-in-one treat pouch as it’s able to hold all your gear. However, this also makes the pouch quite heavy, and I’ve found the only way I can comfortably wear it is with the over-the-shoulder strap. Ultimately, while I see the value in this pouch, it’s not my favorite since it’s really a bit too bulky to wear regularly on walks.
6. RB Pets Buddy Pouch
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About: Sometimes, you just want a treat pouch that’s simple and easy to use for casual training sessions. The sleek profile of the RB Pets Buddy Pouch makes it a perfect pick in these situations, as it won’t bog you down, and the lack of complicated hardware makes it a comfortable accessory.
The simple styling is also great for use during dog shows or agility trials, as it isn’t super flashy.
Features:
- Magnetic waist attachment — just tuck it in your waistband
- Velcro treat closure
- Two interior Velcro pockets
- Sleek, discrete design
- Measures 6″ x 4″
- Lightweight and easy to wear
Options: Available in one size and two color combinations: Pink/Black and Yellow/Black
Pros
- Stays tucked into waistband thanks to included magnets
- No clips or straps to worry about
- Magnets strong enough to hold it in place while jogging
- Slim, non-obtrusive design
Cons
- Velcro closure makes it tricky for some owners to access treats
- Not very large; won’t hold a cellphone
7. Doggone Good Trek ‘N Train Treat Pouch
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About: The Doggone Good Treat Pouch is a versatile pick that can be worn around the waist via the included clip or belt. It’s a solid choice for training, and its style is well-suited for one-handed use.
Features:
- Waist clip or strap attachment
- Magnetic closure
- One small front pocket and a larger zippered back pocket panel
- Made from durable nylon
- Includes D-ring for clipping on accessories
- Measures 6″ x 5″
- Easy to spot clean or hand wash as needed
Options: Available in one size and seven colors: Black, Pink, Blue, Green, Orange, Purple, and Red
Pros
- High-capacity compartment holds a ton of treats
- Attractive design available in seven different color options to match your style
- Owners and trainers praised the fit
- Comes with multiple pockets
Cons
- Can be tricky to access treats quickly
- Opening is slightly small (some owners had trouble fitting their hand inside)
8. Doggone Good Rapid Rewards Pouch
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About: The Doggone Good Rapid Rewards Pouch keeps your treats safe — allowing you to focus on the fun stuff, like teaching commands and praising your pooch. Designed for mess-free storage, you can tote treats and valuables at the same time without any problems in this durable nylon bag.
Features:
- Magnetic closure
- Treat storage divided into two sections, allowing you to separate high-value treats
- Interior treat portion measures 5.5″ x 3.25″
- Attach it to your own belt or use the one that’s included
- Zippered rear pocket for stowing your cell phone, wallet, or other valuables
- Two side pockets for storing your clicker and other training accessories
- Built-in waste bag dispenser
Options: Available in one size, this pouch comes in eight colors: Black, Blue, Green, Orange, Pink, Purple, Red, and Turquoise
Pros
- High-capacity pouch that holds a ton of treats
- Retains shape when open — won’t fold or flop like some others
- Available in eight colors
- Use with included belt or your own
Cons
- Magnetic closure isn’t as secure as some other models
- Slightly bulky
9. FurPals Dog Treat Pouch
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About: FurPals’ Dog Treat Pouch has a secure fit in a retro fanny pack design. Loaded with storage compartments, it’s a solid pick for training sessions and walks.
Features:
- Three spacious sections for storing treats and valuables
- Two side D-rings for optional hands-free walking or accessory attachment
- Side compartment for water bottle storage
- Potty bag dispenser
- Belt extends up to 50”
- Collapsible water bowl included for on-the-go rehydration
Pros
- Fantastic capacity makes it easy to carry treats and anything else you may need
- High-quality, thick belt keeps pouch secure
- Holds water bottle and comes with collapsible water dish to keep your pooch hydrated while walking or training
Cons
- Some owners may not like the fanny pack style
- Pretty large pouch can be bulky for some
- Only comes in black
10. Kurgo Dog Training Treat Pouch
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About: Kurgo’s Dog Training Treat Pouch safely stores your pup’s favorite treats so you can worry about the task at hand — perfecting your pooch’s training. Made with a strong, woven fabric, it’s easy to spot clean the bag as needed, and the lack of PVA and BPC materials keeps it pup-friendly, too.
Features:
- Drawstring closure
- Can be attached to you via a carabiner or belt clip
- Two zippered pockets keep your keys and other small valuables secure
- 4.5” pouch opening for easy access — no more fumbling for treats
- Reflective trim for use in low-light settings
Options: Available in two colors: Chili Red and Coastal Blue
Pros
- Flexible pouch that works with a carabiner or your belt
- High capacity design holds plenty of treats
- Backed by a lifetime warranty against manufacturer defects
Cons
- Some owners complained it was easy for treats to fall out when bending over or squatting
- Drawstring’s location (inside the bag) is less than ideal
11. Gentle Paw Fanny Pack
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Gentle Paw Expedition Fanny Pack
Stylish pet-focused fanny pack that can be worn around the waist or across the body. Includes poop bag dispenser and built-in carabiner hook.
About: The Gentle Paw Expedition Fanny Pack is a stylish, fashionable fanny pack that’s especially well-suited to walks with your furry friend. It’s soft adjustable strap allows the pouch to be worn around the waist as a fanny pack or across the body.
In addition to an extra outer pouch for treats and inner panels for your credit card and keys, the pack also features a built-in hook, a poop bag dispenser, and of course plenty of room for your gear as well as your dog’s essential items!
Our Take: I’m a huge fan of this fanny pack’s purple color and fashionable design. It looks great around the waist, and it has plenty of room to hold a small water bottle, my phone, sunglasses, and sunscreen as well as Remy’s treats, clicker, poop bags, water bowl, and anything else we might need on longer outdoor expeditions!
Features:
- Sturdy hidden zipper closure
- Soft, wide adjustable strap allows the pack to be worn around the waist or as a cross-body pouch
- Built-in carabiner hook for carrying a portable dog bowl, clicker, or attaching a leash
- Lightweight, water-repellent material that’s easy to wipe down
- Built-in poop bag holder and dispenser
- Extra zippered front pocket for treats
Options: Available in four colors: Light Grey, Light Purple, Yellow, Black
Pros
- Stylish pouch that can be worn around the waist or across the chest
- Unique colors like light purple and bright yellow
- Spacious interior that can hold all your pet walking gear
- Built-in poop bag dispenser, carabiner hook, and extra front pouch
Cons
- May be too bulky for shorter training walks
How to Clean Your Treat Pouch
Regular cleaning is a must to keep your wag bag looking and smelling great. You’d be surprised how dirty they can get, and wet or oily treats make tidying up mandatory for avoiding odors and bacterial growth.
Proper cleaning procedures will vary from one pouch to the next. Some can be easily tossed in the washer for fuss-free cleaning, while others may require hand-washing.
Just be sure to consult with the care tag that comes with your treat pouch to avoid an oops, and always err on the side of caution if you’re not sure. If, for some reason, the tag is missing, it’s wise to just hand wash and hang dry it.
DIY Dog Treat Pouch: Make Your Own Goodie Grab Bag
While there are plenty of commercial treat pouches to choose from, you can also go the DIY route for a bag customized to your liking. Compared to other DIY puppy projects, making your own treat pouch isn’t that tricky.
Simply measure out your desired dimensions (or use the video’s design) to create a guide for cutting out the fabrics of your choice.
Ideally, you want a fabric that’s waterproof, or you’ll need to add a liner to keep it easy to clean.
Then, it’s only a matter of creating a buttonhole, stitching the sides, creating a casing, and threading a drawstring through the buttonhole for a DIY dog treat pouch. You could also swap the drawstring for Velcro if that’s better suited for your needs.
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Have you tried any of these treat pouches? Do you have a different one you especially love? Let us know in the comments!
3 Comments
January 18, 2023
Ok, cool selection. But i want a pouch that looks dope.
January 18, 2023
Different strokes and all that, Yermom, but I think the Kurgo Pouch in Coastal Blue is pretty rad looking.
Let us know if you find one you like!
April 21, 2021
Great idea! I’m going to try it, bc I haven’t had any luck finding one that I like to buy. Thanks for sharing!