Does your furry friend turn into Houdini whenever you try to give them their medicine? Are you tired of the struggle, the mess, and the guilt? Fret no more! We have curated a well-researched list of the best pill pockets for dogs that are available in the market.
These tasty, cleverly designed treats are the ultimate guise for sneaking medication into your pup’s mouth. No more wrestling matches or hidden pills in peanut butter — just a delicious treat that your dog will gladly devour, medicine and all.
You can use pill pockets for all dog breeds, whether your dog needs daily medication, occasional supplements, or just a little help with their vitamins, they make the process stress-free and enjoyable for both you and your furry companion.
Are Pill Pockets OK for Dogs?
Pill pockets are generally considered safe for dogs when used as directed. They are specially formulated to mask the taste and smell of pills, making it easier for your dog to consume their medicine without fuss. However, it’s important to be aware of the following:
Ingredients
Most pill pockets are made with pet-safe ingredients, but it’s always important to check the label for any potential allergens or ingredients your dog may be sensitive to. Look for options with natural ingredients and without artificial additives or preservatives.
Caloric Content
While pill pockets are a convenient way to give medication, they do add extra calories to your dog’s diet. If your dog is on a strict diet or is prone to weight gain, monitor the number of pill pockets used and adjust their overall food intake accordingly.
Special Dietary Needs
For dogs with specific dietary restrictions or medical conditions, there are pill pockets available that cater to various needs, such as grain-free, low-fat, or hypoallergenic options. Always choose a product that aligns with your dog’s dietary requirements.
Vet Recommendations
It’s always a good idea to consult with your veterinarian before introducing any new treats or supplements to your dog’s diet, including pill pockets. They can not only help you choose the right product but also advise on the appropriate usage based on your dog’s specific needs and health conditions.
Usage
Pill pockets should be used as directed, typically just as a means to administer medication and not as regular dog treats.
The Best Pill Pockets for Dogs in 2024
At Dogtime, we cater to our readers with the most reliable products for their pets — we carefully assess the formulations, quality, and nutritional value. The following list contains the market’s top-rated pill pockets that can help you save time and effort while medicating your fur babies.
BEST OVERALL
Greenies Pill Pockets
PHOTO CREDIT: Greenies
Why We Love
Available in five flavors
Made with real ingredients
Vet-recommended
Hides the taste and smell of the medicine
Easy to use
Available in 30 and 60-count packs
But…
Quite high in calories
The Greenies Pill Pockets for dogs are the smarter way to give your pooch their medicine. Imagine slipping your pet a yummy peanut butter treat that just happens to contain their medication — genius, right? You don’t have to struggle to hide pills in messy human food anymore — simply drop the pill in it, pinch the pocket closed, and watch your dog happily gobble it up! Your pet doesn’t like peanut butter? There are other flavors to choose from, such as cheese, chicken, hickory, and salmon.
Developed by veterinarians and trusted by pet parents, the pill pockets cleverly conceal the smell and taste of meds, which makes giving your dog their medicine easy. Plus, they are made with real, natural ingredients and trace nutrients so that you are confident of giving your fur baby a tasty and healthy treat along with their medication.
BEST MOLDABLE
Riley’s Originals Pill Wrap
PHOTO CREDIT: Riley’s Originals
Why We Love
Available in three palatable flavors
You can create custom-sized pouches
Doesn’t hinder weight loss
Non-drying formulation
It can be used as a low-calorie treat
Easy to use
But…
It can get a bit messy
Say goodbye to the stress of medication time with Riley’s Originals Pill Wrap, featuring delicious pumpkin & peanut butter flavor. Because it molds around any size or shape of medicine, from pills and capsules to tablets and powders, it is very easy to use. You can take as much or as little of this ‘putty’ as needed to create the perfect pill pouch or pocket; it won’t dry out or crumble.
Additionally, these pill wraps are not only delicious but also healthy for your furry friend. It won’t interfere with weight loss efforts and can even be used as a low-calorie reward. Do you also dream of being able to administer medication without your dog batting an eyelid? That’s what this smart formula achieves — masking the smell and taste of meds so well that your furry friend won’t suspect a thing.
BEST TUBE PILL
PHOTO CREDIT: VETIQ
Why We Love
Vet-recommended
Easy to use
Wheat-free
It can be used as a pill pocket and a tasty treat
Most dogs find the flavor highly palatable
Made from high-quality ingredients
But…
Only available in one flavor
If your furry friend turns up their nose at meds, the VetIQ Pill Treats can be a lifesaver — it makes giving medication a whole lot easier for you and your pup. These delicious treats, loved by dogs everywhere, feature a built-in tube designed to hide pills, capsules, or supplements — just put them in the tube and pinch both ends. There is a high probability that your pup will find the chicken flavor irresistible and not notice the medication inside.
These vet-recommended pill tubes are made from high-quality ingredients and are not only easy to use to give your pup their meds but also a healthy and enjoyable treat. Whether your dog needs daily vitamins or occasional medication, these treats are sure to become a favorite. Plus, they can also serve as tasty motivators during training sessions.
BEST BUDGET-FRIENDLY
MILK-BONE Pill Pouches
PHOTO CREDIT: MILK-BONE
Why We Love
Made with real chicken
Designed to fit most capsules and tablets
Mess-free use
No artificial flavors
Suitable for dogs of all sizes
Available in two flavors: chicken and hickory-smoked bacon
But…
Not suitable for liquid or powdered medications
Tricking your furry friend has never been this much fun or healthy! The Milk-Bone Pill Pouches can be your trusted ally in pulling off this con. These mess-free chewy treats are designed to mold around most pills, hiding the taste and smell of medication so your dog won’t even know they’re taking it! They are also a low-calorie alternative to peanut butter or cheese.
With real chicken flavor (that your pup will love) and no artificial ingredients, by-products, or meals (a feature you will love), these pill pouches are safe and suitable for dogs of all breeds and sizes. This can be especially helpful for households with a diverse pack. Remember, a healthy diet allows up to 10% of your dog’s daily calories to come from snacks, so enjoy these tasty treats responsibly.
BEST PASTE-FORMULA
Zesty Paws Pill Wrap
PHOTO CREDIT: Zesty Paws
Why We Love
Contains probiotics
It has a delicious bacon flavor
Paste consistency is easy to use
Suitable for pills, tablets, and capsules
It can be used for small and large dogs
Provides immune support
But…
The texture can get crumbly after a while
If you’re worried that your pup’s medication may negatively impact their gut health, then Zesty Paws Pill Wrap is the product for you. Not only does this yummy bacon-flavored paste disguise those pesky pills, tablets, and capsules, but it also helps maintain proper gut flora and supports your pooch’s immune system. This is because it is packed with clinically studied DE111 (Bacillus subtilis) and Bacillus coagulans.
With this paste at your disposal, you can forget about messy struggles and wasted medication — just scoop the amount required, wrap it around the medicine, and give it to your pooch! They will love the tasty bacon flavor, while you’ll appreciate the easy preparation and added health benefits. The texture also allows you to make small or large pill pockets for dogs as per your need, making it a versatile choice.
BEST MULTI-FLAVOR
presidio Pillybuddy Naturals
PHOTO CREDIT: presidio
Why We Love
Veterinarian-formulated recipe
Available in six flavors
Free from corn, wheat, and soy
Individually wrapped in pairs
It can be used for various sizes
Soft and chewy texture
But…
Each pill is wrapped in plastic
If you have a fussy eater at home who refuses most pill pockets, you may find salvation with the Presidio Pill Buddy Naturals. They come in six flavors — Chicken, Hickory Smoked Beef, Peanut Butter & Apple, Peanut Butter & Banana, Peanut Butter & Honey, and Roasted Duck — so you’re bound to hit the jackpot with one of them. Simply push the pill inside, squeeze the treat closed, and watch your dog inhale their favorite flavored treat-cum-medicine.
They are made in Canada with no corn, wheat, soy, or artificial preservatives, so you can feel good about giving them to your pup. They come individually wrapped in pairs to maintain maximum freshness and moisture. This texture makes it easy for your dog to swallow without biting into the bitter pill, ensuring they get their full dose of the medication.
BEST NATURAL
Zoë Pill Pops
PHOTO CREDIT: Zoë
Why We Love
Made with 100% natural ingredients
Individually wrapped in pairs
It can also be used as a regular treat
Fragrant flavors
Easy to use
It can be used daily
But…
You need to use two pill pops to fit a capsule
Why struggle with pills when you can so easily turn them into a treat with Zoë Pill Pops? These savory treats, with their soft, easy-to-mold texture, ingeniously hide pills, tablets, or capsules, even from the most discerning eaters. Your unsuspecting dog will only be too happy to gobble it up, blissfully unaware of the hidden medication inside.
Made from 100% natural ingredients and free of corn, wheat, soy, artificial flavors, and preservatives, these treats are a healthy and wholesome option for your dog. The delicious, fragrant flavors effectively mask the taste and smell of medication, making it a seamless part of their daily routine. Plus, they come individually wrapped in pairs to maintain the soft, moist texture that your pup loves.
How We Chose the Best Pill Pockets for Dogs
At DogTime, our experts curated this list of the best pill pockets for dogs by assessing factors such as natural ingredients, delicious flavors, ease of use, minimal or no preservatives, and overall price. They further consulted with industry professionals to gain more insight into the top-selling products, using their guidance and experience to bring our readers the very best. When you choose one of our recommended products, you can rest assured that you’re making an informed purchase from the best brands available on the market.
FAQ
What are the healthiest pill pockets for dogs?
The healthiest pill pockets for dogs prioritize natural ingredients, minimal additives, and limited fillers. Look for options made with real meat or peanut butter, and avoid artificial flavors, colors, and preservatives. Some healthy choices include Greenies Pill Pockets for dogs, Zoe Pill Pops, and Riley’s Originals Pill Wrap.
What flavor of pill pockets do dogs like best?
Dogs typically prefer flavors that mimic their favorite foods. Popular pill pocket flavors include peanut butter, chicken, bacon, and duck. Each dog has unique tastes, so it’s a good idea to try different flavors like Greenies’ peanut butter, Riley’s Originals’ pumpkin and peanut butter, or Zoë Pill Pops‘ savory options.
Are pill pockets ok for dogs?
Pill pockets are generally safe for dogs when used as directed. Choose options with natural ingredients and limited fillers. If your dog has dietary restrictions or allergies, consult your veterinarian before using pill pockets. Remember, moderation is key as they are treats and can contribute to weight gain.
What can I use instead of pill pockets for dogs?
Instead of pill pockets, you can use alternatives like wrapping pills in cheese, peanut butter, or deli meat or hiding them in soft foods like canned pumpkin or yogurt. Be cautious with human foods, though, and ensure they are safe and suitable for your dog.
