13 Chewy Dehydrated Watermelon Jerky Strips for Summer

Simplicity at its finest! Sunny Paws has created a treat that is exactly what it says on the bag: pure, dehydrated watermelon. There are no additives, no preservatives, and no funny business. This is the perfect choice for pet parents who are cautious about ingredients or have a dog with a sensitive stomach or allergies.

The strips are consistently sliced and dehydrated to a perfectly chewy texture that most dogs find irresistible. They retain that vibrant red color and a hint of watermelon’s natural sweetness. We love that the sourcing is transparent, using non-GMO watermelons grown in the USA. The resealable bag does a great job of keeping them fresh, though we doubt they’ll last long in your house!

Pros & Cons

Verdict: If you’re looking for the purest, most straightforward watermelon treat on the market for your sensitive pup, Sunny Paws is the undeniable winner.

Want to combat that dreaded doggy breath while giving a delicious summer treat? WiggleButt has you covered. These delightful chews blend the sweetness of watermelon with a subtle, refreshing hint of natural mint. It’s a combination that sounds odd to us but is a total hit with the canines!

The ingredients list is short and sweet: watermelon and mint extract. That’s it. The mint isn’t overpowering but is just enough to leave your pup’s breath smelling a little fresher after snack time. The texture is slightly less sticky than pure watermelon jerky, making them a little easier to handle. They’re a fantastic, functional treat that serves two purposes in one tasty bite.

Pros & Cons

Verdict: For the dog owner who loves puppy kisses but not puppy breath, WiggleButt’s Watermelon & Mint Chews are a genius solution and a summertime staple.

For the pet parent who stocks their own pantry with organic goodies, The Organic Canine ensures your dog can eat just as well as you do. These Melon Morsels are crafted from 100% USDA Certified Organic watermelons, meaning you can be confident there are no pesticides or synthetic fertilizers involved in their creation.

The morsels are cut into slightly thicker, chunkier pieces rather than thin strips, giving them a more substantial and longer-lasting chew. This makes them great for medium to large dogs who might inhale thinner treats. The flavor is rich and concentrated, a testament to the quality of the organic fruit used. They come in an eco-friendly, compostable bag, which is a huge plus for environmentally conscious consumers.

Pros & Cons

Verdict: This is the top-shelf choice for health-focused dog owners who prioritize organic ingredients and sustainable practices. A truly guilt-free indulgence for your pet.

Bringing a taste of the coast to your dog’s treat jar, Tidewater Pets offers a unique twist with their Seaside Watermelon Jerky. These strips are made with watermelon and a tiny, almost imperceptible dash of natural sea salt. Before you worry, it’s a completely dog-safe amount that acts as a natural flavor enhancer and provides trace minerals.

This little addition makes the watermelon flavor pop, creating a sweet-and-salty combination that is incredibly enticing for dogs. The jerky is dehydrated until it’s pliable but a little tough, providing a good bit of chewing action that helps clean teeth. They are sourced and made in a coastal US facility, and the brand is dedicated to supporting ocean conservation charities, which makes you feel good about your purchase.

Pros & Cons

Verdict: Perfect for the adventurous pup with a discerning palate, Tidewater Pets offers a unique, savory twist on a summer classic that dogs go wild for.

Big treats can be intimidating (or a choking hazard) for the little guys. Puppy Love has addressed this perfectly with their Tiny Watermelon Bites. These aren’t strips, but rather small, dime-sized morsels of dehydrated watermelon, making them the ideal size for puppies, toy breeds, and seniors with dental issues.

Because they’re so small, they are fantastic for training. You can give multiple rewards without worrying about overfeeding. They are dehydrated to be softer and easier to chew than many other options on the list. The ingredients are simple—just watermelon—so they’re safe for developing puppy digestive systems. The bag is packed full, giving you a high quantity of individual treats for your training sessions.

Pros & Cons

Verdict: For anyone with a small breed dog, a new puppy, or a need for high-value, low-calorie training treats, these Tiny Watermelon Bites are an absolute must-have.

K9 Quenchers leans heavily into the hydrating properties of watermelon with their aptly named Hydration Strips. While any watermelon treat helps with hydration, this brand markets their product specifically for active dogs post-exercise or for extra hot days. They use a specific low-and-slow dehydration process that they claim preserves more of the water-soluble vitamins and electrolytes.

The strips are long and thin, with a very moist and chewy texture. They almost feel like fruit leather. This makes them incredibly palatable and easy for a tired, panting dog to eat. They also add a touch of coconut water powder to the recipe, further boosting the electrolyte content for recovery. It’s a smart, functional treat for the canine athlete in your life.

Pros & Cons

Verdict: The perfect treat to pack for a hike, a run, or a long day at the park. K9 Quenchers are the go-to for active dogs who need a little extra boost of hydration and energy.

If you’re looking for a treat that feels rustic and homemade without having to fire up your own dehydrator, Farmstand Fido’s is the answer. These aren’t perfectly uniform strips; instead, they are whole, imperfect slices of watermelon, seeds and all (don’t worry, the small, white, immature seeds in seedless watermelons are harmless), dehydrated to perfection.

This gives the treats a wonderful, artisanal quality. Each slice is unique in shape and size. The texture is a delightful mix of chewy center and slightly crispier edges. They use locally sourced watermelons from family farms, and you can almost taste the freshness. It’s a simple, honest, and incredibly tasty treat that dogs seem to intuitively trust.

Pros & Cons

Verdict: For those who appreciate a farm-to-bowl ethos and a rustic, natural product, Farmstand Fido’s delivers a charming and delicious slice of summer.

Summer can sometimes bring stressful situations for our pups—thunderstorms, fireworks, travel. Zen Dog has created a treat to help take the edge off. They’ve infused their chewy watermelon strips with a hint of organic chamomile, a natural herb well-known for its calming properties.

The chamomile is subtle and doesn’t affect the delicious watermelon flavor your dog loves. It’s a gentle, non-sedating formula designed to promote relaxation rather than drowsiness. The strips are soft and easy to break apart, making it easy to dose for any size of dog. It’s a wonderful way to provide a little comfort during stressful moments, disguised as a tasty treat. The blend of watermelon, known for vitamin B6 which helps regulate mood, and chamomile is a thoughtful combination.

Pros & Cons

Verdict: An excellent treat to have in the cupboard for anxious pups. Zen Dog provides a soothing, functional snack that offers comfort when it’s needed most.

Designed for the canine adventurer, Active Paws Power-Up Melon Strips are built to be a durable, energy-boosting snack. These are the thickest, toughest jerky strips on our list, providing a significant, long-lasting chew that satisfies even the most powerful jaws. This isn’t a treat that disappears in five seconds!

The dehydration process is longer, resulting in a less sugary, more fibrous jerky that provides slow-release energy. In addition to watermelon, they include a dusting of chia seeds, which are a fantastic source of omega-3 fatty acids, fiber, and protein. This makes the Power-Up strip a nutritionally dense snack perfect for fueling a long day of play.

Pros & Cons

Verdict: For the high-energy dog, the power chewer, or the weekend warrior, Active Paws Power-Up Strips are the ultimate fuel source and satisfying chew.

Who says dog treats can’t be beautiful? Gourmet Hound elevates snack time with their stunning Watermelon Rosettes. Each treat is carefully crafted from thin strips of dehydrated watermelon that are then rolled into the delicate shape of a rose. They are almost too pretty to eat!

These are perfect for special occasions, like your dog’s birthday, a puppy party, or just when you want to feel a little fancy. Despite their delicate appearance, they have a satisfyingly chewy texture. The ingredients are, as you’d expect from a gourmet brand, top-notch organic watermelon. They come in elegant packaging, making them a fantastic gift for the dog lover in your life.

Pros & Cons

Verdict: When you want to pamper your pooch with a treat that is as beautiful as it is delicious, Gourmet Hound’s Watermelon Rosettes are the only choice.

If your household has multiple dogs or just one watermelon-obsessed pup, buying small bags of treats can get expensive and wasteful. Simple Rewards tackles this with their Watermelon Jerky Bulk Bag. This no-frills, resealable pouch is packed with high-quality, single-ingredient watermelon jerky at a price that’s much easier on the wallet.

The strips are a standard cut and chewiness, making them a crowd-pleaser for most dogs. While the packaging isn’t fancy, the product inside is excellent. It’s made from USA-grown watermelons with no additives. This is the workhorse of watermelon jerky—reliable, affordable, and plentiful. It’s the perfect option for stocking up for the entire summer season.

Pros & Cons

Verdict: For the practical pet owner looking for a high-quality, everyday watermelon treat without the high-end price tag, the Simple Rewards Bulk Bag is the smartest buy.

While most of this list focuses on chewy jerky, Frosty Paws offers a delightful alternative with their Coolin’ Watermelon Crisps. These are sliced ultra-thin and dehydrated for a longer period, resulting in a light, airy, and crunchy crisp rather than a chewy strip. The snap they make when a dog bites into them is incredibly satisfying!

This texture is fantastic for dogs who prefer a crunch or for owners who don’t like the sticky residue that chewy jerky can sometimes leave behind. They are incredibly light, so you can give a few without adding many calories. For an extra refreshing summer treat, try popping them in the freezer for 15 minutes before serving. They become a cool, crunchy delight!

Pros & Cons

Verdict: If your dog is a crunch-a-holic, Frosty Paws Coolin’ Watermelon Crisps provide a unique, light, and refreshing alternative to the typical chewy jerky.

Here’s another functional treat that’s as good for the gut as it is for the taste buds. Happy Belly Probiotic Watermelon Chews are coated with a flavorless, heat-stable probiotic blend after the dehydration process. This means you’re not only giving a delicious treat but also supporting your dog’s digestive and immune health.

The brand uses well-researched probiotic strains known to be beneficial for canines. The chews themselves are a standard, soft jerky style that is easy to digest. This is a brilliant way to incorporate a daily probiotic into your dog’s routine, especially for picky eaters who might turn their nose up at powders or pills. It’s a treat that works a little harder for your dog’s overall wellness.

Pros & Cons

Verdict: For the health-conscious owner looking to boost their dog’s gut health, Happy Belly offers a smart, delicious, and convenient way to deliver daily probiotics.

Feeling overwhelmed by all the wonderful choices? Don’t worry! Keep these key factors in mind when shopping for the perfect watermelon treat for your four-legged friend.

Check the Ingredients (Less is More!)

The best watermelon jerky has one ingredient: watermelon. Look for brands that are transparent about their sourcing. If there are other ingredients, make sure you know what they are and why they’re there. Natural additives like mint or chamomile can be great, but steer clear of artificial sweeteners (especially xylitol, which is toxic to dogs), colors, flavors, or chemical preservatives.

Sourcing and Quality

Look for treats made from USA-grown, non-GMO, or organic watermelons. This generally ensures a higher standard of quality and safety, with fewer pesticides. Brands that are proud of their sourcing will usually state it clearly on the package.

Texture and Thickness

Consider your dog’s chewing style and dental health. Does your dog like to savor a tough, long-lasting chew? Look for thicker-cut strips. Do you have a senior dog, a puppy, or a dog with sensitive teeth? A softer, thinner, or crisper treat might be a better option. For training, smaller, bite-sized pieces are ideal.

Packaging and Freshness

Because these treats are preserved by removing water, they are susceptible to rehydrating and spoiling if exposed to moisture. Always look for sturdy, airtight, resealable packaging. This will keep the treats fresh and chewy from the first strip to the last.

Is watermelon safe for all dogs?

Yes, the flesh of a watermelon is safe and healthy for most dogs. However, you should never let your dog eat the rind, which can cause gastrointestinal upset, or the large black seeds, which can cause intestinal blockage. All the treats on our list are made from only the safe, fleshy part of the fruit.

How many watermelon treats can I give my dog a day?

Like any treat, watermelon jerky should be given in moderation. A good rule of thumb is that treats should not make up more than 10% of your dog’s daily caloric intake. Because watermelon is low in calories, you can be a bit more generous, but 1-3 strips a day is a good starting point for a medium-sized dog. Always monitor your dog for any signs of digestive upset, as the high fiber content can affect some dogs.

Can I make my own dehydrated watermelon jerky at home?

Absolutely! If you have a dehydrator, it’s very simple. Just slice a seedless watermelon into 1/4-inch thick strips, place them on the dehydrator trays, and dehydrate at around 135°F (57°C) for 8-12 hours, or until they reach your desired chewiness. It’s a cost-effective way to have a constant supply of this tasty summer treat!