Every dog owner knows that moment—the wide-eyed, tail-wagging, full-body wiggle when it’s treat time. But not all treats are created equal. Some are full of fillers, artificial flavors, or mystery ingredients that leave you wondering what you’re really feeding your furry friend. As a dog parent who’s tried everything from homemade biscuits to high-end organic chews, I’ve learned that the best treats strike a balance: they need to be tasty enough to make your pup go wild, healthy enough to feel good about giving them regularly, and convenient enough to fit into daily routines like training, rewarding good behavior, or just saying “I love you.”
Enter Purina Beggin’ With Real—a line of dog treats that promises big flavor in small packages, with real meat as the star ingredient. Specifically, the Fun Size Original With Bacon Flavor (25 oz. pouch) has become a staple in my household. With a near-perfect 4.8-star rating from over 14,700 customer reviews and a price point of $36.99, these treats have earned serious credibility among pet parents. But do they live up to the hype? After testing them with my own dogs—a spirited Jack Russell Terrier and a laid-back Golden Retriever—I’m ready to share an honest, detailed breakdown of what makes Purina Beggin’ With Real stand out (or fall short) in the crowded world of dog treats.
What is the Purina Beggin’ With Real?
Purina Beggin’ With Real is a premium line of dog treats designed to deliver authentic meat flavor in a fun, bite-sized format. The Fun Size Original With Bacon Flavor version comes in a resealable 25-ounce pouch and features small, strip-shaped treats made with real bacon as the number one ingredient. Despite their small size, these treats pack a powerful punch of flavor that appeals to both small and large dogs alike.
Each treat is only 7 calories, making them ideal for frequent use during training sessions or as daily rewards without contributing significantly to your dog’s caloric intake. The texture is soft and chewy—easy enough for puppies and senior dogs to enjoy, yet satisfying for strong chewers. Unlike many commercial dog treats that rely on artificial smoke flavorings or chemical preservatives, Purina Beggin’ With Real proudly states that it contains no artificial flavors. Instead, the rich, smoky aroma comes from real bacon, which immediately signals to your dog that something delicious is coming.
Manufactured in Purina-owned facilities across the United States, these treats benefit from strict quality control and transparency in sourcing. The brand emphasizes safety, consistency, and real ingredients—a major selling point for pet owners who are increasingly concerned about what goes into their dog’s food and treats. Whether you have a tiny Chihuahua or a massive Mastiff, the Fun Size format ensures every dog gets a treat that’s proportionate to their size, while still delivering the bold bacon taste that makes dogs beg for more.
Key Features of Purina Beggin’ With Real
Real Meat as the #1 Ingredient
One of the most compelling aspects of Purina Beggin’ With Real is its commitment to using real meat—specifically real bacon—as the primary ingredient. This isn’t just marketing fluff; the ingredient list clearly shows bacon or pork as the first component, followed by other recognizable items like wheat gluten, soy flour, and glycerin. For pet owners who prioritize transparency and natural ingredients, this is a huge win.
In my experience, dogs can tell the difference between real meat and synthetic flavorings. When I opened the pouch for the first time, the smell was unmistakably bacon—rich, savory, and appetizing even to human noses. My Jack Russell immediately perked up, ears forward and nose twitching, while my Golden Retriever did his signature “happy dance” (a full-body wiggle with a soft whine). That immediate reaction told me these treats weren’t just another generic snack—they were something special.
Using real meat also means better digestibility and nutritional value compared to treats loaded with by-products or unnamed meat meals. While Purina Beggin’ With Real isn’t a complete meal replacement, it does offer more protein and fewer empty calories than many competitors. This makes it a smarter choice for daily use, especially if you’re using treats as part of a balanced diet or training regimen.
Only 7 Calories Per Treat
Calorie control is a major concern for modern dog owners, especially with rising rates of obesity in pets. Overfeeding treats is one of the easiest ways to accidentally pack on the pounds, which is why the low-calorie count of Purina Beggin’ With Real is such a standout feature. At just 7 calories per Fun Size strip, you can reward your dog frequently without derailing their diet.
During a two-week training trial with my Jack Russell, I used these treats for basic commands like “sit,” “stay,” and “come.” Because the treats are so small and low in calories, I could give him 5–6 rewards per session without worrying about excess intake. Even my larger Golden Retriever, who typically needs bigger treats to feel satisfied, responded well to multiple Fun Size strips as reinforcement. The key is consistency—small, frequent rewards build stronger habits than occasional large ones.
This calorie efficiency also makes Purina Beggin’ With Real ideal for dogs on weight management plans. If your vet has recommended limiting treats, these strips allow you to maintain positive reinforcement without compromising progress. Plus, the high palatability means your dog feels just as rewarded as they would with a higher-calorie option.
Fun Size for All Dogs
The “Fun Size” designation isn’t just a cute name—it’s a thoughtful design choice that caters to dogs of all sizes. Each strip is approximately the size of a fingernail, making them perfect for small breeds like Pomeranians, Dachshunds, or French Bulldogs. But don’t let their diminutive stature fool you: big dogs love them too.
My Golden Retriever, who usually scoffs at tiny treats, actually prefers these over larger chews because they’re easy to eat quickly and don’t require prolonged chewing. This is especially useful during agility training or obedience drills, where you want your dog to stay focused and move swiftly between commands. For smaller dogs, the size prevents overfeeding and reduces the risk of choking—a common concern with larger treats.
Another benefit is portion control. The uniform size makes it easy to track how many treats your dog has received in a day. I keep a small container by the door and dispense one strip each time we return from a walk or after a successful potty break. This routine has helped reinforce good habits without me having to guess or measure.
No Artificial Flavors
In an era where pet food recalls and ingredient scrutiny are on the rise, the absence of artificial flavors in Purina Beggin’ With Real is a breath of fresh air. Many dog treats rely on synthetic smoke flavoring, MSG, or other additives to mimic meaty tastes—but these can be hard on a dog’s digestive system and may contribute to long-term health issues.
Purina’s approach is refreshingly straightforward: use real bacon to create that irresistible aroma and flavor. When I compared the ingredient list to other popular bacon-flavored treats, I noticed that many contain “artificial bacon flavor” or “smoke flavor” as a top ingredient. In contrast, Purina Beggin’ With Real lists real pork or bacon first, followed by natural flavor enhancers like hydrolyzed soy protein.
This commitment to clean labeling resonates with pet owners who want to avoid unnecessary chemicals. While the treats do contain some preservatives (like mixed tocopherols, a form of vitamin E), they’re generally recognized as safe and are used in minimal amounts. Overall, the ingredient profile feels balanced and trustworthy—especially for a mass-market product.
Resealable Pouch for Freshness
Packaging matters more than you might think when it comes to dog treats. A poorly sealed bag can lead to stale, crumbly treats that lose their appeal—and potentially their nutritional value. Purina Beggin’ With Real comes in a sturdy, resealable pouch that keeps treats fresh for weeks after opening.
I tested this by leaving the pouch on the counter for three weeks, resealing it after each use. Even after multiple openings, the treats remained soft, moist, and fragrant. There was no sign of drying out or developing an off smell, which is a common issue with cheaper treat bags. The zipper closure is strong enough to withstand curious paws (my dogs tried!) but easy enough for humans to open and close one-handed.
The pouch also includes a clear window, so you can see how many treats are left without opening it—a small but appreciated detail. Plus, the 25-ounce size strikes a good balance between value and shelf life. It’s large enough to last a multi-dog household several weeks, but not so big that treats go stale before you can use them all.
Made in U.S. Facilities
For many pet owners, knowing where their dog’s food and treats are made is just as important as what’s inside. Purina Beggin’ With Real is proudly produced in Purina-owned facilities across the United States, which means stricter oversight, consistent quality control, and adherence to U.S. safety standards.
This transparency gives me peace of mind, especially after past scandals involving imported pet products with questionable sourcing. Purina has been in the pet nutrition business for over 90 years, and their U.S.-based manufacturing reflects a commitment to reliability and accountability. While no system is perfect, the fact that these treats aren’t produced in third-party facilities overseas reduces the risk of contamination or inconsistent formulations.
Additionally, Purina conducts regular testing for pathogens like Salmonella and E. coli, ensuring that every batch meets safety benchmarks. As someone who feeds these treats daily, I appreciate knowing that there’s a robust quality assurance process behind every pouch.
How Does Purina Beggin’ With Real Perform?
Training Sessions
One of the most common uses for dog treats is positive reinforcement during training. I tested Purina Beggin’ With Real during a series of basic obedience drills with my Jack Russell, focusing on commands like “sit,” “down,” “stay,” and “leave it.” The results were impressive.
The small size and high palatability made these treats ideal for quick rewards. Because they’re easy to chew and swallow, my dog could immediately return to the task at hand without getting distracted by prolonged chewing. The strong bacon aroma also helped maintain his focus—he knew a delicious reward was coming, which motivated him to perform correctly.
Compared to larger treats or soft chews, Purina Beggin’ With Real allowed for faster repetition and more repetitions per session. In a 15-minute training block, we completed over 30 successful commands, which is significantly higher than when using bulkier treats. This efficiency is a game-changer for busy pet owners who want to maximize training time.
Daily Rewards & Bonding
Beyond training, I used these treats as everyday rewards for good behavior—like coming when called, waiting patiently at doors, or staying calm during grooming. The low calorie count meant I could give multiple treats throughout the day without guilt.
My Golden Retriever, who’s prone to anxiety during thunderstorms, responded particularly well to these treats as calming aids. I’d give him one or two strips during loud noises, and the familiar bacon scent seemed to provide comfort. While they’re not a substitute for professional anxiety treatment, they served as a helpful distraction tool.
The bonding aspect shouldn’t be overlooked either. Hand-feeding treats creates moments of connection and reinforces trust. Watching my dogs’ eyes light up at the sight of the pouch reminded me why I love being a dog parent.
Multi-Dog Households
If you have more than one dog, you know how tricky treat time can be. Some dogs are food-aggressive, others are shy, and many just want more than their fair share. Purina Beggin’ With Real performed well in this scenario.
Because the treats are so small, I could distribute them quickly and evenly. No dog felt left out, and there was minimal competition or guarding behavior. The uniform size also made it easy to ensure each dog got the same number of treats, which is important for maintaining harmony.
Even my most food-motivated dog (the Jack Russell) accepted his share without trying to steal from the others. The high value of the treat—thanks to the real bacon—meant each dog felt satisfied with just a few strips.
Travel & On-the-Go Use
Whether you’re heading to the park, visiting the vet, or traveling by car, having portable treats on hand is essential. The resealable pouch of Purina Beggin’ With Real fits easily in a backpack, purse, or car glove compartment.
I took the pouch on a weekend camping trip and used the treats to reinforce leash manners and calm behavior around other dogs. The treats held up well in varying temperatures and didn’t crumble or melt. Their compact size also meant I could carry enough for multiple days without adding bulk to my pack.
For road trips, these treats were a lifesaver during rest stops. A quick reward helped reset my dogs’ energy levels and kept them engaged during long drives.
Pros and Cons of Purina Beggin’ With Real
✅ Real bacon as the first ingredient – No artificial flavorings; dogs recognize and love the authentic taste.
✅ Only 7 calories per treat – Perfect for frequent use without weight gain concerns.
✅ Fun Size works for all dogs – Small enough for tiny breeds, satisfying enough for large ones.
✅ No artificial flavors – Cleaner ingredient profile than many competitors.
✅ Resealable, durable pouch – Keeps treats fresh and prevents spills.
✅ Made in U.S. facilities – Greater transparency and quality control.
✅ High customer satisfaction – 4.8-star rating from nearly 15,000 reviews.
❌ Contains wheat and soy – Not suitable for dogs with grain allergies or sensitivities.
❌ Higher price point – At $36.99, it’s more expensive than budget brands (though justified by quality).
❌ Soft texture may not suit heavy chewers – Some dogs prefer crunchier or harder treats for dental benefits.
❌ Not grain-free or organic – May not meet the standards of owners seeking ultra-premium options.
❌ Limited flavor variety in Fun Size – Currently only available in bacon flavor in this size.
What Customers Are Saying About Purina Beggin’ With Real
Customer Review: “My puppy loves these. They are easy to chew, the size is a good value for the price, and they are perfect for him to easily chew. Also the bite size is great too.”
Customer Review: “Dogs love them. Good size for good boy treats. My two Labs go crazy when they see the bag. I use them for training and they work great.”
Customer Review: “I was worried about the price, but after seeing how much my dog enjoys them and how long the bag lasts, I think it’s worth it. No artificial junk—just real bacon flavor. Highly recommend!”
Is Purina Beggin’ With Real Right for You?
Purina Beggin’ With Real is ideal for:
- Training-focused owners – The low-calorie, high-value treats are perfect for frequent reinforcement.
- Multi-dog households – Uniform size and strong flavor ensure公平 distribution and satisfaction.
- Health-conscious pet parents – Real ingredients and no artificial flavors align with cleaner feeding philosophies.
- Busy families – Resealable pouch and portability make them easy to use on the go.
You should skip this product if:
- Your dog has grain allergies (contains wheat and soy).
- You’re looking for a crunchy or dental-focused treat.
- You prefer grain-free, organic, or raw diets.
Is Purina Beggin’ With Real Worth the Price?
At $36.99 for a 25-ounce pouch, Purina Beggin’ With Real sits in the mid-to-high price range for dog treats. While it’s more expensive than store brands or bulk options, the value becomes clear when you consider ingredient quality, calorie efficiency, and customer satisfaction.
Compared to similar premium treats—like Zuke’s Mini Naturals or Blue Buffalo Bits—Purina Beggin’ With Real offers comparable or better palatability at a slightly lower price per ounce. When factoring in the 7-calorie count, you’re essentially paying for high-value, low-waste rewards.
For daily use, a single pouch can last 4–6 weeks in a one-dog household, making the long-term cost reasonable. If you’re using treats for training or behavioral reinforcement, the investment pays off in faster learning and stronger bonds.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Are Purina Beggin’ With Real treats safe for puppies?
A: Yes, the soft texture and small size make them suitable for puppies over 6 months old. Always supervise young dogs during treat time.
Q: Can I feed these to my senior dog?
A: Absolutely. The easy-to-chew texture is gentle on aging teeth and gums.
Q: Do these treats help with bad breath?
A: Not specifically. They’re not designed as dental treats, so don’t expect breath-freshening benefits.
Q: Are they grain-free?
A: No. They contain wheat gluten and soy flour, so they’re not suitable for grain-sensitive dogs.
Q: How many treats can I give per day?
A: As a general rule, treats should make up no more than 10% of your dog’s daily caloric intake. With only 7 calories per strip, you can safely give 5–10 treats daily for most dogs.
Q: Where are these treats made?
A: In Purina-owned facilities in the United States, ensuring consistent quality and safety standards.
Q: Do they contain real bacon?
A: Yes. Real pork or bacon is listed as the first ingredient, providing authentic flavor and aroma.
Q: Are they suitable for dogs with sensitive stomachs?
A: While generally well-tolerated, dogs with severe sensitivities to wheat or soy may experience digestive upset. Introduce slowly.
Q: Can I use these for crate training?
A: Yes! The high value makes them excellent for positive reinforcement during crate or confinement training.
Q: Is the pouch recyclable?
A: The outer packaging is not widely recyclable due to the multi-layer design, but Purina encourages responsible disposal.
Final Verdict: Should You Buy Purina Beggin’ With Real?
After extensive testing and real-world use, I can confidently say that Purina Beggin’ With Real Fun Size Original With Bacon Flavor earns its stellar reputation. ★★★★☆ (4.8/5)
These treats deliver on their promise: real bacon flavor, low calories, and universal appeal across dog sizes and ages. They’re perfect for training, daily rewards, and building stronger bonds with your pet. While not ideal for dogs with grain allergies or those seeking crunchy dental treats, they represent excellent value for the quality and performance.
If you’re looking for a trustworthy, tasty, and convenient treat that your dog will genuinely beg for, Purina Beggin’ With Real is a top-tier choice.
Conclusion
In the world of dog treats, it’s easy to get overwhelmed by flashy packaging and exaggerated claims. But Purina Beggin’ With Real stands out because it focuses on what truly matters: real ingredients, honest flavor, and practical design. From training sessions to quiet moments on the couch, these treats have become an indispensable part of my dog care routine.
Whether you have a tiny pup or a giant gentle giant, the Fun Size Original With Bacon Flavor offers a balanced, enjoyable treat experience that’s hard to beat. At $36.99, it’s an investment in your dog’s happiness—and your peace of mind.
Ready to make treat time unforgettable? Grab a pouch of Purina Beggin’ With Real today and watch your dog’s tail wag like never before.
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