Old Mother Hubbard vs Greenies: Training Treats vs Dental Treats Showdown

Introduction

Every dog owner faces the same dilemma: which treats should I buy for my furry friend? With countless options filling pet store shelves, choosing the right treats can feel overwhelming. Today, we're comparing two powerhouse products that have earned exceptional ratings from thousands of pet parents: Old Mother Hubbard Pumpkin & Carrot Mini Dog Treats and Greenies Original Dental Dog Treats.

While both products boast impressive 9.8/10 scores in our testing, they serve completely different purposes in your dog's daily routine. Old Mother Hubbard focuses on natural, grain-free training treats perfect for positive reinforcement, while Greenies targets dental health with veterinarian-recommended formulas that clean teeth and freshen breath.

In this comprehensive comparison, we'll examine everything from ingredients and nutritional value to price per serving and suitability for different dog sizes. Whether you're looking for healthy training rewards or dental health solutions, this guide will help you make the best choice for your canine companion.

Quick Verdict

Detailed Comparison

Ingredients and Nutrition

Old Mother Hubbard takes a minimalist approach with real pumpkin and carrots as the star ingredients. These oven-baked biscuits contain no artificial preservatives, making them an excellent choice for dogs with sensitive stomachs or owners who prioritize natural feeding. The grain-free formula accommodates dogs with grain sensitivities, while the pumpkin provides fiber and beta-carotene for digestive and eye health.

Greenies, on the other hand, combines natural ingredients with added vitamins and minerals specifically formulated for dental health. While the exact ingredient list isn't detailed in our comparison, Greenies are known for their unique texture that mechanically cleans teeth as dogs chew. The formula is veterinarian-recommended, suggesting careful nutritional balance for daily consumption.

Winner: Old Mother Hubbard for pure, natural ingredients; Greenies for functional nutrition targeting dental health.

Size and Suitability

The size difference between these treats is significant and affects their ideal use cases. Old Mother Hubbard's mini size makes them perfect for training sessions where you need to give multiple treats without overfeeding. They're suitable for all breed sizes, from tiny Chihuahuas to gentle giants like Great Danes.

Greenies are specifically designed for dogs weighing 25-50 pounds, making them unsuitable for small breeds. The larger size serves a purpose—it requires extended chewing time to effectively clean teeth down to the gumline. However, this limits their versatility compared to the universally-sized Old Mother Hubbard treats.

Winner: Old Mother Hubbard for versatility across all dog sizes.

Value and Cost Analysis

At $5.47 for 16 ounces, Old Mother Hubbard offers exceptional value at approximately $0.34 per ounce. The mini size means you get hundreds of treats in each bag, making them incredibly cost-effective for regular training sessions.

Greenies cost $36.97 for 36 treats, working out to roughly $1.03 per treat or per ounce. While significantly more expensive, this cost reflects their specialized dental health benefits and the research behind their formulation. For daily dental care, you're looking at about $1 per day—comparable to many dental health supplements.

Winner: Old Mother Hubbard for pure value; Greenies justify their cost with proven health benefits.

Health Benefits

Old Mother Hubbard provides nutritional benefits through real vegetables. Pumpkin supports digestive health and provides fiber, while carrots offer vitamin A and antioxidants. The grain-free formula accommodates dogs with allergies, and the natural preservation methods avoid potentially harmful artificial additives.

Greenies deliver measurable dental health improvements, reducing tartar buildup by 47% according to clinical studies. This translates to fresher breath, healthier gums, and potentially fewer expensive dental cleanings at the veterinarian. The daily chewing action also provides mental stimulation and stress relief.

Winner: Tie—both offer distinct health advantages for different aspects of canine wellness.

Convenience and Usage

Old Mother Hubbard treats excel in training scenarios. Their small size allows for quick rewards without interrupting training flow, and dogs can consume multiple treats during extended sessions without digestive upset. The resealable bag maintains freshness, and the treats have a long shelf life.

Greenies require a more structured approach—one treat per day for optimal dental benefits. They're best given when you can supervise your dog's chewing to ensure proper consumption. The larger size means they provide longer-lasting entertainment but aren't practical for quick training rewards.

Winner: Old Mother Hubbard for flexibility and convenience.

Pros and Cons Summary

Final Verdict

Both Old Mother Hubbard and Greenies earn their high ratings, but they serve distinctly different purposes in your dog's life. Your choice should depend on your primary goals and your dog's specific needs.

Choose Old Mother Hubbard Pumpkin & Carrot Mini Dog Treats if:

• You're actively training your dog and need frequent, small rewards
• You want natural, grain-free treats for daily use
• You have a small dog or puppy
• Budget is a primary concern
• You prefer simple, recognizable ingredients
• You need treats suitable for dogs with grain sensitivities

Choose Greenies Original Dental Dog Treats if:

• Your dog weighs between 25-50 pounds
• Dental health is a priority concern
• You want veterinarian-recommended products
• You can commit to daily dental treat routines
• Your dog enjoys longer-lasting chews
• You're willing to invest more for proven health benefits