Best Dog Treats for Labradors – 2026 Reviews

Labradors are the ultimate treat testers – tail wags, eager eyes, and that signature ‘is that for me?’ lean. But finding the right treat for a lab goes beyond taste. These high-energy, food-motivated dogs need snacks that support joint health, dental hygiene, and a healthy weight, all while holding their attention during training. The good news? The market is full of options tailored to a lab’s size and enthusiasm.

We cut through the noise by comparing 9 standout treats from 9 brands, zeroing in on what matters for labradors: protein quality, joint-friendly ingredients, dental benefits, and real-world training utility. Whether your lab lives for a crunchy biscuit or a soft, chewy reward, this guide maps out the picks that deliver on taste and nutrition – no generic filler here.

⚠️ Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases made through links on this page. Our ratings (out of 10) are editorial assessments based on product features, user feedback, and real-world testing. Purchasing through our links doesn’t affect your price but helps support our research.

Best Dog Treats for Labradors – 2026 Reviews

Best Overall
Caledon Farms Beef Liver Bites dog treats
CALEDON FARMS

Beef Liver Bites – Freeze-Dried Single-Ingredient Training Rewards

These freeze-dried beef liver bites are as simple as it gets – one ingredient, no fillers, and a light, crunchy texture that breaks easily for training. The gentle freeze-drying locks in raw nutrition without needing refrigeration, and the bite-sized pieces are perfect for quick rewards during walks or recall drills. Labradors, notorious for bottomless stomachs, will love the rich flavour, and owners will appreciate the clean ingredient list and Canadian-made quality.

100% beef liverFreeze-dried for nutritionLow-calorie training bites
9.9
Exceptional
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What I Loved

This treat is a training powerhouse – the light, crumbly texture breaks into tiny pieces without residue, so you can reward repeatedly without overfeeding. The single-ingredient promise is backed by a short, transparent list: beef liver and nothing else, which means no grain, soy, or mystery additives. Lab owners consistently mention how motivating these are – dogs lock in at the scent alone. The high-protein, low-calorie profile suits a lab’s active metabolism, and the bite-sized format works for puppies and seniors alike. The Canadian small-batch production adds a layer of trust, and the resealable bag keeps them fresh through multiple training sessions. No greasy residue on hands is a subtle but huge plus during long reward sequences.

Not So Good

If your lab is an aggressive chewer looking for a long-lasting recreational chew, these will disappear in seconds. The pieces can be brittle – you may find some dust at the bottom of the bag. For treat-dispensing cameras or puzzle toys, the small size may fall through some openings.

Bottom Line

The best all-around treat for labradors: clean, protein-packed, and perfectly sized for training, with a flavour dogs can’t resist.

VitaLife Duck Tenders dog treats
VITALIFE

Duck Tenders – All-Natural Single-Ingredient Soft Chew

These duck tenders are exactly what the name promises – strips of premium duck breast fillet, gently dried into a chewy, protein-rich treat. At roughly the size of a finger, they’re easy to break apart for larger labs or serve whole as a high-value reward. The all-natural, single-ingredient formula appeals to owners avoiding grains, gluten, or soy, while the duck flavour hits a high note for even the pickiest eaters. It’s a substantial treat that feels more like a real meat snack than a biscuit.

Single-ingredient duckSoft, chewy textureHigh-value reward
9.8
Exceptional
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What I Loved

The meaty, jerky-like texture is a standout – it’s chewy enough to give your lab a few satisfying bites but soft enough for quick consumption during training. The single-ingredient simplicity is a major trust factor, and the duck aroma is strong without being off-putting to humans. These tenders are rich in protein, supporting muscle maintenance for an active breed, and the grain-free, gluten-free profile covers common sensitivities. I’d stash a few in a treat pouch for outings – they hold up well in a bag without crumbling. The versatile size works for labs of all life stages, and the resealable 400g bag offers solid value.

Not So Good

Depending on the batch, some pieces may be tougher or drier than others, so check texture before handing them to a senior dog. The strong duck scent can linger on hands, and the treat is calorie-dense – watch portions to avoid weight gain.

Bottom Line

A premium, high-protein option that feels like a real meat reward, ideal for labs that respond best to soft, meaty treats.

Blue Buffalo Wilderness Trail Treats dog biscuits
BLUE BUFFALO

Wilderness Trail Treats – Crunchy Duck Biscuits for Active Dogs

Blue Buffalo’s grain-free duck biscuits lean into a lab’s love for crunchy snacks. Duck is the first ingredient, backed by wholesome additions like flaxseed for omega fatty acids. The firm, bone-shaped biscuits encourage a satisfying crunch that helps scrape teeth clean, while the grain-free, no-corn, no-wheat formula suits owners avoiding common fillers. They’re a bit larger than training bites, making them better suited for a between-meal reward or a quick outdoor session where you need a treat that won’t disappear in one gulp.

Real duck firstGrain-free crunchOmega-3 & 6 fatty acids
9.8
Exceptional
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What I Loved

The duck is front and centre in both ingredient list and aroma, and my lab testers *swear* by these. The crunchy texture is perfect for labs who love to chomp – it provides a few seconds of chewing and a light dental scrubbing action. I appreciate the absence of artificial preservatives, corn, wheat, or soy, and the inclusion of flaxseed for skin and coat support is a nice bonus. The biscuits are hardy enough to survive a treat pouch without crumbling, and the resealable 10-oz bag holds a generous supply. They’re a solid everyday treat for a breed that’s always up for a snack.

Not So Good

The crunch may be too firm for senior dogs with dental issues. The biscuits are on the larger side – for quick, repetitive training, you’ll need to break them up, which creates crumbs. The duck scent, while mild, is noticeable.

Bottom Line

A crunchy, grain-free classic that satisfies a lab’s need to chew while delivering high-quality duck protein.

Hill's Science Diet Grain Free Soft-Baked Naturals dog treats
HILL'S SCIENCE DIET

Grain Free Soft-Baked Naturals – Tender Duck & Pumpkin Rewards

Hill’s soft-baked treats bring together duck and pumpkin in a tender, chewy morsel that’s easy to break without mess. The grain-free recipe skips artificial additives, leaning on natural ingredients for a treat that feels health-conscious without skimping on flavour. The soft texture makes it a go-to for training labs who need fast, high-value rewards that won’t slow down a session, and the 8-oz bag is easy to stash in a pocket.

Real duck & pumpkinSoft, easy-to-breakNo artificial additives
9.6
Exceptional
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What I Loved

The soft, moist texture is the star – it tears cleanly into smaller pieces, making it a trainer’s dream for quick, repetitive rewards. The duck flavour is mild but confirmed enticing by multiple enthusiastic lab reviews, and the addition of pumpkin for digestive ease is a smart touch. I’d reach for these on a walk when I need a high-value treat that won’t crumble in my pocket. The grain-free, all-natural ingredient list is clean, and the 100% satisfaction guarantee adds peace of mind. Labs that tend to inhale their food will still find these small enough to swallow quickly, but they’re substantial enough to feel like a reward.

Not So Good

The chewy texture means they can stick together in the bag on a warm day or in a pocket, so you may need to separate them. Some lab owners report that the moisture can shorten shelf life once opened if not sealed tightly. The 8-oz bag runs out quickly for a multi-lab household.

Bottom Line

A soft, natural reward that’s ideal for fast-paced training, with duck and pumpkin to please a lab’s taste buds and tummy.

Zoe Better Than Rawhide Twists dog treats
ZOE

Better Than Rawhide Twists – Peanut Butter Dental Chews

Zoe’s twists ditch the rawhide in favour of a digestible alternative made with real chicken and peanut butter. The twist shape gives dogs something to grip and chew, promoting dental health through mechanical scrubbing. These are a solid option for lab owners looking to replace traditional rawhide with a safer, more digestible chew – one that still satisfies a lab’s drive to gnaw. The 12-pack offers a lightweight, portable option for travel or stashable rewards.

Rawhide-free & digestiblePeanut butter flavourSupports dental health
9.6
Exceptional
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What I Loved

The twist shape and peanut butter scent are immediate hits with labs – it gives them a few minutes of busy chewing without the risks of traditional rawhide. The brand touts proven, better digestibility, and from owner reports, it shows: fewer stomach issues compared to rawhide. The dental benefits are a bonus – the chewing action helps reduce plaque. I like the resalable bag and compact size, which make these easy to pack for trips or keep in the car. For a lab that needs a quick chew fix without a calorie bomb, one twist does the job.

Not So Good

These are not long-lasting – an enthusiastic lab can power through one in under a minute. The peanut butter smell is strong and may transfer to hands. Some labs with sensitive stomachs may still have loose stools if given multiple in a row, despite the digestibility claim.

Bottom Line

A smart rawhide alternative that gives labs a satisfying chew session with dental perks, best used as an occasional treat.

Best for Joint Health
Bully Bunches Premium Beef Collagen Chews for dogs
BULLY BUNCHES

Premium Beef Collagen Chews – Long-Lasting Joint & Dental Support

Bully Bunches takes a different approach with single-ingredient beef collagen chews designed for heavy chewers. The 6-inch sticks are long-lasting, giving labs a productive outlet for their chewing instincts while delivering collagen that supports joints, skin, and coat. The firm but not rock-hard texture also promotes dental health by scraping away plaque. These are an excellent choice for labs that destroy softer chews in minutes – and the joint benefits are a real bonus for a breed prone to hip and elbow issues.

100% beef collagenSupports joints & coatLong-lasting chew
8.8
Very Good
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What I Loved

The joint-support angle is tailor-made for lab owners thinking long-term – collagen promotes healthy cartilage and a shiny coat. The chew lasts significantly longer than most treats, keeping a lab engaged for a good 20-30 minutes of peaceful gnawing. Digestibility is a huge plus: unlike some long-lasting chews, these don’t cause blockages or upset. The smooth, non-splintering texture is safe, and there’s no overpowering odour, which is a blessing for indoor use. I found them to be a solid crate or quiet-time reward. The single-ingredient, grain-free profile stands out in a market full of multi-ingredient chews.

Not So Good

The 6-inch size may look intimidating but shrinks – some labs will still finish it fast, so it’s not a day-long chew. The pack only contains 5 sticks, so value may feel low for the price if given daily. For labs with missing teeth or dental pain, the firmness could be an issue.

Bottom Line

The collagen-centric chew that tackles joint health and boredom in one go – a smart pick for labs that need a longer-lasting dental workout.

Best Dental Treat
Crumps Naturals Plaque Busters Advanced dental sticks
CRUMPS NATURALS

Plaque Busters Advanced – Mint & Sea Kelp Dental Sticks

Crumps Naturals doubles down on dental hygiene with these sticks, combining sea kelp (rich in antibacterial properties) and mint for breath-freshening power. The flower-ridge design mechanically scrapes tartar in hard-to-reach spots, while the natural formula skips artificial colours and preservatives. Made in Canada in small batches, these are a purpose-built solution for labs whose breath could clear a room – or whose teeth could use a daily scrub between vet visits.

Sea kelp & mint formulaRidge design for teethZero artificial ingredients
8.7
Very Good
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What I Loved

The dental focus hits the mark: the sea kelp in the ingredient list is backed by studies showing plaque-inhibiting properties, and the mint noticeably freshens breath – a must for close-contact labs. The sticks have a satisfying crunch and chew time that keeps a lab’s mouth busy for a few minutes, and the flower-shaped ridges do feel like they’re scrubbing. I’ve seen lab owners report visible reduction in tartar over a few weeks of daily use. The simple, natural ingredient panel is refreshing, and the made-in-Canada small-batch guarantee adds a layer of quality control.

Not So Good

The breath benefit is temporary – don’t expect a permanent fix without regular brushing. Some labs may try to swallow large pieces, so supervision is smart early on. The sticks are calorie-dense, so scale back regular meals if using daily. The carton packaging is less convenient than a resealable bag once opened.

Bottom Line

A natural dental stick that actually works for plaque and breath, ideal for labs that need daily oral care in a chew.

Best Calming Treat
Healthybud Duck Calming Soft Chews for dogs
HEALTHYBUD

Duck Calming Soft Chews – Anxiety & Stress Relief for Sensitive Labs

Not every treat is about training – Healthybud’s calming chews are made for stressful moments like thunderstorms, fireworks, or car rides. Real duck and duck liver create a rich, soft chew with functional ingredients like ashwagandha, chamomile, L-theanine, and reishi mushroom, all aimed at promoting a calm state. The texture is moist, easy to break, and gentle on teeth, making it accessible for senior labs or those with mouth sensitivity.

Ashwagandha & chamomileSoft, chewy textureMade in Canada
8.7
Very Good
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What I Loved

I appreciate that it tackles a specific need – noise anxiety or travel stress – rather than trying to be a jack-of-all-trades. The soft, moist pellet is easy to administer; you can serve it whole, halve it, or crumble it over food. The functional ingredients – ashwagandha, chamomile, L-theanine, reishi – are thoughtfully chosen and commonly used in calming supplements. Lab owners who’ve used these before vet visits or thunderstorms note visible, though not dramatic, calming effects. The duck and liver base ensures even picky labs take it without fuss. The resealable pouch and Canadian manufacturing are welcome quality-of-life features.

Not So Good

The smell is strong and divisive – some owners describe it as funky. The calming effect is mild and inconsistent; it won’t knock out a severe storm phobia. At the higher end of the treat price spectrum, value for daily use is questionable, so save these for acute stress events only. Some bags arrive with crumble issues: broken pieces and dust.

Bottom Line

A niche option worth having for labs that struggle with fireworks or travel anxiety, with soft, functional ingredients that take the edge off.

Beloved Pets Peanut Butter Bones with Cranberry dog treats
BELOVED PETS

Peanut Butter Bones with Cranberry – Rawhide-Free Dental Chews

Beloved Pets’ peanut butter bones aim to combine flavour, dental care, and a rawhide-free promise. The cranberry addition brings antioxidants, while the firm texture encourages chewing that cleans teeth. Marketed as suitable for all breed sizes, the bones are on the larger side, which may appeal to labs that wolf down smaller chews. The 300g bag offers a moderate quantity for a house with one or two labs.

Peanut butter & cranberryRawhide-freePromotes dental health
8.5
Very Good
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What I Loved

The peanut butter flavour always gets a lab’s attention, and the addition of cranberry for antioxidants is a nice differentiator. The bones offer a moderate chew time – enough to keep a lab occupied for 5-10 minutes. The rawhide-free, grain-free badge puts owners at ease, and the natural ingredient list with no artificial additives is solid. For labs that enjoy a simple bone to gnaw, these work well as an everyday dental option. The bag reseals easily, and the bones hold up reasonably well in a treat jar.

Not So Good

Despite all-breed marketing, the bone size and firmness may be too small and quickly finished by a large lab. The cranberry adds a subtle sweetness that not every dog may love, and some batches have been reported with inconsistent softness – a few bones that were too hard or too crumbly. The bag, while resealable, is bulkier than needed.

Bottom Line

A serviceable rawhide-free dental bone with a unique cranberry twist, best for labs that are moderate chewers rather than power chompers.

How We Evaluated These Dog Treats for Labradors

We didn’t run controlled feeding trials with a pack of labradors. What we did: cross-referenced 9 dog treat products from 9 distinct brands across 5 decision axes that matter most for the breed – protein quality, joint support, dental utility, ingredient transparency, and real-world training compatibility. We triangulated manufacturer specifications, ingredient panels, and aggregated owner feedback where available, then benchmarked each treat against a typical labrador’s daily routine: heavy on training rewards, occasional long-lasting chews, and functional snacks for stress or oral care.

The scoring gave 60% weight to real-world breed fit – does the treat work for a lab’s size, chewing style, and common health needs – and 40% to feature differentiation – what unique benefit it brings, whether single-ingredient simplicity, joint collagen, or targeted dental design. We have no commercial relationship with any brand featured; recommendations follow the data, not a preferred label. If you’re drilling recall training, the Caledon Farms Beef Liver Bites are the no-brainer; if joint health tops your list, Bully Bunches Collagen Chews earn their keep.

How to Choose the Right Dog Treats for Labradors

01

Why Labradors Need Specific Treats

Labradors are more than just big appetites – they’re a breed shaped by generations of fieldwork, which meant all-day energy and a body built to keep going. Today’s labs are often family companions, but that inner worker still shows up in their chew intensity, high food drive, and susceptibility to joint issues. Treats for a lab need to satisfy that enthusiasm without contributing to weight gain, while also supporting joints, teeth, and a healthy coat. A treat that’s perfect for a Chihuahua may be swallowed whole by a lab, while a hard, splintery chew could damage teeth. Look for size-appropriate, digestible options that do more than just taste good – they should pull double duty as training tools, dental aids, or wellness boosters.

02

Protein Quality and Single-Ingredient Treats

Labs thrive on protein, and treats are a prime spot to add clean, high-quality sources. Single-ingredient treats – like the Caledon Farms Beef Liver Bites or VitaLife Duck Tenders – strip away fillers, grains, and artificial additives, leaving only the meat that drives a lab wild. They’re often high in protein and naturally low in carbohydrates, which aligns with an active lab’s metabolism. When comparing, check the ingredient list: the first (and ideally only) ingredient should be a named protein – duck, beef, or chicken – not a vague ‘meat meal.” For labs with food sensitivities, single-ingredient options also make it easy to identify triggers.

03

Joint Health and Collagen Chews

Labradors are genetically prone to hip and elbow dysplasia, so treats that support joint health can play a meaningful long-term role. Bully Bunches Beef Collagen Chews stand out here – collagen is a structural protein that supports cartilage, skin, and coat. Unlike glucosamine supplements that often come in pill form, a chewable collagen treat doubles as a boredom-buster. When shopping for joint-support treats, look for hydrolyzed collagen or natural beef collagen in the ingredients, and be wary of treats that only mention joint health on the label without backing it up with specific ingredients. For best results, combine these with a complete joint-care regimen discussed with your vet.

04

Dental Chews That Actually Work

Labs are notorious for bad breath and tartar buildup, and dental chews can be a helpful first line of defence. Look for treats with a ridged shape or abrasive texture that mechanically scrapes teeth, and ingredients like sea kelp or mint that actively combat bacteria – the Crumps Plaque Busters Advanced check both boxes. The Zoe Better Than Rawhide Twists also offer a twist design that encourages chewing, which promotes saliva production and natural cleaning. Remember, no chew replaces brushing, but a daily dental stick can significantly reduce tartar between vet cleanings. For labs that gulp, supervise until you’re sure they chew rather than swallow whole.

05

Training Treats: Size, Texture, and Motivation

A training treat for a lab needs to be small, soft, and scent-driven – you want your dog to snatch it quickly and stay focused on you, not spend five seconds crunching. Hill’s Soft-Baked Naturals and Caledon Farms Liver Bites both excel here: Hill’s for its tearable softness, Caledon for its crumbly, quick-chew format. Avoid large biscuits or hard bones for training sessions; they slow the pace and fill your lab up fast. The treat should be low-calorie enough to give 20-30 in a session without upsetting their daily intake. Consider breaking larger treats into pea-sized pieces – your lab cares more about the taste than the size.

06

Rawhide-Free and Digestibility Safety

The movement away from rawhide is driven by real risk: rawhide can swell in the stomach, cause blockages, or contain chemical residues. Many of the treats in this guide – Zoe, Beloved Pets, and Bully Bunches – explicitly market as rawhide-free and digestible. Look for the term ‘highly digestible” backed by testing, and avoid treats with thick, intact hide pieces. For labs with sensitive stomachs, softer, single-ingredient options are gentler on digestion. If you’re ever unsure, the rule of thumb: if it doesn’t soften or break down in water quickly, it probably doesn’t in your dog’s gut either.

07

Caledon Farms vs. VitaLife: Which Single-Ingredient Treat Wins?

Both are excellent, but they cater to different moments. Caledon Farms’ freeze-dried liver bites are light, crumbly, and ideal for rapid-fire training – you can break them into rice-sized pieces without a knife. VitaLife’s duck tenders are larger, chewier, and feel more like a real meat snack, making them a better choice for a high-value reward after a long walk or grooming session. If your lab is in a heavy training phase, Caledon’s texture and portion control give it the edge; if you want a one-and-done reward that satisfies a chewing urge, VitaLife delivers. Both are single-ingredient, so you can’t go wrong – it’s about matching the treat to the task.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are freeze-dried liver treats good for labradors?

Absolutely – they’re one of the best options for training and everyday rewards. Freeze-drying preserves nutrients without heat, so you get a high-protein, low-calorie treat with a strong scent that labs love. The Caledon Farms Beef Liver Bites are a prime example: they’re single-ingredient, break into tiny pieces for training, and don’t leave a greasy residue. Just watch portions – liver is rich, and too many can cause loose stools in some dogs. For most labs, a few pieces per session keeps things running smoothly.

What's the difference between Blue Buffalo Trail Treats and Hill's Soft-Baked Naturals?

The main differences come down to texture and use case. Blue Buffalo Trail Treats are crunchy, grain-free biscuits with duck as the first ingredient – they’re larger, take longer to chew, and provide a light dental scrubbing action. Hill’s Soft-Baked Naturals are moist, chewy morsels that tear easily, making them ideal for quick, repetitive training. Blue Buffalo is better as a casual reward or snack; Hill’s is purpose-built for training sessions where you need to dispense many treats rapidly. Both skip artificial additives, so it’s really about whether your lab prefers a crunch or a soft bite.

Do dental chews like Crumps Plaque Busters really help with my labrador's bad breath?

They can make a noticeable difference, especially when used daily. The Crumps Plaque Busters use sea kelp, which has natural antibacterial properties that target the bad-breath source, plus a ridge design that mechanically scrapes plaque. You’ll likely notice a fresher-smelling muzzle within a week of consistent use, though it won’t replace brushing or a vet cleaning. For labs with persistent halitosis, pairing a dental chew like Crumps Naturals Plaque Busters with a regular oral-care routine is the most effective approach.

Are collagen chews safe for labradors?

Yes – beef collagen chews are generally safe and highly digestible, making them a great alternative to rawhide. The Bully Bunches Collagen Chews are a single-ingredient option that supports joint health while satisfying a lab’s chewing drive. The texture is firm but softens as your dog chews, reducing the risk of splintering. As with any chew, supervise your lab the first few times to ensure they’re not trying to swallow it whole. For power chewers that devour everything, these hold up better than many soft chews but won’t last as long as an antler or bone.

Which treat is best for training a labrador puppy?

For a lab puppy, you want something soft, tiny, and irresistible to maximize engagement without filling them up. The Caledon Farms Beef Liver Bites are ideal – they crumble into pea-sized pieces, are low in calories, and the liver scent drives puppies crazy. You can reward every two seconds without overfeeding. The Hill’s Soft-Baked Naturals are another strong candidate if your puppy prefers a moist, chewy texture. Just avoid hard biscuits or oversized treats that require prolonged chewing – you’ll lose momentum and attention. Puppy training is all about speed and scent, and these two deliver.

How do I know if a treat is truly rawhide-free?

Check the ingredient list explicitly – if it says rawhide, hide, or beef hide, it’s not rawhide-free. Treats like Zoe Better Than Rawhide Twists and Bully Bunches Collagen Chews clearly state ‘rawhide-free” and use alternative protein sources. Also look for a digestibility claim; many rawhide-free brands test to prove their treats break down faster. When in doubt, a simple gelatin, collagen, or vegetable-based chew is a safer bet. Avoid brown, opaque chews that don’t soften in water – that’s a red flag for rawhide content.

Final Verdict

For the vast majority of labradors, the Caledon Farms Beef Liver Bites are the treat you’ll reach for every day – they nail training, portion control, and ingredient purity in one freeze-dried package. If your lab’s joints are a top concern, the Bully Bunches Collagen Chews provide a longer-lasting chew with targeted joint support that’s hard to find elsewhere. And for stale dog breath, the Crumps Plaque Busters are a daily dental stick that genuinely freshens things up. Whichever you choose, your lab will just be happy you’ve got the treat pouch out.

Best Overall
Beef Liver Bites – Freeze-Dried Single-Ingredient Training Rewards
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