When it comes to choosing the right treats for our furry friends, not all options are created equal.
A recent study suggests that while dogs can digest sugar, excessive amounts can be detrimental to their health.1
Traditional pet foods often rely on common ingredients like corn, wheat, and soy, but other research has shown that corn-fermented protein (CFP) can also be a nutritious alternative to these traditional grain byproducts.2 In addition, other findings reveal that pet food contains a wide array of additives, some of which are synthetic.3
Here are 17 dog treat brands with ingredients you should look into to protect their health.
1. Beggin’ Strips
These treats are loaded with artificial flavors, colors, and preservatives. They also contain meat by-products and corn syrup, which offer little nutritional value.
2. Milk-Bone
While a classic treat, Milk-Bone contains BHA (Butylated Hydroxyanisole), a controversial preservative linked to potential health issues.(ref) Additionally, they have a high sugar content.
3. Pup-Peroni
Similar to Beggin’ Strips, these treats are high in artificial ingredients and low in nutritional value. The excessive sugar content and meat by-products make them less than ideal.
4. Ol’ Roy
This budget brand often uses low-quality ingredients like artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives. The treats may also contain corn, wheat, and soy, which are common allergens for some dogs.
5. SmartBones
While marketed as rawhide-free, these chews contain artificial ingredients like flavors and colors. They also use corn, wheat, and soy, which some dogs might have sensitivities to.
6. Pedigree Dentastix
Although designed for dental health, these treats contain questionable ingredients like corn starch, sugar, and artificial colors. Some dogs may also experience digestive upset from them.
7. Beneful Baked Delights
These treats often contain wheat, corn, and soy, along with artificial flavors and colors. Their nutritional value is minimal, and they can contribute to weight gain due to the high sugar content.
8. Blue Buffalo BLUE Bits
While Blue Buffalo has a decent reputation, these treats are often high in carbohydrates and low in protein. They contain grains, potatoes, and pea protein, which may not be suitable for all dogs.
9. Greenies
Marketed for dental health, these treats have caused controversy due to reported digestive issues and blockages in some dogs.(ref) Their chewy texture and ingredients can be a choking hazard.
10. Hartz Oinkies
These treats are filled with artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives. They contain meat by-products and low-quality ingredients, offering little nutritional value.
11. Purina Busy Bones
While popular, these treats are high in sugar and contain artificial colors and flavors. They also use meat by-products and fillers like corn starch.
12. Rachael Ray Nutrish Soup Bones
These treats often contain wheat, corn, and soy, which can be problematic for dogs with allergies. They also have artificial flavors and colors, adding no real nutritional value.
13. Temptations
These highly palatable treats are packed with sugar and artificial ingredients. They offer little nutritional value and can contribute to weight gain due to their high calorie content.
14. Milo’s Kitchen
These treats are often high in sugar and sodium, which can be harmful to dogs in excess. They contain artificial flavors and colors, and some varieties have questionable meat sources.
15. DreamBone
Although advertised as rawhide-free, these chews contain artificial ingredients and fillers. They can pose a choking hazard and may cause digestive problems in some dogs.
16. Nudges Grillers
These jerky treats have a history of recalls due to potential contamination. They are often high in sodium and contain artificial preservatives.
17. Old Mother Hubbard
While their classic biscuits are relatively safe, some of their treats contain artificial flavors and colors. They also use questionable meat sources like chicken by-product meal.
When choosing dog treats, it’s important to prioritize natural ingredients, avoid artificial additives, and consider your dog’s specific needs and sensitivities. Look for brands that offer high-quality, wholesome treats made with real meat and minimal fillers.
Source:
Don’t Miss These:
9 Easy & Nutritious Homemade Dog Food Recipes to Pamper Your Pup
From Farm to Bowl: Homemade Dog Food Recipe with Locally Sourced Ingredients
Simple Homemade Diabetic Dog Food Recipe
Give Your Dog a Taste of Home with This Beef Stew Recipe
Ditch the Kibble: Easy Crockpot Chicken Homemade Dog Food Recipe
Easy Homemade Dog Food in the Instant Pot
Pup-Approved: Nutrient-Packed Sweet Potato-Pea-Quinoa-Banana Bowl
Meal Prep for Your Pup: Make-Ahead Chicken Stew for Dogs Recipe
Davin is a jack-of-all-trades but has professional training and experience in various home and garden subjects. He leans on other experts when needed and edits and fact-checks all articles.