The Truth About Store-Bought Dog Treats: What Vets Want You to Know

March 4, 2025

When you walk down the pet aisle, it’s easy to be overwhelmed by the sheer number of dog treats lining the shelves. Many brands claim to be "natural" or "healthy," but are they really?

In Australia, pet food regulations are almost non-existent, meaning labels can be misleading. A treat that claims to be "100% fish" may contain hidden fillers and additives. So, what do vets actually think about store-bought dog treats? Let’s uncover the truth and help you choose the best options for your pup. 🦴

The Hidden Ingredients in Store-Bought Dog Treats

Many store-bought dog treats contain questionable ingredients that could negatively impact your dog’s health. Here are some shocking facts:

Fillers & Low-Quality Ingredients – Many big-brand dog treats are packed with corn, soy, and wheat, which provide little nutritional value and can trigger allergies or digestive issues.
Artificial Preservatives & Additives – Chemicals like BHA, BHT, and ethoxyquin have been linked to cancer and liver toxicity in dogs.
Hidden Sugars & Salt – Many "tasty" treats contain excess sugar, salt, or syrups, leading to obesity, diabetes, and dehydration.
Meat By-Products & Mystery Meats – Instead of real, high-quality meat, some treats contain rendered by-products from processing plants. Look out for vague terms like "meat meal" or "animal digest."

Surprising Fact: A 2023 study found that over 60% of store-bought dog treats contained undeclared artificial additives, meaning even treats labelled "natural" weren’t always what they claimed to be!

What Vets Recommend Instead

Vets and pet nutritionists agree that simpler is better when it comes to treats. Here’s what they suggest:

1️. Look for Single-Ingredient Treats

Choose treats made from one high-quality ingredient (like kangaroo, fish, or beef) that are easier to digest and less likely to cause allergies.

2️. Opt for Air-Dried or Dehydrated Over Processed Treats

Dehydrated and air-dried treats retain nutrients naturally without needing artificial preservatives.

3️. Avoid Artificial Colours & Flavours

If a treat looks overly colourful or has a strong artificial smell, it’s likely packed with chemical additives. Stick to natural-looking, minimally processed options. You can tell when they’re real meat treats by the smell!

4️. Check the Calorie Content

Many commercial treats are high in empty calories, leading to weight gain. Choose low-calorie, nutrient-dense options instead.

5️. Read the Label & Choose Trusted Brands

Always check the ingredient list and avoid treats with long, unrecognisable chemical names. Choose reputable brands that are transparent about their ingredients and sourcing.

The Healthier Alternative: Natural Dog Treats

Natural, single-ingredient treats provide all the flavour without the harmful additives. Dogs don’t need artificial flavours—real meat, fish, or natural chews are far more nutritious and satisfying.