Why Not All All-Natural Dog Treats Are Better for Your Pup
When it comes to caring for your furry friend, providing the best nutrition is essential. All-natural dog treats are gaining popularity for good reason—they’re healthier, safer, and more beneficial for your dog’s overall well-being. Let’s dive into why switching to all-natural treats can make a world of difference for your pup.
What Does "All-Natural" Mean in Dog Treats?
The term "all-natural" refers to treats made from ingredients that are minimally processed and free from artificial additives such as preservatives, fillers, and synthetic colors. These treats prioritize whole, recognizable ingredients—think chicken, sweet potatoes, and oats—that you can trust to nourish your pet.
The Benefits of All-Natural Ingredients
Better Digestion: Natural ingredients are easier for dogs to digest compared to artificial additives.
Improved Coat and Skin Health: Omega-3 fatty acids, often found in natural treats, help maintain a shiny coat and prevent dry, itchy skin. Artificial fillers, may trigger allergic reactions that affect your pup’s skin.
Boosted Energy Levels: Whole, nutrient-dense ingredients provide sustained energy
All-Natural vs. Artificial: A Comparison
The difference between all-natural dog treats and those laden with artificial ingredients can be stark. Here’s how they compare:
| Feature | All-Natural Treats | Artificial Treats (e.g., Schmackos) |
|---|---|---|
| Ingredients | Simple, recognizable, whole foods like chicken, lamb, sweet potatoes, and beef | Artificial flavors, fillers like corn syrup, propylene glycol, and preservatives such as BHA and BHT |
| Health Impact | Promotes long-term health | Potential for allergies, digestive upset, and long-term health risks such as cancer from synthetic preservatives |
| Taste | Natural, appealing to dogs | Artificial flavors to mask poor quality |
| Transparency | Clearly labeled with real ingredients | Vague labels, hidden additives |
Real-Life Proof of the Benefits
A 2017 study published in the Vet Record analyzed 41 commercially available dog treats and revealed several concerning issues:
- Many treats had non-specific ingredient categories on their labels, making it difficult for pet owners to assess their quality.
- The average treat provided 332.0±39.2 kcal metabolizable energy per 100g, with some as high as 475.0 kcal/100g, potentially contributing to overfeeding and obesity.
- Simple sugars were identified in most treats, with sucrose being the most prevalent, which can lead to dental problems and energy spikes.
- There was significant variability in nutrient composition across treat categories, highlighting inconsistencies in nutritional value.
The researchers concluded that treat labeling should provide more detailed information on ingredients used, and the varying nutrient and caloric density of treats should be considered. In contrast, natural or homemade treats offer several advantages:
Controlled Ingredients: Pet owners can select reputable producers.
Nutritional Customization: Treats can be tailored to a dog's specific dietary needs.
Allergy Management: No artificial ingredients mean fewer potential triggers for dogs with allergies.
A Closer Look at Two Popular Dog Treats: All Natural vs. Populous (eg. Schmackos)
When comparing all-natural treats like FoxynFriends to popular options such as Schmackos, the benefits of natural ingredients become even more apparent:
All-Natural: Made with real, whole ingredients such as chicken, lamb, sweet potatoes, and beef. These treats are free from artificial flavors and preservatives, ensuring your dog gets only the best. The natural preparation process takes longer and requires greater care.
Populous brands: A widely available treats that often contains artificial flavors, colors, and preservatives such as BHA (butylated hydroxyanisole) and propylene glycol. These additives are used to extend shelf life and enhance taste artificially, but they come at a cost to your dog’s health. For example, propylene glycol, an ingredient also used in antifreeze, has been linked to digestive issues and potential toxicity in dogs when consumed in large quantities.
Explore Natural Options with FoxynFriends
Your dog deserves the best, and that starts with what’s in their bowl. At FoxynFriends, we’re dedicated to crafting all-natural dog treats made with love and care. Our treats are free from harmful additives and packed with wholesome ingredients your pup will adore. Browse our selection and make the switch to natural today—because a happy, healthy dog is worth it.