Finding Healthy Dog Treats at your Pet Bakery

As pet parents ourselves, we at Treats Unleashed understand the desire to treat your beloved furry family members to something special. With the rise of dog bakery gourmet goodies across big-box stores and online outlets, it’s tempting to spoil your pup with all sorts of fancy treats. Walk into any pet store near you, and you’ll be immediately confronted with a rainbow of all treat varieties, from pouches to pates, to crunchy cookies or freeze-dried morsels. 

Before you hand over that adorable bone-shaped biscuit, it’s essential to ensure that what you're giving your furry friend is safe and healthy. 

At Treats Unleashed, we’ve been baking dog treats in small batches and with human-grade ingredients since 2002. In this blog, we want to share some advice to guide you on your next treat run, and help you find healthy options for your pet.

Ingredients Matter!

Just because something looks appetizing doesn’t mean it’s safe for your pup to consume. The right dog bakeries, like Treats Unleashed, ensure to include all the necessary ingredients for your pup’s health. All our handmade, house-made brown bag treats include a comprehensive list of all ingredients and a full nutritional breakdown. Here are some other things to consider:

• Say No to Toxic Ingredients: Some human foods are a big no-no for dogs. Keep an eye out for treats that sneak in harmful stuff like chocolate (TU uses carob, a dog-safe alternative), raisins, onions, and artificial sweeteners like xylitol. Even a tiny bit of these can make your dog sick. 

• Go Natural: The best treats are the ones with simple, natural ingredients -think, meat, veggies, and whole grains. If the ingredient list feels overly complicated, it’s worth double-checking for your dog’s safety.

• Watch for Allergies: Just like humans, dogs can have food allergies. Common triggers include wheat, soy, and corn. If your dog has a sensitive stomach, choosing treats carefully can help avoid any issues.

Nutritional Value

Sure, treats are all about spoiling your dog, but that doesn’t mean they should lack nutritional value. At Treats Unleashed, we give you options that add a little something extra to your dog’s diet.

• Protein Power: Dogs need protein to stay strong and healthy, so choose treats that pack a protein punch. Look for ones made with chicken, turkey, or fish as the first ingredient.

• Veggie Boost: Treats with veggies like sweet potatoes or carrots aren’t just tasty; they’re good for your dog, too. They add fiber to your pup’s diet and help with digestion. This Thanksgiving season, look for treats with pumpkin or apple to give your companion a extra dose of natural fiber and good vitamins.

• Keep It Light: If your dog’s watching their waistline (or if you’re using treats for training), go for low-calorie options. Your dog can enjoy snack time without the extra pounds. Our Training Bits are a great option, and are perforated so they can be easily snapped into portions that you, the pet parent, control.

One Size Doesn’t Fit All

Not all treats are a perfect fit for every dog. Your pup's size and age play a big role in determining what kind of treats are best.

• For the Little Guys: Small dogs need small treats, plain and simple. Big, hard biscuits can be tough on their tiny teeth and might even pose a choking hazard.

• Senior Dogs: Older dogs might have a harder time with tough or crunchy treats. Look for something softer that’s easier on their teeth, and consider treats with added joint support if your senior is feeling a bit stiff. Our handmade softbites, also made in our in-house pet bakery, are easily chewable and easy to pull apart.

• Puppies: Growing pups have different nutritional needs, so make sure you’re picking puppy-friendly treats. Look for those packed with the nutrients that help them grow strong and healthy.

Treats are a wonderful way to show your dog some love, but it’s important to make sure they’re both tasty and safe. If you ever feel you are unsure about what’s best for your pup, we’re here to help. Whether you’re grabbing a cute cupcake from a dog bakery or experimenting with homemade treats, it’s always good to keep your dog’s unique needs in mind.

And remember, we’re happy to chat if you want some extra guidance on finding the right balance for your dog’s diet. After all, happy barks and wagging tails are the best rewards