Demystifying ingredients: What to look for in quality natural treats

This month we’re diving snout-first into the wonderful world of natural treats and uncovering the mysteries behind those ingredient labels. If you’ve ever found yourself squinting at a package, wondering what’s really in those snacks you’re feeding your pup, fear not! We’re here to shed some light on what to look for when choosing the best natural treats for your pup.

First things first, let’s talk about what “natural” really means. Unlike some sneaky marketing ploys out there, true natural treats should be just that – natural. That means no artificial flavors, colours, or preservatives. Instead, look for treats made with real, whole-food ingredients that you can actually pronounce. Think chicken, beef, sweet potatoes, and blueberries – the kind of stuff you’d find in your own kitchen.

Next up, let’s chat about sourcing. It’s not just about what’s in the treats, but where those ingredients come from. Opt for treats made with locally sourced or ethically raised meats and organic fruits and veggies whenever possible. Not only does this support small-scale farmers and sustainable practices, but it also ensures your pup is getting the highest quality ingredients available.

Now, onto the nitty-gritty – reading those ingredient labels. The rule of thumb here is simple: the shorter the ingredient list, the better. Look for treats with minimal ingredients, ideally five or fewer. And remember, the first few ingredients listed are the ones that make up the bulk of the treat, so make sure they’re wholesome and nutritious.

But what about all those fancy-sounding additives? It’s time to separate the wheat from the chaff (literally). While some additives can be beneficial – like vitamin E for freshness or glucosamine for joint health – others are just filler. Keep an eye out for common offenders like corn, wheat, and soy, which can be hard for dogs to digest and offer little nutritional value.

Last but not least, don’t forget about texture and taste. Just like us humans, dogs have their preferences too! Some pups might prefer crunchy, while others go crazy for chewy. Experiment with different textures and flavors to find what gets your pup’s tail wagging ideally giving a range of textures.

So there you have it, folks – the ultimate guide to deciphering those ingredient labels and choosing the best natural treats for your furry friend. Remember, quality is key when it comes to keeping your pup happy and healthy, so don’t be afraid to do a little detective work next time you’re shopping for snacks.

At Stanley Snacks you can be confident that we take the time to source from ethical, quality suppliers and we don’t stock anything that we consider too processed or dangerous for your dog. The majority of our treats are single ingredient, just air dried with nothing added or taken away.