Why Choosing All-Natural Dog Treats Is a Must for Every Pet Parent
Training your pup should be a positive, bonding experience—but what if the treats you’re using are doing more harm than good? Many dog owners don't realize that some store-bought training treats are packed with artificial ingredients, preservatives, and fillers that can upset your dog’s stomach—or worse, impact their long-term health.
In this guide, we’ll break down why it’s important to rethink what you're using during training and why all-natural dog treats are a safer, smarter choice.
Why Do Dog Treats Matter in Training?
Whether you're teaching basic commands like sit and stay or working on more advanced behaviors, treats are a go-to tool to reinforce good habits. But because you're rewarding often and repeatedly, the type of treat you use matters more than you think.
Frequent Rewards = Frequent Consumption
During training sessions, dogs may consume dozens of treats in one sitting. If each treat contains questionable ingredients, that adds up fast—and so do the potential negative effects. That's why choosing healthy, digestible treats is crucial.
Common Ingredients in Dog Treats That Could Be Making Your Dog Sick
Let’s take a look at what you’ll often find in low-quality training treats—and how they might be affecting your pup.
1. Artificial Preservatives
Chemicals like BHA, BHT, and ethoxyquin are used to extend shelf life, but they’ve been linked to health concerns in both animals and humans. While they may keep a treat fresh, they’re not doing your dog’s body any favors.
2. Artificial Colors and Flavors
Your dog doesn't care what color their treat is—but manufacturers often add artificial dyes and flavors to appeal to pet parents. These synthetic additives can cause digestive upset and allergic reactions.
3. Meat By-Products
Some treats don’t contain real, whole meat. Instead, they include vague ingredients like “meat meal” or “animal digest,” which are processed scraps not fit for human consumption. These are harder for dogs to digest and can lead to upset stomachs or food intolerances.
4. High Sugar or Corn Syrup
Sugar is often added to enhance taste, but it’s unnecessary and harmful. Long-term, sugary treats can contribute to weight gain, diabetes, and dental problems.
Signs Your Dog’s Treats Could Be Making Them Sick
If you’ve noticed any of the following symptoms, it might be time to take a closer look at the treat bag:
- Vomiting or diarrhea after training sessions
- Excessive gas or bloating
- Skin rashes or itchiness
- Changes in behavior or appetite
- Lethargy or hyperactivity
While these symptoms can stem from many causes, treats loaded with artificial ingredients are a common culprit—especially when consumed frequently.
The Case for All-Natural Dog Treats
So, what should you be using instead? All-natural dog treats are made with real, recognizable ingredients and none of the junk that can harm your pet.
Benefits of All-Natural Training Treats
- ✅ Easier to Digest: Real meat and simple ingredients are gentler on your dog’s stomach.
- ✅ Fewer Allergens: No artificial additives = fewer chances for allergic reactions.
- ✅ Nutrient-Rich: All-natural treats often contain added health benefits like omega-3s, vitamins, and minerals.
- ✅ Better Taste: Real ingredients taste better. Dogs know the difference!
- ✅ Peace of Mind for Pet Parents: You know exactly what you’re giving your dog—and that it’s safe.
What to Look for in a Healthy Dog Training Treat
If you’re switching to healthier options, here’s what to check for on the label:
✅ Short Ingredient Lists
Fewer ingredients typically mean less processing. Aim for under 10 ingredients, with the first one being real meat.
✅ Single-Ingredient Options
Some of the best treats for training are single-ingredient dog treats, like freeze-dried chicken breast or dehydrated beef liver. No fillers. No fluff.
✅ Grain-Free or Limited-Ingredient Options
These are ideal for pups with sensitivities or allergies. Low-ingredient dog treats help reduce digestive issues and allergic reactions.
✅ No Artificial Additives
Make sure the label says “no artificial preservatives, flavors, or colors.”
Small, Soft, and Delicious: What Makes a Great Training Treat?
While the ingredients matter most, you also want to make sure your training treats:
- Are small and low-calorie so you can use lots without overfeeding
- Have a soft texture for quick chewing and no choking hazards
- Are high in protein to keep energy up and support muscle development
Hubert Pet’s all-natural dog treats are crafted with training in mind—soft, healthy, and made in the USA with real, high-quality ingredients.
A Final Word: What You Feed Shapes Their Future
Your dog depends on you to make the best choices for their health. By switching to all-natural dog treats, especially during frequent training sessions, you're not only helping them learn faster—you're protecting their gut, skin, teeth, and long-term well-being.
Because a healthy dog is a happy, trainable dog.
Ready to Make the Switch?
Ditch the artificial junk and treat your dog right with Hubert Pet’s all-natural, low-ingredient dog treats. Whether your pup loves chicken, duck, or cod skin, you’ll find gourmet-quality rewards they’ll beg to earn—without any of the bellyaches.
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