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As a dog owner, there's probably not much you wouldn't do to make sure your pup is living their best life. Most pet parents prioritize their four-legged friend's health, often putting their dog's needs before their own — which means giving them only the very best in food and treats. But what actually makes a treat "healthy"? If it's on the shelf of a reputable pet store, it must be good, right? You'd be surprised. Here's how to tell whether the treats you're giving your best friend are the gold standard — or something else.
Check the Ingredients
Just like human food, dog treats come with nutrition labels, and manufacturers list ingredients in order by weight — so it's easy to see how much of the good stuff is actually in there. Top-quality treats use whole ingredients rather than by-products. Choose treats made with 100% all-natural, whole ingredients so you know your pup is getting what they need.
Would You Eat It Yourself?
A dog's favorite treat is often whatever is on their parent's plate. While "people food" isn't always a good idea, certain foods are genuinely healthy for dogs. Sweet potato — an antioxidant-rich vegetable — is excellent, which is why premium makers include it. Apples, pumpkin, and whole meats like chicken, salmon, and beef are popular for the same reason. Look for treats that advertise "human-grade" ingredients so you know it's the real deal.
Choose Organic
If you already shop organic for your own family, you know the difference. Organic foods tend to contain fewer contaminants and are free from synthetic pesticides, hormones, and fillers, and most are non-GMO. That standard now extends to our pets — you can buy organic hemp dog treats made with clean, whole ingredients.
Skip the Sugar
Here's a little secret: dogs need refined sugar about as much as we do — which is to say, not at all. That doesn't mean your pup can't enjoy a sweet treat now and then. Treats naturally sweetened with a little applesauce, honey, or molasses are far better than artificial sweeteners or refined sugar. Even natural sweeteners are best used sparingly.
MEAT, Not "Meat"
Plenty of treats list "beef," "bacon," or "chicken," but few contain much of the real thing. Some use animal by-products; others skip meat in favor of artificial flavoring. When shopping for meat-based treats, the rule of thumb is simple: the fewer the ingredients, the better.
Extend Your Health Trends to Your Dog
You've heard the buzz around hemp as a wholesome ingredient — and hemp treats for dogs are trending for good reason. Owners use them to support calm and ease everyday joint stiffness in senior dogs, among other things. Our organic hemp dog treats come in flavors dogs love, in both small-dog and large-dog (5mg) formulas — browse them all in our hemp dog treats collection.
Human-grade, organic biscuits with real full-spectrum hemp — dehydrated (not baked), third-party tested, made on our Colorado family farm.
Shop Hemp Dog Treats →Frequently Asked Questions
What ingredients make a dog treat healthy?
Whole, recognizable, human-grade ingredients — real meat rather than by-products, wholesome add-ins like sweet potato or pumpkin, and no refined sugar or artificial flavors. A short ingredient list is a good sign.
Are organic dog treats worth it?
Organic treats tend to have fewer contaminants and no synthetic pesticides, hormones, or fillers, and most are non-GMO — a meaningful upgrade if you already shop that way for yourself.
What treats should I avoid?
Steer clear of treats high in refined sugar or artificial sweeteners, those relying on animal by-products or vague "meat" flavoring, and hard items like rawhide that can be a choking or blockage risk.
How many treats can I give my dog?
Treats should make up no more than about 10% of your dog's daily calories. Use them as rewards and keep an eye on the total, especially with food-motivated dogs.
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This content is for general wellness information and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Always consult your veterinarian about your dog's diet.
