What's Actually in Your Dog's Store-Bought Treats?

Most people read ingredient labels on their own food. When did we stop doing that for our dogs?

The average bag of commercial dog treats has an ingredient list that reads like a chemistry textbook. Here's what's actually in there — and why it matters.

Common preservatives: BHA, BHT, and ethoxyquin

These are antioxidants added to prevent fats from going rancid during the long journey from manufacturer to warehouse to store shelf. They're generally recognized as safe in small doses, but they're not something you'd find in your own kitchen. Their presence is a reminder that commercial treats are engineered for shelf stability, not nutrition.

Ingredients that sound healthy but aren't always

Meat by-products — this catch-all can include organ meat (actually nutritious) but vague labeling makes it hard to know what you're getting.

'Natural flavors' — almost anything qualifies as a natural flavor. The term tells you very little.

Corn syrup — yes, some commercial treats add sugar. Dogs don't need it.

What a clean label actually looks like

Short ingredient lists. Words you recognize. Whole foods rather than derivatives. A treat with five ingredients you can name is better than one with twenty you'd need to look up.

Why homemade treats don't need preservatives

When you bake at home and store properly, you're not extending shelf life to 18 months. You're making a batch that lasts a week or two. Freshness is built into the process.

What's in every Scratch Treats kit

Oat flour, rolled oats, chia seeds, golden flax seeds, parsley, and a flavor base. Every ingredient is named, explained, and intentional. See the full ingredient breakdown.