What Is In A Dog Treat Anyway?

BHA

BHA, short for Butylated Hydroxyanisole, and BHT, Butylated Hydroxytoluene, are both artificial preservatives added to oils to slow down deterioration. BHA and BHT (as well as ethoxyquin) are used in numerous pet food brands, including both “premium-grade” brands like Science Diet (even their prescription diet product line) and lower-grade brands like Alpo and Pedigree, to replace vitamin E, which is removed during oil processing. Studies have shown that BHA and BHT promote liver disease and other medical problems.

Ethoxyquin

Ethoxyquin is a chemical preservative – and possible carcinogenic – regulated by the FDA (U.S. Food and Drug Administration) as a pesticide. While ethoxyquin cannot be used in human foods, it continues to be used in many pet food brands. Ethoxyquin has been found to promote kidney carcinogenesis and significantly increase the incidence of stomach tumors and enhanced bladder carcinogesis, according to several studies, including a recent one by The Department of Pathology, Nagoya City University Medical

Tocopherol

Tocopherol, (TCP) a natural antioxidant and Vitamin E source, and human-quality ingredients to slow the oxidation process of fats and oils to ensure its premium pet food products remain fresh as in their initial state.Vitamin E is an antioxidant that retards the oxidation of other vitamins. Vitamin E works as a natural preservative for a period of up to 12 months and as a peak preservative up to 6 months. Tocopherols used as preservatives in pet food do have a shorter lifespan than chemical preservatives, which can be a concern with some pet food brands that are warehoused or shipped to retail stores and left on store shelves for extended periods of time

Glucosamine

May help to repair and renew joint cartilage.

Crude Ash

This is an indicator of mineral content. Usually, the minerals are potassium, phosphorus, calcium, iron, magnesium, sodium and zinc.

Lecithin

Natural antioxidant, derived from plants or eggs, used as a lubricant in foods.

Glycerin

A sugar alcohol, derived from plant or animal fat. Helps keep the treat moist.

Citric acid

Vitamin C. Used as a natural preservative. It is also a natural antioxidant and anticarcinogenic vitamin.

Rawhide

Rawhide- the skin of the cow. It’s inexpensive, easy to find, and dogs love them.

Note: Rawhides are not regulated, so some could contain antibiotics, lead and insecticides. All, of course, could possibly cause problems for your dog, such as gastric irritation and choking when the chew becomes smaller than your dog’s mouth.

Alternatives to rawhide: All natural Sweet Potato and Papaya chews.