Treats to Avoid Giving Your Dog (Even the Natural Ones)
🛑 Treats to Avoid Giving Your Dog (Even the Natural Ones)
Meta Description: Not all treats are safe for your pup—discover which dog treats to avoid, including some that seem natural but can cause harm.
When it comes to spoiling our dogs, treats are the go-to. But not all treats—even ones labeled “natural”—are safe. Some can upset your dog’s stomach, cause long-term health problems, or even be toxic. Here’s what to watch for when treating your pup.
🚫 Common Dog Treats to Avoid
1.
Rawhide Chews
These are marketed as long-lasting, but rawhide can:
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Be hard to digest
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Pose choking hazards
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Contain chemical residues from processing
Safer alternatives: Bully sticks, yak chews, or natural dehydrated tendons.
2.
Bones from the Table
Cooked bones (especially chicken and pork) can:
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Splinter and damage your dog’s digestive tract
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Cause blockages or internal bleeding
Note: Raw bones from trusted sources can be safe in moderation, but supervision is key.
3.
Jerky Made Overseas
Some imported jerky treats (particularly chicken from China) have been linked to kidney failure in dogs.
Look for: USA-made treats with limited, transparent ingredients.
⚠️ “Natural” Doesn’t Always Mean Safe
Even treats made from single-ingredient proteins or whole foods can be risky.
4.
Liver (in large quantities)
While great in small doses, too much liver can cause vitamin A toxicity, leading to bone deformities or joint pain.
5.
Peanut Butter with Xylitol
Xylitol is a sugar substitute toxic to dogs. Even tiny amounts can cause liver failure and hypoglycemia.
✅ Always check labels—use xylitol-free peanut butter.
6.
Dehydrated Pig Ears or Cow Hooves
Often contaminated with bacteria like Salmonella and can cause dental fractures.
🧼 Homemade Treats: Be Cautious With Ingredients
Avoid using:
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Garlic or onions (even powdered versions)
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Nutmeg (can cause tremors)
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Grapes/raisins (toxic to kidneys)
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Too much salt or fat
💡 Safe Treat Tips
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Keep treats under 10% of your dog’s daily calorie intake
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Opt for single-ingredient freeze-dried meats
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Make DIY dog treats with safe ingredients like pumpkin, oats, and blueberries
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Always introduce new treats slowly
Final Woof
Treats should be a source of joy—not a health hazard. By reading labels, skipping risky options, and being picky (just like your dog), you’ll help them stay safe, happy, and healthy.
Looking for safe, pup-approved snacks?
Browse our collection of all-natural, CyberMutz-tested treats your dog will beg for (and you’ll feel good about).