The Truth About ‘Natural’ Dog Treats (Not All Are Equal)

|Doghouse Cafe
The Truth About ‘Natural’ Dog Treats (Not All Are Equal)

When it comes to spoiling your dog, it’s easy to get lost in the sea of “natural” treats at pet stores. But here’s the hard truth: not all natural treats are created equal. Just because a bag says “natural” doesn’t mean it’s safe, healthy, or even digestible for your furry friend.

Let’s break down the key differences so you can make smarter choices, and see why our treat wall is a game-changer for pups (and their humans).

Rawhide vs Dehydrated Treats: What You Need to Know

Rawhide Treats

Rawhide is the classic go-to chew. Made from the inner layer of cow or horse hides, it promises hours of chewing entertainment. but it comes with some risks:

  • Digestibility: Rawhide isn’t always fully digestible. Large pieces can cause blockages in your dog’s stomach.
  • Additives: Many rawhides are bleached or treated with chemicals to preserve them, so “natural” can be misleading.
  • Dental Benefits: They are not a substitute for proper dental care.

Pros: None... 
Cons: Risk of choking, chemical treatments, variable quality

Dehydrated Treats

Dehydrated treats, on the other hand, are made from real meat, organs, or bones that have been slowly dried to lock in nutrients and flavour.

  • Digestibility: Fully digestible and gentle on the stomach.
  • Nutritional Value: Retain natural proteins, vitamins, and minerals.
  • Safety: Less risk of choking or chemical exposure.

Pros: High-quality, nutrient-rich, digestible, variety
Cons: None...


A Deeper Comparison Guide

Feature Rawhide Our Dehydrated Treats
Main Ingredient Cow/horse hide Real meat, organs, or bones
Digestibility Low High
Nutritional Value Low High
Additives Often yes None
Dental Health None Gentle, Natural cleaning - Plus nutrition
Risk Choking, chemical exposure Minimal
Dog Appeal Chewy texture Chewy, meaty, irresistible

When you compare side by side, it’s clear why dehydrated treats are the better choice for your dog’s health and happiness.


Bottom Line

“Natural” can be misleading, but you don’t have to gamble with your dog’s health. Dehydrated, nutrient-rich treats are the way to go. And the best place to find them? Right here at Doghouse, where our treat wall is stocked with goodies that are truly natural, delicious, and beneficial.