Natural Dog Treats vs Processed Dog Treats: Why Natural Wins

Natural dog treats give dogs simpler, safer nutrition with fewer additives, while many processed treats rely on fillers, sugars and artificial chemicals that can upset digestion and health over time.​

What counts as “natural” vs processed?

Natural dog treats are usually single‑ingredient or minimally processed chews and snacks, like dehydrated meat, offal, skin, ears or dog‑safe fruits and vegetables, with no artificial colours, flavours or chemical preservatives. Processed treats are often extruded biscuits, soft chews or colourful snacks made from mixed meat meals, grains, sugars, artificial flavours and synthetic preservatives to keep them shelf‑stable and cheap.​

Healthier ingredients and better digestion

Because natural treats avoid most artificial colours, flavours and synthetic preservatives, they are generally easier for dogs to digest and less likely to trigger upset stomachs or long‑term inflammation. Many processed treats contain additives like BHA, BHT, ethoxyquin and propylene glycol, which have been linked at high or prolonged doses to liver strain, cell damage and other health concerns in animals. Natural treats made from quality meat or fish also provide bioavailable protein, vitamins and minerals that support immunity, skin, coat and overall health, rather than empty calories from starch and fillers.​

Fewer hidden allergens and fillers

Natural chews are often single‑source proteins (for example pure beef, rabbit or turkey), which makes them easier to use in elimination diets and for dogs with known protein sensitivities. Many processed treats are bulked out with wheat, corn, soy and other cheap fillers that can trigger allergies, itchy skin or digestive problems in sensitive dogs. By avoiding unnecessary grains and synthetic ingredients, natural treats reduce the risk of reactions while keeping the ingredient list short and transparent.​

Dental and behavioural benefits

Chewy natural treats such as ears, tendons, skins and other tough textures help scrape away plaque and tartar as the dog gnaws, supporting better dental health and fresher breath. This mechanical cleaning effect can be more effective and safer than some highly processed “dental” chews that rely on added chemicals or sugars and may not last long enough to do much cleaning. Long‑lasting natural chews also satisfy a dog’s instinct to chew, providing mental stimulation, stress relief and a natural way to reduce boredom‑related behaviours.​

Lower calories and better weight control

Because many natural treats are simply dried meat or fish without added sugars, oils or starchy fillers, they are often lower in empty calories than mass‑produced biscuit‑style snacks. Processed treats can be calorie‑dense due to added fats, sweeteners and bulk carbohydrates, which makes weight gain more likely if owners do not adjust daily food portions. Choosing lean, single‑ingredient natural treats and feeding them in moderation helps keep dogs in better body condition while still allowing rewarding snacks.