Due to recent safety concerns over dog treats made in China and other countries, there has been an uptick in people looking for dog treats made in America. Why? For one, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulates the manufacturing of pet food in the U.S, thus ensuring that products like treats are safe for dogs to consume. In other places, there isn’t always government oversight of the ingredients in pet food, thus raising the risk of the treats containing contaminants. Secondly, buying American-made products is also a great way to support the local economy.
So, how are dog treats in America made differently, and which ones are the best option for your pup? The brands of dog treats below all contain labels that accurately list the ingredients, as required in the U.S. The ingredients are of higher quality as well, or even all-natural in the case of BARK dog treats. American companies are also transparent about their manufacturing process and have been extensively tested by the FDA. With those factors in mind, there’s no need to compromise on safety for your dog.
BARK Treats
For those looking to keep their dogs safe and happy, dog treats from Bark are always an exceptional choice. Bark designs and manufactures all of their treats (and toys, chews, supplements, etc.) in the USA & Canada with domestic and imported ingredients. Furthermore, their treats are made from all-natural, high-quality ingredients with a focus on health and wellness. Luckily, there’s a variety of dog treat categories, including soft-baked treats, crunchy biscuit treats, premium treats, jerky treats, and freeze dried treats.
Whatever products you choose, all Bark dog treats are free from wheat, corn, and soy. Their ingredient list is also minimal. As in, beef treats are primarily made from—you guessed it—beef. Plus, for those looking for one-ingredient treats only, they’ll stumble across a wide array of freeze dried or premium options.
Snook’s Sweet Potato Fries
Made in Oregon, these treats are as simple as can be. They contain only one ingredient: dried, GMO-free golden sweet potatoes grown in the U.S. With the same texture and consistency of jerky, these vegan “fries” are a great alternative chewy treat. They’re well-loved by dogs and healthy to boot. Smaller “chip” and biscuit shaped treats are also available.
Three Dog Bakery “Classic Cremes”
Founded in Kansas City in 1989, Three Dog Bakery produces cute and creative American-made dog treats. Their biscuits are baked in small batches and packaged in boxes made to look like cookies people might buy from a Girl Scout. Containing wheat flour, molasses, corn syrup, and a few other whole ingredients, these “Classic Cremes” are less healthy than other treats. Yet, in moderation, they’re a nice (and safe) indulgence for your pup.
Nudges Steak Grillers
With an ingredient list that starts with beef and chicken, it’s no surprise that Nudges brand treats are popular with pups. Furthermore, their “made in the USA” status should make them popular with you, too. Manufactured by Tyson Pet Products in Iowa, these dog treats aren’t exactly from a small and local company. Yet, in regards to safety, these savory and chewy “grillers” are a smart choice. Other options include “Chicken Grillers,” “Chicken Jerky,” and beyond.
Blue Dog Bakery Chicken Bites
Free from corn, soy, and wheat, these savory bites come from a small business based in Seattle. All of their dog treats are manufactured in the U.S. and, like other American dog treat companies, they’re focused on the health and safety of their doggie consumers. Chicken is the main ingredient of these chewy bites, but as always, monitor your pup’s intake. They also contain minimal amounts of salt and sugar. Blue Dog Bakery also produces peanut butter, cheese, bacon, and other healthy soft treats.
Emmy’s Best Chicken Jerky
These premium jerky treats are made with one ingredient only: chicken. They’re also free from any fillers, additives, or chemicals. As Emmy’s Best also sources and manufactures their products in the U.S., these treats are an excellent choice for those worried about contaminants or toxins. Note that these strips of jerky are thin and crispy, making them a less desirable choice for humans wanting to offer their pup a quick reward.
BarkBox!
Only buying dog treats that are made in the USA & Canada with domestic and imported ingredients is important for the health and safety of your best friend. Yet, it can become daunting to try to find new products that they love. It can also be expensive. By signing up for a monthly BarkBox subscription, your pup receives two new bags of treats (in addition to new toys and other products) every four weeks. This means you’ll have fun, safe, healthy, and delicious treats to reward your dog with, but without having to go to the store in search of other American made products.
