What Are Dehydrated Dog Treats and How Are They Made?
Dehydrated dog treats are made by removing moisture from raw ingredients, primarily meat, to create a shelf-stable, nutrient-rich snack for dogs. This process involves drying the meat at controlled temperatures over a specific period. Achieving the right balance is crucial—too high, and the meat gets cooked; too low, and the moisture won't be fully removed, leading to spoilage. That’s why I only recommend using a high-quality dehydrator for making jerky. Never try dehydrating meat in an oven or OTG, as these methods can compromise quality. The freshness and quality of the meat used are crucial for ensuring that the treats are nutritious, safe, and free from harmful bacteria, just like any other fresh food for dogs.
Benefits of Dehydrated Dog Treats
One of the main advantages of dehydrated dog treats is their high protein content. Single-ingredient jerky treats made solely from meat provide a pure, natural snack for your dog. This makes it easier to pinpoint the cause of any food allergies or sensitivities your dog may have. If your dog reacts to a treat, knowing it only contains one ingredient helps narrow down the cause.
Explaining Common Buzzwords: "Grain-Free," "Natural," and "Human Grade"
Grain-free:
While grain-free treats are often marketed as healthier, be cautious. Some grain-free products replace grains with fillers like tapioca or potato starch, which add little nutritional value. Always check the label for unnecessary additives.
Natural:
The term "natural" can be misleading, as it's not closely regulated. To ensure the safety and quality of puppy treats, it's crucial to carefully examine the ingredients to ensure they align with your pet’s specific health needs.
Human grade:
While this term suggests the ingredients are fit for human consumption, it's essential to remember that pets may derive significant benefits from pet-grade meat as well, which often includes nutrition from the whole prey.
How to Pick Based on Shelf Life, Ingredients, and Nutrition
When selecting dehydrated treats, prioritise freshness by opting for smaller quantities rather than buying in bulk. This ensures your dog enjoys the highest quality natural dog treats at their peak. Look for a single protein source in the ingredients, without fillers or preservatives. Focus on nutritional aspects such as calories per treat, crude protein, fat content, and allergens. Also, ensure the treats don't exceed 10% of your dog’s daily caloric intake to avoid overfeeding.
Things to Watch Out For
Always read and follow the feeding recommendations on the packaging. Pay attention to storage instructions—avoid treats that require refrigeration after opening, as this can introduce moisture back into the product, which compromises both its quality and safety. Lastly, while treats with long shelf lives may seem convenient, they often contain preservatives, so prioritize freshness and quality over extended storage.
Dehydrated dog treats offer a nutritious, protein-rich option for your pet, but it's important to be mindful of ingredient quality, storage, and nutritional balance. When choosing treats, opt for single-ingredient products to easily manage allergies and sensitivities, and avoid those packed with unnecessary fillers or preservatives.
At Skylish, we prioritize fresh, natural ingredients to ensure your dog gets the best possible snacks. When shopping for dog treats online, always prioritize quality and freshness to keep your dog healthy and happy. Visit Skylish for a wide selection of premium, natural dog treats that your pet will love!