Why Even the Treats You Choose Matter to Your Dog's Gut

Most dogs love to eat, and some will devour anything in front of them. While treats can be a great supplement to a healthy diet, dog owners should know that even the type of treats they choose can impact their dog's gut health. That’s why we emphasize gut-healthy treats.

Like any other food, treats can have a positive or negative effect on digestion. A dog’s gut health is determined by the balance of microorganisms in their digestive system. Just like with humans, maintaining this balance is key to proper digestion, nutrient absorption, and overall well-being.

Small Changes Can Upset the Balance of Your Dog’s Gut

A dog's gut is filled with beneficial bacteria that help break down food and extract nutrients. However, it doesn’t take much to throw this balance off. Even minor dietary changes can disrupt digestion and lead to issues like bloating, diarrhea, or constipation.

That’s why experts recommend gradually transitioning from one dog food to another. Making sudden changes can shock the digestive system. The same principle applies to treats—what seems like a small snack can significantly impact gut health, for better or worse.

Common Treat Ingredients That Can Harm Gut Health

Not all dog treats are created equal. Many commercial treats contain ingredients that can negatively affect digestion. Here’s what to watch out for:

• Fillers, Additives, and Byproducts – Some treats contain artificial preservatives, flavor enhancers, or unnecessary fillers. These don’t provide nutritional value and may disrupt gut bacteria.
• High-Fat Treats – Dogs need some fat in their diets, but excessive fat can cause digestive issues and even lead to inflammation in the gut.
• Highly Processed Treats – Many store-bought treats undergo heavy processing, which strips away essential nutrients and proteins. This can make digestion harder on your dog’s system.
• Table Scraps – While it’s tempting to share food from your plate, human food is not always suitable for dogs. Table scraps are often high in sodium, fats, and seasonings that can throw off the microbiome.

Choosing Gut-Healthy Treats

If you want to support your dog's digestion, the best approach is choosing treats made with natural ingredients and minimal processing. Avoid treats that contain unnecessary fillers, byproducts, or artificial additives.

Dog treats that promote gut health are formulated with digestive-friendly ingredients that help maintain a balanced microbiome. When your dog’s gut is in balance, their overall health improves, leading to better digestion, a stronger immune system, and increased energy levels.

By being mindful of what you feed your dog—including treats—you can help them stay healthy and happy. After all, treats should nourish your pet, not just satisfy their cravings.

Our chicken and beef tummy treats are made with beneficial ingredients like sweet potato, rice and bone broth to promote a healthy gut.