Preservatives in Dog Treats: Natural vs. Artificial
You read the label on your own food. You can do the same for your dog's treats without a chemistry degree. Here is what the common preservatives are and how to spot them.
Why treats need preservatives at all
Fats go rancid and moisture lets mold grow. Shelf-stable treats need some way to prevent both, either through low moisture, packaging, added antioxidants, or a mix of these.
Artificial preservatives to look for
- BHA and BHT are synthetic antioxidants. The FDA allows them in small amounts. The U.S. National Toxicology Program lists BHA as "reasonably anticipated to be a human carcinogen" based on animal studies, and many pet owners choose to avoid both.
- Ethoxyquin is a synthetic antioxidant that the FDA limits in pet food. Some brands avoid it.
Natural preservatives
- Mixed tocopherols are a form of vitamin E.
- Rosemary extract is a plant-based antioxidant.
- Vitamin C (ascorbic acid) is also used as an antioxidant.
Low moisture and airtight packaging matter too. Baked treats are drier than fresh food, and a sealed bag protects them from air and light.
What is in our treats
Every Duke's Delights recipe contains vitamin C (ascorbic acid), a vitamin E supplement and rosemary extract. They do not contain BHA, BHT or ethoxyquin, and they have no artificial preservatives or colors. The treats are baked in small batches in Texas, and the maximum moisture on each label is between 6.8% and 10.8%. Full ingredients and guaranteed analysis are on each product page.
How to check any treat
- Read the ingredient list for BHA, BHT and ethoxyquin.
- Look for the name of each preservative instead of a vague "preservatives" line.
- Check the date on the bag and store treats in a cool, dry place with the bag sealed.
Questions about an ingredient? Read our FAQ or contact us.