Healthy Dog Treats vs. Store-Bought Junk: What Most Indian Dog Parents Don’t Know

For many Indian pet parents, treats are simply a way to show love or reward good behavior. A quick “good dog!” followed by a crunchy biscuit or a flavored chew stick is a familiar routine. But while treats are often seen as fun indulgences or training tools, they are actually a key part of your dog’s daily nutrition—and the kind of treat you offer matters far more than most people realize.

Here’s the truth: not all treats are created equal. In fact, many of the store-bought dog treats available in India today are filled with ingredients that can do actual harm.

What’s Hiding in That Wrapper?

Pick up a typical mass-market dog treat, and you'll notice two things: a shiny, attractive package and a surprisingly long shelf life—sometimes up to 12 or even 18 months. That long shelf life is your first red flag. Why? Because natural dog treats made from real, fresh ingredients aren’t meant to last that long without preservatives.

To keep these treats shelf-stable, manufacturers often rely on:

• Artificial preservatives to prevent spoilage
• Glycerine to keep them soft and glossy
• Colorants and flavor enhancers to make them look and smell “tasty”
• Fillers and by-products to cut down on production costs

These ingredients don’t contribute to your dog’s health—in fact, over time, they can contribute to obesity, food sensitivities, digestive issues, and more serious long-term health concerns.

Treats That Actually Treat

On the flip side, healthy dog biscuits and natural treats made from clean, real ingredients can actually offer functional benefits. Think fresh meat for digestion, real fish (not bones) for skin and coat, turmeric for joint support, or oats for sustained energy. These are not just “nice to have” ingredients—they are essential additions that can enhance your dog’s overall health.

At We The Pawple, our treats are made fresh, in small batches, using human-grade ingredients without artificial preservatives or fillers. Because real food shouldn't sit on a shelf for a year—and your dog’s health shouldn’t depend on synthetic additives.

Rethinking How You Buy Dog Treats

If you wouldn’t feed a 12-month-old shiny snack to your child without checking the label, why do it for your dog? Just like with human food, the responsibility of reading the ingredient list, understanding what goes inside, and asking questions lies with the pet parent.

When you buy dog treats, look beyond the packaging. Ask:

• Can I recognize the ingredients?
• Is the shelf life suspiciously long?
• Does it contain additives, fillers, or “flavor” enhancers?

A Small Shift, A Big Impact

Your dog’s life is already short. Every choice you make—from what goes in their bowl to what’s handed out during play—shapes their wellbeing. By switching to natural dog treats, you’re not just choosing a trend. You’re choosing conscious nutrition, disease prevention, and a longer, healthier life for your furry friend.

So next time you reach for a treat, think of it not as a reward, but as a responsibility. Because every little bite counts.