7 Best Organic Dog Treats that Healthy Dogs Love

Do you have a furry friend that deserves the very best? If so, you know just how important it is to provide your pup with healthy treats.

That's where organic dog treats come in! Not only are they free of synthetic flavors and colors, but organic pet snacks often support local farms and incentivize sustainable agriculture practices...now that's one tasty treat!

I've used my love of dogs (and dogged research) and scoured the market to find the best organic dog treats for your fur baby.

Ready to get your canine buddy drooling? Let's go!

Best Organic Dog Treats for A Happy Owner and A Healthy Dog

• Ingredients: Organic chicken, organic cane sugar, organic flax seed, salt, ground celery, organic dried cultured skim milk, organic paprika, hickory smoke flavor, organic rosemary extract in a natural lamb casing

Think you can't teach an old dog new tricks. Well, think again and grab yourself a bag of these. They're so tasty you'll be a pro dog whisperer in no time (with dogs of all ages!).

These small yet mighty snacks are perfect for on-the-go rewards. And, at only three calories per treat, I love that I can train Millie to my heart's content without worrying about overindulgence.

You'll immediately notice the difference when you open a bag of these natural treats. Made with love in the USA, Full Moon treats are created with trusted family farmers and ranchers.

To boost the eco-credentials even further, Full Moon is also part of Amazon's Climate Pledge Friendly initiative.

I love that only USDA-approved, human-grade meat is used in these treats. If it's good enough for me, it's good enough for Millie!

There is a small amount of added salt and sugar to make these treats extra appealing for training. However, I feel the levels are low enough to be acceptable.

Explore the full range of Full Moon Pet treats (Millie also loves the jerky) and treat your furry friend the best.

• Ingredients: Organic oats, organic strawberries, organic apples, organic peanut butter, organic beets, organic rosemary extract

Yitto Paws discovered that 85% of pet owners lack confidence in companies' efforts to ensure pet safety. So it developed a range of treats to change that!

It claims to be the first and only brand of organic dog biscuits that boasts the following remarkable features in EVERY product it makes:

• Made in the USA
• 100% human-grade
• Contains six simple ingredients or less
• No added sugar, salt, or additives

I love how these treats are packed with nutritious superfoods (high in fiber and low in calories). Millie goes nuts for the sun-ripened fruit and peanut butter used by Yitto Paws.

You can browse the entire Yitto Paws collection on its Amazon Store page.

• Ingredients: Organic chicken, pressed tomato, sweet potato, vegetable glycerin, pressed cranberry, pressed blueberry, eggs, gelatin, salt, pectin, mixed tocopherols (preservative), organic apple cider vinegar, citric acid (preservative)

PLATO Small Bites Dog Treats are the perfect bite-sized reward for our small furry friends. Not only do they promote healthy digestion, but they're also crafted with organic chicken as the primary ingredient.

These grain-free bites contain limited ingredients, ensuring a natural and wholesome snack without artificial flavors like corn, wheat, or soy.

Unlike traditional dog treat baking methods, PLATO takes extra care to air-dry these tasty morsels in small batches at its USA facility. This process enables it to maintain the inherent nutrients of the ingredients, resulting in a nutritious and irresistible snack.

These treats are produced with organic produce but are not certified. You can read up about the difference later in this article.

Millie loves this chicken variety but is also a big fan of the duck bites (salmon and lamb are also available). Check out the full PLATO range for more details.

• Ingredients: Deer antler

I'm always looking for healthy, natural treats that will keep Millie occupied for hours and entertain her urge for aggressive chewing. So I was delighted when I stumbled across this heavy-duty beauty.

This unique product is made from 100% naturally shed antlers and sustainably sourced from The Rocky Mountains every spring, ensuring the highest quality and safety standards.

This beast of a chew (meticulously hand-cut and sanded) is specially designed to cater to dogs with high jaw strength and provide them with long-lasting enjoyment.

With approximately 40% protein per chew, this product entertains Millie and supports her digestive health.

A Split Elk Antler option is also available for dogs with slightly less powerful jaws.

• Ingredients: Organic lentil flour, organic buckwheat flour, organic cane molasses, organic pumpkin, organic coconut oil, organic chia seeds, organic sunflower oil, organic cinnamon, organic ginger powder, organic apple cider vinegar, sodium bicarbonate (baking soda)

Made in Canada, these high-quality treats would suit senior dogs, thanks to the high levels of Omega-3 fatty acids (great for immune system support and easing aching joints).

This USDA Organic-certified product is made using the best ingredients possible and comes in four flavors:

• Banana & Coconut
• Pumpkin & Chia Seed
• Sweet Potato & Flaxseed
• Sunflower Seed Butter

The banana option is Millie's favorite. But that's no surprise. Banana is one of her go-to treats (we always have old brown banana pieces in the freezer for a zero-waste treat).

• Ingredients: Various all natural and organic (see below for more details)

Do you have a fussy eater on your hands? Do you struggle to find treats they will eat? This sampler pack could be the perfect way to find the flavor they love!

Crafted with only nine ingredients, they're a wholesome choice for your dog. Say goodbye to artificial colors, flavors, and fillers. 

Each 8 oz bag is brimming with approximately 60 mouthwatering treats, and you get three flavors to tempt your picky pooch:

• Peanut Butter & Jelly: Organic barley, organic peanut butter, organic molasses, organic coconut oil, organic flaxseed, organic blueberries, organic rosemary extract, organic sunflower oil, mixed tocopherols, organic sunflower lecithin
• Fruit Salad: Organic barley, organic apples, organic molasses, organic coconut oil, organic bananas, organic blueberries, organic sunflower oil, mixed tocopherols (preserves freshness), organic rosemary extract, organic sunflower lecithin
• Veggie Burger: Organic barley, organic chickpeas, organic molasses, organic coconut oil, organic carrots, organic sweet potatoes, organic rosemary extract, organic sunflower oil, mixed tocopherols (preserves freshness), organic sunflower lecithin

PB&J is Millie's favorite. Of course it is. It's an all-time classic flavor combination!

• Ingredients: Organic oats, organic honey, organic date, organic peanut butter, organic coconut, organic chamomile

I've never had an anxious dog, so it was a bit of a shock to the system when I was asked to dog-sit my sister-in-law's Maltese. Dexter is a lovely boy...but scared of his own shadow!

These are his daily evening treats to help him wind down before bed...and they really work!

When we return from evening walkies, he always has a mad five minutes of 'zoomies.' But then he gets his Lord Jameson treat and a snuggle in front of the TV for half an hour, and he's much more zen and ready for bed.

These treats contain nutritious ingredients like gluten-free oats, honey, hand-selected superfoods, and calming chamomile. There are also added plant-based proteins (including roasted peanut butter) to help keep your dog calm, healthy, and happy!

The Scoop on What to Look for In Dog Treats

Just like you wouldn't feed your human family members junk food all day, you shouldn't do the same with your four-legged kin.

Here are some key considerations to bear in mind when shopping for dog treats:

• Organic Ingredients: These are free of pesticides and GMOs, which means they're healthier for your pet and the planet.
• Protein-Rich: Protein is a crucial part of your dog's diet. Look for treats that list a quality source of protein as the first ingredient.
• Made In The USA: Opt for treats made in the good ol' US of A to ensure quality and safety. American-made products tend to have stricter manufacturing standards than cheaper imports from countries with slacker standards.
• Texture & Flavor: Popular flavor choices include peanut butter, sweet potato, pumpkin, chicken, and beef. Crunchy treats are great for teeth and gum care. Soft treats are easier to break apart (making them suitable for training or managing calorie intake).
• Allergies: If your pet has food allergies, you want to take special care when choosing treats. Look for hypoallergenic options containing limited ingredients or specifically formulated for sensitive tummies.
• Product Recalls: Occasionally, pet treats are recalled due to potential contamination or other issues. Be sure to look for up-to-date info on the FDA website and other trusted sources to stay informed.

Unleashing the Truth: What to Avoid in Dog Treats

Unfortunately, not all dog treats are created equal. Here are a few things to steer clear of.

Artificial Additives

Synthetic colors, flavors, and preservatives? No, thank you! These can lead to allergies, digestive problems, and other health issues in dogs.

Some of the nasties you need to avoid include:

• Melamine & Yanuric Acid:  First found in some pet food and treats in 2007, these industrial chemicals can cause kidney failure
• Butylated Hydroxyanisole (BHA): BHA is used as a preservative, and studies have reported it might cause cancer in humans and animals
• Butylated Hydroxytoluene (BHT): BHT is also used as a preservative, and some studies suggest it might be linked to behavioral changes, liver problems, and other health issues in some animals
• Dicalcium Phosphate: Could lead to serious calcium deficiencies in dogs
• Propylene Glycol: Can cause anemia and neurological damage in pets
• Sodium Metabisulfite: This preservative has been linked to gastrointestinal problems in dogs
• Titanium Dioxide: This additive can irritate the respiratory system in animals and humans
• Glycerin: Can lead to digestive issues in dogs, such as diarrhea or vomiting

Preservatives play a vital role in preventing food spoilage. If you prefer a non-toxic alternative, choose treats naturally preserved with vitamin E (mixed tocopherols), vitamin C (ascorbic acid), or plant extracts.

However, remember that naturally preserved food may have a shorter lifespan, so checking the expiry dates and being careful when bulk buying is essential.

By-Product Meals

This is often code for low-quality meat.

Stick with treats that list a specific type of meat as the primary ingredient.

Sugar & Salt

Like their human counterparts, dogs can develop health issues from consuming too much sugar or salt.

Watch for brands trying to sneak too much unnecessary sugar and salt into your dog's treats.

DIY Dog Treats: For the Martha Stewarts of Pet Parents

If you're feeling adventurous (or want to save a few bucks), why not whip up some homemade treats?

It's easier than you think, and you'll know exactly what's going into your pup's snacks.

Plus, it's a fun activity that lets you bond with your fur baby.

Are you looking for recipe inspiration? Check out this video for three ideas to get you started. Swap out any non-organic ingredients for organic ones as and when required.

I also like to put any off-cuts of dog-friendly fruits and vegetables in the freezer for Millie to snack on. Saving waste and getting quality nutrition into her. Win-Win!

USDA Organic vs. Made with Organic Ingredients

You've probably seen the terms' USDA Organic' and 'Made With Organic Ingredients,' but do you know what they mean?

'USDA Organic' treats are made with ingredients that have been certified organic by the US Department of Agriculture (USDA). When a product bears the USDA label, it signifies that it's made up of a minimum of 95% organic content, with the remaining components meeting FDA safety standards.

'Made With Organic Ingredients' treats are made with organic produce, but you don't have any third-party guarantees that the manufacturer's claims are valid. This can lead to greenwashing if you're not careful.

So, while both are better than non-organic options, USDA is the gold standard.

Some Other Options to Consider

If you've read this far, chances are you prioritize the overall quality and healthiness of the treats you choose.

However, many reputable and sustainable treat brands can not afford to be USDA-certified due to the associated costs. However, this does not mean that non-certified options are bad.

Besides seeking organic options, there are other vital factors to consider when selecting the ideal treat for your beloved furry friend.

Human Grade

Dog treats labeled as 'human grade' are crafted to meet the highest standards of safety and edibility afforded to products for human consumption.

By adhering to the same stringent regulations as human food, these treats undergo meticulous processing, manufacturing, inspection, and packaging processes.

No Fillers

Fillers in pet treats are ingredients that offer little to no nutritional value.

When it comes to dog treats, typical examples of fillers include corn, soy, rice, and wheat.

Opting for treats that have minimal (or even zero) fillers allows you to provide your pup with a more biologically appropriate and nourishing snack.

GAP Certified

GAP-certified pet treats ensure that the ingredients are sourced from animals raised without antibiotics or added hormones and fed a vegetarian diet.

When choosing GAP-certified treats, you support vital animal welfare initiatives worldwide.

Non-GMO

Non-GMO dog treats and food products are free from genetically modified ingredients created in a laboratory.

Due to the limited scientific knowledge regarding the potential long-term health effects of consuming genetically modified food for both animals and humans, many dog owners choose to purchase non-GMO treats to help avoid potential food sensitivities.

MSC Certified

When purchasing treats that include fish, it's a good idea to keep an eye out for the MSC certification.

This certification ensures that the treat contains fish caught using environmentally sustainable fishing practices, as verified by the Marine Stewardship Council (MSC).

Sustainable Sourcing and Ethical Manufacturing

With the ever-growing environmental crisis, conscientious sourcing and thoughtful production methods are more crucial than ever.

Buying from Certified B Corporations gives additional peace of mind that these businesses adhere to rigorous standards of accountability and transparency.

More Tips for Shopping for Healthy Dog Treats

• Choose grain-free treats if your dog has sensitivities to grains or gluten.
• Consider treats specifically tailored for puppies, seniors, or overweight dogs.
• If your dog loves to chew, choose treats that will last longer and help exercise the jaw muscles.
• If you're unsure which treats to buy, talk to your veterinarian for advice on healthy options for your pet based on their age and individual needs.
• When buying in-store, check the expiration date to ensure you get the freshest treats for your pup.
• Just like us, dogs appreciate variety. Rotating the types of treats you give can keep your dog interested and provide various nutrients. Mix it up. One week, dog cookies. The following week, jerky treats.

Other Sustainable Ways to Treat Your Four-Legged Friend

Why stop at treats? Your faithful hound deserves to be treated in all aspects of its life.

Some of my other favorite ways to treat Millie include:

• A super soft, squishy, and sustainable dog bed offers a healthy and comfortable sleep every time
• Boredom-busting chemical-free dog toys keep all dogs entertained
• Rip-proof eco-friendly dog poop bags (more of a treat for the owners and the planet to be fair)
• Minty Fresh organic dog toothpaste (you might appreciate it more than they do)
• Sustainable dog food for a guaranteed clean bowl (and a clean eco-conscience)
• A sassy, smart, and sustainable dog collar (for an added touch of style)

What is the healthiest treat for a dog?

Treats with the fewest ingredients (and no added nasties) are the healthiest for your dog.

Consider making your own if you want 100% control over what goes into your dog's treats. It's essential to avoid artificial sweeteners, such as xylitol, as they can be toxic to dogs.

Who are the Association of American Feed Control Officials?

The Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) is a reputable non-profit organization that establishes and upholds standards for animal feeds and pet foods in the US.

What foods are poisonous to dogs?

The Humane Society of the United States (HSUS) has published a comprehensive list of foods and plants poisonous to dogs.

Is rawhide a safe treat for my dog?

Many dogs favor rawhide chews, but it's crucial to be aware of their potential health hazards. Rawhide undergoes extensive processing, which can lead to challenges in digestion and increase the risk of choking or intestinal blockage.

If you buy rawhide chews, ensure they're sourced from reputable suppliers and manufactured without harmful chemicals.

Are raw bones safe for my dog?

Raw bones can be safe, but you must be careful. It's vital to select fresh raw bones (to avoid the risk of listeria, e. coli, and salmonella) that are appropriate for the size and health of your dog.

Your veterinarian may be able to provide guidance on which types of bones are safe for your pet. You should always supervise your pet while they're enjoying a bone treat to ensure they don't choke or swallow pieces that are too large.

How many treats can I give my dog?

Treats should make up no more than 10% of your dog's daily caloric intake. Use a calorie calculator if you're unsure what your dog's intake should be.

Is peanut butter bad for dogs?

In moderation, peanut butter can be an excellent treat for your pup. It's high in protein and has health benefits, such as promoting joint health, aiding digestion, and helping to reduce tartar buildup on teeth.

However, some peanut butter contains xylitol, so you should always read the label before feeding it to your dog.

Why do organic dog treats cost more?

Organic dog treats cost more because they're made with higher-quality ingredients and are often produced in smaller batches. Additionally, organic production is often certified by third parties, adding to the cost.

What treats do vets recommend?

Veterinarians usually recommend treats that are low in added sugar and salt, high in protein, and free of artificial ingredients.

A few years ago, Millie's vet recommended that we freeze chunks of cucumber for a nice cooling summer snack. This was a top tip. Millie loves them!

Are Blue Buffalo treats good for dogs?

Blue Buffalo is not a brand I tested for this article. However, they appear to have some good natural options on Amazon. I've added it to the testing list for the next update of this article.

Pop your details on our mailing list to get update notifications.

The Final Word

Organic treats offer a fantastic means of nourishing your beloved pet with healthy and natural nutrition.

There are numerous compelling reasons to choose organic treats, including:

• Organic ingredients are sourced from farms that don't use pesticides or synthetic fertilizers, making them safer for your pup
• Organic ingredients are free from genetically modified organisms (GMOs), which means they haven't been altered in a lab
• Organic food is often healthier, as it can contain higher levels of nutrients like vitamins and minerals
• Organic treats contain natural preservatives
• Organically sourced foods are better for the environment since they don't contribute to the overuse of pesticides or synthetic fertilizers
• Organic treats are also often produced in smaller batches, which means that they are fresher when they reach your pet
• Many pet owners report that their pets enjoy the taste and texture of organic treats more than traditional options (although taste is very subjective)

With all these benefits, it's no wonder so many pet owners are turning to organic dog treats!

Get In Touch

Do you only buy organic dog treats? Or are you happy with the quality that non-organic treats offer? Have you ever tried to make your own? Drop me a line and let me know.