Dog treats are snacks made specifically for canine consumption. They come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and flavors that dogs find irresistible. Though dog treats are intended for dogs, some dog owners may be curious if humans can also eat them. Here we’ll explore if it’s safe and advisable for people to snack on treats meant for their furry friends.
Are dog treats safe for human consumption?
Most dog treats are safe for humans to eat in small quantities. Dog treats are regulated by the FDA, which requires them to be fit for consumption and properly labeled. Many popular dog treat brands use ingredients similar to those found in human snack foods, like wheat, rice, oats, chicken, and beef.
However, some dog treats do contain ingredients that may cause digestive upset if eaten in large amounts by humans. For example, rawhide treats can be difficult for humans to digest. Some treats also contain preservatives, artificial colors, and artificial flavors that are not optimal for human diets. Overall, most veterinarians caution that dog treats should not become a significant part of a human’s diet.
Nutritional content of dog treats
Dog treats are formulated to meet canine nutritional needs, which differ somewhat from human requirements. Here’s a quick look at how the nutritional content of dog treats compares to human snack foods:
Calories
Dog treats range from around 40-300 calories per treat. This is a similar range to many human snack foods like granola bars, cookies, and chips. However, dogs’ calorie needs are different than humans, so the total calories from treats should be tailored to each dog’s energy requirements.
Fats
The fat content in dog treats ranges from 3-16%, similar to levels in snacks like donuts, cheese, and deli meats. However, dogs have a higher natural fat tolerance than humans, so these levels may be too high for frequent human consumption.
Fiber
Dog treats tend to be low in fiber, with less than 4 grams per treat. Human snacks like fruits and high-fiber energy bars are better sources of fiber for digestive health.
Sodium
Many dog treats are high in sodium, containing over 100mg per treat. This is much higher than similar human snack foods. Too much sodium is unhealthy for humans.
Sugars
Dog treats have varying sugar content. Some contain no sugars, while others have up to 6 grams of sugar per treat from ingredients like molasses. This is a similar range to human snacks, however too much sugar is unhealthy.
Possible risks of humans eating dog treats
While the occasional dog treat is fine, there are some potential risks to be aware of if a human consumes them regularly or in excess:
– Nutritional imbalances – Dog treats are not formulated with human nutritional needs in mind. Eating too many could lead to excessive calories, fat, and sodium intake. They may also be lacking in important nutrients like fiber, vitamins, and minerals.
– Digestive upset – Some ingredients like rawhide may be difficult for a human stomach to break down. Other ingredients could cause gas, bloating, or diarrhea if consumed in large amounts.
– Choking hazards – Some treats have a shape or texture that poses a choking risk, especially for small children if swallowed whole.
– Allergies – Dog treats may contain allergens like wheat, dairy, and soy. People with food sensitivities should check labels for ingredients that may cause a reaction.
– Toxicity – Some ingredients like xylitol and chocolate can be safe for dogs but toxic for humans if consumed in large amounts.
Benefits of dog treats for humans
While dog treats aren’t perfectly formulated for human nutrition, they do offer some potential benefits:
– Low calorie options – Some dog treats are around 40 calories, a good option for a light snack.
– No artificial sweeteners – Most dog treats do not contain artificial sweeteners that some health-conscious humans want to avoid.
– No chocolate – The treats pose no risk of triggering chocolate allergies or sensitivity.
– Appealing textures – The crunchy, chewy, or crispy texture of some treats can satisfy cravings for snack foods.
– Portable – The small bite-size of most treats makes them easy to stash in bags or desks for quick snacking.
Are some dog treats better for humans than others?
Certain types of dog treats tend to be safer and more nutritious for humans than others. Some good options include:
– Dehydrated meat treats – These provide protein and are easily digestible.
– Baked treats without fillers – Look for options without extra salt, sugars, artificial ingredients, or preservatives.
– Freeze-dried treats – The freezing process preserves nutrients in meats, fruits, and veggies.
– Hard biscuits – These crunchy, unfilled treats pose less choking risk and have a simple ingredient list.
– Peanut butter flavored treats – These provide a good source of protein and healthy fats.
On the other hand, some treats are lower quality options for humans:
– Rawhide – Tough to digest and may cause choking.
– Pig ear treats – High in fat and salt.
– Jerky with nitrates – May contain carcinogenic preservatives.
– Smokehouse flavored – Often high in sodium.
The bottom line
In moderation, most humans can safely snack on treats made for dogs. However, dog treats should not become dietary staples for people, since their nutritional content is tailored for canine health. Going overboard on dog treats could cause weight gain or nutritional imbalances. As with any food, moderation and variety are key for both humans and pets. Dog owners should be mindful of treats’ ingredients, size, and fat content when sharing with humans, especially small children. Additionally, pets deserve treats made just for them, so their own treats shouldn’t be entirely replaced with people food. Ultimately, dog treats are a fine occasional snack for humans, but shouldn’t become dietary staples.