The 5 Ingredients I’ll Never Feed My Dog Again
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And What I Use Instead
Before we get into the list, let me tell you something I wish I didn’t know.
When my first dog, Bucky, was diagnosed with terminal cancer, I spiraled. It was the kind of heartbreak that rewires you. And somewhere between the vet visits, the long walks where I just cried into her fur, and the endless late-night Googling, I landed on her treat drawer.
I had been doing what I thought was best—treating her, loving her, celebrating her with the “good stuff.” The expensive stuff. The name-brand stuff.
But here’s what I didn’t realize: not all dog treats are created equal. And some of them? They’re straight-up terrifying.
This blog isn’t about fear. It’s about empowerment. Because once I knew better, I could do better—and eventually, that knowledge turned into The Barkery, my dog treat brand rooted in clean, real ingredients I actually understand.
So here we go. These are the 5 ingredients I will never let near my dog’s mouth again—and what I use instead.
1. Artificial Colors (Red 40, Yellow 5, Blue 2)
What it is: Synthetic dyes used to make treats “look” appealing.
Why it’s a problem: These dyes have been linked to hyperactivity, allergies, and—most alarmingly—seizures in dogs.
The story: A friend of mine bought these gorgeous rainbow bone-shaped treats for her pup. Expensive. Fancy. Instagram-worthy. Her dog started having seizures. After ruling out everything else, they realized the artificial coloring was the culprit.
What I use instead: Beets, turmeric, and blueberries. Yes, real food has color too! It’s nature’s highlighter, and it comes with added nutrients instead of side effects.
2. BHA, BHT, and Ethoxyquin
What it is: Chemical preservatives used to extend shelf life.
Why it’s a problem: Banned in parts of the world. Linked to cancer. (Yes, the actual C word.)
What shocked me most: BHA and BHT are on the National Toxicology Program’s list of potential carcinogens. And ethoxyquin? Originally developed as a pesticide. Yet it’s allowed in pet treats here.
What I use instead: Here at The Barkery I dehydrate all of our treats. Once a dog treat has been cooked properly, and is then dehydrated completely, those treats will last several months without any need for refrigeration. There is no need for chemicals or artificial ingredients that can harm your pup.
3. Meat By-Products and “Animal Digest”
What it is: The mystery meat of the dog world. It’s the leftover scraps that aren’t fit for human consumption—think beaks, brains, feathers.
Why it’s a problem: Zero transparency. No guarantees of quality. And when you see “animal” instead of a specific type (like chicken or beef), that’s a red flag waving wildly.
How I used to fall for it: I’d see “high protein!” and assume that meant it was healthy. Spoiler alert: garbage can have protein.
What I use instead: Single-source, whole meats—like pasture-raised beef liver or wild-caught salmon. You should always know what part of the animal your dog is eating.
4. Corn Syrup and Added Sugars
What it is: Sweeteners used to make treats taste “better” to dogs (and addictive).
Why it’s a problem: Dogs aren’t built for added sugars. Corn syrup in particular spikes insulin, promotes obesity, and contributes to dental decay.
What made me cringe: When I realized that many “training treats” are basically candy bars in disguise.
What I use instead: Applesauce, bananas, and a tiny bit of honey. Dogs love sweet notes—but you don’t need to serve up dessert. Less is more.
5. Propylene Glycol
What it is: A moisture-retaining agent that keeps semi-moist treats chewy.
Why it’s a problem: It’s also used in antifreeze. Yep, really.
The kicker: While propylene glycol isn’t the deadly kind found in car fluid, it’s still controversial—and banned in cat food due to its toxicity.
What I use instead: Peanut butter, bananas and other soft foods. I think it is important to note that moist treats should not be used frequently anyway - they tend to stick to your dog's teeth leading to possible tooth decay and a whole other set of problems!
So… What Now?
I get it. You probably didn’t think you needed to become a food scientist to pick out dog treats. You just wanted something your pup would love.
I was the same way.
And now, years later, I’ve got a different dog—Ciccio, who is equal parts guard dog, drama queen, and overgrown toddler. He patrols our neighborhood like he’s protecting a royal palace but melts into a puddle the second you bake anything within sniffing distance.
He does this thing where he swats my leg while I’m baking, like “Excuse me, I believe you forgot the taste test.” And honestly? I let him. Because I know exactly what’s in those treats. I made them with the same care I’d use baking for my human family.
Final Thoughts: You’re Not a “Bad Dog Mom” for Not Knowing
This isn’t about shame. It’s about shifting.
The pet industry isn’t always transparent, and you can’t feel guilty for trusting the labels that were designed to earn your trust.
But now? Now you know a little more. You can scan an ingredient list with fresh eyes. You can say “no thanks” to artificial colors and mystery meats. And you can find (or bake!) treats that fuel your dog instead of filling them with junk.
Because loving your dog like family means feeding them like family too.
