Dog Treats I’ve Actually Tried (And Why I Suggest You Try Them Too)
Working in a pet store, surrounded by all sorts of dog treats, it’s easy to get curious. Some treats are clearly made for dogs only, others? Well, let’s just say humans aren’t missing out. Over the years, I’ve tried several dog treats myself—and some even ended up as unintentional human snacks. Here’s a roundup of my favorites (and funny mishaps) that I genuinely recommend.
Three Dog Bakery: Mini Cremes
These were little gems—think Oreo, but healthier. Sadly, the mini versions have been discontinued, though the full-sized cookies are still available. Funny story: my son once took a bag of Mini Cremes to kindergarten and ate them at lunch. Cue a call from the school about my child eating dog treats. My response? “Check the ingredients and try one. If there’s still a problem, call me back.” Spoiler: they never did.
When Three Dog Bakery launched their peanut butter-stuffed pretzel bites, my daughter devoured the entire bag before we even got home from the store (a two-minute drive). Her review? “These are the best pretzels I’ve ever eaten, but I wish they had more salt.” Honestly, I couldn’t argue with her.
Lord Jameson Treats
These treats first caught my eye because they looked like little cake balls. Curiosity got the better of me, and I tried one. To my surprise, they were pretty good. Think slightly overbaked, dry cake balls—maybe not gourmet for humans, but definitely enjoyable as a novelty snack.
My staff loved them too. When I asked my team to recommend a must-try product, Lord Jameson treats came up repeatedly. It’s always a good sign when the store staff secretly snack on the products they sell.
The Butcher's Companion: Sausage Bites (Pork Recipe)
This was the one product I knew I had to test. Mini pepperoni sticks for dogs? Genius. The dogs went wild, of course, but the real surprise was the kids. Both started packing them in their lunches and occasionally squabbling over the last piece. My typical refrain: “They are dog treats, not school snacks!” But in reality, it’s hard to complain. The treats are low in sodium, high in protein, and perfect for dogs—and apparently pretty irresistible to humans too.
Merrick Dog Food: The Chicken Wing Experience
I had the privilege of meeting a representative from Merrick, who explained their unique approach to dog food—like including an entire chicken wing (bone and all) in their cans. Naturally, that meant tasting it myself. The verdict? Tender, flavorful, and shockingly delicious. Not something I’d normally eat, but if you ever get the chance… well, it might just change your perspective on dog food.
Performatrin Ultra: Chicken Stew
This one comes with a “don’t try this at home” twist. I brought home a can of Performatrin Ultra Chicken Stew for my dog—damaged label, questionable appearance, the works. I marked it simply as “chicken stew” on the top and left it on the counter. Later that night, I asked my husband how the dogs liked their dinner… only to learn he had eaten it himself. His verdict? “Very good for a canned stew—just needs a little salt and pepper.”
The Risks of Trying Dog Treats and Food
While tasting dog treats can be fun and sometimes surprisingly tasty, there are real risks to keep in mind:
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Ingredient differences: Some dog foods contain vitamins, minerals, or supplements in concentrations suitable for dogs but not for humans. Consuming large amounts could cause digestive upset.
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Raw or undercooked ingredients: Certain raw proteins or organ meats carry a risk of bacterial contamination, like Salmonella or E. coli, which can be harmful to humans.
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Sodium and additives: Some treats may have higher salt or preservatives than you’re used to, which can be harmful if eaten frequently.
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Choking hazards: Many dog treats are designed for smaller mouths or chewing patterns different from ours. Eating treats too quickly could be a choking risk.
So, while sampling a tiny piece can be fun—and sometimes educational—it’s best to limit it to fully-cooked or baked treats and always check the ingredients first. When in doubt, let the dogs enjoy them safely instead.
Why I Recommend Trying Dog Treats (For Dogs, Mostly)
Some dog treats are surprisingly high-quality, made with real ingredients, and—let’s be honest—delicious. Whether it’s cookies, mini sausages, or peanut butter pretzels, these treats often focus on the health of your dog: low sodium, low calories, high protein. Sampling them occasionally gives you peace of mind about what you’re feeding your furry friends—and maybe even a funny story for your family.
Dogs deserve the best, and sometimes, humans get lucky enough to taste it too.
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