Your dog’s tail starts wagging the second you reach for the treat jar, but what’s really inside those little biscuits, strips, and chews? If you’ve ever flipped a package over and seen “sugar,” “cane molasses,” or “honey” listed among the first few ingredients, you’re not alone—and you’re right to pause. Added sugars sneak into more dog treats than most pet parents realize, and over time they can contribute to weight gain, dental disease, blood-sugar spikes, and even behavioral issues. The good news? The pet-food industry is finally catching up to consumer demand for genuinely low-sugar and sugar-free rewards that still taste like a celebration to your pup.
Below, you’ll learn exactly why sugar matters, how to decode tricky label language, and which nutrients, textures, and sourcing standards separate the healthiest options from the marketing hype—so you can confidently stock your pantry with treats that support vitality instead of undermining it.
Top 10 Sugar In Dog Treats
Detailed Product Reviews
1. Bocce’s Bakery Jerky Stick Dog Treats, Wheat-Free, Made with Limited-Ingredients, Baked in The USA with No Added Salt or Sugar, All-Naural & High-Protein, Turkey & Sweet Potato, 4 oz
Overview: Bocce’s Bakery Jerky Stick Dog Treats are premium, wheat-free snacks crafted with only five limited ingredients. These USA-baked turkey and sweet potato jerky sticks promise high-protein nutrition without any artificial additives, salt, or sugar.
What Makes It Stand Out: The ultra-simple ingredient list (just turkey, sweet potato, brown rice, vegetable glycerin, and vinegar) sets these treats apart in a market filled with complex formulas. The jerky stick format offers convenient portioning for training or rewarding, while the hormone-free turkey sourcing appeals to health-conscious pet parents.
Value for Money: At $43.96 per pound, these are undeniably premium-priced treats. However, the high-quality protein source and minimal processing justify the cost for owners prioritizing clean nutrition. The 4-ounce package contains approximately 8-10 sticks, making each treat roughly $1.10.
Strengths and Weaknesses: The limited ingredients make these ideal for dogs with allergies or sensitive stomachs. The soft jerky texture works well for older dogs or those with dental issues. However, the high price point may deter regular feeding, and some dogs might prefer crunchier textures. The treats can dry out quickly if not properly sealed.
Bottom Line: Perfect for health-conscious owners of dogs with dietary restrictions. While expensive, the quality ingredients and USA sourcing make these worthwhile for occasional treating or training rewards.
2. Fruitables Baked Dog Treats, Healthy Pumpkin Treat for Dogs, Low Calorie & Delicious, Free of Wheat, Corn and Soy, Made in the USA, Apple and Crispy Bacon Flavor, 12oz
Overview: Fruitables Baked Dog Treats combine pumpkin and apple bacon flavors in a low-calorie, crunchy biscuit. These 8-calorie treats offer a guilt-free option for frequent treating while maintaining an irresistible taste that dogs crave.
What Makes It Stand Out: The unique pumpkin-based formula provides natural fiber and nutrients while keeping calories remarkably low. The distinctive flower-shaped biscuits deliver a satisfying crunch that helps clean teeth, and the apple bacon flavor creates an aroma that dogs find irresistible.
Value for Money: At $7.92 per pound, these treats offer exceptional value. The 12-ounce bag contains approximately 120 treats, costing just 5 cents each. This makes frequent treating affordable while maintaining quality ingredients.
Strengths and Weaknesses: The low-calorie count allows generous treating without weight concerns. The crunchy texture promotes dental health, and pumpkin aids digestion. However, some dogs may prefer softer treats, and the bacon flavor might not suit all palates. The biscuits can crumble if stored improperly.
Bottom Line: An excellent everyday treat that balances nutrition, taste, and value. Ideal for training or regular rewarding without breaking the bank or your dog’s diet.
3. Portland Pet Food Company Pumpkin Dog Treats Healthy Biscuits for Small Medium & Large Dogs – Grain-Free, Human-Grade, All Natural Cookies, Snacks & Puppy Training Treats – Made in The USA – 5 oz
Overview: Portland Pet Food Company’s Pumpkin Dog Treats are human-grade, grain-free biscuits made with organic pumpkin and simple ingredients. These handcrafted treats cater to dogs with allergies or sensitive stomachs while maintaining gourmet appeal.
What Makes It Stand Out: The human-grade certification means these treats meet the same standards as people food. Double-baked for extra crunch and flavor concentration, they combine organic pumpkin with garbanzo bean flour, peanut butter, molasses, and cinnamon for a cookie-like experience.
Value for Money: At $31.97 per pound, these are premium-priced treats. The 5-ounce bag contains about 20 medium biscuits, costing approximately 50 cents each. While expensive, the human-grade ingredients and small-batch production justify the price for quality-focused owners.
Strengths and Weaknesses: The grain-free recipe works perfectly for dogs with allergies. The biscuits snap easily into smaller pieces for training or small dogs. However, the high price limits frequent use, and some dogs might find the spices too strong. The natural ingredients mean shorter shelf life after opening.
Bottom Line: Worth the splurge for dogs with dietary restrictions or owners wanting human-grade quality. Perfect for special occasions or as high-value training rewards.
4. Full Moon Chicken Jerky Healthy All Natural Dog Treats Human Grade Made in USA Grain Free 12 oz
Overview: Full Moon Chicken Jerky offers human-grade chicken breast strips slow-cooked in small batches. These grain-free treats contain only chicken, organic cane sugar, vinegar, and rosemary extract, providing pure protein nutrition.
What Makes It Stand Out: The human-grade certification and whole muscle chicken breast sourcing create a treat you could literally share with your dog. The slow-cooking process preserves natural flavors while creating a chewy texture that satisfies dogs’ instinctual desires.
Value for Money: At $19.92 per pound, these mid-premium treats offer good value for human-grade quality. The 12-ounce bag provides approximately 30-35 strips, making each treat about 43 cents – reasonable for the quality offered.
Strengths and Weaknesses: The single-protein source makes these ideal for elimination diets or dogs with allergies. The chewy texture provides extended enjoyment and dental benefits. However, the added sugar (even organic) concerns some owners, and the strips can be tough for small dogs or seniors to chew.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for owners seeking human-grade meat treats. The USA-sourced chicken and simple ingredients make these a trustworthy option for regular treating.
5. Old Dog Cookie Company All Natural Diabetic Dog Treats – Vet Approved Snacks | Best Chews for Canine, Top Treat for Pups | Low Glycemic, Supports Healthy Blood Sugar | 10 oz
Overview: Old Dog Cookie Company’s Diabetic Dog Treats are the first commercially available treats specifically formulated for diabetic dogs. These vet-approved, low-glycemic biscuits support healthy blood sugar while providing a satisfying crunch.
What Makes It Stand Out: The specialized formulation addresses a genuine medical need that standard treats ignore. With pumpkin for fiber, apples for blood sugar control, and dandelion for immune support, these treats offer therapeutic benefits beyond basic nutrition.
Value for Money: At $35.17 per pound, these are expensive treats, but they’re essentially functional medicine disguised as cookies. The 10-ounce bag contains 40 biscuits at 55 cents each – reasonable considering the specialized formulation and vet approval.
Strengths and Weaknesses: The 16-calorie count and low-glycemic ingredients make these perfect for diabetic dogs or weight management. The crunchy texture supports dental health. However, the high price and specialized nature make them unnecessary for healthy dogs. Some dogs might find the “healthy” taste less appealing.
Bottom Line: Essential for diabetic dogs and worthwhile for seniors or overweight pets. While overkill for healthy dogs, they fill a crucial niche for dogs with blood sugar concerns.
6. A Better Treat – Organic, Freeze Dried, Single Ingredient, 100% Grass Fed and Finished Beef Liver Dog Treats, Cat Treats | Natural Healthy | Grain Free, High Protein, Diabetic Friendly | Made in USA
Overview: A Better Treat delivers the first certified-organic, single-ingredient freeze-dried beef liver on the U.S. market. Made solely from 100 % grass-fed, pasture-raised cattle, the cubes are non-greasy, ultra-aromatic, and sized for dogs or cats.
What Makes It Stand Out: Organic certification plus “grass-fed & finished” verification is still rare in the treat aisle; freeze-drying locks in 61 % more nutrients than dehydration while keeping the product shelf-stable without preservatives.
Value for Money: At $90.61/lb the bag feels tiny, yet one 2-oz pouch replaces pounds of lower-value kibble toppers—training addicts find a little cube goes a long way, so cost-per-reward is reasonable.
Strengths and Weaknesses: Pros—hypoallergenic, diabetic-friendly, USA-made, nutrient-dense, and cats love it too. Cons—premium price, powdery crumbs at bag bottom, strong smell if you’re scent-sensitive.
Bottom Line: If you want the cleanest, most nutrient-rich organ-meat motivator and don’t mind paying artisan prices, A Better Treat is unbeatable; budget shoppers can reserve it for high-value moments only.
7. Old Dog Cookie Company Tiny Diabetic Dog Treats | All Natural, 2 Calorie, Vet Approved Pet Snacks | Top Treat for Dogs | Healthy Chews for Large, Medium & Small Breeds | 8 oz
Overview: Old Dog Cookie Company’s 2-calorie “Tiny” biscuits were the first treats formulated for diabetic dogs. Each 8-oz pouch packs 225 crunchy pumpkin-based cookies fortified with botanicals like dandelion and kelp.
What Makes It Stand Out: Veterinary-approved glycemic control without sacrificing taste; the 2-calorie count lets seniors, dieters, and toy breeds earn dozens of rewards guilt-free.
Value for Money: $21.98 for 225+ pieces equals about $0.10 per cookie—cheaper than mainstream biscuits that contain sugar and fillers.
Strengths and Weaknesses: Pros—no added sugar/salt, aids digestion, resealable bag, crunchy texture cleans teeth. Cons—wheat flour base (not grain-free), smell is “barn-like” to humans, breakable for giant breeds.
Bottom Line: A must-stock pantry item for diabetic, overweight, or senior dogs; even healthy pups benefit from the low-calorie, high-fiber recipe.
8. Yitto Paws Organic Dog Treats – Crunchy, Blueberry & Peanut Butter Training Dog Biscuits – Vegan, Human-Grade, No Sugar Added – Healthy, All Natural – Made in USA, (8 oz)
Overview: Yitto Paws bills itself as the only fully organic, vegan, human-grade biscuit line. The Blueberry & Peanut Butter variety lists six pronounceable ingredients—oat flour, blueberries, peanut butter, flax, olive oil, and cinnamon—baked into 60 bite-size squares.
What Makes It Stand Out: Completely plant-powered yet high-value; the aroma is cookie-jar good without meat or added sugar, making it safe for pancreatitis-prone or allergic dogs.
Value for Money: $12.99 for 8 oz positions it below most boutique meat jerkies while delivering superfood antioxidants and fiber.
Strengths and Weaknesses: Pros—hypoallergenic, low 14 kcal/square, great for vegetarian households, USA-made. Cons—crumbles in treat pouches, not as pungent for super-motivated working dogs, some pets prefer meat.
Bottom Line: An ethical, allergy-friendly training cookie that smells like human snack bars; ideal for eco-conscious families and dogs with poultry/beef sensitivities.
9. Beg & Barker Chicken Jerky for Dogs (10 Ounce, Pack of 2) – Dog Training Treats – Natural Dog Treats Made in The USA – Grain Free, Diabetic-Friendly, High Protein, Sugar-Free
Overview: Beg & Barker’s Chicken Jerky is a single-ingredient strip made from human-grade chicken breast slow air-dried in small U.S. facilities. Each 20-oz twin pack delivers 78 % protein with zero sugar, grain, or fillers.
What Makes It Stand Out: Transparent sourcing from local farms and a protein percentage that rivals raw diets while staying shelf-safe; strips tear easily into any size without crumbling.
Value for Money: $35.16/lb is double grocery-store jerky but half the cost of boutique freeze-dried raw; one strip replaces several soft training treats, stretching the bag.
Strengths and Weaknesses: Pros—diabetic-friendly, low fat, strong aroma, resealable bags stay fresh. Cons—premium upfront price, can harden in humid climates, not suitable for chicken-allergic dogs.
Bottom Line: For trainers who need a clean, high-protein bribe that survives pockets and backpacks, Beg & Barker is worth the splurge—cut into bits and a little goes far.
10. Golden Rewards Pigs in a Blanket Dog Treats, 16 oz, Air-Dried Jerky, Made with Real Chicken Breast and Pork, No Added Sugar, Corn, or Soy, Perfect for Training or Rewarding Dogs
Overview: Golden Rewards “Pigs in a Blanket” wrap air-dried pork inside real chicken breast strips, creating a chewy 16-oz jerky roll. No sugar, corn, soy, or artificial colors are used, and the strips can be snapped for any breed.
What Makes It Stand Out: Dual-protein flavor without fillers at big-box pricing; the air-dried texture is softer than traditional jerky—great for seniors or dogs with dental issues.
Value for Money: $1.69/oz undercuts most multi-protein jerkies by 25-40 % while still offering USA production.
Strengths and Weaknesses: Pros—palatability sky-high, easy portioning, resealable bag. Cons—pork/chicken combo excludes allergy dogs, fat visible on edges (store in cool temps), not single-ingredient purist.
Bottom Line: A crowd-pleasing, budget-smart jerky for multi-dog households; keep on hand when you need bribe-level taste without gourmet prices.
Why Sugar Sneaks Into Dog Treats—and Why It Matters
Sugar isn’t just empty calories; it’s a rapid-fire carbohydrate that hits your dog’s bloodstream within minutes. Because canines lack significant salivary amylase (the enzyme that jump-starts starch digestion in humans), any simple sugar that reaches the small intestine is absorbed almost instantly. The resulting insulin surge can stress the pancreas, promote fat storage, and create a roller-coaster of energy peaks and crashes. Over months and years, those repeated spikes increase the risk of diabetes, joint inflammation, and periodontal disease—conditions that shorten both lifespan and quality of life.
Reading Between the Lines: Hidden Names for Sugar
Ingredient lists are written in descending order by weight. If a label uses three or four different syrups or juice concentrates, each one can appear further down the list, creating the illusion of “less sugar.” Watch for aliases such as dextrose, fructose, sucrose, maltodextrin, caramel, sorghum, molasses, evaporated cane juice, apple juice concentrate, and sweet potato syrup. Even “natural” sweeteners like honey and coconut sugar still behave like sugar once metabolized.
Daily Sugar Allowance: How Much Is Too Much for Dogs
Dogs have no biological requirement for simple carbohydrates, so veterinary nutritionists set the “tolerance” threshold—not a recommended allowance—at roughly 2–3 % of daily calories from added sugars. For a 40-pound dog consuming 800 kcal per day, that’s a maximum of 16–24 calories, or about 4–6 grams of sugar … total. A single commercial biscuit can exceed that if you’re not vigilant.
Red-Flag Ingredients That Sound Healthy but Aren’t
“Yogurt coating,” “maple bacon drizzle,” and “blueberry glaze” are classic examples of health halos. These words trigger wholesome mental images yet often deliver more sucrose than fruit or dairy. Likewise, “glycemic” ingredients such as tapioca starch, rice syrup solids, and pea protein isolate can spike blood glucose even when the label claims “no added sugar.”
Nutritional Benchmarks for Truly Low-Sugar Treats
Aim for ≤ 3 % crude fiber from naturally occurring sources (indicating minimal refined carbs), ≤ 7 % total dietary starch, and a calorie density below 3 kcal per gram. Protein should derive from named animal or fish meals, and fat should be specific—chicken fat, salmon oil—not vague “animal fat.” Moisture above 10 % helps satiety without adding carbs.
Single-Ingredient Rewards: The Gold Standard
Dehydrated muscle meat, organ strips, or freeze-dried fish skins contain one item: the animal part itself. These treats are inherently sugar-free, grain-free, and ultra-high in bioavailable amino acids. Because they’re light, you can break them into tiny portions, stretching a 3-ounce bag into dozens of training reps without caloric overload.
Functional Low-Sugar Chews That Clean Teeth
Mechanical abrasion is the gold-standard defense against tartar, but rawhide and starch-based dental sticks are usually bathed in syrups to boost palatability. Instead, look for collagen-rich alternatives—beef cheek, coffee-wood, or Himalayan yak milk bars—that soften slowly under saliva and provide hours of scraping action without fermentable carbs.
Plant-Based, Low-Glycemic Options for Sensitive Tummies
Dogs with pancreatitis or meat allergies still deserve crunchy rewards. Air-dried zucchini coins, green-bean chips, and coconut flakes deliver satisfying snap with minimal starch. Pumpkin and sweet potato can be acceptable in micro-doses if the fiber-to-sugar ratio is at least 1:1; verify via guaranteed analysis, not marketing blurbs.
Freeze-Dried vs. Dehydrated: Texture, Nutrients, and Sugar Impact
Freeze-drying removes water under vacuum, preserving heat-sensitive B-vitamins and creating a light, crisp texture that rehydrates in seconds. Dehydration uses low, steady heat that can caramelize natural fruit sugars, marginally raising glycemic load. For protein-based treats, the difference is negligible; for fruit or veggie blends, freeze-dried versions typically test lower in residual sugars.
Decoding Guaranteed Analysis: Fiber, Starch, and “Carbs by Difference”
Pet food labels aren’t required to list total carbohydrates, so you must calculate them: 100 − (protein + fat + fiber + moisture + ash). Aim for the calculated carb value to sit under 15 % for low-sugar claims to be credible. If fiber exceeds 8 %, ensure it comes from whole produce, not purified cellulose added to dilute calories.
Certifications & Seals That Actually Mean Something
“Grain-free” does not equal “sugar-free.” Prioritize treats bearing the AAFCO complete & balanced statement for “intermittent or supplemental feeding,” NASC quality seal, or USDA Organic certification—each requires third-party auditing. Non-GMO Project and MSC (Marine Stewardship Council) labels further verify ingredient integrity without hidden sweeteners.
Allergen Considerations: Novel Proteins and Limited-Ingredient Protocols
Chicken, beef, and wheat are the top three canine allergens. When you remove them, manufacturers sometimes add sugar to reclaim lost palatability. Counter this by selecting novel proteins—kangaroo, rabbit, or wild boar—paired with single-ingredient processing. Limited-ingredient diets should contain fewer than five items, none of which end in “-ose.”
Training Treats: Calorie Density vs. Motivation
High-frequency reinforcement calls for tiny, aromatic morsels under two calories apiece. Soft, sugar-laced “training bites” often reach 4–6 calories each, causing weight creep long before behavior goals are met. Choose freeze-dried meat crumbles or dehydrated fish sprinkles; you can feed 30 reps for the same calorie load as three commercial “soft chews.”
Transitioning Your Dog to Low-Sugar Snacks Without GI Upset
Sudden swaps can trigger diarrhea or picky eating. Replace 25 % of the old treat volume with the new, low-sugar option every three days. Hydrate freeze-dried pieces in warm water for the first week to ease digestion, and monitor stool quality. Most dogs adapt within ten days and begin exhibiting steadier energy levels by week two.
Budget-Friendly DIY Recipes Using Whole-Food Pantry Staples
A convection oven or countertop dehydrator turns 99 % lean turkey breast, canned wild salmon, or plain kefir into cost-effective rewards. Slice protein to ⅛-inch thickness, bake at 170 °F for 3–4 hours, and store in breathable paper bags. For vegetarian crunch, thinly peel carrots, toss with a dash of turmeric for anti-inflammatory flair, and dehydrate overnight.
Storage and Shelf-Life Tips to Prevent Hidden Mold Sugars
Moisture equals microbial metabolism, which can create trace sugars post-production. Store single-ingredient treats below 60 °F in amber jars with silica packets. Inspect weekly for off odors or white film—early mold can mimic salt bloom. When in doubt, freeze portions in vacuum-sealed bags for up to six months without nutrient loss.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Will my dog reject treats that don’t contain sugar?
Most dogs care more about aroma and texture than sweetness; a high-value protein scent typically wins over sugar.
2. Are naturally occurring sugars in fruits okay for dogs?
Small amounts of low-glycemic berries (blueberries, raspberries) are acceptable; limit to one or two per day for a 40-pound dog.
3. Can low-sugar treats still be high in calories?
Yes—fat has 2.25 times the calories of carbohydrate, so monitor portion size even with sugar-free options.
4. How can I calculate the actual grams of sugar if it’s not listed?
Contact the manufacturer for a detailed nutrient analysis, or use the “carbs by difference” formula and assume roughly half could be sugars if sweet ingredients appear on the label.
5. Is honey better than white sugar for dogs?
Metabolically, honey behaves almost identically; it’s still added sugar and should be minimized.
6. Do sugar-free treats help with bad breath?
Eliminating fermentable carbs reduces bacterial overgrowth, but mechanical chewing and dental care remain essential.
7. Are sugar alcohols like xylitol ever used in dog treats?
Reputable brands never use xylitol—it is extremely toxic to dogs. Always double-check the label if a product claims “sugar-free.”
8. Can puppies have low-sugar treats?
Yes, provided the treat is labeled for “all life stages” and accounts for higher protein needs during growth.
9. How often should I give treats without unbalancing my dog’s diet?
Follow the 10 % rule: all treats combined should supply no more than 10 % of daily caloric intake.
10. Will switching to low-sugar treats help my overweight dog slim down?
Reducing added sugar lowers empty calories and insulin spikes, accelerating fat loss when paired with portion-controlled meals and regular exercise.