This is the first in a series called “What’s in This Treat?” where I break down treat ingredients to help make informed decisions on whether or not you want to feed them. I emphasize the you in that sentence because I am not here to tell you what to do with your dog. I just like to present the information I gathered in order for me to make my own decision. Making that clear to you guys is important to me!
I picked up the Dentley’s Thai Chews with Coconut and Fish Skin from Petsmart. Let’s take a look at the ingredients and see what we can find out.
Please note: this post is comprised of information I have compiled, read and formed my own opinion on. I am not a vet or a nutritionist. As with anything, there are going to be conflicting opinions and findings. The writing reflects how I feel about the product after gathering the information.
Summary of Dentley’s Thai Chews
These treats are rawhide free and a product of Thailand. Rawhide free is a must for us but I prefer to buy US made treats. They are gluten free and do contain Omega-3 fatty acids.
Guaranteed Analysis
Crude Protein (min)……………………………………10.0 %
Crude Fat (min)…………………………………………….5.0%
Crude Fiber (max)…………………………………………5.0%
Moisture (max)………………………………………………18.0%
Omega-3 Fatty Acids* (min)………………………..0.01%
* Not recognized as an essential nutrient by the AAFCO Dog Food Nutrient Profiles
For more information on understanding guaranteed analysis, here is an excellent article by Dog Food Insider.
Ingredient List
- Coconut
- Fish Skin
- Tapioca Starch
- Corn Starch
- Rice Flour
- Glycerin
- Gelatin
- Potassium Sorbate (Preservative)
The Breakdown
- Coconut: According to the AKC, coconut meat is a healthy addition to your dog’s diet. It is non-toxic, anti-inflammatory and can boost the immune system and improve their skin.
- Fish Skin: The treats do not state what fish is used. As a whole, fish skin is a safe, low fat and high protein snack. Unprocessed fish skin is highly digestible.
- Tapioca Starch: Tapioca starch is used a filler. Tapioca is non-toxic to dogs but high in carbohydrates and sugar.
- Corn Starch: This is usually used a filler or thickener for treats. It has low nutritional value and is high in carbohydrates.
- Rice Flour: There is not too much nutritional value to rice flour but it is used because it is readily available and cheap.
- Glycerin: An odorless and colorless liquid, it can add a sweetness and also help preserve. It is generally considered non-toxic and not harmful by both the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). It is high in sugar and low in nutritional value which has given it a reputation for being a bad ingredient. Side effects can include vomiting and excessive thirst as well as gastrointestinal discomfort. There are not many studies on the safety so it’s hard to say whether or not this is completely safe, especially long term.
- Gelatin: Derived from cartilage and bones, this is a almost entirely protein and is healthy for dogs. Gelatin meaning gelatin… not Jell-o. Gelatin can help with joint pain and mobility, coat health and may repair cartilage.
- Potassium Sorbate (Preservative): This is a widely used preservative that helps to curb microbial growth. According to a paper published by the European Food Safety Authority, it is safe for dogs (and cats) as long as it is kept under 5,000 mg/kg. However, as with all chemical additives, there are possible side effects such as skin irritation and gastrointestinal discomfort. I personally avoid preservatives as much as possible .
My Thoughts on Dentley’s Thai Chews
Coconut, fish skin and gelatin: I’m happy with these but I would like to know what fish is used and where it came from.
Tapioca and corn starch and rice flour: Eh. They all have low nutritional value and high carbohydrate count.
Glycerin and potassium sorbate: Give me pause
Dentley’s Thai Chews are not something I would buy and treat them with regularly but they did love them. They also are not the worst treats I have ever seen. If you are looking for a fish skin treat, we love Baltic Sprat or Hundur’s Crunch Cod Skins.
References
- AKC: https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/nutrition/can-dogs-eat-coconut/
- Dog Food Guide: https://dogfood.guide/can-dogs-eat-tapioca/
- European Food Safety Authority: https://efsa.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/pdf/10.2903/j.efsa.2012.2735#:~:text=Potassium%20sorbate%20is%20considered%20safe,irritant%20of%20the%20respiratory%20tract.
- Dog Food Insider: https://www.dogfoodinsider.com/understanding-guaranteed-analysis-panel/
