Store-bought treats vs. homemade treats: a comparison of the pros and cons of buying commercial treats and making your own

When it comes to treats for your German Shepherd, you have two options: store-bought treats or homemade treats. Both options have their own advantages and disadvantages, and it can be difficult to determine which one is the best choice for you and your dog. In this article, we’ll explore the pros and cons of both store-bought and homemade treats, so you can make an informed decision.

Store-bought treats

Pros:

1.       Convenience: Store-bought treats are the most convenient option for pet owners. They are readily available at pet stores, supermarkets, and online retailers. Simply choose the treats you want, pay for them, and you’re done.
2.       Wide variety: Store-bought treats come in a wide variety of shapes, sizes, and flavors. You can choose from soft treats, crunchy treats, and everything in between, making it easy to find something that your dog will love.
3.       Nutritional value: Store-bought treats are formulated to meet specific dietary needs and contain all of the essential nutrients that your dog needs to thrive. Some brands even offer treats that are low in calories, making them an ideal choice for dogs that are trying to maintain a healthy weight.

Cons:

1.       Cost: Store-bought treats can be more expensive than homemade treats, especially if you choose premium brands. Over time, this can add up, especially if you have a dog that loves treats and requires a lot of them.
2.       Quality control: Some store-bought treats contain low-quality ingredients, preservatives, and artificial colors and flavors. These ingredients can be harmful to your dog, especially if they have allergies or other dietary restrictions.
3.       Lack of control over ingredients: When you buy store-bought treats, you have no control over the ingredients that are used. This means that you cannot choose treats that are free from specific allergens or preservatives.

Homemade treats

Pros:

1.       Cost-effective: Homemade treats are a more cost-effective option than store-bought treats, especially if you have a lot of ingredients on hand. You can also save money by buying ingredients in bulk, which can be more economical than purchasing individual treats.
2.       Customization: When you make your own treats, you have complete control over the ingredients that you use. This allows you to choose treats that are free from specific allergens or preservatives, making them ideal for dogs with dietary restrictions.
3.       Quality control: When you make your own treats, you know exactly what goes into them. This means that you can be sure that your dog is only eating high-quality ingredients that are safe and nutritious.

Cons:

1.       Time-consuming: Making your own treats can be time-consuming, especially if you have to bake the treats in the oven. This can be especially challenging if you have a busy schedule and don’t have a lot of time to spend in the kitchen.
2.       Lack of variety: When you make your own treats, you’re limited to the ingredients that you have on hand. This can make it difficult to offer your dog a wide variety of treats, especially if you don’t have a lot of ingredients on hand.
3.       Inconsistent results: Making your own treats can be unpredictable, and the results can be inconsistent from batch to batch. This can be especially challenging if you’re trying to create a specific flavor or texture.

In conclusion, when it comes to choosing between store-bought treats and homemade treats, there are pros and cons to both options. Store-bought treats offer convenience and a wide variety of options, but they can be expensive and may contain low-quality ingredients. Homemade treats, on the other hand, are cost-effective and customizable, but they can be time-consuming and may not offer a wide variety of options.

At AltPet.net, we understand the challenges of choosing the right treats for your German Shepherd, and we offer a wide range of options to help you make the best choice for your pet. Whether you choose store-bought treats or homemade treats, you can be sure that your dog will love the tasty and nutritious treats that you provide.