Three dog treats on Santa's naughty list

"These are dreadful; they've got some of the worst ingredients"

As Christmas approaches, pet parents across the country have a special treat (or seven) for their furry pals to enjoy on Christmas day.

But before you add that bone to your cart, one doggie food expert has taken to social media to issue a warning for the nasties hiding in those treats,

Canine nutrition expert @petdrs took to TikTok to sound the alarm on three items within Kmart's Christmas range, warning pet owners about potential hazards.

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The naughty list

First on the list of items to avoid is the seemingly innocent Kmart's Dog Treat Stocking 25 Pieces.

 "These are dreadful, these treat stockings. They've got some of the worst ingredients - dextrose, wheat, sugar, soy, rawhide," she advises.

Next in line is the tempting "Rawhide Dino Bone," whose not-so-innocent colouring is not enough to mask potential risks. 

The expert warns, "Skip this one too - just because it's red does not mean it's good." 

In the video, the dog food guru goes into the dangers of rawhide, emphasising its indigestible nature and the risks of blockages and choking.

Completing the trio is the "Dog Christmas Cookies 6pk," which hides a less-than-jolly secret despite its festive appearance. 

"These Christmas cookies may look cute, but there's not one good ingredient in there. Skip them, they're dreadful," urges @petdrs. 

She advocates for alternatives from small businesses with better ingredients and emphasises the importance of choosing wisely.

RELATED: ‘For sh*t’s sake, pick up your dog’s poo!’

What might have seemed like a festive feast for your pup is made from some nasty ingredients. Source: TikTok

The raw truth about rawhide

In a separate video, the expert delves deeper into the perils of the commonly used rawhide. 

"The actual end product of rawhide makes it really hard for our pets to digest," she explains. 

Warning against the hard log or knot-like structure that becomes chewy and prone to blockages, she pleads with pet owners to think twice about choosing rawhide treats, especially during the festive season.

RELATED: ‘For sh*t’s sake, pick up your dog’s poo!’

If you want to spoil your fur baby this Christmas, look for treats that have single-source proteins like chicken, lamb, or salmon. Source: iStock

A message from Kmart

A Kmart spokesperson informed 7News that customers should exercise their discretion and keep their pet's interests top of mind when buying them treats.

“Our pet treats are designed to be treats,” they advised.

“As with all pet products, we can encourage owners to make informed choices based on what is suitable for their pet.”

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Treats on the nice list

When selecting dog treats, opt for single-ingredient options. 

Consider your dog's stomach sensitivity and choose treats recommended for dietary restrictions, offering lean protein and essential vitamins. 

Avoid treats with chemicals and artificial dyes, and opt for natural ingredients promoting essential proteins and vitamins. 

Choose quality over commercial options, focusing on single-source proteins like chicken, lamb, or salmon.

Originally published as Three dog treats on Santa's naughty list