Dog treats are a beloved part of pet ownership—used for training, rewarding good behavior, or simply showing appreciation. Like many dog owners, I used to buy treats from Costco because they were the most affordable per pound. Those large bags promised great savings. But over time, I realized that not all dog treats are created equal, and price per pound doesn’t always reflect the true value when it comes to quality, nutrition, and enjoyment for my dog.

The Bulk Buying Mindset: Why Costco Looked Like a Win

Costco and other warehouse stores are popular spots for pet owners because of their low prices on bulk packages of dog treats. At first glance, the math is simple: more treats for less money means a bargain. Especially for dogs that go through treats quickly, buying in bulk seems like a practical choice to save money.

But treats are not simply a commodity. Unlike dog food, treats vary enormously in ingredients, texture, flavor, and how well they satisfy a dog’s palate or dietary needs. The cheapest per pound can sometimes mean a lower quality treat that doesn’t deliver the same benefits or enjoyment.

What Makes a Great Dog Treat?

The value of a dog treat goes beyond its price tag or size. Several factors influence why some treats are worth more and why others might fall short:

• Ingredients Matter: High-quality dog treats use real meat, wholesome vegetables, and natural flavors rather than fillers, artificial dyes, or by-products. These premium ingredients provide better nutrition and are easier on a dog’s digestion.

• Purpose of the Treat: Training treats need to be small, soft, and highly palatable for frequent rewarding. Dental chews should last longer and help clean teeth. Special diet treats cater to allergies or sensitivities. Each type has different value drivers.

• Dog's Preference: Just like people, dogs have their own taste and texture preferences. Some may prefer chewy over crunchy, or smoky flavor over plain. Treats that excite your dog’s taste buds are inherently more valuable.

• Freshness and Shelf Life: Bulk treats stored for long periods may lose their freshness and appeal. Smaller packages are often fresher and more flavorful.

• Health and Safety: Trusted brands often have superior quality control, fewer contaminants, and transparent sourcing, even if that increases the price.

My Experience with Costco Treats

When I first started buying dog treats, Costco’s large and affordable bags felt like the best deal. The treats lasted a long time, and I was convinced I was saving money. However, over time, I noticed my dog’s enthusiasm for those bulk treats waned. The texture felt dry, and they lacked the rich flavors found in smaller, more premium brands.

This led me to experiment with different treat brands, including smaller, artisanal options and treats designed for specific needs like joint health or grain-free diets. Though the price per pound was higher, my dog’s excitement and eagerness around treat time improved noticeably. The smaller amount lasted longer because the treats were more rewarding and satisfying. Treats that your dog loves and that support their wellbeing tend to have more meaningful value—sometimes at a higher price per pound, making every treat an investment in your dog’s happiness and health.

How to Choose the Right Treats for Your Dog

Evaluating dog treats means balancing cost against quality and fit for your dog’s needs. Here are some tips to consider:

• Check Ingredients: Look for treats with real meat or whole food ingredients near the top of the list. Avoid ones with excessive fillers, artificial additives, or vague “meat meal.”

• Consider Treat Size and Texture: Choose treats suited to how you use them—soft, small treats for training, longer-lasting chews for dental care or boredom relief.

• Think About Your Dog’s Health: If your dog has allergies, sensitivities, or dietary restrictions, seek out treats formulated specifically for those conditions.

• Read Reviews and Brand Reputation: Trusted brands often invest more in safety and quality control. Look for transparency about sourcing and manufacturing.

Don’t Focus Only on Price Per Pound: Sometimes paying more upfront means fewer treats wasted, happier dogs, and better health outcomes.

Breaking the Bulk Buying Habit

While bulk buying can save money on dog treats, it’s important to weigh that saving against your dog’s actual enjoyment and health. A better approach might be to buy smaller quantities of higher-quality treats and rotate them to keep things interesting. This reduces waste, protects freshness, and reinforces positive behaviors with treats your dog truly craves.