Should I throw away expired dog treats

Do Dog Treats Expire? 7 Tips to Make them Last

All food, including dog treats, expire. Their best-by date is indicated on the packaging, so dog parents like you would know whether the treats are still consumable or if they should be tossed to the bin already.

As dog parents, its totally understandable if you want to make your pooches healthy. While treats have loads of health benefits to offer, they may no longer be that incredible in taste as well as superb in nutrients if the biscuit has turned stale already. But the question is, how long do these dog treats last?

Well break everything down and discuss it in depth through this guide.

How Do You Know If the Dog Treats Are Expired?

Youll instantly know if the dog treats are expired by checking on the date label on the packaging. Thats the first thing dog lovers do when theyve been giving the same treats to their dogs for quite a long time.

Of course, there are also other tell-tale signs that would suggest its time to buy a new treat for your little puppy. Here are the indicators:

• The treats become moldy.
• The smell changed to a rancid or sour odor.
• The food has been exposed to heat and moisture.
• Your pooch shows signs of discomfort after eating it.

7 Dog Treats and Their Shelf-Life

Pet snacks come in a variety and with that, some would last longer than others. Know what common dog treats are bought by pet parents and see how long they typically last.

1. Dehydrated Dog Treats

The fact that these treats are dehydrated makes them last longer than fresh snacks. Usually, the product comes with a silica gel to keep moisture from affecting the food inside. Dont throw it away until all the food in the packet is gone.

Also, be careful that you dont end up giving the silica pack to your dog.

Meanwhile, high-quality dehydrated dog treats last for up to 2 years when theyre stored properly.

Theyre a great choice for families whose dogs have food allergies as dehydrated dog snacks are normally:

• Dried chicken.
• Dried fish skin.
• Dried beef jerky.
• And dried sweet potatoes.

2. Homemade Dog Treats

Homemade dog treats are practical for dog parents who have time to bake their four-legged companions some dog biscuits. This variety is also deemed healthier in comparison to other snacks which are filled with preservatives.

However, it is the preservatives that lengthen the shelf-life of dog treats. That suggests that homemade treats will expire sooner or later. In the case of those yummy snacks that have natural preservatives like mold inhibitors and vitamin C, baked treats can last up to 6 months provided that theyre stored correctly.

According to PetMD, just bear in mind these two things before you start prepping your dogs homemade snacks:

• Dog treats made out of meat should be cooked at about 165 degrees.
• Dog treats with eggs should be cooked properly to kill harmful pathogens.

3. Bully Sticks

Bully sticks are known to be very hardy dog treats that can last from 1.5 to 2 years. Theyre 100% natural and theyre made from bull penises.

This treat may not be the most ideal to give as a reward for your dogs training as it takes a while to be fully eaten, but this helps a lot in case they exhibit separation anxiety or destructive behaviors.

When it comes to storage, bully sticks can be kept using a Ziploc bag.

4. Dental Chews

Dogs can be prone to periodontal problems such as:

• Plaque.
• Swollen gums.
• Tartar build-up.
• And a broken tooth.

Hence, giving your pooch dental treats can help a lot in preserving their oral health. Since each brand differs a lot in quality, ingredients, and amount of preservatives, the expiration can best be determined through their packaging.

5. Milk-Bones

The classic milk-bones stay fresh for up to 1.5 years. Theyre ideal for dogs who arent allergic to any ingredient they contain. Also, milk-bones have to be given in moderation as some contain BHA, a preservative that can cause tumors in dogs. FDA says that the amount is added in low doses, yet still, its not good to give your dog several milk-bones in a day.

What do milk-bones offer then? Well, if given in the right amount, your dog will experience the following:

• An improved bone density.
• Lower risk of developing osteoporosis.
• And a lower chance of experiencing fractures.

6. CBD Treats

The best way to know when the CBD treat lasts is to check its box and look for the expiration date. Generally, if the treat is unopened, then it may last from 9 to 24 months. But, the moment the seal is broken, this delicious dog snack will lose its freshness very quickly. Add in CBD tinctures to potentially lengthen the shelf-life of the product.

7. Real Beef Strips

Real beef strips are wholesome and irresistible single-ingredient treats that will get your dog drooling. Though your furry companion would love it every time theyre offered a few strips, beef treats seem to last for a short while only. Expect these snacks to be consumable only for 2 days.

You may also want to read: Dog Treats That Are Bad For Dogs and 8 Natural Healthy Treats You Can Give Them

Can Expired Dog Treats Upset Your Dogs Stomach?

It all depends on how sensitive your canines stomach is. If youre aware that your puppy has food allergies or sensitive tummies, its best not to serve them expired dog treats or theyll experience several side effects such as diarrhea.

However, for some, expired dog treats are less likely to cause any major harm to your little friend. A slightly upset stomach is not much of a concern, but it wont be a great experience either for your wonderful companion.

Do note that food poisoning is very common not only in humans but as well as in dogs according to the AKC. Watch out for these signs in case youve given your little canine an expired dog treat:

• Nausea.
• Panting.
• Vomiting.
• Dizziness.
• Salivation.
• Dehydration.
• Hyperactivity.
• Uncontrolled urinating.

These signs of discomfort and pain should prompt you to talk to your vet immediately.

Of course, we all want to give the best life for our pooches and if you can, just stay on the safe side and hold yourself back from serving expired dog treats.

7 Tips on How to Properly Store Dog Treats

1. Keep dog treats sealed or kept in their original containers.

2. Store your dogs commercial treats in dark places.

3. Place a dehumidifier in the cabinet with the dog treats to maintain freshness.

4. All opened dog snacks should be kept in airtight containers and placed in the freezer.

5. Homemade treats should be kept frozen as well.

6. Meat treats like chicken, turkey, and beef should be frozen and kept for 2 to 4 days only.

7. Never handle dog treats by just using your hands. Doing so can introduce a plethora of bacteria and this triggers the treats to spoil more quickly.

Reading tip: How Long Dog Food Last? How To Store Dry Dog Food Long Term

What To Do With Expired Dog Food?

As a pet owner, you might have thought about what to do with leftover pet food or what to do with the expired dog food in your pantry.

Dogs, being the loyal companions they are, deserve the best, and that includes their food.

Therefore, its essential to understand what to do with dog food that has gone past its best-by date.

In this article, we will explore what happens when dogs eat expired food, how to tell if a dog food is expired, what to do with unopened expired dog food, and how to store dog food to keep it fresh.

What to Do with Expired Dog Food?

Its important to know when your dog food has expired, as expired dog food can be dangerous for your pet. Dog food typically has a shelf life of one to two years, depending on the type and brand.

Dry dog food is usually good for up to 18 months after the manufacturing date, while wet or canned food can last up to two years. After this time, the nutrients in the food may start to break down, making it less nutritious and potentially harmful for your pup.

If you have expired dog food in your pantry, dont panic! There are a few things you can do with it:

1. Donate it If you have unopened bags of expired dog food that are still sealed and within their expiration date, consider donating them to a local animal shelter or rescue organization. These organizations often rely on donations of pet supplies and will be happy to accept your donation!
2. Compost it If you have opened bags of expired dry dog food that are no longer edible, consider composting them. The ingredients in most dry dog foods are biodegradable and will break down over time in a compost pile. This is an eco-friendly way to dispose of old pet food without creating unnecessary waste.
3. Throw it away If the bag is open or if the expiration date has passed, its best to throw away any remaining kibble or wet food. Be sure to double-check with your local waste management company first as some municipalities may not allow pet food in their trash cans due to potential health risks from bacteria or other contaminants.

Can Dogs Eat Expired Dog Food?

Yes, dog food does expire and proper storage is necessary to preserve the quality of the food. If you already have expired dog food, your dog will likely be fine as long as its not more than a couple of months past its prime. Give it a smell and check for any visible signs of spoilage before feeding it to your pup.

When purchasing new dog food, always check the expiration date and store it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.

Wet canned dog food definitely goes bad if it goes beyond its expiration date unopened cans can last up to years but opened cans can go bad in a matter of days. Dog treats also come with an expiration date so make sure to check this before giving them to your pup.

Overall, when it comes to feeding your pup expired dog food, use caution and always err on the side of safety when in doubt.

What Happens if Dogs Eat Expired Dog Food?

If your dog eats expired dog food, it will likely experience digestive problems, such as vomiting or diarrhea. These symptoms can indicate that the expired dog food is causing an upset stomach.

Other symptoms that could indicate you have fed your dog spoiled dog food include lethargy, a decrease in appetite, and dehydration.

Expired dog food can contain degraded vitamins and minerals, which can lead to a lack of essential nutrients for your pup.

How Long Does Dog Food Last After Expiration Date?

The length of time dog food lasts depends on several factors, including the type of food and the storage conditions.

Dry dog food has a longer shelf life than wet dog food, and unopened dry food can last for up to six months after the expiration date if stored correctly.

On the other hand, wet dog food usually has a shelf life of around two years, and canned food can last up to five years if stored correctly.

Is Dry Dog Food Better Than Wet Dog Food in Terms of Expiration?

Dry dog food is generally considered better than wet dog food when it comes to expiration as it has a longer shelf life.

Dry food has fewer preservatives and moisture than wet dog food, which promotes bacteria growth that causes spoilage.

When it comes to expiration, dry dog food is usually better than wet dog food. Dry dog food has a longer shelf life and can last up to two years if stored properly.

Wet dog food, on the other hand, typically only lasts for about six months after opening. This is because wet food contains more moisture which can cause bacteria growth that can make the food spoil faster.

Additionally, wet dog food does not contain preservatives like dry dog foods do which also contributes to its shorter shelf life.

It is important to note that both types of dog food should be stored in a cool and dry place away from direct sunlight and should be kept in an airtight container or bag. This will help ensure that the food remains fresh and safe for your pup to eat.

Overall, when it comes to expiration, dry dog food is generally better than wet dog food due to its longer shelf life and preservative content. However, both types of pet foods should be stored properly in order to maintain their freshness and safety for your pups consumption.

How to Tell If Dog Food Is Expired?

To check if your dogs food has expired, you can start by looking at the expiration date on the bag of food.

Some dog foods come with a best by date, while others have a specific expiration date.

You can also look for signs that the food may have gone bad, such as a bad odor or mold growth. It would help if you always inspected the food before serving, even if the best-by date has not passed.

What Does an Expired Dog Food Smell Like?

Expired dog food has a rancid smell that will be different from the scent of fresh dog food. If you notice a bad odor, discoloration, or mold in dog food, its best to throw it away.

Expired dog food may develop an off-odor due to various factors such as rancidity, mold, or bacterial growth. Here are some common smells associated with expired dog food:

1. Rancid smell: If the fats and oils in dog food have gone bad, it may give off a rancid smell, which is usually described as stale, sour, or musty. This odor indicates that the food has spoiled and should not be fed to your dog.
2. Moldy or musty smell: Expired dog food, particularly if the packaging has been compromised, can develop mold or mildew. The food may emit a moldy, musty, or damp smell, which is a sign that the food is no longer safe for consumption.
3. Unpleasant or unusual smell: Any strong, unpleasant, or unusual smell coming from dog food could indicate spoilage or contamination. Trust your nose if the dog food smells off, its best not to feed it to your pet.

How to Check the Expiration Date of Dog Food?

You can check the expiration date by looking for the date printed on the bag of food.

Some bags have a best by or use by date stamp rather than an explicit expiration date, so make sure to check the wording carefully.

Also, keep in mind that the expiration date refers to unopened dry food and canned food.

Is It Safe to Feed My Dog Expired Food?

No, its not safe to feed your dog expired food. Eating expired dog food can make your dog sick, and in severe cases, it can result in death. Its best to dispose of expired dog food immediately and never serve it to your dog.

What to Do With Unopened Expired Dog Food?

If you have unopened expired dog food, you have several options. You can donate it to an animal shelter or a rescue group if its not too old or too close to the expiration date.

If the food has passed the expiration date, its best to dispose of it.

You can also try returning the food to the store where you purchased it if the return policy allows it.

Can You Return Expired Dog Food?

Returning expired dog food depends on the stores return policy and the specific circumstances surrounding the purchase.

If youve recently bought the dog food and it was already expired upon purchase, most stores will accept a return or exchange as long as you have the receipt and original packaging.

Before attempting to return expired dog food, consider the following steps:

1. Check the stores return policy: Look up the stores return policy online or call their customer service to inquire about their guidelines for returning expired products.
2. Gather necessary information: Keep the receipt and original packaging as proof of purchase. Note down the date of purchase and the expiration date on the dog food package.
3. Contact the store: Reach out to the store where you purchased the dog food, explain the situation, and ask about their return or exchange process. Be polite and cooperative when discussing the issue.
4. Contact the manufacturer: If the store is unable to help, consider contacting the dog food manufacturer directly. They may offer a refund or replacement product as part of their customer satisfaction policy.

Remember that each store and manufacturer may have different policies regarding returns and exchanges. Always check their specific guidelines and be prepared to provide the necessary information to support your request.

Is It Safe to Donate Expired Dog Food?

If the dog food is not too old or too close to the expiration date, you can safely donate it to an animal shelter or rescue group to help pets in need. Always check with the organization first, as they may have specific guidelines on the type of food they will accept.

How to Properly Dispose of Expired Dog Food?

The best way to dispose of expired dog food is to throw it away in the trash. You can also mix the food with something unappealing, like coffee grounds or cat litter, to make it less attractive to animals and less accessible to wildlife. Make sure to place the food in a sealed container before disposing of it.

How to Store Dog Food to Keep It Fresh?

Proper storage of dog food is essential to maintain its freshness, and nutritional value, and prevent spoilage. Here are some tips on how to store dog food to keep it fresh:

1. Keep it in the original packaging: The original packaging is designed to protect dog food from exposure to air, moisture, and light. Keep the food in its original bag, and make sure to seal it tightly after each use.
2. Use an airtight container: If you prefer to transfer dog food to another container, choose an airtight container made of food-grade materials. Make sure its clean and dry before adding the dog food. You can also place the entire original bag inside the container for added protection.
3. Store in a cool, dry place: Keep dog food away from direct sunlight, heat, and moisture to prevent spoilage and loss of nutrients. Ideal storage locations include pantries, closets, or cabinets.
4. Avoid temperature fluctuations: Storing dog food in areas with significant temperature changes, such as garages or outdoors, can lead to condensation inside the package, promoting mold and bacterial growth.
5. Keep it off the ground: Place dog food containers on a shelf or raised platform to prevent pests or rodents from accessing the food.
6. Rotate the stock: When purchasing new bags of dog food, use the first in, first out method. Use the older bags of food before opening newer ones to ensure youre always feeding your dog the freshest food possible.
7. Follow the expiration date: Always check the expiration date on the dog food package and discard any expired food.

What Is the Shelf Life of Dry Dog Food?

Dry dog food has a shelf life of around six months to a year after the expiration date, depending on the brand. You can extend the shelf life of dry dog food by storing it in an air-tight container in a cool, dry place away from sunlight. Avoid storing dog food near heat sources or in humid areas as it can promote bacteria growth.

Can You Freeze Dog Food to Extend Its Shelf Life?

Yes, you can freeze dog food to extend its shelf life. Freeze dog food in an air-tight container and thaw it in the refrigerator before serving it to your dog. Avoid leaving dog food out for too long, especially during hot weather, as it can spoil and promote bacteria growth.

What Is the Best Way to Store Opened Dog Food to Keep It Fresh?

Once youve opened the dog food bag, its best to transfer the kibble to an air-tight container to keep it fresh. Do not leave dog food in the original bag as it can be permeable to air and moisture, promoting bacteria growth.

Is Expired Dog Food Safe for Other Animals?

Its best not to feed other pets or animals with expired dog food as it can cause them to become sick. Dogs and other animals have different nutritional requirements, and dog food may not be suitable for their digestion. Always feed your pets with the appropriate food to keep them healthy and happy.

Can Cats or Other Pets Eat Expired Dog Food?

No, its not recommended to feed expired dog food to cats or other pets as it can make them sick. Cats and other animals have different nutritional requirements than dogs, and dog food may not satisfy their dietary needs.

What Happens If a Pet Eats Expired Dog Food?

If your pet eats expired dog food, they may experience digestive problems, including vomiting, diarrhea, and lethargy. Its best to avoid feeding expired dog food to pets and seek veterinary care if your pet shows signs of illness.

Is It Safe to Feed Expired Dog Food to Farm Animals?

No, its not safe to feed expired dog food to farm animals. Farm animals have different nutritional requirements than dogs, and their digestive systems are not designed to digest dog food.

Always feed your farm animals with the appropriate food to keep them healthy and safe. In conclusion, its always best to keep your dogs food fresh and free from mold and bacteria.

Always store your dog food in a cool, dry place, and check the expiration date regularly.

If you have any doubts about the condition of the food, dispose of it immediately and never feed your pet expired dog food.

By following these guidelines, you can ensure your dog receives the best nutrition and stays healthy.

FAQ What To Do With Expired Dog Food

Q: Does Dog Food Really Expire?

A: Yes, dog food has an expiration date just like human food. Its important to check the expiration date before giving it to your pet to ensure its safe and fresh to consume.

Q: Can I Still Use Wet Dog Food That Has Gone Past Its Expiration Date?

A: No, its not recommended to use wet dog food that has passed its expiration date. The moisture in wet food can cause bacteria to grow quickly, which may lead to health issues for your pet.

Q: How Can I Tell If My Dog Food Has Gone Bad?

A: Some signs that your dog food has gone bad include a foul odor, mold or discoloration, a change in texture or consistency, and the presence of bugs or insects. If you notice any of these signs, its best to discard the food immediately.

Q: Can I Still Use Dry Dog Food That Has Passed Its Expiration Date?

A: Dry dog food has a longer shelf life compared to wet dog food but it can still go bad. If the expiration date has passed, its best to discard the food even if it doesnt show any signs of spoilage. The nutritional value and quality of the food can deteriorate over time.

Q: What Should I Do With Expired Dog Food?

A: Its best to throw away expired dog food. Do not donate or give it away to other pets, as it may cause harmful effects or illness for them. You can also contact your local animal shelter or pet food banks for information on proper disposal.

Q: Is Unopened Canned Dog Food Safe To Eat Past Its Expiration Date?

A: Its not recommended to use unopened canned dog food that has passed its expiration date. Even though the food is sealed, the nutritional value can still deteriorate over time and the food can become unsafe for consumption.

Q: Why Is It Important To Check Dog Food Expiration Dates?

A: Checking the dog food expiration date ensures that its safe and fresh for your pets consumption. Using expired dog food can lead to health issues such as food poisoning, upset stomach, and other digestive problems.

Q: How Can I Keep My Dog Food Fresh?

A: To keep dog food fresh, store it in a cool, dry place away from sunlight and moisture. Use airtight containers to seal the food and prevent exposure to air. Also, try to purchase only the amount of dog food that you can use within a reasonable amount of time.

Q: How Long Does Dog Food Last?

A: The shelf life of dog food varies depending on the type of food and the manufacturer. Generally, dry dog food has a shelf life of around 1 year, while wet dog food has a shorter shelf life of around 6 months to 1 year. Check the expiration date on the packaging for specific information.

Q: Can Spoiled Dog Food Harm My Pet?

A: Yes, spoiled dog food can cause food poisoning and other health issues for your pet. Always check the food before giving it to your dog, and discard any food that shows signs of spoilage or has passed its expiration date.

In Conclusion