If you’ve ever checked the ingredient list on dog treats, you’ve probably seen glycerin or glycerol. It sounds harmless — it keeps treats soft, chewy and fresh.
But here’s the truth: not all glycerin is the same, and the type used in dog treats can make a huge difference to your dog’s long-term health.
This is one of those hidden details that separates truly healthy treats from cheap industrial ones.
What is glycerin and why is it used?
Glycerin (also called glycerol) is a colorless, slightly sweet liquid that:
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binds moisture
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prevents treats from drying out
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extends shelf life
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keeps texture soft and chewy
That’s why manufacturers love it. But the real question is what kind of glycerin they use.
There are two types — and they are not equal
They look identical on the label, but they are worlds apart.
| Type | Technical / feed-grade glycerin | Vegetable (food-grade) glycerin |
|---|---|---|
| Origin | By-product of biodiesel, soap and chemical production | From coconut, rapeseed or palm oil |
| Purity | Low | High |
| Toxic residues | Often present | None |
| Approved for human food | ❌ No | ✅ Yes |
| Impact on dogs | Burdens liver & gut | Neutral and safe |
Technical glycerin: the cheap industrial shortcut
This type of glycerin is basically industrial waste. It’s used in:
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antifreeze
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low-grade cosmetics
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industrial products
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and unfortunately, many cheap dog treats
In the EU it is banned for human food, but still allowed in pet food because animal-feed regulations are much looser.
In a dog’s body, it behaves like a toxin:
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stresses the liver
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irritates the gut
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disrupts the microbiome
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can worsen allergies and skin problems
Because dogs get treats regularly, this toxic load accumulates over time.
Vegetable glycerin: the safe option
Vegetable glycerin is made from plant oils and has food-grade quality.
It is used in:
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syrups
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baby food
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medicines
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high-quality supplements
In dog treats, it simply:
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keeps moisture
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improves texture
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gently enhances taste
Without harming the body.
How can you tell which one is used?
If the label only says:
glycerin, glycerol, E422…that’s a red flag.
Look for:
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vegetable glycerin
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plant-based glycerin
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food-grade glycerin
If the source is not specified, it is usually the cheap technical version.
Why does this matter?
Because:
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dogs have smaller, more sensitive livers
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treats are given frequently
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toxins build up
What looks harmless today can lead to:
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digestive problems
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dull coat
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skin issues
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inflammation
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or chronic health problems later on
Why we choose our treats so carefully at FUNKY DOG
This is exactly why we focus on offering only truly healthy dog treats.
In the FUNKY DOG range you will not find products with technical glycerin or questionable preservatives — only treats with clean, transparent ingredients.
We also prioritize hypoallergenic, plant-based recipes, making them suitable even for dogs with sensitive digestion or food allergies.
You’ll find only brands we genuinely trust:
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FUNKY mňamky – clean, functional treats
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VegDog – 100% plant-based and nutritionally balanced
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Soopa – vegan dental treats with no artificial additives
👉 Explore all treats here: https://www.funkydog.cz/en/healthy-dog-treats
Because if your dog gets treats every day, they should support their health — not quietly undermine it. 🐾