The Benefits of Locally Made Dog Treats for Your Pup (NZ Edition)

by Tannis McDonald July 23, 2025

If you're a dog parent in New Zealand, you know how important it is to feed your furry friend only the best. One of the easiest ways to support your pup’s health and your local economy is by choosing locally made dog treats. But what exactly makes New Zealand-made dog treats better than imported alternatives?

Let’s dive into the top benefits of choosing locally produced dog treats for your dog—and why your next treat purchase should be made right here in Aotearoa.

Fewer Nasties, More Goodness

Many NZ-made dog treats are crafted with natural, locally sourced ingredients. Unlike some imported treats that may contain preservatives, artificial colors, and low-quality fillers, local brands often prioritize clean, whole-food ingredients.

For example:

Beef liver, lamb lung, and venison from NZ farms
No artificial preservatives or additives
Grain-free and allergy-friendly options

Choosing local means you're more likely to know exactly what’s in your dog’s treat—and where it came from.

Fresher Products with a Smaller Carbon Pawprint

When you buy local, you're getting fresher products. Imported treats can spend weeks in transit, losing freshness and requiring more packaging and preservatives to stay shelf-stable.

Benefits of local sourcing:

Shorter supply chain = fresher treats
Lower carbon footprint
Less fuel used in transportation

It's a win for your dog and a win for the planet 🌍.

Tailored to Kiwi Dogs

Locally made treats often reflect the dietary needs and lifestyle of New Zealand dogs. Whether it’s treats for active working dogs, allergy-prone breeds, or small apartment pups, NZ brands tend to create treats with our unique climate, environment, and pets in mind.

You’ll also find treats suitable for:

Puppy training
Senior dogs with sensitive teeth
High-protein treats for active dogs

Support Local Businesses & Farmers

When you purchase dog treats made in NZ, you're supporting local farmers, small businesses, and ethical producers. It keeps money in the community and supports more sustainable farming and manufacturing practices.

Look for:

Family-owned pet treat companies
Brands sourcing free-range or grass-fed meats
Treats made in small batches

Stricter Safety & Food Standards

New Zealand has some of the highest food safety standards in the world, and that extends to pet food and treats too. Choosing NZ-made products means you're more likely to avoid contaminated or recalled treats from overseas.

You can rest easy knowing:

Ingredients are traceable
Manufacturing follows NZ regulations
No mystery meat or harmful chemicals

Our Favourite Local Dog Treat Brands in NZ

If you're ready to make the switch, here are a few trusted local dog treat brands to check out:

Kiwi Kitchens – known for single-ingredient freeze-dried treats
Ziwipeak – ethically sourced meat treats from NZ farms
The Good Pet Home – handmade dog biscuits using natural NZ ingredients

(Always check ingredients and consult your vet for dietary needs.)

Final Woof

Your pup deserves treats that are as healthy, fresh, and wholesome as the land they play on. By choosing locally made dog treats in NZ, you're giving your dog better nutrition, supporting local businesses, and making a more sustainable choice.

So next time you're browsing for goodies for your four-legged mate, think local—your dog will thank you with wagging tails and happy licks!