Smartdog Jerky's Got Game

If your dog is anything like mine, he will literally eat anything (except, of course, what I really want him to eat, but don't get me started). The thing is, the more I've learned about pet food, the less I want him to eat "just anything." His health and quality of food are very important to me – which is how it is that I came across Laguna Beach-based Smartdog Jerky, a Web-based company specializing in jerky made with limited, human-grade ingredients especially for dogs.

Technically, the jerky can be consumed by humans because it's made the same way as regular jerky – the main difference being that no spices or marinades are added. The key ingredients in all the varieties of jerky – including beef, chicken breast and gamier meats like venison, lamb and rabbit – are the meat, water and sea salt. The rabbit jerky was a hit with my pup.

“We love our dogs and hate to see them suffer from food allergies that cause skin problems and upset stomachs – and high veterinary bills,” says Smartdog Jerky founder Heather Merritt. “Venison, lamb and rabbit are great, unique protein sources... You won’t find any artificial preservatives, fillers, by-products, or other harmful ingredients in these treats.”

Visit smartdogjerky.com to shop or to find local retailers.