All of the ingredients we use are natural, whether fresh or dried, and are considered “human-grade.” Although the term “human-grade” is not legally defined, it refers to foods that contain ingredients that are safe for human consumption, as described by the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO). (1)

At Smart Paws PR, LLC we use the following ingredients:

• Oatmeal : Oatmeal is ground and sifted to create the oat flour used in most of our treats . Oatmeal is a beneficial food for both dogs and cats, as long as it is fed in moderation and appropriately. Oatmeal offers several health benefits for dogs, including improved digestion, skin and coat health, weight management, and a steady source of energy. It is suitable for dogs with food sensitivities; however, moderation is key. (2)
  
  Oats may have nutritional benefits for cats, but should only be given as an occasional treat. Oats are high in fiber, which can aid digestion, and contain manganese, which can help with cholesterol and thyroid regulation. Oats are also known to have anti-inflammatory properties. (3)
  
  It's essential to consult your veterinarian before adding oats to your dog or cat's diet to ensure it meets their specific needs.

• Peanut Butter: Peanut butter can be a beneficial treat for dogs when given in moderation, as it provides a good source of protein, healthy fats, vitamins E and B (including niacin), and minerals like magnesium, which support muscle health, skin and coat condition, brain function, and overall energy levels. The peanut butter used in Smart Paws PR kitchen only contains peanuts and is free of xylitol, an artificial sweetener that is toxic to dogs. (4) So if you do give your furry friends peanut butter, make sure it only contains peanuts.

• Bacon: While bacon does contain some protein, which might be considered a minor benefit for dogs, its high fat and sodium content far outweighs any positive aspects, so it’s generally not recommended as a stand-alone treat for dogs; it should only be given in very small amounts as an occasional treat. That’s why our recipes use a minimal amount of bacon, simply to provide a mouthwatering aroma that our furry friends love.(5,6)

• Honey: Honey is non-toxic to dogs and is completely safe in small amounts. It contains natural sugars and small amounts of vitamins and minerals, such as ascorbic acid, pantothenic acid, niacin, riboflavin, calcium, copper, iron, magnesium, manganese, phosphorus, potassium, and zinc. (7)

• Eggs: Eggs are high in vitamins (such as D, E, A, and B12), essential fatty acids such as linoleic acid, iron, phosphorus, folate, selenium, riboflavin, and protein. All of these can benefit your dog’s overall health and well-being, while also improving the appearance and quality of their skin and coat. Some dogs are egg intolerant, so if your dog has a pre-existing condition, consult your veterinarian before feeding them any egg-containing products. (8)

• Peppermint: Peppermint can benefit dogs by freshening their breath, aiding digestion, acting as a natural anti-inflammatory, providing antioxidants, and potentially helping with allergies due to its menthol and rosmarinic acid content, while offering valuable nutrients such as vitamins A and C, calcium, iron, and magnesium when given in moderation. (9)

• Parsley: Curly parsley is a great source of vitamins C, K, and A, folate, chlorophyll, fiber, and antioxidants, and also has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. Parsley is also a diuretic, meaning it helps increase urine production, which in turn can help improve the body’s processing of toxins through waste. It also helps improve our dog’s breath, boosts immunity, promotes cellular health, and supports brain and muscle function. You should only feed your dog the curly variety of parsley, and only in small, controlled amounts. (10) Our recipes use a balanced amount and we provide suggested amounts for all our products.

• Chicken breast: Chicken breast can be a healthy addition to your dog's diet because it's a good source of lean protein. Protein helps maintain a dog's tissues, energy levels, and immune system. It also contains vitamin B6, vitamin B3, zinc, and amino acids that support healthy skin, coat, and muscle development. (11)
  
  
• Yogurt: Plain, low-fat or fat-free yogurt provides probiotic benefits and is an excellent source of calcium for our furry companions. Adding a small spoonful of yogurt to your dog’s food at mealtime can provide digestive benefits and even help your dog feel fuller longer. (12) We only use fat-free Greek yogurt in the kitchen at Smart Paws PR, LLC.

• Salmon: Salmon is a nutritious and beneficial food for dogs and cats, providing several health benefits. For example, salmon is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, such as EPA and DHA, which promote skin and coat health, reduce inflammation, and improve joint health. It provides high-quality protein, which is essential for muscle growth and repair and overall health. Salmon contains essential vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin D, B vitamins (B6, B12), selenium, and phosphorus, which contribute to bone health, immune function, and metabolism. The DHA in salmon promotes healthy eye function and vision.( 13 , 14 )

• Tuna: Tuna is packed with protein and omega-3 fatty acids, which are important nutrients for your pet's skin, coat, and joint health. This fish also contains several essential vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin B12, selenium, and niacin, all beneficial elements of your dog's or cat's diet. When given in very small amounts as an occasional treat , tuna is safe for dogs. (15)
  

We're a small business, so our treats are handcrafted in small batches. The texture, consistency, shape, and color of the product you receive may vary.

No. Our products are free of artificial preservatives, flavors, and colors. It's important to know that pet treats made without preservatives should be stored in a cool, dry place to prevent spoilage and maintain their freshness. By keeping preservative-free treats in a cool, dry place, you ensure they remain safe and enjoyable for your pet for as long as possible.

Yes, all of our products, except for the “Chewy Bites” line, are dehydrated to remove as much moisture as possible and reduce the potential growth of mold and bacteria due to moisture.

No, our products are not a substitute for your pet's regular food. Our treats are intended to be used as rewards or during training. They are not a food substitute as they do not cover all of your pet's daily nutritional needs. It is important to read the ingredients in our products and consult your veterinarian before using them.

Storing our treats in a dry place minimizes the risk of mold and bacteria growth, which can occur in damp conditions. Heat can degrade the quality of treats and promote bacterial activity. A cool storage area helps slow these processes and prolongs the treats' shelf life. Exposure to air and light can cause oxidation, which affects the flavor, texture, and nutritional value of the treats. Our treats do not contain preservatives, so we recommend storing them in a cool, dry place or refrigerating them to ensure they remain safe and enjoyable for your pets for as long as possible.

Chef Lara's line of chewy bites should be refrigerated as they are not dehydrated and are more sensitive to moisture and heat. If two weeks have passed since opening the bag and your cats still have treats left, we recommend storing them in the freezer. Thaw them at room temperature before feeding them to your cats.

Yes. If your pet is allergic or sensitive to any of the ingredients in our recipes, we can remove, add, or substitute them so your pet can enjoy a delicious treat. A minimum purchase may apply depending on the order. Contact us or email us at smartpaws.pr@outlook.com.

Yes. Currently, we ship to Puerto Rico and the United States for standard shipping cost. We are a small company and hope to be able to offer free shipping in all our orders soon as we continue to grow.

Processing Time
Orders are processed within 1 to 2 business days after payment confirmation. Orders placed on weekends or holidays will be processed the next business day.

Delivery Times
Estimated delivery times depend on the chosen destination. Please note that delivery times may vary due to carrier delays or unforeseen circumstances.

Shipping Cost
Standard shipping costs for Puerto Rico and the United States are $4.

Order tracking
Once your order ships, you'll receive a tracking number via email to monitor its progress.

Lost or Damaged Packages
If your package is lost or damaged in transit, please contact us at smartpaws.pr@outlook.com within 7 days of the expected delivery date. We will work with the carrier to resolve the issue.

We do not accept returns or exchanges as these products are perishable. If you have any questions or concerns about any of our products, you can contact us through the Contact section or by email at smartpaws.pr@outlook.com .