Pet treat testing questions, answered
Testing is performed by independent professional laboratory partners. TreatReady is not a laboratory.
Why should I test my dog treats?
Laboratory data helps you understand what's actually in your treats — nutrient levels, selected microbial indicators, contaminants or freshness measures. Businesses use it for recipe development, packaging information, quality control and conversations with retailers.
What testing do I need before selling pet treats?
It depends on your product, ingredients, where you sell and the rules that apply to you. Many businesses start with a Guaranteed Analysis and a Treat Safety Screen, or the Complete Treat Test that combines both. TreatReady can help you compare options, but we don't provide legal or regulatory advice — check requirements with the relevant authorities or a qualified advisor.
What's the difference between Guaranteed Analysis and a full nutritional profile?
Guaranteed Analysis measures moisture, crude protein, crude fat, crude fiber and ash. Protein + Minerals measures moisture and crude protein plus minerals such as calcium, phosphorus, sodium, potassium, magnesium, iron, zinc, manganese, copper and sulfur. Neither is an AAFCO nutritional adequacy test.
How do I send my treats for testing?
After you order, you'll receive a sample reference plus packaging and shipping instructions. You ship your sample directly to the laboratory and can track its progress in your TreatReady account.
How much of my product do I need to send?
It varies by test — for example 250g for Guaranteed Analysis, 100g for the Treat Safety Screen. Each test page lists the requirement where it's known, and your order instructions confirm it.
How long does laboratory testing take?
Published laboratory processing times range from about 2–3 business days for nutrition tests to about 5 business days for the safety screen. Shipping time isn't included, and timing can vary with laboratory workload.
Does testing guarantee my treats are safe?
No. Testing describes the specific sample analyzed for the specific things measured. It doesn't prove a whole product line is safe, and TreatReady does not label results as safe, unsafe, pass or fail.
Will I receive a laboratory report?
Yes. You'll get an easy-to-read results summary in your dashboard and the official laboratory report as a download. The official report is the authoritative record.
Can I test homemade dog treats?
Yes. Small businesses and independent makers are exactly who TreatReady is built for, as long as you can send the required sample amount.
Do you support cat treat testing?
Yes. Every test in our catalog is available for both dog treats and cat treats.
Can TreatReady certify that my products comply with regulations?
No. TreatReady coordinates laboratory testing through independent laboratories. We don't certify, approve or declare products compliant, and we don't provide legal advice.
Still deciding? Browse testing services or get a recommendation.