It’s National Dog Day, and one entrepreneur in the dog treat industry believes that dogs should be part of the Make America Healthy Again (MAHA) campaign, which prioritizes whole, nutrient-rich foods.
“We’ve never relied on anything artificial,” said Sarah Goldberger, the founder and CEO of organic dog treat brand Lord Jameson based in New York. “We don’t use synthetic food dyes or flavorings. The vibrant colors of our products come exclusively from real fruits and vegetables.”
Since its inception as a formal federal initiative in February 2025, the MAHA Commission has advocated for a greater emphasis on whole foods while urging a decline in the intake of refined carbs, added sugars, and specific artificial additives. Goldberger is optimistic that these nutritional goals can also benefit pets.
“I hope our brand can inspire other pet companies to prioritize healthier choices for the well-being of dogs,” she mentioned.
Goldberger launched Lord Jameson in 2019, motivated by her dog, Jameson, after recognizing a gap in the market for healthier dog treats. “Jameson had dealt with a serious health problem, and the medication he was on led to toxicity,” Goldberger recounted.
She felt compelled to create treats crafted from “completely clean ingredients—organic, gluten-free, with no preservatives, toxins, or artificial additives.” Collaborating with a homeopathic vet showed her the potential of plant-based remedies, especially in their wellness products designed to aid dogs during healing periods. These formulas include more herbs and botanicals.
When initiating her brand, Goldberger surveyed over a thousand dog owners and found that many reported their pets suffering from allergies or sensitivities to various proteins, preservatives, and food colorings.
Despite not using any preservatives, the treats achieve an impressive 18-month shelf life, which Goldberger noted as challenging yet a significant selling point. “Lord Jameson has truly redefined what dog treats can and should be.”
Interestingly, Goldberger mentioned that she even enjoys the treats herself and sometimes includes them in her children’s lunches. Pet owners appreciate the treats for a range of reasons, particularly their positive influence on canine digestion.
“As a dedicated dog parent, I completely understand the frustration when you buy food or treats, only to find out later that they upset your dog’s stomach,” she said. “With our wholesome ingredients, you can expect solid digestion. It might be amusing to mention, but it’s a common highlight in reviews we receive.”
Goldberger added that the treats may also benefit dogs with colitis, diabetes, or other specific dietary requirements.
Lord Jameson has introduced a range of new “protein-inspired” flavors under its Love Puffs line, featuring organic sorghum, a whole grain rich in both protein and fiber.
Another distinguishing aspect of Lord Jameson is that the brand operates with complete vertical integration, managing its production, kitchen, warehouse, and fulfillment from Boulder, Colorado. “We haven’t raised prices in three or four years, and we’ve faced no tariff issues since we primarily source materials in North America,” Goldberger explained.
Lord Jameson treats are available in 5,500 independent pet shops across the United States, select grocery stores, and are also offered internationally in four countries.
