This new local business is upcycling spent grain from area breweries into healthy dog treats

whosagooddog? launched earlier this month and uses spent grains from local breweries to make small batch, organic dog treats.

A smiling dog stands next to a bag of whosagooddog? treats

This baby’s smile really says it all.

Photo via @_whosagooddog_

Earlier this month, new small-batch dog treat company whosagooddog? launched. A brainchild of former special needs instructor Jen Nathanson, this business makes treats using spent grains from local breweries to create human grade, organic treats all based on recipes she’s formulated herself.

“I’m a lifelong baker, I love food, and my kids are grown,” says Jen. “I used to bake treats for their school all the time, so I decided to start making them for dogs.”

Jen uses the unique flavors and tasting notes of local seasonal releases, like Highland Brewing Co.'s iconic Cold Mountain, as inspiration. “I use spent grains like barley and rye, then add fruits and nuts and things like molasses, honey, and flaxseed meal.”

The result? Tasty and healthy dehydrated dog treats with a distinct crunch. If you want to get your paws on some, samples are available at local dog-friendly establishments, including Wrong Way Campground, Outsider Brewing Company, High Five Coffee- Riverside. Aloft Hotel will also have them on deck at its Sun., Oct. 30 Howl-O-Ween Dog Party.

Find them for purchase at Highland Brewing Co.'s East Asheville and downtown locations. You can also contact Jen via social media or email to place an order.

More from AVLtoday
Share your vision for the next 20 years of the city’s green space during a March 21 workshop at the NC Arboretum.
Fresh off a statewide honor, the Market Place chef dishes on Asheville dining.
Get a look into how Asheville built its architectural identity brick by brick through the 1920s.
The Thompson Street venue will host Rhiannon Giddens, Mary Chapin Carpenter, Mavis Staples, and Hurray for the Riff Raff for its first show in August.
Whether you prefer pitching your tent by the river or glamping amongst the treetops, there’s a Hipcamp with your name on it less than an hour from home.
Similar past recognitions like “Beer City USA” have helped put Asheville in the national spotlight.
The City of Asheville and ATG Entertainment have set their sights on a downtown location for the potential mixed-use development with plans to request a land hold next month.
Help us create a growing guide to small businesses by submitting your favorite local makers, restaurants, and professionals, and sharing this page with a friend.
Bookmark this guide for a curated list of events taking place each month that we’re most looking forward to.
Learn more about Community Supported Agriculture and partner with a local farm during CSA Week.