Ram8349, Not only is it empty nutrition, wheat is a cause of allergies in many dogs. That is why I use rice flour when baking those treats. I will not feed any food or treat that contains corn or wheat (both can contribute to allergies) or any by-products. I feel like just with us, better nutrition, better health.
True story: A young co-worker bought his new wife a pup. Angel. After they had her for a while I ask one day how is angel doing. He says she doing fine but she scratches a lot. It was winter so I did not think fleas. I ask what they fed her. He named a grocery store brand of food. I told him, about corn and wheat in dog food. Also told him about better brands that do not contain either and suggested he gradually switch her to one of those brands. That Sunday I got a call from him. He was in a pet food store but a different one from the one I use, therefore their brands were different. He started reading ingredients lists to me. When he hit on one that had a type of MEAT, not meal, as the first ingredient and contained no corn, wheat or by products I said, THAT ONE! Get that one. Several weeks later I asked him how was Angels scratching? He said, You know, she doesn't do that any more. Coincidence? I think not!!