One of the best ways to show your love for your dog is to prepare healthy and delicious homemade treats they’ll enjoy. Sure, store-bought treats are much more convenient, but there’s something special about knowing exactly what goes into your dog’s snacks.
Making these treats at home allows you to arrange them according to your dog’s taste preferences and dietary needs. If you are not a great cook, do not worry; this blog is perfect because I will share simple recipes that make your dog happy.
I will also go over the benefits of making your dog treats, which ingredients to avoid, and how to customize recipes to meet your dog’s specific needs. By the end, you will have the knowledge and inspiration to start baking for your pup.
Benefits of Homemade Dog Treats
Making dog treats at home benefits not just your dog but you as a pet owner as well.
Control over ingredients: When you bake at home, you have full control over what goes into it. You can avoid unhealthy additives, preservatives, or artificial flavors often found in commercial treats.
Customization: Homemade treats allow you to adjust the ingredients according to your dog’s specific dietary needs. You can control whether they require grain-free options, low-fat treats, or snacks that support joint health.
Bonding Time: Cooking with your dog is a fun way to bond. Your dog will appreciate the effort you make to make delicious treats for them.
Cost-effective: In the long run, making these treats at home can be cheaper than purchasing store-bought alternatives.
Freshness: Homemade treats are free of preservatives, so they’re fresher and more nutritious.
Ingredients Should You Avoid in
Generally speaking, making dog treats at home is safe. However, there are some toxic ingredients that your dog should never consume, so always check before starting to cook.
Chocolate: As many know, sugar can be very harmful to dogs, and most chocolate contains a high amount. Additionally, chocolate contains theobromine, which is toxic and can cause severe illness or even death.
Xylitol: This is an artificial sweetener. This substance, mostly found in peanut butter and sugar-free products, is highly toxic to dogs.
Grapes & Raisins: They may seem innocent, but those fruits can cause kidney failure in dogs, even in small amounts.
Onions & Garlic: Those are those that can cause gastrointestinal upset. And damage the red cells in dogs.
Macadamia Nuts: These nuts are toxic for dogs; they can cause weakness, vomiting, and hyperthermia.
Alcohol: Even small amounts of alcohol can be dangerous for dogs, leading to poisoning.
Easy Dog Treat Recipes
After we learned about the benefits of homemade treats and ingredients to avoid, it’s time to dive into easy recipes you can try at home. Each recipe includes a list of ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and tips for nutritional benefits.
1. Peanut Butter
Ingredients:
2 cups whole wheat flour
1/2 cup peanut butter (check if it’s xylitol-free)
2 eggs
1/4 cup water
Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Combine the flour, peanut butter, and eggs. Mix until well combined.
Add water, a little at a time, until the dough is thick but workable.
Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thick.
Cut into the desired shapes using a cookie cutter.
Place the treats on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
Allow it to cool completely before serving it to your dog.
Tips for Peanut Butter Treats:
As we speak, make sure to use peanut butter that is free of xylitol. For a softer treat, bake for a shorter time; for a crunchier treat, bake longer.
2. Pumpkin and Oatmeal
Ingredients:
1 cup pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
2 1/2 cups rolled oats
1 egg
Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a food processor, pulse the oats until they are coarse flour.
Combine the pumpkin puree, eggs, and oat flour.
Mix until the dough comes together.
Roll the dough out on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thick.
Use a cookie cutter to cut out shapes.
Place the treats on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 25–30 minutes until the edges are golden brown.
Let it cool completely before serving.
Nutritional Benefits:
Because it contains essential vitamins like fiber and antioxidants, pumpkin is an excellent choice. It also aids digestion and can help soothe an upset stomach. Oats are the other good source of carbohydrates your dog gets from; they provide energy without causing spikes in blood sugar.
3. Chicken Sweet Potato
Ingredients:
1 cup cooked, shredded chicken
1 cup mashed sweet potato
1 egg
1/2 cup oat flour
Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Combine the chicken, sweet potato, and egg.
Add the oat flour, mixing until the dough holds together.
Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thick.
Cut into shapes with a cookie cutter.
Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until firm.
Allow it to cool before serving.
Why Sweet Potato is Great for Dogs:
Sweet potatoes are high in dietary fiber, which aids digestion. Also, they contain rich vitamins like A, C, and B6, which support a healthy immune system.
4. Apple and Carrot
Ingredients:
1 apple, grated
1 carrot, grated
1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
1 cup rolled oats
Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a large bowl, combine the grated apple and carrot.
Stir in the Greek yogurt and oats, mixing until well combined.
Spoon the mixture onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Flatten each spoonful slightly with the back of a spoon.
Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until firm.
Allow to cool completely before serving.
Health Benefits of Apples and Carrots:
Apple is high in fiber and vitamin C. They will help clean your dog’s teeth. And carrots are calorie-rich and high in fiber and vitamins; together, they make healthy treats.
5. Banana and Oatmeal
Ingredients:
1 ripe banana, mashed
1 cup rolled oats
1/2 cup whole wheat flour
1/4 cup peanut butter
Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Mash the banana until smooth.
Add the oatmeal, flour, and peanut butter, and mix until well combined.
Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thick.
Cut into shapes with a cookie cutter.
Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until firm.
Let it cool completely before serving.
Tips for Making Banana Treats:
You can choose ripe bananas because they are easier to mash and naturally sweeter. If your dog has a wheat allergy, you can use whole wheat flour with any dog-safe flour.
6. Cheesy Bacon
Ingredients:
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
2 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
1/2 cup whole wheat flour
1 egg
1/4 cup water
Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a large bowl, combine the cheese, bacon, flour, and egg.
Add water gradually until the dough comes together.
Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thick.
Cut into the desired shapes using a cookie cutter.
Place the treats on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until golden brown.
Let cool before serving.
Benefits of Cheese in Treats:
Cheese is a good source of protein and calcium. Also, they are highly motivating ingredients for training treats.
7. Blueberry and Yogurt
Ingredients:
1/2 cup blueberries
1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
1 cup oat flour
Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a blender, puree the blueberries and yogurt until smooth.
In a large bowl, combine the blueberry mixture with the oat flour.
Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thick.
Cut into shapes with a cookie cutter.
Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until firm.
Let it cool completely before serving.
Nutritional Benefits of Blueberries:
They are rich in antioxidants, which help fight free radicals and support health. They are also low in calories and high in fiber, which makes them a healthy treat.
8. Sweet Potato Chews
Ingredients:
2 large sweet potatoes
Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 250°F (120°C).
Wash and peel the sweet potatoes.
Slice the sweet potatoes into thin, even slices, about 1/4 inch thick.
Place the slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Bake for 2-3 hours, flipping halfway through, until the sweet potatoes are dried and chewy.
Allow to cool completely before serving.
Why Dogs Love Sweet Potatoes:
Sweet potatoes are naturally sweet, and they are packed with vitamins A and B, which are essential for your dog’s eye health.
9. Salmon and Sweet Potato
Ingredients:
1 cup cooked salmon, flaked
1 cup mashed sweet potato
1 egg
1/2 cup oat flour
Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Combine the salmon, sweet potato, and egg in a large bowl.
Gradually add the oat flour, mixing until the dough holds together.
Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thick.
Cut into shapes with a cookie cutter.
Place the treats on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until firm.
Cool it completely before serving.
Health Benefits of Salmon:
Salmon is a great source of omega-3 fatty acids, which promote healthy skin and a glossy coat. Provides high-quality protein to help with muscle maintenance.
10. Spinach and Chicken
Ingredients:
1 cup cooked, shredded chicken
1/2 cup chopped spinach
1 egg
1/2 cup whole wheat flour
Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a large bowl, combine the chicken, spinach, and egg.
Gradually add the flour, mixing until the dough comes together.
Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thick.
Cut into shapes with a cookie cutter.
Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until firm.
Nutritional Value of Spinach:
For better immune systems, spinach is the right choice; it is rich in iron, vitamins A, C, and K, and antioxidants.
11. Peanut Butter and Banana
Ingredients:
1 ripe banana, mashed
1/2 cup peanut butter (xylitol-free)
1 1/2 cups whole wheat flour
1/4 cup water
Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Mashed banana and peanut butter.
Gradually add the flour, mixing until the dough holds together.
Add water as needed to achieve the right consistency.
Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thick.
Cut into shapes with a cookie cutter.
Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
Combining Peanut Butter and Banana:
It is a classic flavor combo that every dog loves. Bananas are naturally sweet, rich in potassium, and also filled with fiber.
Ingredients:
1 carrot, grated
1 zucchini, grated
1 egg
1 cup oat flour
Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Combine the grated carrot, zucchini, and egg.
Gradually add the oat flour, mixing until the dough holds together.
Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thick.
Cut into shapes with a cookie cutter.
Place the treats on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Bake for 20–25 minutes.
Benefits of Vegetables in Treats:
When you add vegetables like carrots and zucchini to your dog’s treats, you are not only adding flavor but also providing a balanced source of vitamins and fiber.
13. Apple and Peanut Butter
Ingredients:
1 apple, grated
1/2 cup peanut butter (xylitol-free)
1 1/2 cups whole wheat flour
1 egg
Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Combine the grated apple, peanut butter, and egg.
Gradually add the flour, mixing until the dough holds together.
Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thick.
Cut into shapes with a cookie cutter.
Place the treats on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until firm.
Allow to cool completely before serving.
Combining Apple and Peanut Butter:
Hands down, this combination is the best treat out there. It gives both taste and nutrition to your dog. Apples provide a crunchy texture with natural sweetness, while peanut butter rounds out the flavor.
14. Beef and Cheddar
Ingredients:
1 cup cooked, ground beef
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup whole wheat flour
1 egg
Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Combine the ground beef, cheddar cheese, and egg.
Gradually add the flour, mixing until the dough comes together.
Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thick.
Cut into shapes with a cookie cutter.
Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Bake for 20–25 minutes.
Benefits of Beef in Treats:
Because it contains a high-quality source of protein, beef helps support your dog’s muscle health. They are also rich in iron and zinc, which boost your dog’s overall health.
15. Cranberry and Pumpkin
Ingredients:
1/2 cup dried cranberries (unsweetened)
1/2 cup pumpkin puree
1/2 cup oat flour
1 egg
Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Combine the cranberries, pumpkin puree, and egg.
Gradually add the oat flour, mixing until the dough holds together.
Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thick.
Cut into shapes with a cookie cutter.
Place the treats on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Bake for 20–25 minutes.
Nutritional Benefits of Cranberries:
If you combine cranberries with pumpkin, you will get a delicious, high-antioxidant treat that supports urinary tract health in dogs.
16. Turkey and Cranberry
Ingredients:
1 cup cooked, shredded turkey
1/2 cup dried cranberries (unsweetened)
1 1/2 cups whole wheat flour
1 egg
Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Combine the shredded turkey, cranberries, and egg.
Gradually add the flour, mixing until the dough holds together.
Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thick.
Cut into shapes with a cookie cutter.
Place the treats on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until golden brown.
Let cool before serving.
Thanksgiving-Inspired Treats:
When it comes to celebrations, this treat is an indispensable option. It is delicious; turkey is a lean protein that promotes muscle health, and cranberries are antioxidants.
17. Mint and Parsley
Ingredients:
1/4 cup fresh mint, chopped
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
1 1/2 cups whole wheat flour
1 egg
1/4 cup water
Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Combine the chopped mint, parsley, and egg in a large bowl.
Gradually add the flour, mixing until the dough holds together.
Add water as needed to achieve the right consistency.
Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thick.
Cut into shapes with a cookie cutter.
Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until firm.
Benefits of Mint and Parsley:
For natural, fresh breath for your dog, mint is a great choice. When combined with parsley, which is rich in vitamins and minerals, you can create a super healthy treat that your dog will love.
18. Peanut Butter and Oat
Ingredients:
1 cup rolled oats
1/2 cup peanut butter (xylitol-free)
1/4 cup honey
1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
Instructions:
Combine the oatmeal, peanut butter, and honey.
Mix until well combined.
Roll the mixture into small balls.
Roll each ball in shredded coconut to coat.
Place the balls on a tray and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Healthy and Quick:
When you have limited time, you can make no-bake recipes that are packed with energy, like this one. Oats are a rich source of fiber, while coconut adds a touch of healthy fat and deliciousness.
19. Tuna and Sweet Potato
Ingredients:
1 can tuna in water, drained
1/2 cup mashed sweet potato
1 egg
1/2 cup oat flour
Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Combine the tuna, sweet potato, and egg in a large bowl.
Gradually add the oat flour, mixing until the dough holds together.
Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thick.
Cut into shapes with a cookie cutter.
Place the treats on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until firm.
Let it cool completely before serving.
Benefits of Tuna:
If you want to keep your dog’s skin and coat healthy, you can always choose tuna, which is packed with omega-3 fatty acids, and when combined with sweet potatoes, these treats give your dog a nutritious and flavorful taste.
20. Coconut and Pumpkin
Ingredients:
1/2 cup pumpkin puree
1/4 cup coconut oil, melted
1 1/2 cups whole wheat flour
1 egg
Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Combine the pumpkin puree, coconut oil, and egg in a large bowl.
Gradually add the flour, mixing until the dough comes together.
Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thick.
Cut into shapes with a cookie cutter.
Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
Let cool completely before serving.
Coconut and Pumpkin Combination:
Coconut oil is excellent for improving your dog’s skin and coat health, while pumpkin, rich in fiber, supports a strong immune system.
21. Cheese and Bacon
Ingredients:
1/2 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 1/2 cups whole wheat flour
1 egg
Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Combine the bacon, cheddar cheese, and egg.
Gradually add the flour, mixing until the dough holds together.
Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thick.
Cut into shapes with a cookie cutter.
Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until firm.
Let it cool before serving.
Irresistible Flavor Combination:
Cheese and bacon is the best combination that will get your dog approved. If we look at it from a health perspective, it’s not the healthiest on this list, but it offers rich flavors. For special occasions, it’s the perfect treat.
this list, but it offers rich flavors. For special occasions, it’s the perfect treat.
22. Peanut Butter and Yogurt Popsicles
Ingredients:
1/2 cup peanut butter (xylitol-free)
1/2 cup plain yogurt
1 ripe banana, mashed
1/4 cup water
Instructions:
In a blender, combine the peanut butter, yogurt, banana, and water.
Blend until smooth.
Pour the mixture into popsicle molds or ice cube trays.
Freeze for at least 4 hours, or until solid.
Serve as a refreshing treat on a hot day.
Perfect Summer Treats:
These popsicles are perfect for cooling down your dog, especially on hot summer days. We all know dogs naturally love peanut butter—plus, it’s a great source of protein. When combined with bananas and the creaminess of yogurt, this treat is truly irresistible.
23. Carrot and Apple
Ingredients:
1 carrot, grated
1 apple, grated
1 1/2 cups whole wheat flour
1 egg
Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Combine the grated carrot, grated apple, and egg in a large bowl.
Gradually add the flour, mixing until the dough holds together.
Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thick.
Cut into shapes with a cookie cutter.
Place the treats on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until firm.
Let it cool completely before serving.
Carrot and Apple Combination:
Carrots add a crunch that dogs love, while apples provide natural sweetness. This combination is nutritious and supports your dog’s overall health.
24. Pumpkin and Peanut Butter
Ingredients:
1/2 cup pumpkin puree
1/2 cup peanut butter (xylitol-free)
1 1/2 cups whole wheat flour
1 egg
Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a large bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, peanut butter, and egg.
Gradually add the flour, mixing until the dough comes together.
Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thick.
Cut into shapes with a cookie cutter.
Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until golden brown.
Why Dogs Love Pumpkin:
Pumpkin is rich in fiber and can help with digestion. Combined with peanut butter, this treat is both tasty and healthy. Just do not forget to check if the peanut butter you use is xylitol-free.
25. Chicken and Rice
Ingredients:
1 cup cooked, shredded chicken
1/2 cup cooked rice
1 egg
1 1/2 cups whole wheat flour
Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a large bowl, combine the chicken, rice, and egg.
Gradually add the flour, mixing until the dough holds together.
Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thick.
Cut into shapes with a cookie cutter.
Place the treats on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until firm.
Cool it completely before serving.
Simple and Nutritious:
If you have a dog with a sensitive stomach and digestive problems, this recipe may be a good option. Chicken provides lean protein, and rice offers a source of easily digestible carbohydrates.
Conclusion
Thank you for reading this far! Making homemade treats is a special way to show your dog how much you care. All of these recipes are simple to make, typically taking only 15 to 30 minutes, depending on the recipe. Plus, they’re free from additives and preservatives that could harm your dog, offering a healthy, delicious, and love-filled taste.
Whether your dog prefers sweet or savory treats, I’m sure you’ll find something on this list to make both you and your dog happy.
Happy baking, and enjoy the time spent in the kitchen with your dog! See you in the next blog.
