Does your dog ever give you those “Is it breakfast time yet?” eyes while you prepare your meal? It’s time to treat them to something special!
These homemade dog waffles are easy to make and packed with flavor, making your dog’s morning extra special.
Whether it’s a celebration or just a way to show them some extra love, these waffles are sure to become their new favorite breakfast!
Homemade Dog Waffles Recipe
These simple, healthy waffles are packed with flavor and easy to make, perfect for spoiling your dog at breakfast time!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup oat flour
- 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce (or substitute with pumpkin puree)
- 1 egg
- ½ tablespoon of baking powder
- ½ tablespoon coconut oil
Optional:
- 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon for a warm, aromatic touch
- 1 tablespoon honey for a hint of natural sweetness
Step-by-Step Instructions
#1 Heat Up the Waffle Maker
Plug in your waffle maker and allow it to preheat. If the surface isn’t non-stick, apply a light coating of non-stick spray or coconut oil to prevent sticking during cooking.
#2 Combine Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the applesauce (or pumpkin puree), egg, melted coconut oil, and chicken broth (if you’re including it). Mix until the ingredients are smooth and evenly blended.
#3 Add the Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the oat flour and baking powder to the wet mixture. Optionally, include extras like ground flaxseed or Greek yogurt for added nutrients. If the batter feels too thick, stir in a small amount of chicken broth or water to loosen it.
#4 Cook the Waffles
Scoop 2–3 tablespoons of batter into the waffle maker, adjusting the amount to fit the size of your machine. Close the lid and cook for 3–5 minutes, or until the waffles are golden brown and set. Check for doneness as waffle makers can vary.
#5 Cool Completely
Carefully remove the waffles using a spatula and place them on a wire rack to cool. Wait until they’re completely cooled before offering them to your dog.
#6 Serve or Store
Serve the waffles as a snack or crumble them over your dog’s meal. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week or freeze them for longer storage. Thaw before serving.
Why Waffles Are a Fun and Unique Treat for Dogs
While traditional dog treats are great, waffles offer a fun and exciting alternative! They provide an opportunity to get creative with flavors and shapes. Here’s why waffles make an excellent dog treat:
- Texture Variety: Waffles offer a unique texture that’s fun for dogs to chew, making them more enjoyable than typical biscuits or cookies. The crispy exterior and soft interior can keep your dog engaged and satisfied.
- Customizable Shapes and Sizes: Waffle makers come in many shapes and sizes, which means you can customize the waffles to fit your dog’s needs. Mini waffles are great for smaller dogs or as training treats, while larger waffles can be cut into fun shapes for special occasions or birthdays.
- Interactive Meal: Waffles can be served as part of an interactive meal, where you top the waffles with other dog-friendly ingredients like plain yogurt, fruit, or even their favorite meat topping. This turns a simple treat into an engaging and satisfying experience.
Making Waffles for Dogs with Special Diets
If your dog has a special diet or dietary restrictions, it’s easy to modify this recipe to fit their needs. Here’s how you can adjust the ingredients:
- Grain-Free: For dogs that are sensitive to grains or have a grain allergy, you can easily substitute oat flour with almond flour or coconut flour. These options are both grain-free and will provide a similar texture for the waffles.
- Dairy-Free: If your dog is lactose intolerant, replace Greek yogurt with coconut yogurt or simply skip the yogurt altogether for a non-dairy option. Coconut yogurt is a great alternative that will still add creaminess and healthy fats to the waffles.
- Sugar-Free: Ensure that any sweeteners you use are natural and safe for dogs. Unsweetened applesauce is a great alternative to sugar. Avoid using artificial sweeteners like xylitol, which is toxic to dogs.
How to Serve These Waffles as a Complete Meal or Treat
Waffles can be more than just a treat—they can be used as a meal topper or even as a fun way to celebrate a special occasion like your dog’s birthday.
- Meal Toppers: You can cut the waffles into small pieces and sprinkle them over your dog’s regular food. This is a great way to make their meal more exciting and to add variety to their diet.
- Special Occasions: Decorate the waffles with a dog-safe frosting (like plain yogurt) and top them with your dog’s favorite fruit (such as blueberries or apple slices) for a fun birthday or adoption day treat. You can also add a dog-friendly candle for the full birthday experience!
- Training Rewards: If you’re working on training, use small pieces of the waffle as high-value rewards. Their unique texture and flavor make them a great motivator for training sessions.
Conclusion
These homemade dog waffles are a fun, nutritious, and versatile treat that your dog will love. With simple ingredients like oats, pumpkin, and bananas, these waffles are gentle on your dog’s stomach and can be adapted to fit any special dietary needs.
Whether you’re serving them as a special breakfast, meal topper, or a fun birthday treat, these waffles are sure to become a new favorite in your dog’s treat rotation. Plus, you’ll know exactly what’s in the waffles, making them a healthier option than store-bought treats. Enjoy making these easy and delicious waffles for your furry friend!