Homemade dog treats are the best way to pamper your pup. Not only do they provide healthier alternatives to store-bought snacks, but you can also customize the ingredients to suit your dog’s specific dietary needs. These five long-lasting recipes will keep your furry friend happy and occupied, with treats that are as nutritious as they are delicious!
Easy Long-Lasting Homemade Dog Treats
Minty Fresh Breath Dog Treats
Infused with fresh mint and parsley, these treats not only freshen your dog’s breath but also promote dental health. Their crunchy texture helps remove plaque, while the natural ingredients work wonders for your dog’s oral hygiene.
Ingredients:
- 2 1/2 cups old-fashioned oats
- 1/2 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup fresh mint, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup water (more if needed)
- 3 tbsp melted coconut oil
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).
- Grind oats into coarse flour.
- Add parsley, mint, and coconut oil, and mix until a dough forms.
- Roll out, cut into shapes, and bake for 25-30 minutes.
Storage: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks or freeze for longer storage.
Peanut Butter and Pumpkin Dog Chews
These peanut butter and pumpkin chews are a hit with dogs who love a satisfying crunch. Peanut butter provides healthy fats and protein, while pumpkin offers fiber and vitamins. Baking these chews at a low temperature ensures they stay crunchy for longer.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups whole wheat flour (or a dog-friendly alternative)
- 1/2 cup natural peanut butter (xylitol-free)
- 1 cup pumpkin puree (not pie filling)
- 1/4 cup chicken or beef broth
- 1 tsp cinnamon (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Mix flour and cinnamon in a bowl.
- Stir in peanut butter and pumpkin puree, then add broth gradually.
- Knead until the dough is firm.
- Roll out the dough, cut into shapes, and bake for 25-30 minutes.
- Lower the oven to 200°F (93°C) and bake for 1-2 more hours to dry out the chews.
- Let cool completely.
Storage: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks or freeze for up to 3 months.
Crispy Beef Liver Treats
Packed with protein, these crispy beef liver treats are perfect for meat-loving dogs. Dehydrating the liver ensures these treats last longer without losing their nutrients.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound beef liver
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 200°F (93°C).
- Slice liver into 1/4 inch strips.
- Lay the strips on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 3-4 hours, flipping halfway.
- Cool completely.
Storage: Store in the fridge for up to 2 weeks or freeze for longer storage.
Dehydrated Chicken Jerky
This simple chicken jerky recipe provides a lean, protein-packed treat that’s perfect for keeping your dog busy. The chewy texture also makes it last longer, giving your dog hours of enjoyment.
Ingredients:
- 2-3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 200°F (93°C).
- Slice chicken breasts into thin strips.
- Lay the strips on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 2-3 hours, flipping halfway.
- Cool completely.
Storage: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 weeks or freeze for up to 3 months.
Sweet Potato and Oatmeal Biscuits
These sweet potato and oatmeal biscuits are not only tasty but also great for your dog’s digestive health. The oats promote good dental hygiene, while sweet potatoes provide fiber and essential nutrients.
Ingredients:
- 1 large sweet potato, cooked and mashed
- 2 cups rolled oats (blended into coarse flour)
- 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 1/4 cup water
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Blend oats into coarse flour.
- Mix mashed sweet potato, oat flour, applesauce, and cinnamon.
- Add water gradually to form a dough.
- Roll out the dough, cut into shapes, and bake for 30-35 minutes.
- For extra crispness, lower the temperature to 200°F (93°C) and bake for another 30 minutes.
Storage: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 weeks or freeze for longer storage.
Portion Control and Moderation
While homemade treats are healthier, it’s still essential to give them in moderation. Overfeeding treats, even healthy ones, can lead to weight gain and upset stomachs. Here’s a guide on portion control:
- Small Dogs: 1-2 small treats per day.
- Medium Dogs: 2-3 treats per day.
- Large Dogs: 3-4 treats per day.
Remember, treats should not exceed 10% of your dog’s daily caloric intake. If you’re unsure, consult with your vet about the appropriate portion sizes.
Signs Your Dog May Be Sensitive to Certain Ingredients
While the recipes are generally safe for most dogs, some pups may have sensitivities or allergies to certain ingredients. Common signs of food intolerance in dogs include:
- Vomiting or diarrhea
- Excessive itching or ear infections
- Red or inflamed skin
- Changes in behavior or appetite
If you notice any of these symptoms after introducing a new treat, it’s a good idea to consult your veterinarian and discontinue that treat.
Choosing the Best Ingredients for Homemade Dog Treats
When making treats for your dog, not all ingredients are created equal. Here’s a quick guide to choosing healthy, dog-safe ingredients:
- Flours: Opt for whole wheat flour, oat flour, or rice flour. These are easy on your dog’s digestive system. For dogs with allergies, chickpea flour, coconut flour, or gluten-free alternatives are good options.
- Sweeteners: Avoid refined sugars and opt for naturally sweet ingredients like pumpkin, sweet potato, or applesauce. These provide extra vitamins and fiber.
- Fats: Healthy fats like peanut butter (make sure it’s xylitol-free), coconut oil, or fish oil can benefit your dog’s coat and overall health.
- Herbs and Spices: Fresh herbs like parsley, mint, and rosemary can add flavor and freshen your dog’s breath. Spices like turmeric or cinnamon, when used in moderation, provide anti-inflammatory benefits.
How to Make Treats Even More Fun
To engage your dog further, you can use these treats for enrichment:
- Puzzle Toys: Place these homemade treats inside treat-dispensing toys to challenge your dog’s brain and extend the fun.
- Training Rewards: Use small portions of these treats to reward good behavior during training sessions.
- Interactive Playtime: Hide the treats around the house or yard and let your dog search for them, turning snack time into a game.
When to Introduce New Treats
If you’ve never made homemade treats for your dog, it’s a good idea to introduce them slowly to monitor for any adverse reactions. Start with a small portion, and watch for signs of digestive upset or allergies. If your dog enjoys the treats and has no issues, you can gradually increase the serving size.
Conclusion
Homemade dog treats are not only a healthier choice for your furry friend, but they also provide you with the opportunity to bond over something delicious. Whether it’s peanut butter and pumpkin chews, sweet potato biscuits, or chewy chicken jerky, these long-lasting treats will keep your dog satisfied, entertained, and healthy. So roll up your sleeves and start baking your way to a happier, healthier dog!