When it comes to pampering your pup, nothing beats homemade dog treats. Not only are they a healthier alternative to store-bought snacks, but they also allow you to tailor ingredients to your dog’s dietary needs and preferences.
Here, we’ve put together five recipes for long-lasting homemade dog treats that are sure to keep your furry friend happy and occupied.
Long-Lasting Homemade Dog Treats
1. Peanut Butter and Pumpkin Dog Chews
Peanut butter and pumpkin dog chews are perfect for pups who love a tasty snack that lasts. With the rich, nutty flavor of peanut butter and the smooth, slightly sweet taste of pumpkin, these chews offer a delicious combo.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups whole wheat flour (substitute with any other dog-friendly flour if your pet has allergies)
- 1/2 cup natural peanut butter (make sure it’s xylitol-free)
- 1 cup pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
- 1/4 cup chicken or beef broth
- 1 tsp cinnamon (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Mix the flour and cinnamon in a large bowl.
- Add the peanut butter and pumpkin puree. Begin to mix; gradually pour in the broth to help bind everything into a dough.
- Knead the dough until it’s firm and smooth.
- Roll out the dough to about 1/4 inch thickness.
- Cut into shapes with a cookie cutter or a knife.
- Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 25-30 minutes until hard.
- Cool on a rack before giving to your dog.
2. Sweet Potato and Oatmeal Biscuits
Sweet potato and oatmeal biscuits bring together two hearty ingredients in a treat that’s both crunchy and chewy. The natural sweetness of sweet potatoes and the wholesome goodness of oatmeal create a biscuit that’s tough enough to keep your dog busy but still easy on the teeth. They’re also great for promoting dental health.
Ingredients:
- 1 large sweet potato, cooked and mashed (about 1 cup)
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 1/4 cup water or as needed
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Blend the oats in a food processor until they reach a coarse flour consistency.
- Combine the mashed sweet potato, oat flour, applesauce, and cinnamon in a large bowl.
- Gradually add water until the mixture forms a workable dough.
- Roll out the dough to about 1/4 inch thickness.
- Cut into shapes using your favorite cookie cutters.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until crispy.
- Cool thoroughly before storing or giving to your dog.
3. Beefy Sweet Potato Sticks
Beefy sweet potato sticks are the ultimate snack for dogs who love a savory treat. Combining the rich, meaty flavor of beef with the firm texture of sweet potatoes, these sticks offer a satisfying bite that lasts. They’re also packed with protein and nutrients.
Ingredients:
- 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and grated
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1/2 cup whole wheat flour (or substitute with another dog-friendly flour)
- 1 tablespoon parsley, finely chopped
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Mix the grated sweet potatoes, ground beef, beaten egg, and parsley in a large bowl until well combined.
- Gradually add the flour to the mixture, stirring until everything is well mixed and holds together.
- Shape the mixture into sticks or finger-sized portions.
- Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 35-40 minutes until they are firm and browned.
- Cool completely on a wire rack before serving or storing.
4. Chicken and Rice Balls
Chicken and rice balls are a versatile treat that’s both chewy and filling. Made with lean chicken and rice, these balls are firm enough to provide a longer-lasting chew while still being gentle on sensitive stomachs.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup cooked chicken, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup cooked brown rice
- 1/4 cup peas, cooked and mashed
- 1 carrot, finely grated
- 1 egg
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Combine the chicken, rice, peas, and carrot in a large bowl.
- Add the beaten egg and mix until the ingredients are well coated and can be formed into balls.
- Shape the mixture into small, bite-sized balls.
- Place the balls on a greased or parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Bake for about 25 minutes or until the balls are firm and lightly golden.
- Cool thoroughly before offering to your dog.
5. Minty Fresh Breath Dog Treats
Minty fresh-breath dog treats offer more than just a tasty chew—they help keep your dog’s breath fresh, too! These treats are infused with natural mint to combat bad breath while providing a long-lasting chew that dogs love.
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 as needed)
- 3 tablespoons coconut oil (melted)
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).
- Grind the oats in a food processor until they resemble a coarse flour.
- Add the parsley, mint, and melted coconut oil to the oats in the food processor and pulse until combined.
- Slowly add water until the mixture forms a thick, pliable dough.
- Roll out the dough and cut into desired shapes with a cookie cutter.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes or until crisp.
- Allow to cool completely to harden further for that crunchy texture that helps clean teeth.
Additional Tips for Making Homemade Dog Treats
- Always check with your vet before introducing new ingredients into your dog’s diet.
- Store treats in an airtight container to keep them fresh longer. They can also be frozen for extended shelf life.
- Experiment with flavors your dog loves, like adding bits of bacon or cheese, as long as they are safe for dogs.