Finding the perfect snack for a dog with a sensitive stomach can feel like a bit of a balancing act. You want something tasty, of course, but also easy on the tummy.
But trust me, with just a few wholesome ingredients and a little time in the kitchen, you can whip up treats that are both delicious and gentle on your dog’s digestive system.
Plus, making treats at home means you know exactly what’s going into them—no hidden nasties, just good, simple goodness.
Whether it’s chewy sweet potato strips or cool yogurt pops, there’s a recipe here that’s sure to get your pup’s tail wagging and keep their belly happy.
Let’s dive into some easy, tasty, and tummy-friendly treat ideas that your dog will love!
Homemade Dog Treats for Sensitive Stomachs
1. Pumpkin and Oat Treats
Pumpkin and oat treats are perfect for pups who need a gentle snack. The natural fiber in pumpkin helps keep your dog’s tummy settled, while oats provide a soothing, gluten-free base that’s easy to digest. A simple yet tasty treat that your dog will love nibbling on!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup canned pumpkin (unsweetened)
- 1 1/2 cups rolled oats (gluten-free if necessary)
- 1 egg
Instructions:
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Prepare Ingredients: In a food processor, pulse the rolled oats until they become a coarse flour.
- Mix Ingredients: In a bowl, mix together the pumpkin, oat flour, and egg until a dough forms.
- Shape Treats: Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4-inch thickness. Use a cookie cutter to cut out shapes, or simply slice into small squares.
- Bake: Place the treats on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until firm and golden. Allow to cool completely before serving.
2. Sweet Potato Chews
Sweet potato chews are a fantastic option for a healthy, single-ingredient treat. Rich in fiber and vitamins, sweet potatoes can help support your dog’s digestive health while keeping them occupied with a chewy texture. Plus, they’re easy to make and even easier on the stomach!
Ingredients:
- 1 large sweet potato
Instructions:
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 250°F (120°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Prepare Sweet Potato: Wash the sweet potato thoroughly. Slice it lengthwise into 1/4-inch thick strips.
- Arrange on Baking Sheet: Lay the sweet potato slices on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 2-3 hours, flipping halfway through, until the chews are dried and slightly crispy. Allow to cool before serving.
3. Banana and Oatmeal Cookies
Banana and oatmeal cookies are a soft and comforting treat, especially for dogs with sensitive tummies. Bananas add a natural sweetness and a boost of potassium, while oatmeal is a gentle, easy-to-digest grain. Win-win!
Ingredients:
- 1 ripe banana
- 1 cup rolled oats (gluten-free if necessary)
- 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce
Instructions:
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Mix Ingredients: In a bowl, mash the banana with a fork until smooth. Stir in the oats and applesauce until combined.
- Shape Cookies: Drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, flattening them slightly with the back of a spoon.
- Bake: Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cookies are set and lightly browned. Allow to cool completely before serving.
4. Greek Yogurt and Honey Drops
Yogurt and honey drops are a cool, refreshing treat for those warm days or when your pup needs a soothing snack. Greek yogurt offers a probiotic punch that supports gut health, while honey adds a hint of natural sweetness. Plus they taste amazing!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt (unsweetened)
- 1 tablespoon honey
Instructions:
- Prepare Mixture: In a bowl, mix together the Greek yogurt and honey until well combined.
- Pipe Drops: Using a piping bag or a small spoon, drop small dollops of the mixture onto a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Freeze: Place the baking sheet in the freezer for at least 2 hours, or until the drops are frozen solid.
- Store: Transfer the frozen drops to an airtight container and store in the freezer. Serve as a refreshing treat.
5. Pumpkin and Rice Cakes
Pumpkin and rice cakes are the ultimate tummy-friendly treat. With the digestive benefits of pumpkin and the bland, soothing nature of rice, these cakes are a gentle choice for pups with sensitive stomachs. Simple ingredients come together to make a snack that’s both nutritious and tasty!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup canned pumpkin (unsweetened)
- 1/2 cup cooked white rice
- 1/2 cup oat flour
Instructions:
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Mix Ingredients: In a bowl, combine the pumpkin, cooked rice, and oat flour until a thick batter forms.
- Shape Cakes: Drop spoonfuls of the batter onto the prepared baking sheet and flatten them into small cakes.
- Bake: Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cakes are firm and golden. Allow to cool completely before serving.
6. Sweet Potato and Chicken Jerky Strips
Sweet potato and chicken jerky strips bring together lean protein and wholesome fiber in one chewy bite. Chicken provides a low-fat protein source, while sweet potatoes add natural vitamins and minerals. Perfect for a snack that’s both delicious and easy on your dog’s digestive system.
Ingredients:
- 1 chicken breast, thinly sliced
- 1 sweet potato, thinly sliced
Instructions:
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 250°F (120°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Prepare Ingredients: Thinly slice the chicken breast and sweet potato into strips.
- Arrange on Baking Sheet: Lay the chicken and sweet potato strips on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
- Bake: Bake for 2-3 hours, or until the strips are fully dried and chewy. Allow to cool before serving.
7. Turkey and Carrot Treats
Turkey and carrot treats combine the best of both worlds: lean, protein-packed turkey and crunchy, fiber-rich carrots. These treats are not only good for your dog’s stomach but also provide a satisfying crunch that dogs love. A great snack to keep tails wagging and tummies happy!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup ground turkey
- 1/2 cup grated carrot
- 1 egg
Instructions:
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Mix Ingredients: In a bowl, combine the ground turkey, grated carrot, and egg. Mix until well combined.
- Shape Treats: Form small patties or balls from the mixture and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake: Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the treats are cooked through and firm. Allow to cool completely before serving.
8. Yogurt and Pumpkin Popsicles
Yogurt and pumpkin popsicles are a fun, frosty treat for hot days or just a little something different. The coolness of yogurt soothes, while the pumpkin adds a touch of fiber to help keep everything running smoothly.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt (unsweetened)
- 1/2 cup canned pumpkin (unsweetened)
Instructions:
- Mix Ingredients: In a bowl, mix together the Greek yogurt and pumpkin until smooth.
- Pour into Molds: Spoon the mixture into silicone molds or ice cube trays.
- Freeze: Freeze for at least 4 hours, or until solid.
- Serve: Pop the treats out of the molds and serve as a cooling snack.
Benefits of Homemade Treats for Dogs
Homemade dog treats offer several benefits that can contribute to your dog’s overall health and well-being.
First, you have complete control over the ingredients, which means you can avoid harmful additives, preservatives, and fillers often found in commercial dog treats.
This is especially important for dogs with food allergies or sensitivities, as you can choose ingredients that are gentle on their stomachs and cater to their specific dietary needs.
Additionally, homemade treats allow you to incorporate fresh, high-quality ingredients rich in nutrients like fiber, vitamins, and minerals, promoting better digestion, stronger immunity, and overall vitality.
Feeding Guidelines
When feeding homemade treats to your dog, it’s important to follow some basic guidelines to ensure they remain a healthy part of their diet. Treats should make up no more than 10% of your dog’s daily caloric intake to prevent overfeeding and maintain a balanced diet.
Always consider the size and activity level of your dog when determining the appropriate portion size. Smaller dogs and those with lower energy levels may require fewer treats than larger, more active dogs.
Introduce new treats gradually, especially if your dog has a sensitive stomach, to monitor for any adverse reactions.
Remember to break treats into smaller pieces if they are too large to avoid choking hazards, particularly for smaller breeds.
Storing and Preserving Homemade Dog Treats
Most homemade treats should be stored in an airtight container to keep them from going stale or developing mold.
Treats can typically be kept at room temperature for a few days, but for longer storage, consider refrigerating them for up to a week or freezing them for up to three months.
When freezing, separate treats with parchment paper to prevent them from sticking together. Always label containers with the date to keep track of their freshness.
Before serving frozen treats, allow them to thaw slightly, especially for smaller or older dogs who may struggle with very hard treats.
Regularly check the treats for signs of spoilage, such as an off smell or change in texture, to ensure they remain safe and healthy for your dog to enjoy.