Finding the perfect dog treat recipe can be challenging, especially if you want to avoid common ingredients like flour.
Whether your dog has a sensitivity to grains or you’re looking for a healthier alternative, these flourless dog treat recipes offer a variety of options that are just as tasty and nutritious.
In this article, we’ll explore ten different recipes that don’t use flour but still provide delicious and satisfying snacks for your furry friend.
Benefits of Flourless Dog Treats
Opting for flourless dog treats can be beneficial for several reasons:
- Grain-Free Option: These treats are ideal for dogs with grain sensitivities or allergies.
- Nutrient-Rich: Without flour, these recipes rely on other nutrient-dense ingredients like sweet potatoes, oats, and peanut butter.
- Lower Carbohydrates: Flourless treats often contain fewer carbs, making them a good choice for dogs that need to watch their weight.
- Easier Digestion: For dogs with sensitive stomachs, flourless treats can be gentler on their digestive system.
10 Homemade Dog Treats Without Flour
1. Peanut Butter and Sweet Potato Chews
These chews are the perfect combo of creamy peanut butter & sweet, hearty sweet potatoes. They’re chewy, satisfying, & a big hit with pups!
| Ingredient | Description |
|---|---|
| ½ cup peanut butter (unsalted, xylitol-free) | Protein & flavor, safe for dogs. |
| 1 cup cooked & mashed sweet potato | Fiber & vitamins A, C for digestion. |
| 1 egg (optional) | Binding & extra protein for texture. |
Step 1: Cook Sweet Potato
Begin by preparing 1 medium sweet potato to yield 1 cup mashed. Poke holes with a fork, bake at 400°F for 40-50 minutes until soft & caramelized, or steam for 15-20 minutes; scoop flesh, mash until smooth, & cool to avoid cooking the egg prematurely.
Step 2: Select Safe Peanut Butter
Choose ½ cup natural peanut butter, ensuring it’s xylitol-free—check the label, as xylitol is toxic to dogs. Stir well to blend separated oils, achieving a creamy, uniform texture; use a glass measuring cup for easy pouring & cleanup.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, add ½ cup peanut butter, 1 cup mashed sweet potato, & 1 egg (skip for vegan chews; they’ll be softer). Mix with a sturdy spoon for 2-3 minutes until smooth & glossy, smelling nutty with a sweet potato tang; if lumpy, use a hand mixer on low for 30 seconds.
Step 4: Adjust Dough Texture
Test the dough—it should be pliable but not sticky. If too wet, sprinkle 1 tbsp oat flour (or whole wheat); if too dry, add 1 tsp water; knead for 1 minute to ensure a consistent dough that rolls easily without cracking, ideal for shaping.
Step 5: Shape Chews
Dust a surface with flour or use parchment paper to prevent sticking. Roll dough into 2-inch logs or flatten into ¼-inch thick patties using a cookie cutter or hands; ensure uniform sizes for even baking, smoothing edges for a polished look Snickers loves.
Step 6: Bake or Air Fry
For oven baking, preheat to 350°F (175°C) & line a baking sheet with parchment. Place chews ½ inch apart, bake for 20-25 minutes until firm & golden, flipping halfway; for air fryer, preheat to 320°F (160°C), cook for 10-12 minutes, shaking basket halfway for even browning. Cool on a wire rack for 20 minutes to set chewiness.
2. Pumpkin and Oat Balls
A super easy no-bake treat packed with fiber & flavor! Pumpkin & oats team up for a healthy, quick snack your dog will love.
| Ingredient | Description |
|---|---|
| ½ cup canned pumpkin (unsweetened) | Fiber & moisture for digestion. |
| 1 cup rolled oats | Beta-glucans for immune health. |
| ¼ cup peanut butter (unsalted, xylitol-free) | Protein & creamy texture. |
Step 1: Verify Pumpkin Purity
Use ½ cup canned pumpkin, ensuring it’s 100% pure pumpkin, not pie filling with sugars or spices. Check the label & scoop into a measuring cup, leveling for accuracy; the pumpkin should be thick & orange, adding moisture without excess liquid.
Step 2: Prep Oats
Measure 1 cup rolled oats, opting for old-fashioned oats for better texture over instant, which can turn mushy. Pulse oats in a blender for 10 seconds for a finer consistency if your dog prefers smoother treats, enhancing binding with peanut butter.
Step 3: Mix Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine ½ cup pumpkin, 1 cup rolled oats, & ¼ cup peanut butter. Stir with a wooden spoon for 2-3 minutes until a sticky, cohesive dough forms, smelling of nutty pumpkin; if too dry, add 1 tsp pumpkin to achieve a moldable texture.
Step 4: Check Dough Consistency
Ensure the dough is firm yet pliable, holding together when squeezed. If too sticky, add 1 tbsp oats; if crumbly, mix in 1 tsp water; knead for 30 seconds to blend evenly, creating a uniform dough perfect for rolling into balls without sticking to hands.
Step 5: Form Balls
Scoop 1 tbsp portions using a cookie scoop for consistency & roll into 1-inch bite-sized balls with lightly damp hands to prevent sticking. Place on a parchment-lined tray, ensuring even sizes for uniform chilling or optional air frying, keeping treats pup-friendly.
Step 6: Chill or Air Fry
For no-bake, refrigerate balls on the tray for 1 hour until firm & set, perfect for soft treats; store in fridge post-chilling. For crunchier treats, preheat air fryer to 320°F (160°C), cook for 5-7 minutes until slightly firm, shaking basket halfway; cool for 15 minutes before serving.
3. Banana and Peanut Butter Bites
A sweet & simple snack dogs find irresistible. Bananas’ natural sweetness & peanut butter’s creaminess make these bites a tail-wagger!
| Ingredient | Description |
|---|---|
| 2 ripe bananas, mashed | Natural sugars & potassium. |
| ½ cup peanut butter (unsalted, xylitol-free) | Protein & creamy texture. |
| ¼ cup ground flaxseed | Omega-3s & fiber for health. |
Step 1: Select Ripe Bananas
Choose 2 ripe bananas with brown spots for maximum sweetness & easy mashing. Peel & place in a bowl, using a fork to mash for 1 minute until smooth & creamy, ensuring no large chunks remain for a consistent dough texture.
Step 2: Prepare Flaxseed
Measure ¼ cup ground flaxseed, using pre-ground or grinding whole seeds in a coffee grinder for 10 seconds to a fine powder. This ensures better absorption of omega-3s & a smoother texture, avoiding grittiness in the bites.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
In a medium bowl, mix mashed bananas, ½ cup peanut butter, & ¼ cup ground flaxseed. Stir with a spatula for 2-3 minutes until a thick, sticky dough forms, smelling sweet & nutty; if lumpy, blend with a hand mixer on low for 20 seconds.
Step 4: Adjust Mixture
Check the dough—it should be soft but scoopable. If too runny, add 1 tbsp ground flaxseed; if too stiff, mix in 1 tsp water; knead for 30 seconds to achieve a uniform consistency, ensuring easy spooning onto the baking sheet.
Step 5: Shape Bites
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper & scoop 1 tbsp portions of dough using a spoon or cookie scoop. Drop onto the sheet, flattening slightly to ½-inch thick rounds for even baking; space 1 inch apart to prevent sticking during cooking.
Step 6: Bake or Air Fry
For oven baking, preheat to 350°F (175°C) & bake for 15 minutes until slightly firm with golden edges; flip halfway for even texture. For air fryer, preheat to 320°F (160°C), cook for 8-10 minutes on parchment in the basket, shaking halfway; cool on a wire rack for 15 minutes.
4. Tuna and Egg Patties
These protein-packed patties have a fishy flavor dogs adore. Perfect for pups craving a savory snack with a twist!
| Ingredient | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 can (5 oz) tuna in water, drained | Protein & omega-3s for health. |
| 1 egg | Binding & extra protein. |
| ¼ cup grated carrots (optional) | Fiber & beta-carotene for vision. |
Step 1: Drain Tuna
Open 1 can (5 oz) tuna in water & drain thoroughly using a fine mesh strainer, pressing to remove excess liquid. This ensures a firm mixture; check for bones or skin, removing any for a smooth texture dogs will love.
Step 2: Prep Carrots
If using, grate ¼ cup carrots with a fine grater for small, digestible pieces. Pat dry with a paper towel to remove moisture, preventing a soggy mix; carrots add a slight crunch & vibrant color to the patties.
Step 3: Mix Ingredients
In a medium bowl, combine drained tuna, 1 egg, & ¼ cup grated carrots (if using). Stir with a fork for 2 minutes until a cohesive, slightly wet mixture forms, smelling fishy with a hint of sweetness; break up tuna chunks for even distribution.
Step 4: Check Mixture Consistency
Ensure the mixture is moldable but not watery. If too loose, add 1 tbsp oat flour; if too dry, mix in 1 tsp water; blend for 30 seconds to achieve a uniform texture, making it easy to shape into patties without crumbling.
Step 5: Form Patties
Scoop 1 tbsp portions & shape into 2-inch wide, ½-inch thick patties with your hands, smoothing edges for a neat look. Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing 1 inch apart to ensure even cooking & a professional finish.
Step 6: Bake or Air Fry
For oven baking, preheat to 350°F (175°C) & bake for 20 minutes until firm & lightly browned, flipping halfway for even cooking. For air fryer, preheat to 320°F (160°C), cook for 10-12 minutes, shaking basket halfway; cool on a wire rack for 10 minutes to set.
5. Chicken and Apple Bites
Combining savory chicken & sweet applesauce, these bites are a wholesome treat that brings joy to snack time. They’re nutritious & pup-approved!
| Ingredient | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded | Protein for muscle health. |
| ½ cup unsweetened applesauce | Natural sweetness & moisture. |
| 1 egg | Binding & extra protein. |
Step 1: Prepare Chicken
Use 1 cup cooked, shredded chicken, ideally boiled or baked without seasoning. Shred finely with forks or a food processor for 30 seconds to create a uniform texture, ensuring bites are easy to chew & digest for all dogs.
Step 2: Check Applesauce
Measure ½ cup unsweetened applesauce, confirming it’s 100% apples with no added sugars or spices. Stir to ensure a smooth consistency, as chunky applesauce can make shaping difficult; use a liquid measuring cup for accuracy.
Step 3: Mix Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine shredded chicken, ½ cup applesauce, & 1 egg. Mix with a spatula for 2-3 minutes until a sticky, cohesive mixture forms, smelling savory with a sweet apple hint; if too wet, let sit for 1 minute to thicken.
Step 4: Adjust Mixture
Test the mixture—it should be soft but shapeable. If too runny, add 1 tbsp oat flour; if too dry, mix in 1 tsp water; stir for 30 seconds to achieve a moldable consistency, ensuring balls hold their shape during baking.
Step 5: Shape Bites
Scoop 1 tsp portions & roll into 1-inch bite-sized balls with lightly floured hands to prevent sticking. Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing 1 inch apart; flatten slightly for faster cooking & a cookie-like texture Snickers loves.
Step 6: Bake or Air Fry
For oven baking, preheat to 350°F (175°C) & bake for 20 minutes until firm & golden, flipping halfway for even texture. For air fryer, preheat to 320°F (160°C), cook for 10-12 minutes, shaking basket halfway; cool on a wire rack for 15 minutes to firm up.
6. Peanut Butter and Yogurt Frozen Treats
These frozen treats are a cool, creamy treat, ideal for hot days. Peanut butter & yogurt blend for a refreshing, hydrating snack.
| Ingredient | Description |
|---|---|
| ½ cup peanut butter (unsalted, xylitol-free) | Protein & creamy flavor. |
| ½ cup plain yogurt | Probiotics & cooling texture. |
Step 1: Select Safe Peanut Butter
Choose ½ cup natural peanut butter, ensuring it’s xylitol-free—read the label carefully. Stir to blend separated oils, achieving a smooth, pourable texture; use a microwave for 10 seconds if too thick, cooling before mixing.
Step 2: Choose Yogurt
Measure ½ cup plain yogurt, opting for Greek or regular with no added sugars or flavors. Check for live cultures to boost gut health; strain with cheesecloth for 10 minutes if too watery, ensuring a thicker drop consistency.
Step 3: Mix Ingredients
In a medium bowl, combine ½ cup peanut butter & ½ cup yogurt. Whisk for 1-2 minutes until a creamy, uniform mixture forms, smelling nutty with a tangy note; if lumpy, blend with a hand mixer on low for 20 seconds.
Step 4: Check Mixture Consistency
Ensure the mixture is thick but spoonable, like pancake batter. If too runny, add 1 tsp peanut butter; if too stiff, mix in 1 tsp water; stir for 30 seconds to achieve a smooth flow for easy dropping onto the tray.
Step 5: Form Treats
Spoon or pipe the mixture onto a parchment-lined tray into your desired shapes—small drops, bones, hearts, or whatever fits your pup’s vibe. Keep the size appropriate for your dog’s breed and chewing habits.
Step 6: Freeze Treats
Place the tray in the freezer for 2 hours until drops are hard & solid. Transfer to a freezer-safe container for storage; serve directly from the freezer for a cool treat, ensuring they’re small enough to avoid choking.
7. Beef and Sweet Potato Balls
A savory treat rich in protein & nutrients! These beef & sweet potato balls offer a hearty snack for your four-legged friend.
| Ingredient | Description |
|---|---|
| ½ cup cooked ground beef | Protein for muscle health. |
| 1 cup cooked & mashed sweet potato | Fiber & vitamins for digestion. |
Step 1: Cook Beef
Prepare ½ cup ground beef, cooking in a skillet over medium heat for 5-7 minutes until fully browned with no pink. Drain excess fat using a colander to keep treats lean, cooling to room temperature to blend safely with sweet potato.
Step 2: Prepare Sweet Potato
Cook 1 medium sweet potato to yield 1 cup mashed. Bake at 400°F for 40-50 minutes or boil for 15 minutes until fork-tender; mash until smooth & lump-free, cooling slightly to maintain a firm dough texture.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
In a large bowl, mix ½ cup ground beef & 1 cup mashed sweet potato. Stir with a wooden spoon for 2-3 minutes until a cohesive, slightly sticky dough forms, smelling savory & sweet; if too crumbly, press firmly to blend.
Step 4: Adjust Dough
Check the dough—it should be moldable but not too wet. If too dry, add 1 tsp water; if too sticky, sprinkle 1 tbsp oat flour; knead for 1 minute to achieve a uniform texture, ensuring balls hold shape during baking.
Step 5: Form Balls
Scoop 1 tbsp portions & roll into 1-inch balls with lightly floured hands to prevent sticking. Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing 1 inch apart; ensure even sizes for consistent baking & a professional look.
Step 6: Bake or Air Fry
For oven baking, preheat to 350°F (175°C) & bake for 20 minutes until firm & slightly browned, flipping halfway. For air fryer, preheat to 320°F (160°C), cook for 10-12 minutes, shaking basket halfway; cool on a wire rack for 15 minutes to set.
8. Salmon and Spinach Treats
Packed with omega-3s from salmon & spinach’s goodness, these treats boost your dog’s diet with essential nutrients. They’re a delicious hit!
| Ingredient | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 can (6 oz) salmon, drained | Omega-3s & protein for health. |
| ½ cup chopped spinach | Iron & vitamins for vitality. |
| 1 egg | Binding & extra protein. |
Step 1: Drain Salmon
Open 1 can (6 oz) salmon & drain thoroughly using a fine mesh strainer, pressing to remove excess liquid. Check for bones, removing any for a smooth texture; the salmon should smell fishy but fresh, ready for mixing.
Step 2: Prep Spinach
Chop ½ cup spinach finely with a knife or food processor for 10 seconds to create small, digestible pieces. Squeeze out excess moisture with a clean cloth to prevent a soggy mixture, ensuring a firm patty consistency.
Step 3: Mix Ingredients
In a medium bowl, combine drained salmon, ½ cup chopped spinach, & 1 egg. Stir with a fork for 2 minutes until a cohesive, slightly wet mixture forms, smelling oceanic with green flecks; break up salmon chunks for evenness.
Step 4: Check Mixture
Ensure the mixture is moldable but not watery. If too loose, add 1 tbsp oat flour; if too dry, mix in 1 tsp water; blend for 30 seconds to achieve a uniform texture, making it easy to shape without crumbling.
Step 5: Shape Treats
Scoop 1 tbsp portions & form into 2-inch patties or 1-inch balls with your hands, smoothing edges for a neat look. Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing 1 inch apart to ensure even cooking & a polished finish.
Step 6: Bake or Air Fry
For oven baking, preheat to 350°F (175°C) & bake for 20 minutes until firm & lightly browned, flipping halfway. For air fryer, preheat to 320°F (160°C), cook for 10-12 minutes, shaking basket halfway; cool on a wire rack for 10 minutes to set.
9. Peanut Butter and Blueberry Freezies
These cool treats burst with blueberries & peanut butter goodness. They’re perfect for cooling your pup on a sunny day!
| Ingredient | Description |
|---|---|
| ½ cup peanut butter (unsalted, xylitol-free) | Protein & creamy flavor. |
| ½ cup blueberries | Antioxidants & natural sweetness. |
Step 1: Select Blueberries
Choose ½ cup fresh or frozen blueberries, ensuring they’re washed & free of stems. If frozen, thaw for 10 minutes to ease blending; fresh berries provide a vibrant color & juicy texture, enhancing the freezies’ appeal.
Step 2: Check Peanut Butter
Measure ½ cup natural peanut butter, confirming it’s xylitol-free for safety. Stir well to blend separated oils, achieving a smooth consistency; warm in a microwave for 10 seconds if too thick, cooling before blending.
Step 3: Blend Ingredients
In a blender, combine ½ cup peanut butter & ½ cup blueberries. Blend for 30-45 seconds until a smooth, purple mixture forms, smelling nutty & fruity; scrape down sides to ensure no chunks remain, creating a uniform texture.
Step 4: Check Mixture Consistency
Ensure the mixture is thick but pourable, like a smoothie. If too thick, add 1 tsp water; if too runny, blend in 1 tsp peanut butter; process for 10 seconds to achieve a consistent flow for easy molding.
Step 5: Fill Molds
Pour the mixture into silicone molds (bone or paw shapes for fun) using a small funnel or spoon for precision. Fill to the top, tapping molds gently to remove air bubbles, ensuring smooth, even freezies that pop out easily.
Step 6: Freeze Freezies
Place molds in the freezer for 2 hours until hard & solid. Pop freezies out & store in a freezer-safe bag; serve directly from the freezer, ensuring small sizes to prevent choking on these cool treats.
10. Turkey and Cranberry Bites
A festive treat combining savory turkey & tart cranberries. These bites bring holiday cheer to your dog all year round!
| Ingredient | Description |
|---|---|
| ½ cup cooked turkey, shredded | Protein for muscle health. |
| ¼ cup dried cranberries (unsweetened) | Antioxidants & tart flavor. |
| 1 egg | Binding & extra protein. |
Step 1: Prepare Turkey
Use ½ cup cooked, shredded turkey, ideally roasted or boiled without seasoning. Shred finely with forks or pulse in a food processor for 20 seconds to create a uniform texture, ensuring bites are easy to chew & digest.
Step 2: Check Cranberries
Measure ¼ cup dried cranberries, ensuring they’re unsweetened to avoid sugar spikes. Chop finely with a knife or food processor for 10 seconds to create small pieces, preventing chewy clumps & aiding even mixing.
Step 3: Mix Ingredients
In a medium bowl, combine shredded turkey, ¼ cup chopped cranberries, & 1 egg. Stir with a spatula for 2 minutes until a cohesive, slightly sticky mixture forms, smelling savory with tart fruit notes; ensure cranberries are evenly distributed.
Step 4: Adjust Mixture
Test the mixture—it should be moldable but not too wet. If too loose, add 1 tbsp oat flour; if too dry, mix in 1 tsp water; blend for 30 seconds to achieve a uniform texture, ensuring balls or patties hold shape during baking.
Step 5: Shape Bites
Scoop 1 tsp portions & form into 1-inch balls or 2-inch patties with your hands, smoothing edges for a neat look. Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing 1 inch apart to ensure even cooking & a festive presentation.
Step 6: Bake or Air Fry
For oven baking, preheat to 350°F (175°C) & bake for 20 minutes until firm & lightly browned, flipping halfway. For air fryer, preheat to 320°F (160°C), cook for 10-12 minutes, shaking basket halfway; cool on a wire rack for 15 minutes to set.
Storage Tips:
- Room Temperature: Store baked treats in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
- Refrigeration: Keep refrigerated treats fresh for up to two weeks.
- Freezing: Freeze treats for up to three months for longer storage. Thaw before serving.
Tools to Use:
- Mixing Bowls: Ensure you have a set of sturdy mixing bowls for combining ingredients.
- Cookie Cutters: Use dog-themed cookie cutters for shaping treats.
- Silicone Molds: Perfect for freezing or baking treats in fun shapes.
- Air Fryer: A convenient appliance for quick and healthy treat preparation.
My dog gagged on the refrigerated pumpkin oat balls.