Healthy teeth and gums are essential for your dog’s overall health, and what better way to support their dental hygiene than with homemade dog dental treats?
These recipes are not only effective for keeping your pup’s teeth clean but also filled with wholesome, dog-safe ingredients.
Let’s dive into some fantastic recipes that promote oral health while making treat time exciting!
Homemade Dog Dental Treats
#1 Mint and Parsley Dog Treats
Parsley and mint are powerhouse ingredients for combating bad breath, making these treats a natural solution to doggy breath. Their rough texture helps scrape away plaque and tartar while your pup chews. Made with simple, wholesome ingredients, these treats are a healthy addition to your dog’s diet.
Ingredients:
- 1 ½ cups whole wheat flour
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
- ¼ cup fresh mint, finely chopped
- ⅓ cup water
- 1 egg
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Chop Herbs: Wash the parsley and mint thoroughly, then finely chop them using a sharp knife or food processor.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, parsley, and mint. Stir to evenly distribute the herbs.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg and water. Slowly add this mixture to the dry ingredients, stirring until a dough forms.
- Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for 2-3 minutes until smooth and pliable.
- Roll Out and Cut Shapes: Roll the dough to ¼-inch thickness and use dog-shaped or bone-shaped cookie cutters to cut out treats.
- Bake: Place the shapes on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden and firm.
- Cool Completely: Allow the treats to cool on a wire rack before serving.
#2 Frozen Carrot Dog Chews
Carrots are naturally crunchy and low in calories, making them perfect for promoting dental health while keeping your pup entertained. Freezing the carrots with bone broth adds flavor and hydration, making them a refreshing treat on warm days.
These chews are ideal for teething puppies or dogs that love a satisfying crunch. Plus, they’re quick and easy to prepare!
Ingredients:
- 5 medium carrots
- 2 cups bone broth
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Peel and Cut Carrots: Peel the carrots and cut them into long, chewable sticks suitable for your dog’s size.
- Cook the Carrots: Place the carrots in a pot and pour in the bone broth. Add enough water to ensure the carrots are fully submerged.
- Simmer: Bring the pot to a boil, then reduce the heat and let the carrots simmer for 15-20 minutes until slightly softened.
- Cool and Freeze: Remove the carrots from the pot and allow them to cool completely. Place the carrots in a single layer on a parchment-lined tray and freeze for 2-3 hours.
- Serve: Once frozen, serve as a refreshing chew treat for your dog.
#3 Coconut Oil and Turmeric Cookies
Coconut oil and turmeric combine to create an anti-inflammatory treat that’s great for gum health and overall wellness. The crunchy texture supports dental hygiene by reducing plaque buildup. These cookies are a guilt-free indulgence for your furry friend and are as nutritious as they are delicious!
Ingredients:
- 2 cups whole wheat flour
- ¼ cup coconut oil, melted
- ½ teaspoon turmeric
- ⅓ cup unsweetened applesauce
- ⅓ cup water
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven: Set the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the flour and turmeric, stirring well.
- Incorporate Wet Ingredients: Add the melted coconut oil, applesauce, and water to the bowl. Mix until a dough forms.
- Knead and Roll: Knead the dough on a floured surface for 2-3 minutes. Roll out to ¼-inch thickness.
- Cut Shapes: Use a cookie cutter to cut the dough into desired shapes.
- Bake: Arrange the treats on the baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes.
- Cool: Let the cookies cool completely before serving.
#4 Cinnamon and Applesauce Dog Biscuits
The natural sweetness of applesauce and the warmth of cinnamon make these biscuits a treat your dog will love. Their firm texture is perfect for cleaning teeth while providing a satisfying crunch. Easy to make and packed with simple ingredients, these biscuits are a great way to pamper your pup. Bonus: They smell so good, you might be tempted to try one yourself!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup unsweetened applesauce
- ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 cup whole wheat flour
- 1 egg
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Preheat Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Mix Ingredients: Combine the applesauce, cinnamon, egg, and flour in a bowl. Mix until a thick dough forms.
- Roll and Shape: Roll the dough to ¼-inch thickness on a floured surface and cut out shapes.
- Bake: Place the biscuits on the baking sheet and bake for 25-30 minutes.
- Cool: Cool completely on a wire rack before serving.
#5 Frozen Blueberry Yogurt Dog Treats
These treats are packed with antioxidants from blueberries and probiotics from Greek yogurt, making them both delicious and nutritious. Their frozen texture makes them great for soothing gums, especially in teething puppies. They’re a perfect summer snack to keep your dog cool and hydrated. Plus, the combination of banana and blueberries makes these treats naturally sweet and appealing.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup Greek yogurt
- ¾ cup blueberries
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Blend Ingredients: In a blender, combine the yogurt, blueberries, and banana. Blend until smooth.
- Pour into Molds: Pour the mixture into silicone molds or ice cube trays.
- Freeze: Freeze for 3-4 hours until solid.
- Serve: Pop the treats out of the molds and serve as a cool snack.
#6 Dehydrated Sweet Potato Dog Chews
Sweet potatoes are rich in fiber and vitamins, offering a nutritious alternative to traditional rawhide chews. Their chewy texture naturally helps clean your dog’s teeth and keep their jaws strong. These long-lasting treats are perfect for keeping your dog occupied and satisfied. They’re simple, natural, and a great choice for dogs with sensitive stomachs.
Ingredients:
- 2 large sweet potatoes
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Slice Sweet Potatoes: Wash and peel the sweet potatoes. Slice them into ¼-inch thick rounds or strips.
- Arrange on Trays: Place the slices on dehydrator trays in a single layer.
- Dehydrate: Set the dehydrator to 130°F (54°C) and dehydrate for 6-8 hours, or until the slices are firm and chewy.
- Store: Cool completely before storing in an airtight container.
#7 Dehydrated Chicken Jerky
High in protein and low in fat, chicken jerky is a lean and nutritious treat for your dog. The chewy texture not only satisfies their chewing instincts but also promotes dental health by reducing tartar buildup. Sprinkling turmeric or parsley adds an extra boost of antioxidants or breath-freshening benefits.
Ingredients:
- 2-3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Sprinkle of turmeric or parsley (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Slice Chicken: Slice the chicken breasts into thin strips, ensuring uniform thickness for even drying.
- Season (Optional): Lightly sprinkle the strips with turmeric or parsley for added flavor and health benefits.
- Dehydrate: Place the strips on dehydrator trays and dehydrate at 130°F (54°C) for 6-8 hours, or until fully dried.
- Cool and Store: Allow to cool completely before storing in an airtight container.
Feeding Guidelines
Portion Control
- Small Dogs (under 20 lbs): Offer 1 small treat per day to avoid exceeding their calorie needs while still allowing them to enjoy a healthy snack.
- Medium Dogs (20-50 lbs): Provide 2-3 treats daily, depending on their activity level and dietary requirements.
- Large Dogs (over 50 lbs): You can feed 3-4 treats daily, adjusting as needed to maintain a balanced diet.
- Puppies: Treats should be given sparingly, especially if they are on a specialized diet. Always consult with your vet about introducing new treats to a puppy’s diet.
Treats should make up no more than 10% of your dog’s daily caloric intake. Ensure their primary meals consist of well-balanced, nutritionally complete food. If your dog is already on a calorie-controlled diet, consider breaking the treats into smaller pieces to fit within their daily limits.
Monitor for Allergies
- When introducing a new treat, offer a small piece first and watch for signs of allergies or intolerance, such as itching, vomiting, or diarrhea.
- If any symptoms occur, discontinue use and consult your veterinarian.
Adjust for Activity Level
- Active Dogs: High-energy dogs may enjoy an extra treat or two as a reward for their activities.
- Less Active Dogs: Keep the treat count low for dogs with a more sedentary lifestyle to prevent weight gain.
Training and Rewards
- Break treats into smaller pieces for training sessions. This allows you to reward good behavior without overfeeding.
FAQs on Dog Dental Treats
What if my dog is allergic to an ingredient?
If your dog has known allergies, you can substitute ingredients where possible. For example, use oat flour instead of whole wheat flour, or leave out optional ingredients like honey or cinnamon. Always monitor your dog after introducing new treats.
How should I store these treats?
For baked treats, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week or refrigerate for up to two weeks. Frozen treats should be stored in the freezer and used within three months.
Are these treats safe for all dog breeds?
Yes, these treats are made with dog-safe ingredients and are suitable for all breeds. However, portion sizes should be adjusted based on your dog’s size and dietary needs.