Homemade Sweet Potato and Bacon Dog Treats Recipe

Alright, let’s talk about spoiling your pup the right way! These sweet potato and bacon dog treats are everything your furry best friend could dream of—savory, slightly sweet, and packed with goodness.

With crispy bits of bacon (because who doesn’t love bacon?) and the natural sweetness of mashed sweet potato, these treats are healthy, tasty, and totally tail-wag-worthy.

They’re super easy to make and trust me, your pup will be all over these!

Sweet Potato and Bacon Dog Treats Recipe

For this delicious doggy treat, you’ll need the following ingredients:

Ingredients

  • 2 cups whole wheat flour or oat flour: Provides a wholesome, fiber-rich base that supports healthy digestion.
  • 6 slices cooked and chopped bacon: Adds a savory, irresistible flavor that dogs adore.
  • 1 cup cooked and mashed sweet potato: Loaded with vitamins A and C, plus fiber for digestive health.
  • ¾ cup rolled oats: Offers a satisfying chewy texture and additional nutrients.
  • 2 medium eggs: Adds protein and helps bind the ingredients together.

Optional Add-Ons

  • 1 tbsp ground flaxseed: Adds omega-3 fatty acids for a shiny coat.
  • ½ tsp ground cinnamon: Provides a warm, dog-safe flavor boost.
  • 2 tbsp unsweetened applesauce: Adds moisture and natural sweetness.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Cook and chop the bacon into small pieces. Set aside.
  3. Cook the sweet potato until soft (bake, boil, or steam), then mash it with a fork until smooth.

Step 2: Make the Dough

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, rolled oats, and any optional add-ons you’re using (such as ground flaxseed or cinnamon).
  2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the mashed sweet potato and eggs until smooth.
  3. Gradually add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients, stirring until well combined.
  4. Fold in the chopped bacon, ensuring it’s evenly distributed. If the dough feels too dry, add a tablespoon of water or additional mashed sweet potato until it reaches a firm, pliable consistency.

Step 3: Shape the Treats

  1. Lightly flour your work surface and roll out the dough to about ¼-inch thickness.
  2. Use cookie cutters to create fun shapes, or simply roll the dough into small balls and flatten slightly with your hand.
  3. Arrange the treats on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between each.

Step 4: Bake

  1. Bake the treats in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and firm to the touch.
  2. For a crunchier texture, turn off the oven and let the treats cool inside for about 10 minutes.

Step 5: Cool and Serve

  1. Remove the treats from the oven and transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
  2. Serve to your pup as a reward or snack, and watch them enjoy every bite!

Feeding Guidelines

Treats are a wonderful way to reward and bond with your dog, but it’s essential to feed them in moderation. Here’s a general guideline:

  • Small Dogs (under 20 lbs): Serve 1-2 small treats per day.
  • Medium Dogs (20-50 lbs): Offer 2-3 medium-sized treats daily.
  • Large Dogs (over 50 lbs): Feed 3-4 medium-to-large treats daily.

Treats should make up no more than 10% of your dog’s daily caloric intake. Monitor your dog for any signs of allergies or sensitivities when introducing these treats for the first time.

Storage and Serving Tips

  • Storage: Store the treats in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to 2 weeks or freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw frozen treats overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
  • Serving Ideas:
    • Use as training rewards by breaking the treats into smaller pieces.
    • Serve as a snack during playtime or after walks.
    • Crumble over your dog’s regular meals for an extra burst of flavor.

Why Your Dog Will Love These Treats

And there you have it—homemade sweet potato and bacon dog treats that are as fun to make as they are for your pup to eat! Packed with wholesome ingredients and the irresistible flavor of bacon, these treats are sure to be a hit.

Whether you’re using them for training, as a snack, or just to show your furry friend some love, they’re guaranteed to bring on the happy tail wags. Give them a try—you’ll love making them almost as much as your dog will love eating them!

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