Hearty. Chewy. Tail-wag approved.
The first time I made these beef and sweet potato chews, Snickers practically hovered around the kitchen like he had radar for meaty goodness. They’re chewy, protein-packed, and naturally flavored.
Whether you’re looking to switch up treat time or want a longer-lasting chew with clean ingredients, this recipe checks all the boxes.
It’s especially great for dogs who love savory flavors but benefit from a little digestive boost from sweet potatoes and oat flour.
Why You’ll Love These Doggy Chews
- Protein-rich & satisfying
- Easy on the stomach
- Naturally chewy
- Customizable
Benefits of Homemade Dog Chews vs. Store-Bought
There’s nothing wrong with grabbing a bag of dog treats from the store—but homemade chews have some clear advantages:
- Fewer ingredients, more control: You know exactly what’s going into each chew—no mystery meat, artificial flavors, or hidden fillers.
- Freshness you can trust: These chews are made fresh in your own kitchen with real food. No preservatives needed.
- Tailored to your dog: Whether your dog has food sensitivities or just prefers certain flavors, you can customize the recipe to suit them perfectly.
- Budget-friendly: Homemade treats are often more affordable over time, especially if you already have many of the ingredients at home.
Plus, your dog gets that extra bit of love baked right in—something no store-bought chew can match.
Beef and Sweet Potato Chews for Dogs
Here’s what you’ll need to make a batch:
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Notes / Benefits |
|---|---|
| 1 lb ground beef | Protein-rich, supports muscle health and energy |
| 1 large sweet potato, cooked and mashed | Gentle on digestion, high in fiber and vitamin A |
| 2 large eggs | Helps bind the dough, adds protein and healthy fats |
| 2 cups oat flour (plus more if needed) | Gluten-free alternative, easy to digest |
| 1 tbsp coconut oil | Supports skin, coat, and brain health |
| ¼ tsp turmeric (optional) | Anti-inflammatory, great for joints |
| 1 tsp curly parsley, finely chopped (optional) | Freshens breath, provides vitamin K and antioxidants |
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prep Your Oven and Tray
Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
2. Cook the Ground Beef
In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain off any excess fat and let it cool slightly so it doesn’t cook the eggs in your dough mixture.
3. Mix the Dough
In a large bowl, combine all the ingredients. Mix everything thoroughly until you have a thick, slightly sticky dough. If it feels too soft to roll out, sprinkle in more oat flour a little at a time.
4. Shape the Chews
Lightly flour your surface or place the dough between two sheets of parchment. Roll it out to about ½ inch thickness, then cut into strips or rectangles. You can make them bite-sized or long for a satisfying chew.
5. Bake Low & Slow
Arrange the chews on your lined baking sheet, leaving a little space between each piece. Bake for 40–70 minutes, depending on how firm you want them.
- For a softer, chewier treat: stick closer to 40 minutes.
- For firmer chews: go toward the 70-minute mark.
Want them even chewier and longer-lasting? After baking, turn off the oven and leave the chews inside with the door cracked open for another 1–2 hours. This gently dehydrates them and gives them a tougher, chewier texture—perfect for dogs who love a longer nibble.
Storage and Serving Tips
Once your chews have cooled completely, store them in an airtight container to keep them fresh. They’ll last about a week at room temperature, but for longer freshness, pop them in the fridge for up to two weeks.
These delicious chews also freeze well. Just place them in a freezer-safe bag or container and thaw before serving. Freezing won’t mess with the texture or taste, so they’ll still be just as chewy and tasty for your pup.
When it comes to serving, size and moderation matter. A couple of small pieces for a little dog might be just right, while larger dogs may handle longer chews. If you’re ever unsure, start small and see how your pup responds!
Nutrition Snapshot (Per Treat Estimate)
While exact nutrition depends on how large you cut the chews, here’s a rough estimate for one medium-sized chew (based on a batch that yields about 24 pieces):
- Calories: ~55–65 kcal
- Protein: ~4–5g
- Fat: ~3g
- Carbs: ~4–5g
- Fiber: ~1g
These numbers are approximate, but they give you a general idea of what your pup’s getting. If your dog has specific calorie needs or health concerns, chat with your vet about incorporating treats into their daily diet plan.
Ingredient Substitutions and Variations
Don’t have everything on hand? No problem—this recipe is flexible!
- Meat swaps: You can substitute the ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even lamb depending on what your dog prefers or tolerates best. Just make sure the meat is fully cooked and drained before using.
- Flour alternatives: No oat flour? Simply blend rolled oats in a food processor until fine. You can also try chickpea flour or brown rice flour, especially if you’re avoiding grains.
- Sweet potato replacement: Cooked pumpkin or butternut squash can work just as well. They offer similar texture and digestive benefits.
- Add-ins: Feel free to stir in extras like a teaspoon of plain, unsweetened applesauce or a sprinkle of ground flaxseed for added fiber.
The base recipe is solid, but there’s room to customize it based on your dog’s needs or what’s in your pantry.
Ingredient Benefits at a Glance
- Ground Beef – High-quality protein for strong muscles and energy
- Sweet Potato – A natural source of fiber, vitamins A & C, and digestive support
- Oat Flour – A gentle, gluten-free flour alternative that’s easy to digest
- Coconut Oil – Supports skin, coat, and brain health
- Turmeric – (Optional) Anti-inflammatory and joint-supporting properties
- Curly Parsley – (Optional) Freshens breath and adds a boost of vitamin K
Tips for Success
- Want to make them grain-free? Try using chickpea flour instead.
- Have a picky eater? Leave out the parsley and add a teaspoon of grated cheese or dog-safe bone broth to the mix.
- Baking for a small dog? Cut the dough into smaller bites before baking to make them easier to chew.
FAQs
Can I use a different meat instead of beef?
Yes! Ground turkey, chicken, or lamb can be used as a substitute. Just make sure it’s fully cooked and drained before mixing.
Are these chews suitable for puppies?
They can be, as long as your puppy is eating solid foods and the ingredients don’t conflict with their diet. Always check with your vet for age-specific guidance.
Can I make them grain-free?
Absolutely. You can swap oat flour for grain-free options like chickpea flour or coconut flour—just note that texture may vary slightly.
Final Thoughts
These beef and sweet potato chews are the kind of treat you feel good about giving—real ingredients, no sketchy fillers, and that homemade touch dogs seem to know and love. Whether you’re filling a treat jar or rewarding your pup after a walk, these chewy snacks are sure to be a hit.