As a dog mom, you want the best for your furry friend—especially when it comes to their diet. Store-bought treats can be expensive and often contain preservatives or fillers that aren’t ideal for your pup. That’s why making homemade dog treats is a fantastic alternative! Not only are they healthier, but they’re also budget-friendly and easy to whip up in your kitchen.
In this post, we’ve rounded up 10 easy homemade dog treat recipes that your pup will absolutely love. Plus, we’ve included links to the best tools and ingredients to make the process even simpler. Let’s get started!
Why Make Homemade Dog Treats?
- Control Over Ingredients: You know exactly what’s going into your dog’s treats—no hidden chemicals or fillers.
- Tailored to Dietary Needs: Perfect for dogs with allergies, grain sensitivities, or picky eaters.
- Cost-Effective: Homemade treats are often cheaper than store-bought options.
- Bonding Experience: Your pup will love watching (and smelling!) you prepare their special snacks.
10 Easy Homemade Dog Treat Recipes
1. Peanut Butter & Banana Bites
Ingredients:
- 1 ripe banana
- 1/2 cup natural peanut butter (make sure it’s xylitol-free!) – Here’s how to know
- 1 cup oat flour
Instructions:
- Mash the banana in a bowl and mix with peanut butter.
- Gradually add oat flour until a dough forms.
- Roll into small balls or use a silicone mold.
- Bake at 350°F for 10-12 minutes.
Pro Tip: Use this silicone dog bone mold for perfectly shaped treats!
2. Sweet Potato Chews
Ingredients:
- 2 large sweet potatoes
Instructions:
- Slice sweet potatoes into thin strips.
- Bake at 250°F for 2-3 hours until chewy.
Why It’s Great: Sweet potatoes are packed with vitamins and fiber, making them a healthy snack for your pup.
3. Pumpkin & Oat Cookies
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup canned pumpkin (unsweetened)
- 1/4 cup oats
- 1 egg
Instructions:
- Mix all ingredients in a bowl.
- Drop spoonfuls onto a baking sheet.
- Bake at 350°F for 15-20 minutes.
Pro Tip: Pumpkin is great for digestion—perfect for pups with sensitive stomachs.
4. Chicken & Rice Training Bites
Ingredients:
- 1 cup cooked chicken (shredded)
- 1/2 cup cooked rice
- 1 egg
Instructions:
- Combine all ingredients in a food processor.
- Roll into small balls and bake at 350°F for 10-12 minutes.
Why It’s Great: These bites are perfect for training sessions and picky eaters.
5. Apple & Carrot Pupcakes
Ingredients:
- 1 grated apple
- 1 grated carrot
- 1 cup whole wheat flour
- 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
- Mix all ingredients in a bowl.
- Spoon into cupcake molds.
- Bake at 350°F for 20-25 minutes.
Pro Tip: Use this non-stick cupcake pan for easy cleanup.
6. Tuna & Parsley Crackers
Ingredients:
- 1 can tuna (in water, no salt added)
- 1/2 cup whole wheat flour
- 1 egg
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley
Instructions:
- Blend all ingredients in a food processor.
- Roll out the dough and cut into small shapes.
- Bake at 350°F for 15-20 minutes.
Why It’s Great: Parsley helps freshen your dog’s breath!
7. Blueberry & Yogurt Frozen Treats
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1/4 cup blueberries
Instructions:
- Blend yogurt and blueberries.
- Pour into an ice cube tray and freeze.
Pro Tip: Use this dog-friendly ice cube tray for fun shapes.
8. Cheesy Spinach Bites
Ingredients:
- 1 cup spinach (chopped)
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup whole wheat flour
Instructions:
- Mix all ingredients in a bowl.
- Roll into small balls and bake at 350°F for 10-12 minutes.
Why It’s Great: Spinach is rich in iron and vitamins, making this a nutritious snack.
9. Coconut & Oatmeal Cookies
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup coconut oil
- 1 cup oats
- 1/4 cup shredded coconut
Instructions:
- Melt coconut oil and mix with oats and shredded coconut.
- Form into cookies and bake at 350°F for 15-20 minutes.
Pro Tip: Coconut oil promotes a healthy coat and skin.
10. Beef & Veggie Jerky
Ingredients:
- 1/2 lb lean beef (sliced thin)
- 1/4 cup pureed carrots or green beans
Instructions:
- Brush beef slices with veggie puree.
- Dehydrate at 160°F for 6-8 hours.
Why It’s Great: A high-protein snack that’s perfect for active dogs.
Tools & Ingredients You’ll Need
To make these recipes even easier, here are some of our favorite tools and ingredients:
Final Thoughts
Making homemade dog treats is a fun, rewarding way to show your pup some extra love. With these 10 easy recipes, you can create healthy, delicious snacks that your dog will adore. Plus, you’ll save money and have peace of mind knowing exactly what’s in their treats.
For more tips on dog nutrition and safety, check out the American Kennel Club’s guide to safe foods for dogs.
What’s your pup’s favorite treat? Let us know in the comments below!