If you’re like me, your dog is more than just a pet—they’re family. And just like the rest of the family, you want to make sure they’re eating healthy and delicious food. Store-bought treats can be convenient, but they’re often packed with preservatives, artificial flavors, and ingredients you can’t even pronounce. Making your own dog treats at home is easier than you might think, and it’s a great way to ensure your furry friend is getting the best.
Here are 10 easy and healthy dog treat recipes that you can whip up in your own kitchen. These recipes use simple ingredients you probably already have at home, and your dog is going to love them. Let’s get started!
1. Peanut Butter and Banana Biscuits
This recipe is always a hit with my dog, Max. He starts wagging his tail the second he smells the peanut butter.
Ingredients:
- 1 ripe banana
- 2 tablespoons of unsalted peanut butter (make sure it’s xylitol-free!)
- 1 cup of whole wheat flour
- 1/4 cup of oats
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
- Mash the banana in a bowl and mix in the peanut butter.
- Stir in the flour and oats until a dough forms.
- Roll out the dough and cut into shapes using a cookie cutter.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
These treats store well in an airtight container for up to a week—if they last that long!
2. Sweet Potato Chews
When I first made these, I was amazed at how simple they were. Sweet potatoes are naturally sweet and packed with vitamins, making them an excellent snack for dogs.
Ingredients:
- 1 large sweet potato
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 250°F (120°C).
- Wash the sweet potato and slice it into thin strips.
- Place the strips on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 2-3 hours, flipping halfway through, until the slices are chewy but not crispy.
These make a perfect low-calorie treat for dogs that need to watch their weight.
3. Chicken and Rice Balls
If your dog has a sensitive stomach, this recipe is gentle and nutritious. Plus, it’s a great way to use up leftover chicken and rice.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup of cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup of cooked rice
- 1 egg
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Combine the chicken, rice, and egg in a bowl.
- Form the mixture into small balls and place them on a baking sheet.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes or until firm.
These treats are soft and easy to chew, making them perfect for older dogs or pups with dental issues.
4. Apple and Carrot Bites
Max goes crazy for these fruity treats. They’re a great way to sneak some extra fiber into his diet.
Ingredients:
- 1 apple, grated (seeds removed!)
- 1 carrot, grated
- 1 cup of whole wheat flour
- 1 egg
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Mix the grated apple, carrot, and egg in a bowl.
- Slowly stir in the flour until you get a thick dough.
- Roll into small balls and place on a baking sheet.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes.
These treats are packed with natural sweetness and nutrients.
5. Pumpkin Pupcakes
Pumpkin is not just for fall—it’s great for dogs year-round! It’s high in fiber and helps with digestion.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup of canned pumpkin (not pumpkin pie filling!)
- 2 eggs
- 1/2 cup of whole wheat flour
- 1 teaspoon of cinnamon
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Mix all the ingredients together until smooth.
- Spoon the mixture into a mini muffin tin.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes.
These “pupcakes” are the perfect size for a special treat.
6. Frozen Yogurt Treats
On hot days, I love making these for Max. They’re so refreshing, and he practically inhales them!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup of plain yogurt (unsweetened and unflavored)
- 1/2 cup of mashed blueberries
Instructions:
- Mix the yogurt and blueberries together.
- Spoon the mixture into silicone molds or an ice cube tray.
- Freeze for 2-3 hours.
These treats are a cool way to keep your dog hydrated and happy.
7. Cheesy Oat Treats
If your dog loves cheese, this recipe is a must-try. It’s simple, cheesy, and satisfying.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup of oats
- 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 egg
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Mix the oats, cheese, and egg together.
- Roll into small balls and place on a baking sheet.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes.
These treats are great for training sessions or just because.
8. Tuna Training Treats
These bite-sized treats are perfect for training. The strong smell of tuna gets your dog’s attention every time.
Ingredients:
- 1 can of tuna in water (drained)
- 1 egg
- 1/2 cup of flour
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Mash the tuna in a bowl and mix in the egg and flour.
- Spread the mixture into a thin layer on a baking sheet.
- Bake for 10-15 minutes, then cut into small squares.
Store these in the fridge for up to a week.
9. Spinach and Parsley Biscuits
These green treats are packed with vitamins and fresh breath benefits. Yes, parsley can help with doggy breath!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup of spinach, chopped
- 1/4 cup of parsley, chopped
- 1 cup of whole wheat flour
- 1 egg
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Mix all the ingredients together until a dough forms.
- Roll out the dough and cut into shapes.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes.
These treats are as healthy as they are cute.
10. Coconut and Banana Drops
These tropical treats smell so good, you might be tempted to try one yourself! They’re full of healthy fats and potassium.
Ingredients:
- 1 ripe banana
- 1/4 cup of unsweetened coconut flakes
- 1 cup of oats
Instructions:
- Mash the banana and mix in the coconut flakes and oats.
- Roll into small balls and place on a baking sheet.
- Chill in the fridge for 1 hour to set.
These no-bake treats are perfect for a quick and healthy snack.
Making homemade dog treats is not only fun, but it’s also a wonderful way to bond with your pet. Each recipe is a little act of love that your dog will appreciate. Try a few of these recipes and see which ones your furry friend loves the most. And don’t forget to share the joy with other pet parents—they’ll thank you for it!