5 Dog Treats For Picky Eaters
Let’s face it: some dogs are just divas. They turn their noses up at kibble, sniff disdainfully at store-bought treats, and give you that “Really, human?” look when you offer them something they deem unworthy.
If your pup falls into this category, don’t worry—you’re not alone. Picky eaters are a thing, and they’re here to make your life… interesting.
But fear not! We’ve got you covered with 5 dog treats that even the fussiest of fur babies will love 😉
1. Peanut Butter Banana Bites
Who doesn’t love peanut butter? (Okay, maybe some humans, but dogs? They’re obsessed.) Combine it with banana, and you’ve got a treat that’s both delicious and healthy. Plus, it’s super easy to make.
Ingredients
- 1 ripe banana
- 2 tablespoons peanut butter (make sure it’s xylitol-free!)
- 1 cup oat flour
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Mash the banana in a bowl and mix in the peanut butter.
- Gradually add the oat flour until you get a dough-like consistency.
- Roll the dough into small balls and place them on a baking sheet.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, then let them cool before serving.
Pro Tip: If your dog is extra picky, try adding a sprinkle of cinnamon for an extra flavor boost. FYI, dogs love cinnamon—just don’t overdo it!
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Start Training Today! 🐾2. Chicken and Sweet Potato Jerky
If your dog turns their nose up at store-bought jerky, homemade is the way to go. This recipe uses chicken and sweet potato, two ingredients most dogs can’t resist. Plus, it’s packed with protein and vitamins.
Ingredients
- 1 boneless, skinless chicken breast
- 1 medium sweet potato
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 200°F (95°C).
- Slice the chicken breast and sweet potato into thin strips.
- Place the strips on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 2-3 hours, flipping halfway through, until the strips are dry and chewy.
- Let them cool completely before serving.
Fun Fact: Sweet potatoes are a great source of fiber, which is perfect for your dog’s digestion. IMO, this treat is a win-win.
3. Frozen Blueberry Yogurt Drops
Perfect for hot summer days, these frozen treats are refreshing and packed with antioxidants. Plus, they’re so easy to make, you’ll wonder why you didn’t try them sooner.
Ingredients
- 1 cup plain, unsweetened yogurt
- 1/2 cup fresh blueberries
Instructions
- Blend the yogurt and blueberries in a food processor until smooth.
- Spoon the mixture into an ice cube tray or silicone mold.
- Freeze for at least 4 hours or until solid.
- Pop them out and serve as a cool, tasty snack.
Bonus Tip: If your dog isn’t a fan of blueberries, try strawberries or watermelon instead. Just make sure to remove any seeds!
4. Pumpkin and Oat Cookies
Pumpkin isn’t just for lattes and pies—it’s also a dog’s best friend. These cookies are soft, chewy, and perfect for picky eaters. Plus, pumpkin is great for their digestion. Win-win!
Ingredients
- 1 cup canned pumpkin (not pumpkin pie filling!)
- 2 cups oat flour
- 1 egg
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Mix the pumpkin, oat flour, and egg in a bowl until well combined.
- Roll the dough into small balls and flatten them into cookie shapes.
- Place on a baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes.
- Let them cool before serving.
Heads Up: These cookies are soft, so they’re perfect for older dogs or pups with sensitive teeth. 🐾
5. Salmon and Parsley Bites
If your dog loves fish, these salmon bites will be a hit. Salmon is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are great for their skin and coat. And parsley? It freshens their breath. Double win!
Ingredients
- 1 can of salmon (in water, no salt added)
- 1/2 cup whole wheat flour
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (only curly parsley – do not use Italian!)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Drain the salmon and mix it with the flour and parsley in a bowl.
- Form the mixture into small balls and place them on a baking sheet.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, then let them cool before serving.
Pro Tip: If your dog isn’t a fan of salmon, you can substitute it with tuna. Just make sure it’s packed in water and not oil.
FAQs
1. Why is my dog such a picky eater?
Dogs can be picky for many reasons, including boredom with their food, health issues, or simply being spoiled (we’re looking at you, treat-loving pups). If your dog’s pickiness is sudden or accompanied by other symptoms, consult your vet.
2. Can I give my dog human food as treats?
Some human foods are safe for dogs, like peanut butter, carrots, and plain cooked chicken. However, avoid foods like chocolate, grapes, and onions, which are toxic to dogs.
3. How do I know if my dog likes a treat?
Watch their body language! A wagging tail, eager sniffing, and quick eating are good signs. If they walk away or ignore the treat, it’s a no-go.
4. How often should I give my dog treats?
Treats should make up no more than 10% of your dog’s daily caloric intake. Overdoing it can lead to weight gain and other health issues.
5. Can I freeze homemade dog treats?
Absolutely! Many homemade treats freeze well and can last for up to 3 months. Just thaw them before serving.
Final Thoughts
Dealing with a picky eater can be frustrating, but with a little creativity, you can find something your dog will love. Whether it’s peanut butter banana bites or salmon and parsley bites, these recipes are sure to please even the fussiest of pups. So, roll up your sleeves, grab your ingredients, and get cooking—your dog will thank you (with tail wags and slobbery kisses).
Got a picky eater at home? Try these treats and let us know which one your dog loved the most. And hey, if all else fails, there’s always bribery. 😉
I’ve spent 10+ years in dog training, digging into what makes dogs (and their humans) tick. At Smart Dog Learning, I share my no-nonsense, fun approach to training so you can enjoy life with a well-behaved, happy pup—no boring lectures, just practical results 😉
