6 Healthy Dog Treats You Can Make Under 20 Minutes
Let’s face it—your dog is basically a furry little food critic. They’ll sniff out the good stuff, turn their nose up at the bad, and give you those puppy eyes when they want more.
But store-bought treats? They’re often packed with mystery ingredients and price tags that make you wonder if your dog’s snack budget is higher than yours. (Spoiler: It probably is.)
Good news! You can whip up healthy, homemade dog treats in less time than it takes to binge-watch a single episode of your favorite show. And no, you don’t need to be a gourmet chef. Here are 6 easy recipes that’ll have your dog begging for more—literally.
1. Peanut Butter Pupcakes
Who says cupcakes are just for humans? These mini pupcakes are the perfect bite-sized treat for your furry friend. Plus, they’re so easy to make, you’ll wonder why you ever bought store-bought treats.
Ingredients
- 1 cup whole wheat flour
- 1/4 cup peanut butter (make sure it’s xylitol-free!)
- 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 egg
- a bit of yogurt as topping (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Mix all the ingredients in a bowl until you get a smooth batter.
- Spoon the batter into a mini muffin tin (or use silicone molds for easy removal).
- Bake for 10-12 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Let them cool before serving. FYI, your dog will probably try to steal one while they’re still warm.
Pro Tip: Store these in an airtight container for up to a week. Or, freeze them for longer shelf life—your dog won’t mind a chilly treat!
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Start Training Today! 🐾2. Frozen Banana Bites
Perfect for hot summer days, these frozen banana bites are like doggy ice cream—minus the dairy and the brain freeze. Your pup will love the cool, creamy texture, and you’ll love how easy they are to make.
Ingredients
- 2 ripe bananas
- 1/4 cup plain yogurt (make sure it’s dog-safe and unsweetened)
Instructions
- Slice the bananas into small, bite-sized pieces.
- Dip each piece into the yogurt, coating it evenly.
- Place the coated banana pieces on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Freeze for at least 2 hours or until solid.
Pro Tip: Add a sprinkle of cinnamon for extra flavor. Dogs love it, and it’s great for their digestion!
3. Sweet Potato Chews
Move over, rawhide! These sweet potato chews are a natural, healthy alternative that’ll keep your dog busy and satisfied. Plus, they’re packed with vitamins and fiber.
Ingredients
- 1 large sweet potato
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 250°F (120°C).
- Slice the sweet potato into thin strips (about 1/4 inch thick).
- Place the strips on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 2-3 hours, flipping halfway through, until they’re chewy but not crispy.
Pro Tip: If you’re short on time, you can microwave the slices for 5-7 minutes instead. Just keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking.
4. Chicken and Rice Balls
These protein-packed treats are perfect for active dogs or pups who need a little extra energy. They’re also great for dogs with sensitive stomachs—because who doesn’t love a treat that’s both tasty and tummy-friendly?
Ingredients
- 1 cup cooked chicken (shredded)
- 1/2 cup cooked rice
- 1 egg
Instructions
- Mix all the ingredients in a bowl until well combined.
- Roll the mixture into small, bite-sized balls.
- Place the balls on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes.
- Let them cool before serving.
Pro Tip: You can substitute the chicken with turkey or beef if your dog prefers a different protein. Variety is the spice of life, right?
5. Pumpkin Oat Cookies
These cookies are like a warm hug for your dog’s digestive system. Pumpkin is great for their tummy, and oats add a nice crunch. Plus, they’re so easy to make, you’ll feel like a doggy dessert pro.
Ingredients
- 1 cup oats
- 1/2 cup canned pumpkin (not pumpkin pie filling!)
- 1 egg
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Mix all the ingredients in a bowl until you get a dough-like consistency.
- Roll the dough into small balls and flatten them into cookie shapes.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes or until firm.
Pro Tip: Add a teaspoon of cinnamon for extra flavor and a boost of antioxidants. Your dog will thank you!
6. Apple Carrot Crunchies
These crunchy treats are packed with vitamins and fiber, making them a healthy snack your dog will love. Plus, they’re a great way to use up leftover fruits and veggies.
Ingredients
- 1 apple (grated)
- 1 carrot (grated)
- 1 cup whole wheat flour
- 1/4 cup water
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Mix all the ingredients in a bowl until well combined.
- Roll the dough into small balls and flatten them into cookie shapes.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes or until crispy.
Pro Tip: You can substitute the apple and carrot with other dog-safe fruits and veggies, like zucchini or blueberries. Get creative!
FAQs
1. Can I use regular flour instead of whole wheat flour?
Yes, but whole wheat flour is healthier and provides more fiber. If your dog has a gluten sensitivity, you can use almond or coconut flour instead.
2. How long do these treats last?
Most homemade treats last about a week in the fridge or up to 3 months in the freezer. Always check for signs of spoilage before feeding them to your dog.
3. Can I use honey or other sweeteners?
While honey is safe for dogs in small amounts, it’s best to avoid added sugars. Dogs don’t need sweet treats to enjoy them!
4. Are these treats suitable for puppies?
Yes, but always check with your vet first, especially if your puppy has specific dietary needs or allergies.
5. Can I make these treats without an oven?
Absolutely! Many of these recipes can be adapted for the microwave or even made as no-bake treats. Just follow the instructions and adjust as needed.
Final Thoughts
Making your own dog treats isn’t just about saving money—it’s about giving your pup the best. With these 6 quick and easy recipes, you can spoil your dog with healthy, homemade snacks in no time. Plus, you’ll know exactly what’s going into their treats (no mystery ingredients here!).
So, what are you waiting for? Grab your apron, preheat that oven, and get ready to become your dog’s favorite chef. Trust me, they’ll be wagging their tail so hard, it might just fall off. 😉
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 😉
