HOMEMADE DOG TREATS - PERFECT FOR YOUR PUP
As loving dog owners, we all want our pups to have a happy and healthy life. Because we want the best for our pups, many are incredibly particular about the type of food they feed their dogs. This often results in hours of research before finally making a decision on a brand. However, even after having all of this time invested into picking the perfect food, many owners simply grab dog treats right off the shelf. Treats and the nutritional benefits they have, or don’t have as you will find with most commercial options, are commonly overlooked. There is a fast and easy way to ensure your furry family member gets the best option when it comes to treat time – easy to make homemade dog treats!
WHY HOMEMADE DOG TREATS
When you stop and think about it, homemade dog treats make perfect sense, even when you compare the concept to human food. For example, there is a huge difference in taste when you make brownies at home, versus buying them in a box from the store. Because you are in control of the ingredients and the brownies are freshly basked, they taste much more fresh. The same applies to homemade dog treats.
It’s not all just about taste, however. By using quality ingredients, and not having the need to add preservatives, the nutritional value is much higher than store bought treats. After some trial and error, you’ll find the perfect combination of healthy ingredients your dog simply cannot wait to enjoy!
HOMEMADE DOG TREAT INGREDIENTS
Once you have decided homemade dog treats are a good option for your and your pup, the first place to start is knowing what ingredients are good, and what to avoid. Most commercial food and treat options have do not use many fresh ingredients because it will reduce the shelf life of the product. By making your own treats, you can introduce some great, healthy ingredients into your pups diet. Some favorites include:
- Blueberries
- Carrots
- Fish / Fish Oil
- Kale
- Sweet Potatoes
- Carrots
- Eggs
- Sweet Potatoes
- Celery
INGREDIENTS TO AVOID
Just like most owners know pups love peanut butter, banana, and apples, almost everyone knows chocolate can be harmful to dogs. However, there are several other ingredients that are important to avoid because they can upset your dogs stomach, or worse, cause serious organ damage or even death. These ingredients include:
- Sugar
- Salt
- Capsaicin
- Milk / Dairy
- Coffee
- Apple Seeds
- Macadamia Nuts
- Onions
- Chives
It’s very important to learn about what may be harmful to your dog before you start creating your own treats, and run your custom recipes by your vet just in case!
OTHER CONSIDERATIONS
Remember, making your own homemade dog treats shouldn’t be a chore, it should be fun! Start simple and don’t focus on what the treats look like once complete, focus on if your dog likes the recipe. After all is said and done, it’s not how pretty your treat is, but how good it is for your pup and if they will eat it. There are a lot of bone and dog shaped molds out there, but a mini muffin tin you already own will work just as well. There is no need to go out and spend money on anything but quality ingredients.
When you are making homemade dog treats keep in mind this does not mean you need to bake. There are plenty of super simple frozen treat recipes that are great for your dog that they’ll love. These types of treats are especially tasty on a hot summer day after you have been playing outside! Again, don’t overthink it, just make sure your pup will love the taste.
HOMEMADE DOG TREATS RECIPES
If you’re ready to start baking and want an easy way to start, here are two recipes that your dog will love!
PUPPY PATTIES
These easy to make treats can be cooked to your pup’s liking – a crisper, crunchier treat or left more moist.
Ingredients
• Nonstick cooking spray
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 3/4 to 1 cup oat flour, almond flour, rice flour, buckwheat flour, or amaranth flour (use 1 cup if using canned salmon)
• 1 pound ground turkey, chicken, beef, venison, OR one 14¾-ounce can of salmon
• 1 egg
Directions
1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Coat a 13 x 9-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
2. Mix baking powder and flour; add meat or fish. Combine until dry ingredients are fully incorporated. Add egg and mix until completely combined. Spread the mixture evenly in the prepared pan.
3. Bake 20 to 30 minutes until firm and dry to the touch. Cool in the pan. Cut into squares and store in the refrigerator (good for up to five days) or in the freezer (good for up to six months).
FROZEN BANANA TREATS
An easy to make classic that uses just three simple ingredients! It’s the perfect cool treat for the dog days of summer!
Ingredients
• 32 oz Plain Yogurt
• 3 Tablespoons Peanut Butter (make sure it contains no xylitol, which is toxic to dogs)
• 1 Large Banana, sliced
• 1 Teaspoon of Honey (Optional)
Directions
1. Put all ingredients into a food processor or blender. Blend until creamy with a smooth, easy flowing consistency.
2. Fill a silicone mold, an ice cube tray, or individual small disposable paper cups.
3. Freeze for at least 2 hours.
4. Remove the frozen treats out of the and serve to your furry best friend. Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the freezer. You also can use the paper cup option to hand feed your pup!
HOMEMADE DOG TREATS - FUN AND HEALTHY
Making sure our pups live a long, healthy and happy is life is our job as a loving dog parent. By ensuring your pup get the nutrients they need, you can help prevent illness and improve quality of life. Making homemade dog treats may take a little getting used to, but trust us your pup will love you for it!
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