Easy Healthy Dog Treats to Make at Home

Welcoming a furry friend into your life is a joyous occasion, and what better way to show your love than by crafting delicious and nutritious homemade treats? If you’re searching for Easy Healthy Dog Treats To Make At Home, you’ve come to the right place. This guide will walk you through creating simple, wholesome snacks that your canine companion will absolutely adore, ensuring they get the best nutrition without any artificial additives.

homemade dog treats in a glass jar

Many pet owners strive to provide their dogs with the best, and that includes their diet. While store-bought treats can be convenient, knowing exactly what goes into your dog’s food offers unparalleled peace of mind. This recipe for easy healthy dog treats to make at home is designed to be simple, requiring only a few common ingredients. It’s a fantastic way to supplement your dog’s regular diet with something special and wholesome. If you’re interested in expanding your homemade dog food repertoire, you might also explore this simple stovetop recipe.

These homemade dog treats are a delightful alternative to processed snacks. Made with beneficial ingredients like peanut butter and pumpkin, they are not only tasty but also contribute to your dog’s overall well-being. The recipe is straightforward, eliminating the need for complex cookie cutters, and offers an optional turmeric glaze for a gourmet touch. Think of them as a dog-friendly version of a peanut butter cookie – though if you’re craving one for yourself, this human-friendly peanut butter cookie recipe is highly recommended!

Crafting Your Own Homemade Dog Treats

Get ready for your dog to be absolutely thrilled with these easy healthy dog treats to make at home! Who wouldn’t get excited about a peanut butter dog treat infused with pumpkin and cinnamon?

The best part? You’ll be amazed at how simple they are to prepare. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

Combine Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix together your wet ingredients: peanut butter, pumpkin puree, and a large egg. For the best texture, it’s recommended to use a pourable peanut butter. This brand is a popular choice, or you can even make your own peanut butter from scratch – it’s surprisingly easy!
Add Dry Ingredients: Incorporate the almond flour, cinnamon, and turmeric into the wet mixture. Stir until everything is well combined, forming a thick batter.
Shape the Treats: Scoop about a heaping teaspoon of dough into your palm. Roll it into a small ball and then gently flatten it to create a disc shape. If the dough feels sticky, dipping your hands in cool water can help.
Arrange for Baking: Place each shaped dog treat onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone mat. Repeat this process until all the dough is used; you may need to work in batches.
Add Texture: Using the flat side of a fork, gently press down on the top of each treat to create a criss-cross pattern. Rotate the fork and repeat.
Bake to Perfection: Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the treats are golden brown and firm to the touch. Allow them to cool completely.

all ingredients mixed in a bowlCombine peanut butter, pumpkin puree, egg, cinnamon, and turmeric in a bowl and mix well.

Shape dog treats into small rounds and create a criss-cross over the top using a fork.

DIY dog treats freshly baked on a baking sheetBake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown and set through.

Once your DIY Dog Treats have cooled, drizzle the peanut butter glaze over the top.

Optional Peanut Butter Turmeric Glaze

For an extra touch of flair, consider topping these dog treats with a flavorful glaze. Simply combine peanut butter, coconut oil, and turmeric in a small bowl until a thin glaze consistency is achieved. Transfer this mixture to an airtight baggie, snip off a tiny corner, and artfully drizzle the glaze in a zig-zag pattern over the cooled treats. The glaze typically sets within about 30 minutes, becoming dry but not hard. Remember, this step is entirely optional! It adds a fun and tasty element, but the treats are just as wonderful without it. If you prefer to keep the recipe ultra-simple, feel free to skip the glaze.

Storing Your Homemade Dog Treats

It’s important to note that these easy healthy dog treats to make at home are not designed to be super crunchy and long-lasting like some store-bought biscuits. Therefore, proper storage is key to maintaining their freshness.

Store these healthy DIY dog treats in an airtight container or bag. They can be kept at room temperature for up to one week, or in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. For the longest shelf life, freezing them for up to three months is the best option.

A note on texture: These treats are firm but soft, similar to peanut butter cookies. This texture makes them suitable for all dogs, including senior dogs with more sensitive teeth. If your dog prefers a crunchy treat, serving them directly from the freezer will give them a delightful dog-biscuit-like crunch.

DIY dog treats stored in a glass containerOnce the dog treats are cooled and glazed, store them in an airtight container and keep them in your fridge for up to two weeks.

Safety of Ingredients for Your Dog

When making easy healthy dog treats to make at home, it’s essential to understand the ingredients you’re using.

Can dogs eat almond flour?

Almond flour is a gluten-free option rich in vitamin E, phosphorus, magnesium, protein, healthy fats, and dietary fiber. It is generally considered safe for dogs. However, it’s always a good idea to consult your veterinarian to ensure almond flour aligns with your dog’s specific dietary needs. If you have concerns about using almond flour, you can substitute it with white or whole wheat flour.

Is peanut butter safe for dogs?

Peanut butter is a nutritious food for dogs, offering valuable vitamins and healthy fats. Just like humans, dogs can have allergies, so introduce any new food in moderation. When in doubt, always check with your vet.

Are cinnamon and turmeric safe for dogs?

When incorporated in small amounts into baked dog treats, cinnamon and turmeric can be safe and even beneficial due to their nutrient content. The key is moderation; avoid overdoing it.

Is coconut oil good for dogs?

According to resources like PetMD, extra-virgin coconut oil is a healthy alternative to more processed fats for dogs. It has been observed to assist dogs with weight management, boost energy levels, and help alleviate dry skin. Additionally, it can contribute to fresher breath! For more information on incorporating healthy oils into your dog’s diet, PetMD offers excellent insights.

I hope your pup thoroughly enjoys these easy healthy dog treats to make at home, just as much as our furry friend Charlie does! If you’re a visual learner, watching the video below will guide you through the recipe step-by-step.

homemade dog treats in a glass jar

Print Recipe Pin Recipe 4.87 from 29 votes

Easy Healthy DIY Dog Treats Recipe

Attention fur parents! Your pups are going to love these DIY Dog Treats! They are quick and easy to make with nutrient-rich ingredients and a great way to let your pup know how much they’re loved.

Course: dog treats
Cuisine: dog food

Author: Dani Spies
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Servings: 28 treats
Calories: 86kcal

Ingredients

1/2 cup all-natural peanut butter
1/3 cup pumpkin puree
1 large egg
1 1/4 cup almond flour (Bob’s Red Mill Super Fine is recommended)
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon turmeric

Optional Glaze

1/3 cup natural peanut butter
2 tablespoons melted coconut oil
1/2 teaspoon turmeric

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with a silicone baking mat or parchment paper.
In a medium-sized bowl, combine the peanut butter, pumpkin puree, and egg. Stir until well combined. A hand-held electric mixer can be used if preferred.
Add the almond flour, cinnamon, and turmeric. Stir again until a cohesive dough forms. Note: The dough will be sticky.
mixing almond flour in with peanut butter mixture in a medium bowl
Scoop a heaping teaspoon of dough into your palms, gently roll it into a ball, and then shape it into a disc. Place the treats on the prepared baking sheet, continuing until you have approximately 20 cookies on the tray. Use a fork to create a crisscross pattern on the top of each treat. Dipping the fork in water can help prevent sticking.
Bake for 20 minutes, or until the dog treats are set and have golden-brown edges.
baked dog treats on a cookie sheet pan
Optional Glaze: Combine peanut butter, melted coconut oil, and turmeric in a small bowl and mix thoroughly. Transfer the mixture to a small zip-top bag, remove any excess air, and seal it. Cut a tiny corner off the bag and drizzle the glaze over each cooled cookie.

Notes

This dough can be sticky; shaping the treats with slightly damp hands helps prevent them from sticking. The glaze is a fun and tasty addition. While it will firm up, it remains soft. If you use the glaze, it’s best to store the treats in the refrigerator. Store the treats in an airtight container for up to three days on the counter, one week in the fridge, and up to three months in the freezer.

Nutrition

Dog Health