Every dog deserves a tasty treat. But many ready-made treats contain additives, salt, or sugar that aren't very healthy. Fortunately, you can also make healthy dog treats yourself: simple, affordable, and often with ingredients you already have at home. This way, you know exactly what your dog is eating and can tailor treats to their preferences or diet.
Why make your own dog snacks?
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Healthier: no unnecessary additives or artificial flavours.
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Ingredient control: ideal if your dog has allergies or sensitivities.
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Cost-effective: often cheaper than store-bought snacks.
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Fun to do: working together in the kitchen is enjoyable for both owner and dog.
What should you pay attention to?
Not all ingredients are safe for dogs. Always avoid: chocolate, onion, garlic, grapes, raisins, avocado, and spicy or salty foods. Instead, choose dog-friendly staples such as:
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Chicken or turkey (cooked and unprocessed)
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Carrot, pumpkin or sweet potato
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Oatmeal or whole wheat flour
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Peanut butter (xylitol-free and sugar-free)
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Low-fat yogurt or cottage cheese
Recipe 1: Crispy carrot cookies
Ingredients:
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100 g grated carrot
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150 g oatmeal
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1 egg
Preparation:
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Preheat the oven to 180°C.
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Mix carrot, oatmeal and egg into a firm dough.
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Roll small balls and flatten them on baking paper.
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Bake for 20–25 minutes until crispy.
👉 Perfect as a reward during training.
Recipe 2: Sweet potato chips
Ingredients:
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1 large sweet potato
Preparation:
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Cut the potato into thin slices.
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Place on baking paper and dry in the oven at 120°C (1.5–2 hours).
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Let cool completely for a crunchy snack.
👉 A healthy, fiber-rich treat.
Recipe 3: Peanut Butter Bites
Ingredients:
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2 tbsp peanut butter (without salt or xylitol)
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100 g whole wheat flour
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1 egg
Preparation:
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Mix everything into a firm dough.
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Roll out and cut out shapes (for example, bone shape).
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Bake for 15–20 minutes at 175°C.
👉 Extra fun: use your favorite dog biscuit cutters.
Storage tips
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Store snacks in an airtight container for up to one week.
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For longer shelf life: freeze snacks and take them out in portions.
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Always give in moderation: a snack is a supplement, not a meal.
Making your own healthy dog snacks is easier than you think. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up tasty and healthy treats for your dog in no time. This way, you combine fun in the kitchen with your four-legged friend's health.
Frequently Asked Questions About Making Healthy Dog Treats
1. How often can I give my dog snacks?
Treats are a supplement to your dog's daily diet, not a replacement. A good guideline is that treats should not exceed 10% of your dog's daily calorie intake.
2. Which ingredients are dangerous for dogs?
Dogs should absolutely not eat chocolate, grapes, raisins, avocados, onions, garlic, macadamia nuts, or products containing xylitol. Salt, sugar, and spicy foods are also not recommended.
3. Can I store homemade dog treats?
Yes, store them in an airtight container for up to a week. For longer shelf life, you can freeze them and thaw them in portions.
4. Are homemade treats suitable for puppies?
Yes, but pay close attention to the size and hardness of the snack. Choose soft, small pieces that are easy to chew.
5. Can I use peanut butter for dog treats?
Yes, but always choose peanut butter without salt, sugar, or xylitol (a sweetener that is highly toxic to dogs).
