Amy Thompson
Finding ready-made natural, raw, and healthy dog treats can be quite a challenge for pet owners. The market is flooded with products that often contain artificial ingredients, preservatives, and other additives that might not be ideal for your dog's health. Even those labeled as "natural" or "organic" can sometimes fall short in meeting the highest standards of quality and nutrition.
That's why making your own homemade dog treats is a fantastic alternative. Not only is it quick and easy, but it also allows you to control exactly what goes into your dog's snacks, ensuring they're safe, healthy, and tailored to your pup's specific dietary needs.
Homemade raw dog treats offer numerous benefits. You can select the freshest ingredients, avoid harmful additives, and customize the treats to suit your dog's preferences and health requirements.
Plus, making treats at home can be a fun and rewarding experience, allowing you to bond with your dog and provide him with the best nutrition possible. Whether it's a refreshing summer treat or a nutritious snack for any time of the year, these homemade recipes are sure to make your dog wag with joy.
Before we dive into the recipes though, let's look at a few ingredients we tend to avoid (and why we suggest you do the same).
Ingredients To Avoid In Your Own Dog Treat Recipes
While creating healthy and delicious treats for your dog at home, it's essential to be aware of certain ingredients that should be avoided. Some common ingredients found in many dog treat recipes and commercial products can be harmful to your dog's health.
Here are a few you should steer clear of:
- Peanut Butter (Yes, Even Natural Peanut Butter): You won't see any homemade peanut butter dog treats or peanut butter dog biscuits on the list below. Although a popular ingredient in many dog treats, peanut butter can contain aflatoxins, which are naturally occurring mycotoxins and one of the most carcinogenic substances. Additionally, many peanut butters have harmful fats and sugars that can lead to various health issues, including obesity and diabetes.
- Peas or Beans: These starchy vegetables are often included in dog treats but can contain anti-nutrients that hinder your dog's ability to absorb essential nutrients. Over time, this can lead to nutritional deficiencies and other health problems.
- Starchy Carbohydrates: Ingredients such as potatoes, sweet potatoes, rice, and cereal grains serve no nutritional purpose in a dog's diet and can feed harmful bacteria in the gut. They also contribute to weight gain and can exacerbate issues related to insulin resistance.
- Sugars: White sugar and other sweeteners can lead to a host of health problems, including diabetes, allergies, and digestive issues. Sugars feed harmful bacteria and yeast, contributing to conditions such as yeast infections and other inflammatory conditions.
Avoiding these ingredients in your homemade dog treats recipe can help keep them as beneficial as possible for your dog's health.
The 10 Best Natural, Healthy Dog Treat Recipes
1. DIY Organ Meat Dog Treats - Kol's Notes
Organ meats are crucial for a balanced raw diet, and this recipe ensures your dog gets all the nutrients they need. Organ meats such as liver, kidneys, and hearts are packed with essential vitamins and minerals, including vitamin A, B vitamins, iron, and zinc, which support various bodily functions from immune health to energy metabolism.
Preparing these treats can be as simple as slicing the organ meats into bite-sized pieces and using your oven on its lowest setting if you don't have a dehydrator. This low-heat method preserves the nutrients while making the treats shelf-stable and easy to store. Your dog will love the rich flavors and the nutritional boost these organ meat treats provide.
2. Frozen Chicken Broth And Apple Treats - Savor + Savvy
With just two ingredients – organic apples and organic chicken broth – these treats are simple yet nutritious. Apples are an excellent source of vitamins A and C, as well as dietary fiber, which can aid in digestion and promote overall health.
Chicken broth is not only delicious but also provides additional hydration and essential minerals. To prepare, core the apples to remove any seeds, then blend the apple pieces with the chicken broth. Pour the mixture into an ice cube tray and freeze it. The result is a refreshing and healthy snack that’s perfect for hot days or as a light treat any time of year.
3. Dog Friendly Easter Eggs - Tanya Arnold
This recipe features healthy fats and requires no baking, making it a convenient treat option. Ingredients like coconut oil and other dog-safe ingredients are mixed together to form mini egg-shaped treats that are not only delicious but also provide essential nutrients.
Coconut oil is rich in medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), which support skin and coat health, digestion, and energy levels. The mini eggs can be prepared quickly and stored in the freezer for up to a month, providing your dog with a tasty and nutritious treat that's easy to grab and serve. These Easter eggs are perfect for festive occasions or as a regular part of your dog's treat rotation.
4. Tropical Pupsicle Dog Treats Recipe
Made with coconut oil and other tropical ingredients, these pupsicles are perfect for keeping your dog hydrated and refreshed. Coconut oil provides healthy fats that support your dog’s overall health, while other tropical fruits like pineapple or mango can be added for a boost of vitamins and antioxidants.
To make these pupsicles, blend coconut oil with small pieces of tropical fruits and pour the mixture into molds or ice cube trays. Freeze until solid, and you’ll have a delicious and hydrating treat ready to pull out on a warm day. These pupsicles are not only tasty but also packed with nutrients that help keep your dog cool and healthy.
5. Frozen Strawberry And Banana Smoothie Dog Treats - The Cottage Market
One delightful and nutritious treat you can make for your dog is Frozen Strawberry and Banana Smoothie Dog Treats. These treats are refreshing, easy to prepare, and packed with healthy ingredients that your dog will love.
For an even healthier twist, consider substituting raw goat milk or unsweetened kefir for the Greek yogurt. Both raw goat milk and kefir provide additional probiotic benefits, which are excellent for your dog's digestive health.
These Frozen Strawberry and Banana Smoothie Dog Treats are not only delicious but also packed with vitamins and nutrients from the fruits, along with beneficial probiotics from the yogurt or kefir. They are a perfect summer treat that will keep your dog cool and happy.
6. Pumpkin Banana Frozen Pup Pops - Dogvills
Pumpkin and bananas are the star ingredients in these frozen pup pops, making them a delightful and nutritious treat for your dog. Pumpkin is rich in fiber, which aids in digestion and helps maintain a healthy weight. It also provides essential vitamins like vitamin A and beta-carotene, which support eye health. Bananas add a natural sweetness and are packed with potassium, vitamin B6, and vitamin C, which contribute to muscle function and overall well-being.
To make these treats even more beneficial for your dog's digestive health, consider substituting yogurt with kefir. Kefir is a fermented milk product that contains a higher concentration of probiotics than yogurt. These beneficial bacteria help support a healthy gut microbiome, improving digestion and boosting the immune system.
7. Watermelon Dog Treats - Huffington Post
Watermelon is a hydrating and nutrient-rich treat that your dog will love. It is low in calories but high in vitamins A, B6, and C, which are essential for maintaining a healthy coat, boosting the immune system, and promoting overall vitality. Additionally, watermelon contains potassium, which is vital for maintaining proper heart and muscle function.
When preparing watermelon treats for your dog, it is crucial to remove all the seeds. Watermelon seeds can cause intestinal blockage and pose a choking hazard. Ensure the flesh is seedless and cut into small, bite-sized pieces for a safe and refreshing snack.
8. Doggylicious Christmas Pudding - Tanya Arnold
This Christmas pudding recipe is a festive and nutritious treat that can be enjoyed year-round. It is packed with a variety of healthy veggies, antioxidant-rich fruits, and nutritious raw meats. Ingredients like carrots, apples, cranberries, and lean ground turkey or chicken provide a balanced mix of vitamins, minerals, and protein. This combination supports your dog's overall health, from their immune system to their skin and coat.
While this treat is perfect for the holiday season, its nutritious ingredients make it suitable for any time of the year. Your dog can enjoy the benefits of these wholesome ingredients all year long, providing a tasty and healthful snack that supports their well-being.
9. Frozen Coconut Oil And Blueberry Dog Treats - Hello Nature
These frozen treats combine the goodness of coconut oil and blueberries, making them a superfood snack for your dog. Coconut oil is rich in healthy fats, including medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), which support skin and coat health, improve digestion, and boost energy levels. Blueberries are packed with antioxidants, vitamins, and fiber, helping to protect your dog’s cells from damage, support brain function, and promote digestive health.
These treats are a great addition to your dog's raw diet. Serving them with raw meals enhances the nutritional benefits and supports the overall raw feeding philosophy. Avoid serving them with kibble, as mixing raw and processed foods can sometimes cause digestive upset in some dogs.
10. Doughnut Pupcake Recipe - Tanya Arnold
Raw doughnut treats might sound unconventional, but they offer a fun and nutritious snack for your dog. These doughnut-shaped treats are made from high-quality, raw ingredients such as meat, eggs, and vegetables, providing a balanced mix of protein, vitamins, and minerals. The unique shape and texture make them a fun treat that can also help keep your dog's teeth clean and gums healthy.
While these doughnut pupcakes require a bit more effort to prepare than some other treats, the nutritional benefits and enjoyment for your dog make it worthwhile. The process involves shaping the dough into doughnut forms and ensuring they are properly balanced with all the necessary nutrients. Despite the extra time and care needed, the result is a delicious and healthy treat that your dog will love.
FAQ
What ingredients should dog treats have? Dog treats should be made with wholesome ingredients like almond flour and coconut flour to ensure they are both healthy and delicious. Avoid using wheat flour and even whole wheat flour, and stick to alternatives to provide better nutrition for your pet.
What foods make good dog treats? Foods that make excellent dog treats include apples, and ingredients like almond flour and coconut flour, which are healthier alternatives to wheat flour. Dogs love treats made with these nutritious ingredients, ensuring they get tasty snacks that are good for them too.
Is it cheaper to make your own dog treats? Yes, making your own dog treats at home is often cheaper than buying pre-made treats, especially when you use simple ingredients. Plus, you can store homemade treats in an airtight container to keep them fresh for up to two weeks, saving you money in the long run.
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