Why should the treat companies have all the fun? As a pet parent, you want the best for your furry companion, and that includes providing them with homemade treats. Creating your own DIY dog treats gives you the chance to tailor the treats to your dog's preferences and dietary needs – though we thought we’d get you started with some of our favourite crowd-pleasers.
##DIY Dog Treat Recipes
Whether your dog is savory or sweet tooth (or an ‘everything’ tooth…), these recipes offer a variety of options that cater to different taste preferences.
Peanut Butter and Banana Dog Biscuits
Is there a dog out there who doesn't love peanut butter? These biscuits combine the nutty flavour of peanut butter with the natural sweetness of bananas. They are not only delicious but also a great source of protein and potassium. The best bit? You can make your own functional treats by swapping out plain peanut for calming or joint protect doggy butter.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup whole wheat flour
- 1/4 cup peanut butter (unsalted, no xylitol – we love specially formulated dog-friendly peanut butter)
- 1 ripe banana, mashed
- 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 175°C and line a baking sheet with baking paper.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the whole wheat flour, peanut butter, mashed banana, and water. Mix until a dough forms.
- Roll out the dough on a floured surface and use cookie cutters to create fun shapes. We love these gummy moulds (only to be used for shaping dough – DO NOT bake them in the mould).
- Place the biscuits on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
- Allow the biscuits to cool before serving them to your dog.
Cheesy Sweet Potato Dog Chews
If your dog leans into savory flavours, these cheesy sweet potato chews are the perfect option. Packed with vitamins and minerals, sweet potatoes are not only tasty but also a nutritious choice for your dog.
Ingredients:
- 1 large sweet potato, washed and dried
- 1/2 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 120°C and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Slice the sweet potatoes lengthwise into thin strips, resembling fries.
- In a bowl, toss the sweet potato strips with olive oil until coated.
- Arrange the strips on the baking sheet, making sure they don't overlap.
- Bake for 2-3 hours, turning the strips halfway through baking.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheese over the sweet potato chews and bake for an additional 5 minutes, until the cheese melts.
- Allow the chews to cool before giving them to your dog.
Frozen Yoghurt and Berry Bites
During the warmer months, your pup will appreciate a refreshing treat. These frozen yogurt and berry bites are a delightful summer treat!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup plain yoghurt (no added sugar)
- 1/2 cup mixed berries (blueberries and strawberries), chopped
Instructions:
- In a bowl, mix the plain yoghurt and chopped berries until well combined.
- Spoon the mixture into ice cube trays or silicone moulds.
- Freeze the moulds for a few hours or until the yoghurt bites are completely frozen.
- Pop out the frozen treats and serve them to your dog on a hot day.
FAQs For DIY Dog Treats
Can I use regular flour instead of whole wheat flour for dog biscuits?
Yes, you can substitute regular flour, but whole wheat flour offers more nutrients and fibre for your dog's diet.
Is it safe to give my dog sweet potato chews every day?
While sweet potato chews are a healthy treat, moderation is key. Too much of any treat can upset your dog's stomach.
Can I use Greek yogurt for the frozen yogurt and berry bites?
Yes, plain Greek yogurt is a suitable option. Just make sure it doesn't contain any artificial sweeteners.
Are there any fruits I should avoid giving my dog?
Grapes and raisins should be avoided, as they are toxic to dogs. Stick to dog-safe fruits like berries and apples. Always remove any fruit seeds and the apple core.
How should I store homemade dog treats?
Store the treats in an airtight container in the refrigerator or freezer, depending on the recipe, to keep them fresh.
Can I customize the treat sizes for small or large dogs?
Absolutely! Adjust the treat sizes based on your dog's size to prevent choking hazards.