DIY Dog Treats

We have all been feeling the financial pinch lately and can benefit from any cost-cutting available. One good tip is to bake your own dog treats using common household (and dog-friendly) ingredients. They are simple to make so kids can get involved (under supervision of course) and you can customise them to suit your own dog’s dietary requirements. Create small size bites as training rewards or to fill a favourite treat toy, and larger sizes for teeth cleaning snacks and to keep them busy for longer. Or as a treat on special occasions!

Here are three easy recipes you can try:

1. Peanut Butter and Banana Dog Treats

Ingredients:

• 1 ripe banana, mashed
• 1/2 cup peanut butter (make sure it is free from xylitol)
• 1 cup whole wheat flour (or any alternative flour option)
• 1 egg

 

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 175°C and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, mix mashed banana and peanut butter until well combined.
3. Add the egg and mix again.
4. Gradually add the flour and mix until you get a dough-like consistency.
5. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thick.
6. Use cookie cutters to cut out shapes or simply slice into squares.
7. Place the treats on the prepared baking sheet.
8. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
9. Let them cool completely before serving.

2. Sweet Potato Dog Chews

Ingredients:

• 2-3 sweet potatoes

 

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven 120°C.
2. Wash and peel the sweet potatoes.
3. Slice the sweet potatoes into thin rounds or strips.
4. Place the slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 3-4 hours, flipping halfway through, until they are dried and crispy.
6. Let them cool completely before giving them to your dog.

3. Chicken and Vegetable Dog Meatballs

Ingredients:

• 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded
• 1/2 cup cooked vegetables (e.g. carrots, peas, green beans), finely chopped
• 1 egg

 

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 175°C and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, combine shredded chicken and chopped vegetables.
3. Add the egg and mix well to combine.
4. Form the mixture into small meatballs.
5. Place the meatballs on the prepared baking sheet.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
7. Let them cool before serving.

 

Remember to store any leftover treats in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week, or you can freeze them for longer storage. Always introduce new treats gradually to ensure they agree with your dog’s digestive system. Enjoy making these tasty and healthy snacks for your furry friend!