We love to give our dogs treats, but store-bought treats can contain many preservatives, not to mention high amounts of sodium and fillers. Homemade treats are fun to make, and you can control the ingredients you put into them so you know exactly what your pup is eating. Here are four recipes for homemade dog treats you should try that are guaranteed to make your dog a happy camper.
- Puppy Ice Cream
Combine one 6-ounce container of Greek yogurt with 1/3 cup of low sodium peanut butter. Drizzle in a little honey and combine it with a third of a mashed banana. Scoop the mixture into a small paper cup, and pop it into the freezer. Once your “ice cream” is frozen, you can peel the paper cup off the ice cream, and serve it up to your pup. This may be a treat that is best served outside because it can get a little messy once it starts to melt.
- Peanut Butter Balls
Combine two mashed bananas with 1 cup of raw oatmeal and 1 cup of low sodium peanut butter. If the mixture is too thick, you can add water as needed. Once the mixture is combined, use a scoop to measure out small balls onto a cookie sheet covered in wax paper. Pop the tray into the fridge for about 3 to 4 hours, or until your peanut butter treats are firm. This is sure to be your dog’s new favorite treat!
- Sweet Potato Chewies
Sweet potatoes are good for your dog, and these are really easy to make. Use a really sharp knife to slice a sweet potato into thick, flat strips. Place the strips into a dehydrator, and you’ve got homemade chewies. If you don’t have a dehydrator, you can use your oven on its lowest heat setting. Leave them in for about four hours (longer for crispier chews), and then let them cool before serving them to your dog.
-
Pumpkin Cookies
Pumpkin is great for your dog’s digestion. Combine a 1/2 cup of low sodium peanut butter with 1 and 3/4 cup of whole-wheat flour plus 1 cup of pumpkin puree. Mix it well, roll out the dough, and cut into whatever cookie shapes you prefer. Bake the cookies at 350 degrees for 10 minutes. Let them cool on a baking rack before tossing one to Fido.
