24 Homemade Dog Treat Recipes (Vet-Approved & Easy-to-Make)

This content was reviewed and fact-checked by veterinarian Dr. Sandra Tashkovska, DVM.

In a world where our pets are cherished family members, the question of what we feed them is as critical as what we place on our plates. The pet food industry offers endless options, yet the allure of homemade dog treats remains unmatched. Why? Because when we take the time to craft these goodies ourselves, we control every ingredient, ensuring the highest quality and the ultimate in care. This collection of 20 homemade dog treat recipes is more than just a guide—it’s a testament to thoughtful pet parenting. Our vet has reviewed each recipe to ensure palatability and nutritional value, addressing the unique dietary needs of dogs of all sizes, breeds, and life stages. From grain-free bites to high-protein chews and celebratory snacks, these treats are as diverse as the dogs we love. With a little effort and much love, you can treat your furry friend to something truly special that reflects the care and commitment they so richly deserve. So roll up your sleeves, preheat the oven, and let’s get cooking because nothing says “good dog” quite like a treat made just for them.

Key Considerations When Making Dogs Treats At Homemade Diet

Homemade Dog Treat Recipes (Vet-Approved)

A list of our favorite dog treats you can prepare at home. We’ve also included a special treat recipe for your pup, enriched with the health benefits of our favorite ingredient: dog CBD oil. CBD oil might help with issues like seizures, anxiety, arthritis, inflammation, pain, and overall wellness.

1. Savory Chicken & Sweet Potato Chews

These Savory Chicken & Sweet Potato Chews are a protein-packed, nutrient-rich treat your dog will love. Made with just two wholesome ingredients, they’re easy to prepare and perfect for pups with sensitive stomachs. A great alternative to store-bought snacks!

Ingredients:

• 1 medium sweet potato
• 1/2 cup cooked, shredded chicken (unsalted and unseasoned)
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley (optional, for fresh breath)

Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Prepare Sweet Potato: Peel and slice the sweet potato into thin strips, about 1/4-inch thick.
3. Blend Chicken: Use a blender or food processor to puree the shredded chicken into a smooth paste. Add a splash of water if needed for blending. Mix in the parsley if desired.
4. Coat the Sweet Potato: Use a brush or spoon to spread the chicken mixture over both sides of each sweet potato slice.
5. Bake: Place the coated slices on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake for 2-3 hours, flipping halfway through, until the slices are dehydrated and chewy.
6. Cool: Let the chews cool completely before serving.

Storage: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week, or freeze for longer-lasting treats.

2. Blueberry-Banana CBD-Infused Dog Treat For Dogs

Treat your dog with these nutritious, therapeutic, and delicious homemade CBD treats. They are made with bananas, a great source of essential vitamins and minerals (like potassium, vitamin C, and vitamin B6). Banana also aids with digestion and energy. Coconut is added for skin and coat, digestion and helps reduce allergic reactions. Remember to consult your vet to ensure CBD is safe for your dog and that you are giving the correct dosage. Alternatively, you can buy commercially available CBD dog treats so your pup can experience CBD’s benefits without the cooking.

Ingredients

Instructions

1. Oven preparation. Preheat oven to 350ºF and brush a dog biscuit baking tray with coconut oil.
2. Banana preparation. Mash a ripe banana in a bowl until smooth, ensuring no large chunks remain.
3. Dry ingredients. Blend gluten-free flour and oats in a medium-sized bowl.
4. Wet ingredients. In a separate bowl, whisk an egg until beaten. Add coconut oil, water, mashed banana, unsweetened applesauce, and fresh blueberries. Mix well.
5. Combining ingredients. Combine the wet mixture with the dry ingredients, stirring until even. Drizzle in CBD oil, stirring again for even distribution.
6. Mold filling. Scoop portions of the mixture with a tablespoon and press firmly into the dog-treat baking mold.
7. Baking. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 to 40 minutes until the treats are firm to the touch and slightly golden.
8. Cooling and storage. Let the treats cool before transferring them to an airtight container for storage.

3. Best Freezable Dog Treat Recipes

Looking for a cool way to treat your pup? Our “Best Freezable Dog Treat Recipes” guide is packed with simple, healthy, and refreshing recipes your furry friend will love. Perfect for hot days or just as a special snack, these treats are easy to make, vet-approved, and full of wholesome ingredients. Keep your dog happy and hydrated with these frozen delights!

Ingredients:

• 1 cup shredded cooked chicken (boiled or baked, just make sure it’s plain)
• 1/2 cup mashed sweet potato (cooked and cooled)
• 1/4 cup rolled oats (optional for added texture)

Directions:

1. Start by cooking your chicken—boil or bake it without any seasoning. Let it cool, then shred it into small pieces.
2. Cook the sweet potato until tender (either boil or bake), then mash it until smooth.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, mashed sweet potato, and oats (if using). Stir until everything is well mixed.
4. Scoop out bite-sized portions and shape them into little balls or patties. You can use a spoon or your hands for this step.
5. Arrange the bites on a baking tray lined with parchment paper and freeze for 3-4 hours or until they’re firm.

4. Long-Lasting Homemade Dog Treats

Tired of store-bought treats that disappear in seconds? Discover our “Long-Lasting Homemade Dog Treats” guide, filled with durable, chew-worthy recipes your dog will savor. These vet-approved treats are fun to chew and packed with healthy ingredients to keep your pup entertained and satisfied for hours. Perfect for teething puppies or dogs who love a challenge!

Ingredients:

• 2 cups whole wheat flour (or dog-friendly flour alternative)
• 1/2 cup natural peanut butter (xylitol-free)
• 1 cup pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
• 1/4 cup chicken or beef broth
• 1 tsp cinnamon (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Mix the flour and cinnamon in a large bowl.
3. Add the peanut butter and pumpkin puree, then gradually pour the broth while mixing.
4. Knead the dough until it’s firm.
5. Roll out the dough to 1/4 inch thickness and cut into shapes.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes, then reduce oven temperature to 200°F (93°C) and bake for an additional 1-2 hours to remove moisture and harden the treats.
7. Let cool completely before serving.

Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks or freeze for up to 3 months.

5. Apple & Buckwheat Cookies: A Delicious, Allergy-Friendly Treat!

Treat your pup to the perfect blend of flavor and nutrition with “Apple & Buckwheat Cookies: A Delicious, Allergy-Friendly Treat!” These gluten-free cookies are made with simple, wholesome ingredients and are ideal for dogs with sensitive stomachs or dietary restrictions. A crunchy, healthy snack your furry friend will adore!

Ingredients:

• ½ cup unsweetened applesauce​
• 1 cup buckwheat flour​
• 1 tablespoon coconut oil (optional)​

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.​
2. In a large bowl, mix applesauce and coconut oil until smooth.​
3. Gradually add buckwheat flour to the mixture, stirring until a manageable dough forms.​
4. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about ¼ inch thickness.​
5. Cut into desired shapes using cookie cutters.​
6. Place cookies on the prepared baking sheet.​
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes until firm and lightly golden.​
8. Allow it to cool completely before serving it to your dog.

6. Vegan Dog Treats

Looking for plant-based options? Vegan dog treats are an excellent choice for pups with dairy or meat sensitivities. Try these already-made vegan dog treat recipes that are both eco-friendly and dog-approved.

7. DIY Sweet Potato Dog Treats

Give your pup a taste of wholesome goodness with “DIY Sweet Potato Dog Treats!” Easy to make and packed with natural nutrients, these treats are perfect for dogs of all sizes. Whether baked or dehydrated, they’re a healthy, tail-wagging snack your furry friend will love!

Ingredients:

• 1 cup cooked and mashed sweet potatoes​
• 2 large eggs​
• ¼ cup unsweetened applesauce​
• 2½ cups whole wheat flour (plus extra for rolling)​

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).​
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the mashed sweet potatoes, eggs, and applesauce; mix well.​
3. Gradually add the whole wheat flour to the mixture, stirring until a stiff dough forms.​
4. Divide the dough in half and roll each portion on a floured surface to about 1/8-inch thick.​
5. Use cookie cutters to cut out shapes from the dough.​
6. Place the cut-out treats on an ungreased baking sheet.​
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes until the treats are dry and crispy.​
8. Allow the treats to cool on the baking sheet for 2 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.​
9. Store the cooled treats in an airtight container at room temperature or in the refrigerator for extended freshness.

8. Snickerdoodle Dog Treats

Indulge your pup with a cozy, cinnamon-infused twist on a classic—“Snickerdoodle Dog Treats!” Made with dog-safe ingredients and a touch of cinnamon, these treats are a delightful way to spoil your furry friend. Perfect for special occasions or everyday tail wags!

Ingredients:

• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon​
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 large egg​
• ½ cup coconut milk​
• 2 cups brown rice flour​

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with silicone mats or parchment paper.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine coconut milk, honey, and egg; stir until well blended.
3. Add brown rice flour and cinnamon to the mixture; stir to form a dough.
4. Roll the dough into 1½-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheets.
5. Flatten each ball with a fork, creating a crisscross pattern.​
6. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes until the treats are firm and lightly golden.
7. Allow the treats to cool completely before serving them to your dog.​

9. Freeze-Dried Dog Treats

For pet parents on the go, freeze-dried treats offer the perfect solution. They’re packed with nutrients, shelf-stable, and easy to carry. Check out our favorite freeze-dried dog treats for travel or training sessions.

10. Thanksgiving Turkey Dog Treat Recipe

Share the holiday spirit with your furry friend with our “Thanksgiving Turkey Dog Treat Recipe!” Packed with the flavors of turkey and festive goodness, these treats are a healthy, homemade way to include your pup in the Thanksgiving feast. A tail-wagging holiday favorite!

11. Pumpkin and Peanut Butter Dog Treats

Treat your pup to the perfect fall-inspired snack with “Pumpkin and Peanut Butter Dog Treats!” Made with wholesome, dog-friendly ingredients, these treats are rich in flavor and packed with nutrients. A simple, tail-wagging recipe your furry friend will love year-round!

12. 2-Ingredient Dog Treat Recipe

Keep it simple and satisfying with our “2-Ingredient Dog Treat Recipe!” This quick and easy recipe is perfect for busy pet parents who want to whip up a healthy snack in minutes using just two wholesome, dog-friendly ingredients. Minimal effort, maximum tail wags!

13. Easy Apple Blueberry Dog Treats Recipe

Delight your pup with a burst of fruity flavor with our “Easy Apple Blueberry Dog Treats Recipe!” Packed with the natural sweetness of apples and antioxidant-rich blueberries, these treats are as healthy as they are tasty. Simple to make and perfect for every good dog!

14. Easy Applesauce Dog Treats Recipe

Whip up a healthy and delicious snack for your furry friend with our “Easy Applesauce Dog Treats Recipe!” Made with simple ingredients and packed with natural flavor, these treats are perfect for pups of all sizes. Quick to make and sure to please any wagging tail!

15. Dehydrated Dog Treat Recipes

Discover the ultimate guide to healthy, long-lasting snacks with our “Dehydrated Dog Treat Recipes!” From sweet potato chews to chicken jerky, these easy-to-make treats are packed with flavor and nutrients, perfect for dogs who love a satisfying crunch. All-natural and tail-waggingly good!

16. Homemade Pumpkin Peanut Butter Dog Treats Recipe

Spoil your pup with the perfect blend of fall flavors in our “Homemade Pumpkin Peanut Butter Dog Treats Recipe!” Packed with nutritious pumpkin and creamy peanut butter, these easy-to-make treats are as healthy as they are irresistible. A paw-some snack for every season!

17. 3 Ingredient Dog Treats

Simplify snack time with our “3 Ingredient Dog Treats” recipe! Using just three wholesome, dog-friendly ingredients, this quick and easy treat is perfect for busy pet parents. Healthy, delicious, and guaranteed to get tails wagging!

18. Holiday Dog Treat Recipes

Celebrate the season with our “Holiday Dog Treat Recipes!” From festive flavors to fun shapes, these easy-to-make treats are perfect for spreading cheer to your furry friends. Wholesome, delicious, and guaranteed to make the holidays paw-some!

19. DIY Broccoli & Chicken Dog Treats

Give your pup a protein-packed, veggie-filled snack with our “DIY Broccoli & Chicken Dog Treats!” This simple recipe combines nutritious broccoli with lean chicken for a wholesome, tail-wagging treat your furry friend will love. Perfect for a healthy, homemade snack!

20. Homemade Dog Treat Recipes For Sensitive Stomachs

Treat your pup to something special with our “Homemade Gluten-Free Dog Treat Recipes!” Perfect for dogs with sensitivities, these wholesome recipes are made with simple, nutritious ingredients that are easy to prepare and irresistibly tasty. Healthy snacks, happy tails!

21. Carrot & Zucchini Munchies

Serve up a crunchy, veggie-packed delight with “Carrot & Zucchini Munchies!” These wholesome dog treats are loaded with natural nutrients and flavors your pup will love. Easy to make and perfect for a healthy, guilt-free snack!

22. 2-ingredient Pupsicles 

Cool down your pup with “2-Ingredient Pupsicles!” Made with just two simple, dog-friendly ingredients, these frozen treats are perfect for hot days or as a refreshing snack. Easy to make and packed with tail-wagging goodness!

23. Dog Cupcakes with Frosting

Celebrate your furry friend with “Dog Cupcakes with Frosting!” These delightful, pup-friendly cupcakes are made with wholesome ingredients and topped with a tasty frosting that’s safe for dogs. Perfect for birthdays, special occasions, or just because they’re the best!

24. Pumpkin and Oat Dog Cookies Recipe

Treat your pup to a healthy and delicious snack with our “Pumpkin and Oat Dog Cookies Recipe!” Packed with fiber-rich oats and nutritious pumpkin, these easy-to-make cookies perfectly combine flavor and health. A tail-wagging treat for any time of year!

Monitor Weight and Health with Dog Treats

Treats are a great way to reward your dog, but overindulging can lead to weight gain and health issues. Here are tips for balancing treats with your dog’s diet to keep them happy and healthy:

1. Choose Low-Calorie Options: Opt for treats made with ingredients like carrots, apples, or Pumpkin to reduce calorie intake.

2. Portion Control: Keep treats small—about the size of a pea for small dogs and a bit larger for bigger breeds.

3. Consider Activity Level: Active dogs can handle more treats than those with a sedentary lifestyle. Adjust their diet accordingly.

4. Limit Treats: Treats should only make up about 10% of your dog’s daily caloric intake.

5. Homemade Healthy Choices: Make your own dog treats using lean proteins and whole grains for better control over ingredients.

6. Test Gut Health: Consider a dog gut health test to understand your pup’s digestive needs. These tests provide insights that help you select treats and food that support their microbiome and overall well-being.

Foods Should Your Dog Never Eat

Below is a list of the most common toxic ingredients dogs need to avoid.

Here is the complete list of toxic ingredients your dog should never eat. Please print it out and put it on your refrigerator as a reminder.

The Bottom Line

Making homemade dog treats is more than just a fun activity—it’s a heartfelt way to care for your furry friend’s health and happiness. With recipes like the Savory Chicken & Sweet Potato Chews, you can provide your dog with nutritious, delicious snacks tailored to their needs. By using fresh, wholesome ingredients and avoiding harmful additives, you ensure every bite is safe and satisfying. Whether treating your dog to a special occasion snack or whipping up something simple for everyday enjoyment, these homemade recipes show how much love and care go into every tail wag. So grab your apron, preheat the oven, and start creating treats that your pup will adore. Because nothing says “I love you” quite like a treat made by hand.

If you enjoy making treats for your dog, why not take it further and try making their meals, too? Homemade dog food is a fantastic way to tailor nutrition to your dog’s specific needs. Explore our guide on making homemade dog food for recipes and tips. You may also consider incorporating raw dog treats into their diet. Raw diets can provide essential nutrients in their natural form. Watch our raw dog treats video and our raw diet guide to learn more about the benefits of raw feeding dogs.

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