For the Dogs

Homemade Dog Treats…

Have you ever wondered what’s really in those store-bought doggie snacks? Are they healthy, safe and nutritious for your furry friend? Or are they full of artificial ingredients, preservatives and fillers that could potentially harm their health?

Instead of wondering and worrying, why not make your own homemade dog treats at home? Homemade dog treats are much cheaper than buying them, more fun to make and easily customizable to your dog’s preferences and needs. Plus, you’ll know exactly what goes into them, and you can avoid any potential allergens or sensitivities that your dog might have.

Making homemade dog treats is not rocket science. All you need are some basic ingredients, a mixing bowl, a baking sheet and an oven. You can also use a food processor, a blender or a silicone mold to make different shapes and sizes of treats.

Here are some of the common ingredients that you can use to make homemade dog treats:

• Oats: Oats are a great source of fiber, protein, and antioxidants for your dog. They can also help with digestion and lower cholesterol levels. You can grind them into a fine powder using a food processor or a blender – or use oat flour instead.

• Peanut butter: Peanut butter is a favorite among dogs, as it adds flavor and creaminess to the treats. It also provides healthy fats, protein, and vitamins for your dog. However, make sure to use natural peanut butter that is free of artificial sweeteners such as xylitol, which can be toxic for dogs.

• Pumpkin: Pumpkin is another nutritious ingredient

that can add moisture and sweetness to the treats. It also contains beta-carotene, vitamin A, potassium and fiber, which can support your dog’s immune system, vision, skin and digestion. You can use canned pureed pumpkin or fresh cooked pumpkin for the treats.

• Apples: Apples are a crunchy and refreshing treat for your dog. They are rich in vitamin C, fiber and antioxidants, which can help prevent infections and inflammation. Chop them into small pieces or grate them for the treats. Just make sure to remove the seeds and core, as they can be harmful for dogs.

• Carrots: Carrots are another crunchy and sweet treat that your dog will enjoy. They are low in calories and high in vitamin A, beta-carotene, fiber and minerals, which can benefit your dog’s eyesight, skin, coat and teeth. You can shred them or chop them into small pieces for the treats.

• Chicken: Chicken is a lean and high-quality protein source for your dog. It also contains essential amino acids that can help build muscle and repair tissue. You can use cooked chicken breast or canned chicken for the treats. Just make sure to remove any bones or skin that could pose a choking hazard or cause digestive problems for your dog.

Homemade dog treats are a great way to show your love and care for your pup. They are easy to make, tasty, healthy and customizable. Try making some homemade dog treats today and see how your pup reacts. You might be surprised by how much they enjoy them!

Here is a simple doggie treat recipe from our friends at the American Kennel Club. •

Peanut Butter Homemade Dog Treats

INGREDIENTS

• 2 eggs, beaten
• 2 T canola oil
• 1⁄2 cup peanut butter powder
• 1⁄2 cup white flour
• 1⁄2 cup tapioca flour
• 1⁄2 cup water

INSTRUCTIONS
Step 1: Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

Step 2: Mix all the ingredients until smooth.

Step 3: Pour mixture into the pan.

Step 4: Bake for 12 minutes or until the treats are soft, but still drawing away from the side of the pan.

Step 5: Once cooled, stretch the pan and dump the treats out.