Childhood memories of warm, freshly baked, homemade Chocolate Chip Cookies are something almost everyone fondly remembers.  Unfortunately, our dogs can’t enjoy the same experience, as chocolate is toxic to dogs! 

Enter the carob chip.  Carob is a dog-safe alternative to chocolate.  It can be found in many grocery stores, health food stores or online and comes in sweetened or unsweetened.  They have a similar taste but lack the harmful substances that make chocolate unsafe for our furry friends. Combined with the goodness of oatmeal, these cookies become a nourishing and irresistible treat for dogs. Oatmeal is an excellent source of dietary fibre and provides numerous health benefits, including improved digestion and a healthy coat.

While our dogs love almost any homemade dog treats, these ones were a particular hit.  They were a good size for an occasional award, and the dogs really liked the additional little amount of sweetness from the carob chips. 

What is Carob?

Carob has been used for thousands of years as a food source and is now commonly used as a substitute for chocolate in many recipes due to its similar taste and texture.  Carob comes from the carob tree, also known as Ceratonia siliqua. The carob tree is native to the Mediterranean region, including parts of Western Asia, Northern Africa, and Southern Europe. The tree produces long pods that contain carob seeds, which are then processed to make carob powder.

Health Benefits of Carob Chip Oatmeal Cookies for Dogs

These homemade cookies offer several health benefits for your beloved dog. Carob chips provide a rich source of vitamins and minerals, including calcium and magnesium, which contribute to healthy bones and teeth. Oatmeal, on the other hand, helps regulate digestion, supports a healthy coat, and aids in weight management. It’s important to note that while these cookies are nutritious, they should still be given in moderation as part of a well-balanced diet.

Tips for Serving and Storing Carob Chip Oatmeal Cookies

To ensure your pup enjoys these cookies to the fullest, follow these tips:

• Consider using cookie cutters to create fun shapes that add excitement to treat time.
• Adjust the size of the cookies based on your dog’s breed and size.

Recipe: Carob Chip Oatmeal Cookies for Dogs

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 12-16 minutes

Yield: about 60

Ingredients

• 1 cup dog-safe flour
• 1/2 cup oats
• 1/2 cup unsweetened carob chips
• 2 eggs
• 1/4 cup coconut oil, softened

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats and whole wheat flour.
3. Add the carob chips, eggs, and softened coconut oil to the bowl, and mix well.
4. Take spoonfuls (about a tsp sized) of dough and roll them into small balls. Place the balls on the prepared baking sheet and flatten them slightly with the back of a spoon.
5. Bake the cookies for approximately 12-16 minutes or until golden brown.
6. Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool completely before serving.

Storage

Store at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks or store in a freezer for up to 3 months. 

Conclusion

Treating your furry friend to homemade carob chip oatmeal cookies is an excellent way to show them love and care. These tasty treats provide a safe and healthy alternative to chocolate while incorporating the nutritional benefits of oatmeal. By following our simple recipe and considering our serving and storing tips, you can delight your dog with a scrumptious and nourishing homemade treat. Remember, a happy and healthy pup is a happy pet parent!

Did you enjoy this recipe? Try some of our other delicious dog treat recipes like How to Make Irresistible Peanut Butter Banana Dog Treats at Home, Baked Apple Chips: A Tasty Alternative to Store-Bought Dog Treats or Veggie-Packed Meatball Dog Treats!