Tag Archives: diy dog treats

Dog treats

DIY Dog Delights: Blueberry, Strawberry and Kefir Pupsicles

1 Comment

Welcome to our ultimate guide to making delicious and healthy frozen treats for your furry friends. In this post, we will show you how to create homemade Blueberry, Strawberry and Kefir Pupsicles that will keep your dogs cool and satisfied during hot summer days. Packed with nutritious ingredients, these frozen delights are not only refreshing but also provide a host of health benefits for your canine companion. Let’s dive into the recipe and discover how easy it is to create these delightful treats at home.

Health Benefits

These homemade frozen treats offer a range of health benefits for your dogs. Blueberries and strawberries are rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals that support a strong immune system and promote overall well-being. Kefir, a probiotic-rich dairy product, helps maintain a healthy digestive system for your four-legged companion. This delightful combination of ingredients not only keeps your dogs cool during the summer but also provides them with essential nutrients.

Variations and Additions

This recipe is highly versatile!  You can use almost any dog-safe fruit or vegetable, and there are many different mixes you can use.  Consider making your treats single, double or even triple-layered!  You could also add in herbs like mint or parsley, or even a little bit of honey.

Substitutions for Kefir:

  • Yogurt
  • Broth (homemade, dog-safe broth recommended due to onions in most store-bought brands)
  • Oat Milk
  • Almond Milk
  • Coconut Milk
  • Water

Fruit Variations:

  • Applesauce or baked apples (without seeds)
  • Pineapple
  • Mango
  • Watermelon
  • Banana
  • Any other dog-safe fruit or veg!

Blueberry, Strawberry, and Kefir Pupsicles Recipe

Prep: 5 mins

Freeze: 2.5 hrs

Yield: about 30 medium-sized

Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup blueberries (fresh or frozen)
  • 1/2 cup strawberries (fresh or frozen)
  • 2/3 cup plain kefir

Steps

  1. Wash fruit separately. If using frozen fruit, defrost and leave separated. 
  2. In a small bowl, mash blueberries with a fork.  Mix with 1/3 of a cup of kefir
  3. Spoon mixture into molds, filling halfway up each mold.  Freeze for 15 minutes
  4. In a small bowl, mash blueberries with a fork.  Mix with the remaining 1/3 of a cup of kefir
  5. Spoon mixture into molds on top of blueberry mixture.  Freeze for 2 hours or more
  6. Once fully frozen, remove from molds and serve!

Storage

Store in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months. 

Conclusion

Creating homemade Blueberry, Strawberry and Kefir Pupsicles is a fun and rewarding way to treat your dogs. By making these delightful frozen treats yourself, you have full control over the ingredients and can ensure that your furry friend receives a healthy and nutritious snack. Remember to use high-quality ingredients and always prioritize your dog’s dietary needs. So, beat the summer heat and bond with your canine companion by sharing these tasty pupsicles. Your dog will thank you with wagging tails and happy slurps!

Have you tried this recipe? Share a picture of your dog enjoying it on our Instagram page!

While you’re here, don’t forget to check out some of our other yummy recipes like Baked Apple Chips: A Tasty Alternative to Store-Bought Dog Treats, Irresistible Carob Apple Dog Treat Recipe and Frozen Cranberry Coconut Dog Treats!

Advertisement
Dog treats

Baked Apple Chips: A Tasty Alternative to Store-Bought Dog Treats

3 Comments

When it comes to treating our beloved canine companions, we always want to provide them with the best. While store-bought dog treats are readily available, they often contain additives, preservatives, and unknown ingredients that may not be ideal for our furry friends’ health. That’s where homemade alternatives, like apple chips or crisps, come into play. In this blog post, we will explore how apple chips can be a delicious and nutritious substitute for store-bought dog treats, and we’ll even share a simple recipe to make them at home.  These are also a healthy snack for the human kids and adults in the house!  

Can Dogs Eat Apples?

The short answer is yes, dogs can eat apples in moderation. Apples are a great source of vitamins A and C, as well as fibre, which can aid in digestion. They also contain antioxidants, which can help boost your dog’s immune system and reduce inflammation. However, it is important to note that apples should always be given to dogs in moderation, as too much can cause upset stomach or diarrhea. Additionally, the core and seeds of the apple should always be removed, as they contain small amounts of cyanide, which can be toxic to dogs if consumed in large quantities.

Dogs can even eat the skin, in moderation. However, if your dog is prone to an upset stomach, it is recommended to remove the skin first.  The only part of the apple dogs cannot eat is the seeds and core as they contain small amounts of cyanide, which can be toxic to dogs.  While the amount of cyanide in apple seeds is generally not harmful to humans, dogs are much smaller and can be more susceptible to the toxic effects of the substance. Symptoms of cyanide poisoning in dogs can include vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, lethargy, and difficulty breathing. It is always important to remove the seeds and core of apples before giving them to your dog to avoid any potential risks.

Why Choose Apple Chips for Your Dog

  1. Nutritional Benefits: Apple chips offer a range of nutritional benefits for dogs. Apples are a great source of vitamins A and C, fibre, and antioxidants, which can support your dog’s immune system and overall well-being.
  2. Natural Ingredients: Homemade apple chips allow you to have full control over the ingredients. Unlike many store-bought treats, you can ensure that your dog is enjoying a snack made from fresh, wholesome apples without any additives or artificial flavours.
  3. Easy on Digestion: Apples are gentle on a dog’s digestive system and can help promote healthy bowel movements due to their high fibre content. This makes apple chips a suitable choice for dogs with sensitive stomachs or dietary restrictions.
  4. Dental Health Benefits: The crunchiness of apple chips can assist in cleaning your dog’s teeth by reducing plaque buildup and freshening their breath. Chewing on apple chips can provide a natural way to maintain good oral hygiene for your furry friend.

Homemade Apple Chips Recipe

Prep: 10 mins

Bake: 2-3 hours

Ingredients

  • 2-3 fresh apples (any variety, organic if possible)
  • Cinnamon (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 200°F (93°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Place a rack on top of the baking sheet (you can make these directly on the parchment paper, but dehydrating is faster when air can circulate around the entire apple slice)
  3. Wash the apples thoroughly to remove any dirt or wax. Core the apples and slice them into thin, even rounds (about 1/8th of an inch thick). Ensure you remove the seeds and core as they can be harmful to dogs.
  4. Optional: Lightly sprinkle cinnamon on the apple slices. Cinnamon is safe for most dogs and adds a hint of flavour to the chips. However, consult your veterinarian if your dog has any specific dietary restrictions or health conditions.
  5. Place the apple slices on the prepared rack or baking sheet, ensuring they do not overlap.
  6. Bake the apple slices in the preheated oven for about 2-3 hours, or until they are dry and crispy. Flip the slices halfway through to ensure even baking.
  7. Once the apple chips are ready, remove them from the oven and let them cool completely. This will allow them to become even crispier.

Storage

Store the apple chips in an airtight container or resealable bag. They can be stored at room temperature for up to a week.

Conclusion

By choosing homemade apple chips as a tasty alternative to store-bought dog treats, you can provide your furry friend with a healthy and flavorful snack. Not only are apple chips rich in nutrients, but they also offer dental benefits and are easy to digest. By making your own apple chips at home, you have full control over the ingredients, ensuring your dog gets the best quality treats possible. Give this simple recipe a try, and watch your dog’s tail wag with delight as they savour these homemade delights!

Remember, always consult your veterinarian before introducing any new foods into your dog’s diet, especially if they have specific health conditions or allergies.

Before you go, take a look at some of our other delicious recipes like Irresistible Carob Apple Dog Treat Recipe, Pyramid Pan Beet Turkey Dog Treats or Pumpkin Oatmeal Baked Dog Treats!

Dog treats

Irresistible Carob Apple Dog Treat Recipe

5 Comments

Homemade Carob Apple Dog Treats are an excellent and healthy way to show your furry friend that you love them. Made with natural ingredients, these treats are perfect for dogs that are allergic to traditional dog treats or have dietary restrictions. In this blog post, we will provide you with a simple recipe for making Homemade Carob Apple Dog Treats that are easy to make and will delight your dog’s taste buds.

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.

Why Carob is a Great Choice for Dogs

Carob is an excellent choice for dogs as it is a safe alternative to chocolate, which can be toxic to dogs. Carob is also rich in antioxidants, fiber, and minerals, making it a healthy choice for dogs. Additionally, carob is low in fat and calories, which makes it an excellent choice for dogs that are overweight or prone to obesity.

Why Apples are a Great Choice for Dogs

As the human saying goes, an apple a day keeps the doctor away.  This may not be exactly true for dogs, but apples are still a healthy, nutritious choice for our furry friends.  Apples can help to freshen a dog’s breath, and are a good source of vitamin A and C, as well as dietary fibre.  The antioxidants in apples can help strengthen you dog’s immune system, while the fibre can help regulate digestion and prevent constipation. 

When feeding apples to your dog, keep in mind that seeds contain a small amount of cyanide, which is toxic to dogs in large amounts.  Seeds and core should always be removed prior to baking or serving. 

Benefits of Homemade Carob Dog Treats

Homemade Carob Dog Treats have numerous benefits. First, they allow you to control the quality and source of the ingredients, ensuring that your dog is getting only the best. Second, Homemade Carob Dog Treats are free from artificial preservatives, additives, and flavors, which can be harmful to your dog’s health. Third, Homemade Carob Dog Treats are cost-effective, as they are less expensive than store-bought dog treats.

Homemade Carob Dog Treats Recipe

The Recipe

Bake: 350F

Prep: 10 mins

Bake: 15-20 mins

Yield: about 32 medium

Ingredients

  • 1.5 cups of dog safe flour (we used 1/2 cup oat flour, 1 cup chickpea flour)
  • 1/2 cup of carob powder
  • 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce or 1/2 cup of baked apple (without core, seeds or skin)
  • 1/4 cup of water
  • 1 egg

Steps

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the whole wheat flour and carob powder.
  3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the unsweetened applesauce, water, and egg.
  4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, and mix until a dough forms.
  5. Knead the dough on a floured surface until it becomes smooth.
  6. Roll the dough out to about 1/4 inch thick and cut it into small shapes using a cookie cutter.
  7. Place the treats on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  8. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the treats are firm and lightly browned.
  9. Remove the treats from the oven and let them cool completely before serving them to your dog.

Storage

For moist treats, store in an air-tight container up to 1 week at air temperature.  Freeze in air tight container up to 6 months.

For dry, crispy treats, store in an air-tight container up to 6 months.

Note: Once cooled, if treats have not reached desired dryness, they can be placed back in to the oven to dry out further

Carob Apple Dog Treats Recipe Printable Version DownloadDownload

Conclusion

Homemade Carob Dog Treats are a healthy and tasty alternative to store-bought dog treats. Made with natural ingredients, these treats are free from artificial preservatives, additives, and flavors. Additionally, Homemade Carob Dog Treats are easy to make and cost-effective. By following the recipe outlined in this blog post, you can make delicious and healthy treats that your furry friend will love. So go ahead and spoil your dog with a batch of Homemade Carob Dog Treats today!

Did you try this recipe?  Take a picture and share it on Instagram @all_for_the_love_of_dogs.

Did you enjoy this recipe?  Check out some of our other delicious dog treat recipes like Apple Tarts for Dogs: A Special Occasion Treat, Sweet Potato Honey Dog Treats and Peanut Butter Liver Gelatin Dog Treats.  Your dog will love them!

Dog treats

Veggie-Packed Meatball Dog Treats

7 Comments

I know what you’re thinking, trust me, I do.  Meatballs…  for my dog?  Yes!  They’re meaty, they’re packed with veggies and very customizable.  And of course, they’re delicious.  I have stalkers in the kitchen every time I make these.  

That’s why homemade dog treats are gaining popularity among pet owners. This fantastic recipe for Veggie-Packed Meatball Dog Treats will have your four-legged companion wagging their tail in delight. These nutritious and flavorful treats are not only easy to make but also packed with wholesome ingredients that will keep your pup healthy and happy. Let’s dive into the recipe and discover how to create these delightful goodies for your furry friend.

Ingredient Options

I have made these with many different types of vegetables and meats and regardless of what I put in them, the dogs always love them.  I’ve done it with ground chicken, turkey, beef, pork and also lamb, or a mixture of a few meats.  TIP – buy meats when they’re on sale and stick them in the freezer! 

As for veggies, the options are almost endless.  I’ve used broccoli, cauliflower, pumpkin, squash, sweet potato, brussel sprouts, mushrooms and carrots, and often use a mixture.  Likewise, I often try to purchase these when they’re on sale or close to turning and cook and freeze them for future dog-baking.  Why not, the dogs don’t care about the texture like we do!

These treats are a great high-value treat for training, or even a nice additive to your Kong, Toppl, Lickimat or other tasting plate. 

The Recipe

Prep Time: 15 mins

Cook Time: 25-30 mins

Yield: About 90

Bake: 350 F

    Ingredients

    • 1/2 cup oat flour
    • 2 eggs
    • 1 lb ground beef
    • 1 lb ground lamb
    • 2 carrots, shredded
    • 1 cup squash puree
    • 1 cup broccoli, cooked
    • 1 tbsp parsley, dried or fresh (optional)

    Steps

    1. In a large bowl, mix all ingredients well (recommend using your hands)
    2. Spoon out meatball-sized amounts and roll them in the palm of your hands to form a ball

    TIP: Size the meatballs for your dog.  Smaller meatballs will take less baking time, and larger meatballs will take longer.  I used a TBSP size for my meatballs.  Remember they will shrink slightly when baking!

    1. Place on parchment-lined cookie sheet (you would also use a silicone mat or tinfoil).  Minimal space is required between meatballs
    2. Repeat until all meatballs are made
    3. Bake 350F for 25 to 30 minutes

    Storage

    Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days or in the freezer for up to 4 months

    Veggie-Packed Meatball Dog Treats – Recipe CardDownload

    Conclusion

    With this simple and nutritious recipe for Veggie-Packed Meatball Dog Treats, you can provide your beloved pet with a delicious homemade snack that is packed with wholesome ingredients. These treats are not only tasty but also offer a range of health benefits from the veggies and other nutritious ingredients. By making these treats at home, you have full control over what goes into your pup’s snacks, ensuring that they receive the best possible nutrition. Remember to store the meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep them fresh for longer. Treat your furry companion to these wholesome delights, and watch their tail wag with joy!

    Did you love this recipe? Check out some of our other dog treat recipes like Peanut Butter Liver Gelatin Dog Treats or Pumpkin Oatmeal Baked Dog Treats!

    Dog treats

    Peanut Butter Liver Gelatin Dog Treats

    4 Comments

    Gummies are so much fun!  I’m not talking about those types of gummies, although they’re fun too.  No, these are homemade Peanut Butter Liver Gelatin Dog Treats.  Trust me, your dogs are going to love them.  We’re mixing two of your dog’s favourite foods, peanut butter and liver treats, into one amazing combination. 

    These treats come together in about 5 minutes and make about 100 small treats.  To keep these treats bite-sized, I used these adorable heart-shaped molds.

    DIY Peanut Butter Liver Gummies

    Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links.  As an Amazon Associate, I earn a small amount from qualifying purchases.  Read more about our advertising policy here.

    Benefits of Making Your Own Dog Treats

    Making your own dog treats has numerous benefits. Firstly, you can control the ingredients, ensuring that you are not giving your pet anything that could be harmful or unhealthy. Secondly, homemade dog treats are often cheaper than store-bought treats. Lastly, making your own treats can be a fun activity that you can share with your furry friend.

    A quick note on the ingredients

    Make sure you are purchasing unflavoured gelatin without added sugars.  Your dog doesn’t need them!  I used Knox Gelatin packages for this recipe.

    You can use any peanut butter, as long as it is dog safe (check the ingredients list to make sure it doesn’t have xylitol!).  Either chunky or smooth peanut butter works.  I used chunky, just because that’s what I had on hand.  You could even make your own peanut butter!

    Are you wondering what liver sprinkles are?  They’re basically the dust from dehydrated liver treats.  You can buy it on its own, or you could crumble some liver treats using a blender.  They’re generally marketed as a food topper. 

    The Recipe

    Prep Time: 5 mins

    Cool Time: 2+ hours

    Yield: 100 small treats

    Ingredients

    Steps

    Mixture prior to pouring into molds
    • Add 1/4 cup cold water to a bowl or cup (I used a small liquid measuring cup to make pouring easier)
    • Add gelatin and mix well.  Allow the mixture to sit for 1 min in order to allow the gelatin to bloom
    • In the meantime, microwave 1/4 cup water with 1 tbsp of peanut butter until boiling, approximately 1 min
    • Pour liver sprinkles into the water/gelatin mixture, and add the water/peanut butter mixture.  Stir thoroughly.
    • If your mold is flimsy, please on a cookie sheet or firm lid before pouring the mixture into molds
    • Pour into molds.  I used a small mold for these treats and poured it over, then used a spatula to move the excess into the adjoining molds
    • Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, longer for larger molds

    Storage

    Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 10 days

    Peanut Butter Liver Gelatin Dog Treats – Recipe CardDownload

    Conclusion

    In conclusion, making your own dog treats is a fun and rewarding activity that you can share with your pet. Peanut butter liver gelatin dog treats are an easy and nutritious treat that your furry friend will love. By using wholesome, nutritious ingredients, you can ensure that your pet is getting the best possible treat. So go ahead and try making these treats at home, and let us know how your furry friend likes them!

    Did you try this recipe? Tag us on Instagram @All_For_The_Love_of_Dogs

    Did your dog enjoy this recipe? Try our No Bake Oatmeal Peanut Butter Dog Treats, Irresistible Carob Apple Dog Treat Recipe and Frozen Cranberry Coconut Dog Treats!

    Recipe Disclaimer: The recipes available at All For the Love of Dogs are developed from personal experiences in making them and feeding to their dogs. Your dogs may have allergies or other conditions that may make these recipes unsuitable for your dog and/or their lifestyle. Please consult with your veterinarian. Use your own judgement when making and feeding these recipes to your dog. All For the Love of Dogs  is not liable for any allergic reactions, upset stomachs or any other consequences of experimenting with the recipes on this site.

    Dog treats

    Dog Treat Baking Supplies

    1 Comment

    “The way a dog’s heart is through its stomach.”

    Making your own dog treats can be an extremely rewarding experience for both you and your dogs.  Even though you’re not actively doing it with your dogs, it’s a great relationship-building activity.  My dogs get excited when they realize I’m making treats for them.  The looks on Willow’s face here says it all.

    “Please Mom, I can’t wait for the treats to cool. I need them NOW!”

    The benefits of making your own treats are almost endless:

    • Variety – if your dog is anything like ours, they appreciate a little variety.  You don’t want to eat the exact same thing every single day.  Why would your dog?
    • Cost-effective – my favourite treats, pyramid pan treats, are super cost-effective. Yes, they are tiny, but I can give them lots without worrying that I am giving them too much and even when I “spoil” them by giving them a ton of treats, it only cost me pennies.  The cost is basically just the meat, assuming you have the egg and flour on hand!
    • Portion control – this is key for us.  Sienna is a bit of a chunky monkey.  I can still feel her ribs, but there is a good layer of fat on there and she also has a chubby little belly.  Like a typical lab mix, she LOVES her food.  She DANCES for food, even after having her hip surgery.  She will do almost anything for food!  I need to be able to reward them frequently without adding to her weight.  And I don’t want to spend a ton of time breaking or cutting commercial treats into tiny pieces
    • Ingredients – it goes without saying, but by baking your own treats you control what goes into them and can feel good about what you’re giving them.  You could go grain-free, gluten-free, vegan or even organic if you wanted to, but even just using human-grade ingredients is a huge step up from most commercial treats

    Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links.  As an Amazon Associate, I earn a small amount from qualifying purchases.  Read more about our advertising policy here.

    Supplies for Homemade Dog Treats

    The supplies you will need will depend on the treats you want to make.  You probably have most of what you need in your kitchen already.  Below I will list and describe some of the products I have found particularly useful for being able to make a variety of treats.

    Basic Supplies

    Optional / advanced supplies

    • Pyramid pan – only necessary if you want to make pyramid pan treats.  Personally, this is my favourite method because it’s easy to make the batter, they’re quick and the recipes make a ton of treats.  I usually get about 1200-1500 per batch!  You could use almost any batter recipe in silicone molds, however, I find other molds tedious to unmold.  When baked appropriately in a pyramid pan the treats literally fall out
    • Try these recipes: Pyramid Pan Turkey Carrot Dog Treats, Pyramid Pan Homemade Pumpkin Dog Treats
    • Cooling rack – when you take your treats out of the oven, you’ll want to move them over to a cooling rack so that you can start on the next round!
    • A blender and/or food processor – for battered treats, I love my stick blender.  It’s so much easier to clean the blade than it is to clean an entire blender.  If you’re doing things like grinding up oats or almonds to make flour, you may want to use a stand-up blender or even a food processor.  I have been very happy with my NutriBullet.
    • Cookie cutters – you likely already have some of these on hand.  In a pinch, you could even use a narrow glass.  Your dogs don’t care about the shape, trust me! But if you’re making a lot of treats or treats as gifts or to sell, you may want to invest in some dog-themed cutters. 
    • Decorative rolling pin – if you want to get really fancy with rolled treats, a decorative rolling pin is the way to go!  These pins will leave a patterned impression on your cookies before you cut them out
    • Decorative stamp – this is an alternative to the decorative rolling pin.  A stamp is used to leave an impression on a treat
    • Parchment paper or baking mat – these are super handy to keep your cookie sheets clean, avoid extra oil (no need to oil the cookie sheet when you use parchment or a mat!) and transfer cookies quickly after baking
    • Dehydrator – with a dehydrator you can dry out your treats for a longer shelf life or make dehydrated meat or veggie treats
      • Decorating kit – if you plan to add dog-safe icing, you may also need a decorating kit to add decorative details to your dog treats!

      Ingredients

      Many of the ingredients you will likely already have in your home.  I rarely purchase items specifically to make dog treats.  If you don’t have something on hand, chances are you can easily substitute it.  For example, if the recipe calls for beets but you only have carrots, or if the recipe calls for chickpea flour but you only have regular flour, go ahead and use it!  Most dogs are not going to be that picky.  They will love almost anything you make for them!

      These are a few of the items I don’t normally buy that I will buy for dog treats.  Because the recipes tend to take a smaller amount, I freeze the rest and pull it out as I need it.  If it’s a recipe my dogs’ love, I will sometimes even portion it out in the amounts needed for that recipe prior to freezing.  Make sure you read the labels to make sure there are no ingredients that may harm your pup (e.g. xylitol)

      • Pumpkin puree
      • Coconut oil
      • Frozen butternut squash
      • Liver
      • Canned meats
      • Unflavoured gelatin
      • Carob chips
      • Yogurt chips

      In Closing

      Most of the supplies you need to get started you probably already have in your kitchen.  Remember that your dogs do not care what the cookies you make them look like!  Unless you’re planning on gifting homemade dog treats, starting a treat business or just want to push yourself to be more creative, you do not need many fancy tools and gadgets.  All you need is a good recipe, some patience, and love!

      However, if you’re anything like me, you will WANT them, even if you don’t NEED them.  I have built up my collection slowly over time, making small purchases here and there.  I do not sell treats, but I do gift them occasionally and it also makes me feel good to make treats that look good.  When I feel good, my dogs feel good!

      The most important thing when making your own dog treats is that they are safe for your dog, edible and that you’ve had fun doing it!  So please, take the time to bake, and remember to enjoy!

      Recipes

      Looking for recipes to start making your own homemade dog treats? Check out our ever-expanding recipes in the Homemade Dog Treats section!