Category: Easy Homemade Dog Treats

Homemade Pineapple Dog Treats

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Made with just 4 ingredients, these Pineapple Dog Treats were inspired by leftover cans of pineapple-flavored water from my daughter’s birthday party.

How to make our Pineapple Dog Treats

Pineapple Dog Treat Recipe

Ingredients:

  • 1/3 cup fresh pineapple
  • 1/3 cup pineapple-flavored water, filtered water, or broth
  • 1 cup whole wheat flour
  • 1 egg

Instructions:

  1. Chop fresh pineapples.
  2. Add chopped pineapples, egg, and water/broth to mixing bowl.
  3. Mix to incorporate ingredients.
  4. Add whole wheat flour and mix well.
  5. Preheat oven to 375 degrees.
  6. Spray the silicone mold with coconut oil non-stick cooking spray.
  7. Spread the batter over the mold.
  8. Run spatula over mold to make sure the cavities are filled.
  9. Bake at 375 degrees for 30 minutes.
  10. Let cool, then pop dog treats out of the mold.
  11. Store treats in an airtight container.

Have fun making your very own dog treats!  These molds make perfect size training treats that are also a convenient size to use with treat dispensing toys.  But, you can shape these treats in whatever way works best for you and your dog.

Can dogs eat pineapples?

Yes, dogs can eat pineapples. While pineapples are generally considered safe for dogs to consume in moderation, there are a few considerations to keep in mind:

  1. Moderation: While pineapples offer health benefits, they should be given to dogs in moderation. Too much pineapple can lead to digestive upset or diarrhea due to its high fiber content and natural sugars. It’s best to introduce pineapples gradually and observe how your dog reacts to them.
  2. Remove the Core and Skin: Before offering pineapple to your dog, make sure to remove the tough core and prickly skin. The core is difficult to digest and can pose a choking hazard, while the skin is tough and difficult to chew. Only serve your dog the ripe, juicy flesh of the pineapple.
  3. Natural Sugars: Pineapples contain natural sugars, which can contribute to weight gain and other health issues if consumed excessively. Monitor your dog’s overall calorie intake and ensure that pineapples are given as a small portion of their diet.
  4. Allergies and Individual Sensitivities: As with any new food, it’s essential to watch for any signs of allergies or sensitivities. While pineapples are not common allergens, individual dogs may have sensitivities or reactions. Start with a small amount and monitor your dog closely for any adverse reactions.

Please consult with your veterinarian before introducing any new food to your dog’s diet, especially if your dog has specific dietary needs or health conditions.

Carob Coconut Flour Dog Cake

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Are you looking for a simple and quick way to spoil your canine companion? Try our carob coconut flour dog cake recipe! Not only is it delicious, but it’s also made in the microwave, making it a hassle-free way to show your pup some love. This recipe doesn’t require any eggs, which can be beneficial for dogs with allergies or sensitivities. It also uses coconut flour, which is a healthy alternative to all-purpose flour and provides your dog with added fiber. And, carob powder is a tasty and dog-friendly alternative to chocolate. To take this recipe to the next level, we recommend using our homemade bone broth.

This coconut flour dog cake is perfect for celebrating your dog’s special occasion or just as a tasty treat.

Making a Carob Coconut Flour Microwave Dog Cake

Recipe

INGREDIENTS:

1/3 c. Broth (See our Homemade Bone Broth Recipe)
1/2 Tbsp. Ground Flaxseed
1/2 tsp. Chia Seeds
1/8 tsp. Ground Turmeric
1/4 c. Coconut Flour
1/2 tsp. Baking Powder
1 tsp. Carob Powder
2 Tbsp. Olive Oil
2 Tbsp. Applesauce
Sliced Strawberries

Beetroot Yogurt Dog Frosting

2 Tbsp. Plain Greek Yogurt
1/4 c. Tapioca Starch
1/8 tsp. Beetroot Powder

DIRECTIONS:

  1. Mix broth, flaxseed, chia seeds, and turmeric together and let sit for 20 minutes.
  2. Add coconut flour, baking powder, and carob powder to a microwaveable bowl and whisk together.
  3. Add broth mix, olive oil, and applesauce to bowl, and mix well to incorporate all ingredients.
  4. Place bowl in microwave and set on high for 2 minutes.
  5. Remove bowl from microwave and check for doneness.
  6. Return bowl to the microwave for another 30 seconds, if necessary.
  7. Remove from microwave and let cool.
  8. In small bowl, mix all dog frosting ingredients together.
  9. When the cake has cooled, spread Beetroot Yogurt Dog Frosting all over the top of the dog cake.
  10. Garnish with sliced strawberries.

How Many Treats Per Day for a Dog?

The proportion of a dog’s diet that can consist of dog treats varies depending on the individual dog’s nutritional needs and daily caloric intake. Generally, it is recommended that treats make up no more than 10% of a dog’s daily caloric intake. This means that treats should be given in moderation and not as a substitute for a balanced and nutritious diet. It’s important to talk to your veterinarian about your dog’s specific nutritional needs and to choose treats that are healthy and made with quality ingredients, like our Homemade Blueberry Dog Treats made with just 5 ingredients!

In conclusion, a single dog cupcake is a fun and easy way to treat your canine companion while also providing them with healthy nutrients. By using safe ingredients and following the recipe carefully, you can create a delicious and nutritious cupcake that your dog will love. So why not give this coconut flour dog treat recipe a try? Your canine buddy will thank you for it!

Peanut Butter Banana Single Dog Cupcake Recipe

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If you’re looking for a fun and easy way to treat your canine buddy, look no further than a single dog cupcake recipe! Not only are these peanut butter pupcakes easy to make, but they’re also packed with healthy ingredients, like our Homemade Bone Broth for Dogs, that your dog will love!

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Making a Peanut Butter Banana Single Dog Cupcake

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Benefits of Banana for Dogs

Bananas are a great source of vitamins, minerals, and fiber, making them a healthy addition to your dog’s diet. Here are just a few of the benefits of bananas for dogs:

  1. Digestive Health: The fiber found in bananas can help to support healthy digestion and prevent constipation.
  2. Energy Boost: Bananas are a great source of natural energy, thanks to their high levels of potassium and carbohydrates.
  3. Heart Health: The potassium found in bananas can help to support heart health and regulate blood pressure.
  4. Coat and Skin Health: Bananas are also rich in biotin, which is essential for healthy skin and a shiny coat.

Important Note about Peanut Butter and Dogs

While peanut butter is a popular ingredient in many dog treat recipes, it’s important to make sure that the peanut butter you use is safe for dogs. Some peanut butters contain xylitol, a sugar substitute that can be toxic to dogs. Always read the label carefully before using peanut butter in your dog’s treats.

How Many Treats Per Day for a Dog?

The proportion of a dog’s diet that can consist of dog treats varies depending on the individual dog’s nutritional needs and daily caloric intake. Generally, it is recommended that treats make up no more than 10% of a dog’s daily caloric intake. This means that treats should be given in moderation and not as a substitute for a balanced and nutritious diet. It’s important to talk to your veterinarian about your dog’s specific nutritional needs and to choose treats that are healthy and made with quality ingredients, like our Homemade Blueberry Dog Treats made with just 5 ingredients!

In conclusion, a single dog cupcake is a fun and easy way to treat your canine buddy while also providing them with healthy nutrients. By using safe ingredients and following the recipe carefully, you can create a delicious and nutritious cupcake that your dog will love. So why not give this peanut butter banana dog treats recipe a try? Your canine buddy will thank you for it!

Best Homemade Bone Broth for Dogs

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As pet owners, we all want to provide the best possible care for our canine buddies. One way to do this is by incorporating homemade bone broth into their diet. Not only is bone broth easy to make, but it’s also a highly nutritious addition to your dog’s meals. Here’s everything you need to know about homemade bone broth for dogs, including its benefits, uses, and the recipe we used in our gourmet dog bakery treats.

How to Make Bone Broth for Dogs

Bone Broth for Dogs Recipe

Ingredients:

  • 2.5 lbs. Grassfed Beef Soup Bones
  • 8 oz. Chicken Feet
  • 1 Tbsp. Ground Basil
  • 1 tsp. Ground Ginger
  • 1 tsp. Turmeric
  • 2 Tbsp. Apple Cider Vinegar
  • 12 cups Filtered Water

Tools:

Instructions:

  1. Preheat oven to 400 degrees.
  2. Weigh beef bones.
  3. Place beef bones on a lined baking sheet.
  4. Roast bones for 20 minutes.
  5. Weigh chicken feet.
  6. Place roasted beef bones and chicken feet in the Instant Pot.
  7. Add basil, ginger, turmeric, and apple cider vinegar to the Instant Pot.
  8. Add water.
  9. Place the lid on the Instant Pot and turn the knob to “Sealing.”
  10. Press “Soup/Broth” button and set for 150 minutes.
  11. Press “Delay Start” button and set to 1:00.
    • The delayed start allows the apple cider vinegar to draw out the minerals from the bones.
  12. When the Instant Pot beeps, let the pressure release naturally.
  13. After 20 minutes, turn the knob to “Venting” and remove the lid.
    • Be careful of the hot steam.
  14. Remove the basket of bones from the Instant Pot and let the broth cool.
  15. Once the broth has cooled down, place the pot in the refrigerator overnight.
  16. The next day, remove the pot from the refrigerator and skim off the fat layer at the top.
  17. Pour the broth in jars.
    • If you will be freezing the broth, do not fill the jar to the top. Leave room for the liquid to expand.

TIP: Make frozen dog treats with the remaining bone broth.

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Uses of Bone Broth for Dogs

  1. Adding to Meals: You can easily incorporate bone broth into your dog’s meals by pouring it over their regular food. This can help to add extra flavor and nutrition to their meals.
  2. Frozen Treats: You can freeze bone broth into ice cube trays and give them to your dog as a refreshing treat during the hot summer months.
  3. Rehydration: If your dog is dehydrated or not drinking enough water, you can add bone broth to their water bowl to encourage them to drink more.
  4. Post-Workout Recovery: Bone broth can be given to your dog after exercise to help replenish their electrolytes and promote recovery.

Benefits of Bone Broth for Dogs

  1. Joint Health: Bone broth contains collagen and glucosamine, which are both beneficial for joint health. Collagen helps to support joint and bone health, while glucosamine helps to reduce inflammation and promote healthy cartilage.
  2. Digestive Health: The gelatin found in bone broth can help to soothe and heal the gut lining, which can be beneficial for dogs with digestive issues such as diarrhea or irritable bowel syndrome.
  3. Hydration: Dogs can become dehydrated easily, especially during hot weather or after an illness. Bone broth is a great way to add extra hydration to your dog’s diet, while also providing them with additional nutrients.
  4. Immune System Support: The amino acids found in bone broth can help to boost the immune system, making it easier for your dog to fight off infections and illnesses.
  5. Coat and Skin Health: The minerals and vitamins found in bone broth can help to promote a healthy coat and skin. This is because these nutrients play a key role in maintaining healthy hair and skin.

Homemade bone broth for dogs is easy to make and provides a wealth of health benefits. It’s also a great way to show your furry friend some extra love and care. So why not give it a try and see how your dog benefits from this delicious and nutritious treat?

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Homemade Blueberry Dog Treats Recipe

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As a pet owner, you want to make sure that your furry friend is healthy, happy, and well-nourished. One way to do that is by feeding them wholesome, nutritious food and treats. If you’re looking for a quick and easy dog treat recipe that uses only a handful of ingredients and requires no special kitchen tools, this homemade blueberry dog treat recipe is perfect for you!

Ingredients:

  • 1/4 cup Broth
  • 1/2 tsp. Turmeric
  • 1 Egg
  • 1 cup Whole Wheat Flour
  • 1/2 cup Blueberries

Instructions:

  1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Add turmeric to broth and mix well.
  3. Mash blueberries.
  4. Beat egg.
  5. In a mixing bowl, combine all of the ingredients.
  6. Stir until everything is well combined.
  7. Use a spoon or melon scoop to drop batter onto lined baking sheet.
  8. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown.
  9. Let the treats cool completely before serving to your furry friend.

Tips:

  • You can store these homemade blueberry dog treats in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
  • If you don’t have fresh blueberries, you can also use frozen blueberries in this recipe.
  • You can add 1/2 tsp. of mint or parsley to freshen your dog’s breath!

Why make your own dog treats?

Making your own dog treats has several benefits. For one, it allows you to control what goes into your pet’s food and treats. When you make your own treats, you know exactly what ingredients are being used, and you can avoid any additives, preservatives, or other chemicals that may be present in store-bought treats.

Another benefit of making your own dog treats is that it’s often more cost-effective than buying pre-packaged treats. With just a few ingredients, you can make a large batch of treats that will last your pet for several days or even weeks. Rather than throw away blueberries that are starting to go soft, make them into dog treats before they go bad!

Lastly, making your own dog treats can be a fun and rewarding experience. It’s a great way to spend time with your furry friend, and you can even get your kids involved in the process.

The benefits of blueberries for dogs

Blueberries are a great addition to any dog treat recipe. They’re low in calories, high in fiber, and packed with essential vitamins and antioxidants. Blueberries are also known to improve brain function, boost the immune system, and promote healthy skin and coat in dogs.

In conclusion, this homemade blueberry dog treat recipe is a great way to spoil your furry friend with a healthy and tasty snack. With only a handful of ingredients and no special kitchen tools required, you can easily make a batch of treats that your pet will love. So, next time you’re in the mood for a DIY project, why not try making these homemade blueberry dog treats?

Homemade Dehydrated Dog Treats

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Bought a new dehydrator and tested various seafoods and meat. Which piece did Ruger our Bullmastiff decide to eat first? The dehydrated pork!

Dehydrated dog treats have become increasingly popular in recent years, and for good reason. These treats are not only delicious for our furry friends, but they’re also packed with nutrients and offer several benefits over other types of dog treats.

What are dehydrated dog treats?

Dehydrated dog treats are made by removing the moisture from the ingredients through a drying process. This process preserves the nutrients in the ingredients, resulting in a highly concentrated and nutrient-dense treat. Unlike baked or cooked treats, dehydrated treats do not require any preservatives or additives to keep them fresh.

We love our Magic Mill!

Why choose dehydrated dog treats?

  1. Nutrient-dense: Dehydrated dog treats are highly nutritious because they retain all the vitamins and minerals that are typically lost during the cooking process. This means that your furry friend can benefit from a higher concentration of essential nutrients in every bite.
  2. No fillers or additives: Many commercial dog treats are packed with fillers and additives that may not be good for your pet’s health. Dehydrated treats are made from pure, whole-food ingredients, with no additives, artificial preservatives, or colors.
  3. Great for dogs with food sensitivities: Dehydrated dog treats are often made from a single protein source, making them ideal for dogs with food sensitivities or allergies. This means that if your pet is on a special diet, you can still offer them a tasty treat without causing any digestive issues.
  4. Dental health: Dehydrated dog treats are often harder and chewier than other types of treats, making them great for promoting dental health. Chewing on dehydrated treats can help remove plaque and tartar from your pet’s teeth, keeping their teeth and gums healthy.
  5. Perfect for training: Dehydrated dog treats are a great option for training your dog because they’re small, portable, and easy to handle. You can carry them in your pocket or treat pouch and use them as a reward for good behavior or during obedience training.

How to choose the best dehydrated dog treats

When choosing dehydrated dog treats, it’s important to look for those made from high-quality ingredients. Make sure the treats are made from whole-food sources and are free from any preservatives, fillers, or additives. It’s also important to choose treats that are appropriate for your dog’s size and breed, and to monitor them while they’re eating to prevent choking or other hazards.

Homemade dehydrated dog treats

If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even try making your own dehydrated dog treats at home. All you need is a dehydrator and your choice of ingredients. You can experiment with different dog-friendly proteins, vegetables, and fruits to create a variety of tasty and healthy treats for your furry friend.

In conclusion, dehydrated dog treats are a great option for pet owners who want to offer their furry friends a healthy and nutritious snack. They’re easy to make, free from additives and preservatives, and offer several health benefits. So, if you haven’t already, why not give dehydrated dog treats a try? Your pet will thank you!

🐛 Book in image and opening shot of video:

Carle, E. The Very Hungry Caterpillar. New York, Philomel Books, 1969.

How to Make Pineapple Dehydrated Dog Treats

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Dehydrated pineapples are the best treats that you and your dog can enjoy! Ruger our Bullmastiff absolutely loves pineapples. But, we only serve these as extra special treats — I don’t make them often, and when I do, she doesn’t get more than half a slice a day. I’m probably guilty of eating these faster than she does! 😂

Tools:

Instructions:

  1. Place a non-stick tray at the bottom of the dehydrator to catch any juices that fall.
  2. Lay pineapple slices on the dehydrator trays
  3. Slide one tray into each slot of the dehydrator.
  4. Set temperature to 165 degrees.
  5. Set time to 7 hours.
  6. Remove the pineapples and enjoy with your canine buddy!

*Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. If you use the links to buy something, we may earn a commission. Mahalo for your support.

Pumpkin, Parsley + Mint Homemade Dog Treat Recipe

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Our Bullmastiff absolutely loves these homemade dog treats as can been seen in this YouTube Short!

Our Bullmastiff girl is about to go into heat and has been licking herself quite a bit. I created this pumpkin dog treat with mint to help with her dog breath, and she absolutely loves it! As soon as she hears the bar start to open, she races to the kitchen for a piece.

See the recipe below. You can definitely roll out the dough and cut it into symmetrical shapes with a cookie cutter for a more professional look. But, I wanted to see if these treats could be made without having to pull out a bunch of extra kitchen tools.

PUMPKIN, PARSLEY & MINT
HOMEMADE DOG TREATS RECIPE

Ingredients:

Recipe:

  1. Preheat oven to 325 degrees.
  2. Pour the broth into a measuring cup.
  3. Add the chia seeds, turmeric, parsley, mint, and Sun-Coco oil to the broth.
  4. Mix well to incorporate all of the ingredients.
  5. Add the mixture to a mixing bowl.
  6. Add the whole wheat flour, eggs, and pumpkin to the mixing bowl.
  7. Mix the ingredients until well incorporated.
  8. Bake for 20-25 minutes.
  9. At this point, you can either:

Directions:

  • Roll out the dough to cut into symmetrical, perfect shapes with a cookie cutter, OR
  • Place the batter on a long piece of plastic wrap, then roll it into a tight log before slicing into pieces. This will result in a more rustic, organic, homemade feel of the dog treats (as seen in our images).

Top 10 Pet Food Companies in the World by Revenue

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What do you think about the top brands on the list of Top Pet Food Companies in the World as provided by PetfoodIndustry.com?

Keep in mind that this list includes the top brands by REVENUE; not by nutritional value. When I started to research the best dog food for puppies in preparation for bringing home our Bullmastiff puppy, I was surprised to learn that companies best known for candies, ice cream, cereal, and jams are leading the sales of pet food. 

As I continued my research into the best dog food, I learned how kibble came to be and understand the reason why kibble was developed. However, the progression with pet food is severely lacking when compared to how far we’ve come with human foods. Today, humans have organic and non-GMO foods. But, the majority of our pets are still being fed foods that have the nutritional value equivalent to fast food. 

I believe there are some regulations that prevent better pet foods from reaching the mass market. In California, you are not able to produce dog food or dog treats under a cottage food permit. Not only do you need to prepare the dog food or dog treat in a commercial kitchen (which requires rent and insurance costs), you may need up to three different licenses from state agencies depending on the ingredients of the dog food and whether you want to be able to label your product as organic. I know this because I operated a gourmet dog bakery for a short time in Humboldt County, California.

And, we all remember what happened when Morgan Spurlock experimented with eating solely fast food for one-month straight in his document, Super Size Me. I fear that the ill-effects he encountered with his health is the same thing happening to our pets when we feed them kibble for every meal for their entire life. How junk would it be if you only got fed pizza for every meal of your entire life?

If you’re still buying commercial food for your dog, then make sure you read this eye-opening report on Healthy-k9.com about the 9 worst dog foods. You’ll likely know some some or most of these products.

If you are interested in human grade ingredient pet food and would like a list of recommendations for healthy pet food, I encourage you to check out Susan Thixton’s listat her website, truthaboutpetfood.com. I am not paid to promote Ms. Thixton’s list and I have not purchased it as I feed my own raw dog recipes. However, if you are looking for a resource, I trust the information Ms. Thixton provides on pet food.

SOURCE:
“Top Pet Food Companies Current Data.” PetfoodIndustry.com, Accessed 10 February 2023, https://www.petfoodindustry.com/directories/211-top-pet-food-companies-current-data.

2-Ingredient Dog Treat NO BAKE: Coconut Oil Hearts with Beetroot Powder

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This is the easiest dog treat recipe that only requires two ingredients: coconut oil and beetroot powder!

Can dogs eat beets? 

Yes! In fact, beetroot powder has many nutritional benefits for dogs. Click the image above for our YouTube Short.

According to the American Kennel Club:  

“Beets are loaded with fiber, vitamins, and minerals, including Vitamin C, potassium, folate, and magnesium. The skin contains betalain pigments, which have antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties. 

In moderation, as a snack or food topping, beets are beneficial to a dog’s skin and coat and their digestion. Your dog should be getting all the nutrients they need in their regular diet, so think of beets as a little something extra.”

Reinsen, Jan. “Can Dogs Eat Beets?” American Kennel Club, https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/nutrition/can-dogs-eat-beets/. Accessed 12 February 2023.

COCONUT OIL + BEETROOT POWDER DOG TREAT RECIPE

Ingredients:

Tools:

Instructions:

  1. Melt 1/2 cup of coconut oil.
  2. Add 1/4 tsp. of beetroot powder to the melted coconut oil.
  3. Pour mixture into silicone molds for easy removal.
  4. Let it stand at room temperature to re-harden overnight.
  5. Remove from mold and serve to our dog!