Making your own healthy dog treats can be a fun and rewarding way to provide your furry friend with nutritious snacks. Here's a simple recipe for homemade dog treats using wholesome ingredients:
Ingredients:
- 2 cups whole wheat flour (or substitute with oat flour or coconut flour for gluten-free options)
- 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce (ensure it does not contain any additives like xylitol, which is toxic to dogs)
- 1/2 cup natural peanut butter (make sure it does not contain xylitol, as it is harmful to dogs)
- 2 ripe bananas, mashed
- Optional: 1/4 cup fresh blueberries or carrots, finely chopped
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, applesauce, peanut butter, and mashed bananas. Stir until well combined. The mixture should hold together and form a dough-like consistency.
3. If desired, add the chopped blueberries or carrots to the dough and mix until evenly distributed.
4. Lightly flour a clean surface and roll out the dough to about 1/4 inch thickness.
5. Use cookie cutters to cut out shapes from the dough. You can use bone-shaped cutters or any other shape your dog prefers.
6. Place the cut-out treats on the prepared baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for approximately 15-20 minutes, or until the treats are golden brown and firm.
7. Remove the treats from the oven and allow them to cool completely on a wire rack.
8. Store the treats in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. You can also freeze them for longer shelf life.
Remember to consider any dietary restrictions or allergies your dog may have before introducing new ingredients. Always consult with your veterinarian if you have any concerns about specific ingredients or your dog's individual dietary needs.
Article By: Heather Campa, Wyoming Wildflower
