Homemade Dog Treats: 7 Vet-Approved Recipes That Heal

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Overview

This article advocates for making homemade dog treats as a way to improve canine health by using whole-food ingredients that avoid the preservatives, fillers, and allergens commonly found in commercial products. It presents seven therapeutic treat recipes designed to target specific health concerns such as digestion, inflammation, joint support, and weight management using simple, nutritious ingredients.

Table of Contents

If you want to do something genuinely good for your dog’s health, what goes into their treats is a great place to start. Your dog’s nutrition affects their energy, comfort, and quality of life every single day. Making treats at home gives you full control over every ingredient — so every bite can actually support their wellbeing.

This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. Always consult a licensed veterinarian for diagnosis and treatment.

Store-bought treats often contain preservatives, artificial colours, and fillers with little nutritional value. Some ingredients may trigger sensitivities or contribute to health issues over time. When you prepare treats in your own kitchen, you know exactly what your dog is eating.

The seven recipes in this guide are more than just tasty snacks. Each one is designed to support a specific area of canine health — from digestive comfort to joint mobility. They use simple, whole-food ingredients that are easy to find and safe to prepare at home.

Why Homemade Treats Are Better for Your Dog

Commercial treats require processing and preservatives to survive shipping and long shelf lives. Even premium brands rely on additives that offer no health benefit. Some dogs with sensitivities react to these ingredients without their owners realising the treats are the cause.

When you make treats at home, you can:

  • Choose high-quality, recognisable ingredients
  • Avoid common allergens like corn, wheat, and soy
  • Skip artificial flavours, colours, and preservatives
  • Tailor recipes to your dog’s specific health needs

From a cost perspective, homemade treats also make sense. Whole-food ingredients like oats, pumpkin, and sweet potato go a long way — especially when bought in bulk.

There is also something meaningful about preparing food for your dog yourself. It strengthens your bond and gives you direct involvement in their care. According to the American Kennel Club, customising treats to your dog’s individual needs can provide real health benefits that commercial options often cannot match.

Ingredients That Actually Support Your Dog’s Health

homemade dog treats illustration

Not all treats are created equal. The recipes in this guide use ingredients chosen for a reason — each one supports a specific aspect of your dog’s health.

Here is what to look for in a genuinely therapeutic treat:

  • High-quality protein — maintains muscle mass and supports recovery
  • Complex carbohydrates — provide steady energy without spikes
  • Healthy fats — support skin, coat, and cellular function
  • Fibre-rich ingredients — promote healthy digestion and gut bacteria
  • Anti-inflammatory ingredients — may help manage joint discomfort and skin conditions

When nutrients come from whole food sources rather than synthetic supplements, they tend to be more easily absorbed by your dog’s body.

Ingredients like turmeric, salmon, and bone broth have been studied for their potential benefits. Research from the National Institutes of Health suggests that curcumin — the active compound in turmeric — may support joint health through its anti-inflammatory properties.

If your dog has existing health conditions or takes medication, check with your vet before introducing new ingredients. You can also find helpful pet health resources to guide your decisions.

Pumpkin and Oat Biscuits for Sensitive Stomachs

If your dog has an upset stomach, irregular digestion, or a sensitive gut, these biscuits are a gentle and supportive option. Pumpkin is well known for helping regulate digestion — it may help with both loose stools and constipation, thanks to its natural fibre content.

Oats add soluble fibre and beta-glucans, which could support gut health and immune function. Together, these ingredients are soothing and easy to digest for most dogs.

It is completely normal to feel worried when your dog’s digestion seems off — having a gentle, homemade option like this can make a real difference while you monitor how they are feeling.

Ingredients:

  • 2½ cups oat flour (grind rolled oats in a food processor)
  • 1 cup pure pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
  • 1 egg
  • 3 tablespoons melted coconut oil
  • ¼ cup water (as needed)

Instructions:

Preheat your oven to 350°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Combine pumpkin puree, egg, and melted coconut oil in a large bowl until well blended.

Gradually add oat flour, mixing until a dough forms. If the mixture seems too dry, add water one tablespoon at a time until the dough holds together without being sticky.

Roll the dough onto a lightly floured surface to about ¼-inch thickness. Use cookie cutters or cut into squares. Place treats on the baking sheet with small spaces between each.

Bake for 25 to 30 minutes until firm and lightly golden at the edges. For crunchier biscuits, turn off the oven and leave the treats inside as it cools completely.

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks, or freeze for up to three months.

Turmeric and Coconut Chews for Joint Comfort

Joint discomfort may affect dogs of all ages, and it becomes more common as they get older. These golden chews use turmeric — which contains curcumin — alongside coconut oil, which may help the body absorb curcumin more effectively.

These treats could be especially helpful for dogs who seem stiff after rest, move more slowly than usual, or have been diagnosed with arthritis or hip problems. Always speak with your vet about your dog’s joint health before making changes to their diet.

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups oat flour
  • ½ teaspoon turmeric powder (culinary grade)
  • ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper (may help with curcumin absorption)
  • ½ cup solid coconut oil
  • 1 egg
  • 2 tablespoons honey

Instructions:

Preheat oven to 325°F. In a bowl, combine oat flour, turmeric, and black pepper, stirring to distribute the spices evenly. In a separate bowl, mix coconut oil and honey until smooth, then beat in the egg.

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until a uniform dough forms. If the dough is too crumbly, add water one teaspoon at a time until it holds together.

Roll the dough into small balls and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Gently flatten each ball with the back of a fork.

Bake for 15 to 18 minutes until set but still slightly soft. They will firm up as they cool. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to ten days, or freeze for up to two months.

Blueberry and Banana Bites Packed with Antioxidants

homemade dog treats pet care

Antioxidants help protect your dog’s cells from damage linked to ageing and disease. Blueberries are one of the most antioxidant-rich foods available — and dogs tend to love them.

The natural compounds in blueberries may support brain health and immune function. Bananas add potassium, vitamin B6, and natural sweetness. Ground flaxseed rounds out the recipe with omega-3 fatty acids.

Ingredients:

  • 1 ripe banana, mashed
  • ¾ cup fresh or frozen blueberries
  • 1½ cups oat flour
  • 1 egg
  • 2 tablespoons ground flaxseed

Instructions:

Preheat oven to 350°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Combine mashed banana and egg in a bowl, beating until well mixed. Frozen blueberries do not need to be thawed first.

Gently fold blueberries into the banana mixture, trying not to crush them completely. In a separate bowl, whisk together oat flour and ground flaxseed. Add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and stir until a thick batter forms.

Drop rounded spoonfuls onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing about one inch apart. Gently press each mound to flatten slightly.

Bake for 20 to 25 minutes until firm to the touch and lightly browned at the edges. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week, or freeze for up to three months.

For more information on pet wellness, explore our health categories.

Sweet Potato and Salmon Treats for Skin and Coat Health

A dull coat or itchy, flaky skin could be a sign that your dog’s diet is missing key nutrients. These treats combine omega-3 fatty acids from salmon with the vitamin-rich goodness of sweet potato to nourish skin from the inside out.

Salmon provides EPA and DHA — forms of omega-3 that may help reduce skin inflammation and support the skin’s natural moisture barrier. Sweet potato contributes beta-carotene, which the body may convert to vitamin A — important for healthy skin cell renewal.

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup cooked and mashed sweet potato
  • 1 six-ounce can of salmon in water (with liquid)
  • 1 egg
  • 2 cups oat flour
  • 1 tablespoon coconut oil

Instructions:

Preheat oven to 350°F. In a large bowl, combine mashed sweet potato, salmon including the liquid, egg, and coconut oil. Mix thoroughly, breaking up any large salmon pieces.

Add oat flour gradually, stirring until a rollable dough forms. You may need slightly more or less flour depending on moisture content.

Roll dough on a floured surface to approximately ¼-inch thickness. Cut into shapes and arrange on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes until firm and lightly browned.

Because these treats contain fish oils, proper storage is important. Keep refrigerated in an airtight container for up to one week, or freeze for up to two months.

Apple and Carrot Crunchers for Dental Health

Dental disease is surprisingly common in dogs — many show signs of it by age three. These crunchy treats help support oral health between professional cleanings by providing a gentle mechanical scrubbing action as your dog chews.

The fibrous texture of apple and carrot may help reduce plaque buildup. Fresh parsley adds a natural breath-freshening effect. These treats do not replace brushing or vet dental care, but they are a helpful daily addition.

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup grated apple (seeds removed)
  • 1 cup finely grated carrot
  • 2 cups whole wheat or oat flour
  • 1 egg
  • 3 tablespoons water
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley (natural breath freshener)

Instructions:

Preheat oven to 350°F. Grate apple and carrot into fine pieces. Place the grated produce in a clean kitchen towel and squeeze firmly to remove excess moisture.

Combine grated apple and carrot with egg and water in a large bowl, mixing well. Add flour gradually, stirring until a firm dough forms. Finely mince fresh parsley and knead it into the dough.

Roll dough to about ⅛-inch thickness — thinner than other recipes, for maximum crunch. Cut into small squares or strips, keeping sizes appropriate for your dog to avoid any choking risk.

Bake for 35 to 40 minutes until very hard and completely dried through. For extra crunchiness, turn off the oven and leave treats inside for several hours as it cools. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three weeks.

Always supervise your dog with hard treats and choose an appropriate size for their breed and mouth.

Chicken and Bone Broth Cookies for Joint Support

As dogs age or recover from injuries, their joints may need extra nutritional support. Bone broth is a traditional healing food that provides collagen, amino acids, and compounds that support cartilage health in an easily absorbed form.

Regular inclusion of bone broth in your dog’s diet may help reduce stiffness and support comfortable movement — particularly in older dogs or those with known joint concerns. Speak with your vet if you are unsure whether these treats are appropriate for your dog’s condition.

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup bone broth (homemade or pet-safe store-bought)
  • 1 cup cooked chicken breast, finely shredded
  • 2½ cups oat flour
  • 1 egg
  • 2 tablespoons coconut oil

Instructions:

Preheat oven to 325°F. If the bone broth has gelled in the fridge, gently warm it until liquid. Combine bone broth, shredded chicken, egg, and coconut oil in a large bowl, mixing thoroughly.

Gradually add oat flour, stirring until a dough forms. It should be firm enough to roll but remain slightly soft from the broth and chicken moisture.

Roll dough on a floured surface to ¼-inch thickness. Cut into shapes and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes until firm and lightly golden.

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week, or freeze for up to two months.

Green Bean and Turkey Treats for Weight Management

Carrying extra weight puts real strain on your dog’s joints, heart, and overall health. These low-calorie treats use green beans as a high-fibre base that helps dogs feel satisfied — without the extra calories.

Lean turkey provides protein to help maintain muscle mass. Green beans offer vitamins A, C, and K, along with minerals like manganese. The high fibre content makes these ideal for dogs who always seem hungry between meals.

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup cooked green beans, mashed or pureed
  • 1 cup cooked ground turkey (no added fat or seasonings)
  • 2 cups oat flour
  • 1 egg
  • 2 tablespoons plain unsweetened Greek yogurt

Instructions:

Preheat oven to 350°F. Combine mashed green beans, ground turkey, egg, and Greek yogurt in a large bowl, mixing until well incorporated.

Gradually add oat flour, stirring until a dough forms that holds together. It should be slightly moist but not sticky.

Roll dough to ¼-inch thickness on a floured surface. Cut into small shapes — keep these treats smaller than others, since they are intended for frequent use during weight management.

Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 25 to 30 minutes until firm and lightly browned. Let cool completely before storing. Keep refrigerated in an airtight container for up to one week, or freeze for up to two months.

If your dog is on a weight management plan, speak with your vet about appropriate treat quantities as part of their overall calorie intake.

What To Do Right Now — A Simple Action Plan

If you are ready to start supporting your dog’s health through homemade treats, here are five practical steps to take today:

  1. Write down your dog’s current health concerns. Note any digestive issues, skin changes, stiffness, or weight concerns — and when you first noticed them. This helps you choose the right recipe and gives your vet useful context.
  2. Check your pantry for safe ingredients. Many of these recipes use items you may already have — oats, sweet potato, eggs, and canned salmon. See which recipe you can make with what is on hand.
  3. Pick one recipe that matches your dog’s biggest need. Start with a single recipe rather than several at once. This makes it easier to notice how your dog responds.
  4. Introduce the new treats gradually. Offer a small amount on the first day and watch for any changes in digestion or behaviour over the following 48 hours before increasing.
  5. Book a check-in with your vet if you have concerns. If your dog has an existing health condition, is on medication, or you are unsure which recipe is appropriate, a quick conversation with your vet is always worthwhile. If you are unsure whether your pet needs urgent care, a quick telehealth check-in can give you peace of mind — no appointment needed.

Start Simple — Your Dog Will Thank You

Making homemade treats puts you in control of your dog’s nutrition in a way that commercial options simply cannot match. These seven recipes target common health concerns — from digestive sensitivity and joint discomfort to skin health and weight management — using whole-food ingredients your dog’s body can actually use.

Start with one or two recipes that address your dog’s most pressing needs. Watch how they respond over a few weeks. You may notice changes in energy, mobility, coat quality, or digestion. Adjust as their needs change with age or activity level.

It is worth remembering that treats should make up no more than 10% of your dog’s daily calorie intake. These recipes work best as part of a broader approach to wellness — alongside quality meals, regular exercise, and routine vet care.

Your dog depends on you for every aspect of their care. Choosing to make therapeutic treats at home is a small act that adds up to something meaningful over time. For additional guidance, explore our complete health resources.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long do homemade dog treats stay fresh?

Most homemade treats last one to two weeks in the refrigerator, or up to three months when frozen. Treats with higher moisture content — like those containing salmon or bone broth — will spoil faster than fully dried biscuits.

Can I substitute ingredients in these recipes?

Yes, in many cases. For example, rice flour can replace oat flour for dogs with grain sensitivities. Always check that any substitution is safe for dogs before making the swap — when in doubt, ask your vet.

How many homemade treats can I give my dog each day?

Treats should make up no more than 10% of your dog’s daily calorie intake. The right amount will depend on your dog’s size, weight, and activity level. Your vet can help you work out an appropriate daily allowance.

Are these recipes safe for puppies?

Most of these recipes may be suitable for puppies over six months old in small portions. However, puppies have different nutritional needs than adult dogs. Check with your vet before introducing any new treats to a young dog.

Do I need special equipment to make these treats?

No special equipment is needed. A mixing bowl, baking sheet, and standard oven are all you need. Cookie cutters and a food processor can make things easier, but they are not essential.

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