Remember when my parents got a dog? YARNutopians helped us name him and he ended up with the name Blu? Short for Bluey Yampers Dorable? (<—that was the grandkids’ long version) Anyway, fast forward to now and this pup has an insatiable appetite for treats! Below is the recipe for one of his favorites! Even my dad liked them!

Recipe

1 c. All Natural Peanut Butter (I made my own but look for a good, Safe for Dogs, containing NO xylitol pb)
1 c. Grated Carrot-I washed mine grated peel on. I used 2.
1c. Oats
1 tbsp natural honey
2 egg
2c wheat flour or equivalent dog safe flour
**add water in small spoonfuls as needed to help form cohesive dough.

*Scroll down to see instructions on mixing*

Mix all ingredients together to form a nice dough. Flour surface and rolling pin. I wet my hands to help the dough not stick when working with it.

Instructions

Once I rolled out my dough approximately 1/4 inches thick I used a cookie cutter to make bone shapes BUT it is not necessary. Cut in squares or rounds works well, too! Lay on a parchment lined cookie sheet. Preheat oven to 325F and bake for 15 minutes, flipping over and baking for 15 more minutes or until golden brown and crisp. Let cool completely.

This batch makes 2-dozen bone-shaped cookies. Cookies last a week and freeze well to store and use as needed. Your dog will LOVE THEM!

The Benefits of Homemade Dog Treats

Homemade dog treats offer a lot of benefits, making them a healthier and more cost-effective option for pet owners. One of the primary advantages is control over ingredients used in the recipes. Many store-bought treats contain artificial preservatives, unhealthy additives, and fillers which can lead to allergies or tummy troubles in your fur babies. By making treats at home, pet lovers can use high-quality, natural ingredients specific to their dog’s dietary needs.

Homemade treats can be made with wholesome ingredients like vegetables, whole grains, fruits such as apples and bananas, and more! This ensures dogs receive essential nutrients. This is particularly important for pets with food sensitivities or specific health conditions, as owners can eliminate allergens and include beneficial supplements.

Preparing dog treats at home can be more cost-effective in the long run. While top brand store-bought treats are often expensive, homemade alternatives can be made in bulk using very affordable ingredients-often using ingredients you might already have. This allows pet owners to save money while still providing nutritious snacks. My batch of treats cost less than $5 USD!

Finally, making treats at home strengthens the bond between owners and their pets. The process of baking for a beloved dog adds a personal touch, reinforcing care and love. Overall, homemade dog treats promote better health, safety, and happiness for both pets and their owners.

Watch Bluey enjoy these treats in the video below: