Homemade Dog Treats from Battersea

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Whether you’re helping your dog to shed a few pounds or wanting to keep them in good shape, Homemade dog treats can be an effective way to keep them healthy.

Homemade food and treats

While homemade dog food can be nutritious, the ingredients required for a fully balanced diet can often result in higher costs compared to ready-made options. If you’re seeking budget-friendly alternatives, making your own dog treats can be a cost-effective solution. For example, frozen carrots soaked in chicken broth or a frozen peanut butter LickiMat are great ways to keep your dog occupied and entertained without the expense of premium chews and treats.

Homemade dog treats should only be given to your dog in moderation and as part of a well-balanced diet that’s appropriate for their age and lifestyle. If your dog has any specific dietary requirements, then it’s best to avoid giving them the following treats.

4 Homemade Dog Treat Recipes

1. Dried apple slices

Dried apple slices are not only a tasty and low calorie treat for your dog, they’re also incredibly easy to prepare and a cost-effective option to options found in supermarkets or pet shops.

• Start by preheating your oven to 100C (fan).
• Peel an apple and remove the core and seeds as these are toxic to dogs.
• Cut the apple into thin slices and bake for 2-4 hours on a baking tray lined with baking paper.
• After an hour in the oven, flip the apple slices and check for dryness. You’ll know when the apple slices are done when they’re dry and have shrunk in size.
• Allow the apple slices to cool completely before treating your dog. These can be kept in an airtight container in a cool, dry place for a few weeks.

2. Watermelon ice cream

Homemade frozen treats are a great way to keep your dog cool throughout the summer.

• Start by chopping 130g of watermelon into small slices, whilst making sure the rind and seeds are removed.
• Freeze the watermelon overnight or for up to at least 6 hours.
• Once frozen, add the watermelon and 60g of plain yogurt to a food processor and blend until the mixture is combined.
• Serve the watermelon ice cream to your dog before it melts!

3. Dog-friendly ice lollies

Not only will your dog love these, but they’re also a healthy and nutritious snack for them on a hot summer’s day. Ice lollies can be the best dog treats for summer

• Start by grating one carrot and chopping one apple into small pieces, making sure that the core and seeds are removed.
• Pour 300ml of water into a blender and tip in your apple and carrot pieces. Blend until the mixture is a smooth consistency.
• Pour the mixture into small paper cups and place in the freezer for 1-2 hours until partially frozen.
• Once the lollies are partially frozen, insert a meaty stick-shaped treat to create the stick of the ice lolly, before placing them back in the freezer until completely set.
• Remove the paper cup mould before giving your dog a lolly. We recommend doing this outside in a shaded area or in an empty bowl.

4. Frozen fruit cubes

These treats can be stored in a freezer for up to 2-3 months. We recommend giving them to your dog in a shaded outside area.

• Start by chopping a handful of dog-friendly fruits into small slices. You can use strawberries, blueberries clementines and pears. Make sure to remove any leaves, skin, seeds and core as relevant.
• Add the slices of fruit to an ice cube tray.
• Fill the ice cube tray with water and place in the freezer until completely set.

Watch out for toxic foods

Dogs can be opportunistic when it comes to getting their paws on tasty treats, but not all everyday food is safe for them. So it’s always important to check to make sure the food you’re giving to your dog isn’t toxic to them.

Examples of food and drinks that are toxic to dogs include:

• Onions, garlic and chives
• Chocolate
• Macadamia nuts
• Corn on the cob
• Avocado
• Artificial sweetener (xylitol)
• Alcohol
• Cooked bones
• Grapes and raisins

Keep your dog fit and healthy

Providing your dog with a nutritious and balanced diet has many long-term benefits that actively contribute to a longer and healthier life. This is supported by regular daily exercise, feeding your dog on a consistent schedule, and always ensuring they have access to clean, fresh water to stay hydrated.

*Vitabiotics is proud to be a long-term supporter of Battersea. Vitabiotics donates 35p plus VAT of every pack of SuperDog sold. This will help fund their vital work supporting dogs and cats in their centres and around the world.