Healthy Valentine’s Day Treats for Dogs
Discover healthy, homemade Valentine’s Day treats for dogs that are as nutritious as they are delicious, supporting your pup’s health and happiness.
Valentine's Day Treats: Healthy & Fun Ideas to Share with Your Pup
Valentine's Day is the perfect opportunity to show your dog just how much you love them. While chocolates and sweets are a no-go for our furry friends, there are plenty of healthy and delicious treats you can whip up for your dog that will make them feel special! These homemade treats are not only tasty but also beneficial for your dog’s health.
Denise Bozenski, certified holistic pet health coach, says, “Making your own dog treats is a great way to control the ingredients and ensure they are safe and nutritious. You can also incorporate some of your dog’s favorite flavors and superfoods into these recipes!”
Learn more about Denise HERE!
Why Homemade Treats Are Best for Your Dog
When you make your own treats at home, you can choose the highest quality, whole ingredients. Store-bought treats often contain preservatives, artificial flavors, and unnecessary additives that aren’t beneficial for your dog. Homemade treats, on the other hand, are not only free from harmful ingredients but can be tailored to your dog’s specific dietary needs.
Learn more about how your dog can benefit from a holistic lifestyle on our blog, Exploring Holistic Pet Health Care.
Healthy Valentine's Day Treat Recipes for Dogs
Peanut Butter and Pumpkin Hearts
Pumpkin is a superfood packed with fiber and vitamins, and peanut butter is a dog-friendly treat that’s packed with protein. This simple recipe combines both to create a heart-shaped delight your dog will love.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup canned pumpkin (make sure it’s pure pumpkin, not pumpkin pie filling)
- 1/2 cup peanut butter (unsweetened and unsalted)
- 1 cup oat flour
- 1 egg
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine all ingredients until well-mixed.
- Roll out the dough on a floured surface and cut into heart-shaped cookies.
- Place the cookies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for about 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
- Let them cool completely before serving to your dog.
Sweet Potato Hearts
Sweet potatoes are a great source of vitamins, antioxidants, and fiber. This recipe is not only healthy but also packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup cooked and mashed sweet potato
- 1/2 cup oat flour
- 1 egg
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, mix the mashed sweet potato, oat flour, egg, and coconut oil.
- Form the dough into a ball and roll it out to about 1/4-inch thickness.
- Use a heart-shaped cookie cutter to cut out treats.
- Place the treats on a baking sheet and bake for 20 minutes or until firm.
- Cool before giving them to your dog.
Apple and Carrot Dog Biscuits
This easy-to-make recipe incorporates apple and carrot, both of which provide a natural sweetness that dogs love, along with healthy nutrients for their well-being.
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup grated carrots
- 1/2 cup applesauce (unsweetened)
- 1 egg
- 1 cup coconut flour
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, mix together the grated carrots, applesauce, egg, and coconut flour.
- Form the dough into small balls and flatten them onto a baking sheet.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
- Let them cool completely before serving.
Frozen Strawberry & Yogurt Hearts
Frozen treats are a fun way to cool off your dog on warmer days, and this frozen strawberry yogurt recipe is a perfect Valentine’s Day treat that’s both refreshing and healthy!
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup plain, unsweetened yogurt (Greek yogurt works best)
- 1/2 cup fresh or frozen strawberries (pureed)
- 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
Instructions:
- Puree the strawberries in a blender or food processor.
- In a bowl, mix the yogurt, pureed strawberries, and honey (if using).
- Spoon the mixture into heart-shaped silicone molds or ice cube trays.
- Freeze for 4 hours or until solid.
- Pop the frozen treats out of the molds and serve to your dog as a cool Valentine’s Day treat.
Banana and Peanut Butter "Paw" Prints
Bananas are rich in potassium and fiber, making them a great addition to your dog’s diet. Combined with peanut butter, this treat is a win-win!
Ingredients:
- 1 ripe banana
- 1/2 cup peanut butter (unsweetened and unsalted)
- 1 cup coconut flour
- 1 egg
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Mash the banana in a bowl and mix with peanut butter and egg.
- Gradually add in the coconut flour until the dough comes together.
- Roll out the dough and cut into paw print shapes using a cookie cutter.
- Place the paw prints on a baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until firm.
- Cool completely before serving.
Tips for Making Healthy Treats
Portion Control
Even though these treats are healthy, make sure to give them in moderation. Too many treats can upset your dog’s stomach.
Allergies
Always check for any food allergies your dog may have. Avoid ingredients that could trigger a reaction, such as certain nuts or grains.
Storage
Store your homemade treats in an airtight container to keep them fresh. You can also freeze them for longer shelf life.
Book a free consultation today to learn more about providing your dog with a balanced, holistic diet and more wellness tips from Revive & Thrive Canine Wellness! Contact us HERE!
FAQs
Can I use other types of flour for these recipes?
Yes! If your dog has a grain sensitivity, you can substitute coconut flour with oat flour, almond flour, or other grain-free flours.
How can I adjust the treats if my dog has food allergies?
You can modify the ingredients based on your dog’s dietary needs. For example, if your dog is allergic to peanuts, try substituting peanut butter with sunbutter or pumpkin puree.
Can these treats be frozen?
Yes! You can freeze these treats in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Simply thaw before serving them to your dog.
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