The Best Vet-Approved Treats for Puppies

Puppies bring a whirlwind of joy, enthusiastic exploration, and chewed slippers into our lives. Rewarding their good behavior with delicious treats is a fantastic way to build a strong bond and encourage positive training during this crucial developmental stage. However, commercially produced puppy treats can often be loaded with fillers, artificial ingredients, and excessive sugar – not exactly what your growing pup needs for optimal health and well-being.

The good news? Creating healthy, veterinarian-approved puppy treats at home is easier than you think! These recipes are not only quick and convenient but also use wholesome ingredients that are gentle on your puppy’s developing digestive system, promoting healthy growth and overall well-being.

Before You Begin: Important Considerations for Safe and Effective Puppy Treats

Before diving into these tasty recipes, it’s crucial to consider a few important factors to ensure the treats are safe and effective for your pup:

• Puppy’s Age: Puppies under 12 weeks have delicate digestive systems. Opt for very soft treats made with easily digestible ingredients like mashed banana or pureed pumpkin.
• Size: Teacup puppies require smaller treats to prevent choking hazards, while larger breeds can handle slightly denser options.
• Dietary Restrictions: Does your puppy have any allergies or sensitivities? Be sure to choose recipes that avoid those ingredients.
• Portion Control: Even healthy treats should be given in moderation. Use a treat dispenser to slow down your puppy’s eating and prevent overconsumption.

Top 10 Quick and Easy Vet-Approved Puppy Treats

Now, let’s get whipping up those whisks (or mixing bowls)! Here are 10 mouthwatering puppy treat recipes that are both quick, convenient, and vet-approved:

1. Banana Oatmeal Bites

These wholesome treats are packed with fiber and potassium, making them a healthy and satisfying snack for your growing pup.

• Ingredients

• 1 ripe banana, mashed
• 1 cup rolled oats
• ¼ cup plain yogurt (unsweetened)
• Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine mashed banana, rolled oats, and yogurt. Mix well until a dough forms.
3. Drop tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving space for spreading.
4. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
5. Let cool completely before serving.

2. Sweet Potato and Chicken Puree

This simple recipe is perfect for very young puppies who need soft, easily digestible treats. It incorporates essential protein from chicken and fiber-rich sweet potato for a balanced nutritional profile.

• Ingredients

• 1 cup cooked and mashed sweet potato
• ½ cup cooked and shredded boneless, skinless chicken breast
• ¼ cup water (optional)
• Instructions

1. In a blender or food processor, combine mashed sweet potato and shredded chicken. Blend until smooth.
2. If the mixture is too thick for your puppy, add a little water to achieve a desired consistency.
3. Pour the puree into ice cube trays or silicone molds. Freeze for at least 4 hours, or until solid.

3. Frozen Yogurt Drops

These refreshing frozen treats are perfect for hot summer days and provide a healthy dose of hydration, especially for teething puppies.

• Ingredients
• 1 cup plain yogurt (unsweetened)
• Instructions

1. Pour yogurt into ice cube trays or silicone molds.
2. Freeze for at least 4 hours, or until solid.

4. Pumpkin Peanut Butter Licks

Pumpkin is a veterinarian-recommended source of fiber and can help soothe an upset puppy stomach. Peanut butter (in moderation) provides healthy fats and protein.

• Ingredients

• 1 cup pureed pumpkin (not pumpkin pie filling)
• ¼ cup creamy peanut butter (xylitol-free)
• Instructions

1. In a bowl, combine pumpkin puree and peanut butter. Mix well.
2. Spread a thin layer of the mixture on a lick mat or a shallow dish.
3. Freeze for at least 30 minutes before serving.

5. Apple Carrot Mash

Instructions

1. In a bowl, combine grated apples, grated carrots, and mashed banana. Mix well until a soft mash forms.
2. Spread a thin layer of the mash on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Dehydrate in your oven at its lowest setting (around 175°F or 80°C) for 3-4 hours, or until the mixture is completely dry and breaks easily when bent.
4. Once dehydrated, break the mash into small, bite-sized pieces for your puppy.

6. Simple Salmon Flakes

Salmon is a fantastic source of omega-3 fatty acids, which are crucial for healthy brain and eye development in puppies.

• Ingredients
• Skinless, boneless salmon fillet (fresh or frozen)
• Instructions

1. Preheat oven to its lowest setting (around 175°F or 80°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. If using frozen salmon, thaw completely and pat dry with paper towels.
3. Flake the salmon fillet into small pieces.
4. Arrange the salmon flakes in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they don’t touch.
5. Dehydrate for 2-3 hours, or until the salmon is completely dry and flakes easily when crumbled.
6. Let the salmon flakes cool completely before serving.

7. No-Bake Blueberry and Coconut Bites

Blueberries are rich in antioxidants, while coconut offers a healthy dose of medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs) for improved energy levels.

Ingredients

• 1 cup rolled oats
• ½ cup mashed banana
• ¼ cup unsweetened applesauce
• ¼ cup fresh or frozen blueberries

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine rolled oats, mashed banana, applesauce, and blueberries. Mix well until a sticky dough forms.
2. Using a spoon, drop tablespoons of the mixture onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving space for spreading.
3. Freeze for at least 2 hours, or until solid.

8. One-Ingredient Sweet Potato Chews

Sweet potato chews are a healthy and delicious alternative to store-bought treats, providing a satisfying chew for teething puppies.

Ingredients

• 1 large sweet potato

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Wash and cut the sweet potato into thin sticks (like french fries).
3. Arrange the sweet potato sticks in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they don’t touch.
4. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until tender and slightly golden brown.
5. Let cool completely before serving.

9. Puppy-Safe “Bone” Broth Ice Cubes

Bone broth is a great source of hydration and nutrients for growing puppies. Freezing the broth creates a stimulating and long-lasting treat.

Ingredients

• 2 cups homemade or store-bought low-sodium puppy-safe bone broth (chicken, beef, or turkey)

Instructions

1. Pour the bone broth into ice cube trays or silicone molds.
2. Freeze for at least 4 hours, or until solid.

10. DIY Pupcakes (Grain-Free Option)

These adorable pupcakes are a fun way to celebrate a special occasion or training milestone for your puppy.

Ingredients

• 1 cup mashed ripe banana
• ½ cup unsweetened applesauce
• ¼ cup coconut flour
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 1 tablespoon melted coconut oil

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a muffin tin or use silicone cupcake liners.
2. In a large bowl, combine mashed banana, applesauce, coconut flour, beaten eggs, and melted coconut oil. Mix well until a smooth batter forms.
3. Fill the prepared muffin tin cups ¾ full with batter.
4. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
5. Let cool completely before serving.

Bonus Tip: Decorating Pupcakes!

For an extra festive touch, you can decorate your pupcakes with dog-safe frosting or yogurt. Here are some ideas:

• Yogurt Icing: Combine plain, unsweetened yogurt with a mashed banana or a bit of pumpkin puree for a simple spreadable frosting.
• Carob Drizzle: Melt carob chips (not chocolate chips, which are toxic to dogs) and drizzle over the cooled cupcakes.
• Frozen Yogurt Dollops: Top the cupcakes with dollops of frozen yogurt for a refreshing summer treat.

Final Thoughts: 

With these quick and easy recipes, you can spoil your furry friend with delicious and nutritious treats that are perfect for their developing needs. Remember to always choose dog-safe ingredients and consult with your veterinarian if you have any concerns about your puppy’s specific dietary requirements.

Here are some additional tips to keep in mind when making puppy treats:

• Storage: Store homemade puppy treats in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week or in the freezer for longer storage.
• Introduce Gradually: When introducing new treats to your puppy, start with a small amount to monitor for any digestive upset.
• Variety is Key: Experiment with different flavors and textures to keep your puppy engaged and interested in their treats.
• Training Treats: Use small, bite-sized versions of these treats for effective and rewarding puppy training sessions.
• Dehydration Advantage: Dehydrated treats like salmon flakes or sweet potato chews are great for on-the-go adventures and provide a long-lasting chew for teething puppies.

By making your own puppy treats, you can control the ingredients and ensure your furry friend gets the healthy and nutritious snacks they deserve during this crucial developmental stage. These homemade treats are a fantastic way to show your puppy you care while promoting their overall health and well-being!

At Truffle Paws, we’re here to simplify this process for you. Our goal is to select the best insurance plan for your dog that keeps your dog healthy and ensures you’re ready for the financial responsibilities. Let’s connect today and protect your dog.