These homemade apple treats for dogs are a simple, healthy way to spoil your furry friend. Made with just a few dog-safe ingredients like fresh apples, oats, and peanut butter, they’re a crunchy, tasty snack that’s much better than store-bought treats full of preservatives. This recipe is easy to customize and perfect for dogs of all sizes.
Ingredients
- 1 large apple (about 1 cup / 150 g grated or finely chopped)
- 1 cup (120 g) oat flour (or rolled oats ground in a blender)
- 1/2 cup (60 g) whole wheat flour (or all-purpose flour)
- 1/4 cup (30 g) rolled oats (for texture)
- 1/4 cup (60 ml) unsweetened applesauce
- 1 large egg
- 2 tbsp (30 g) unsalted peanut butter (xylitol-free)
- 1/4 cup (60 ml) water (or as needed)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Wash the apple thoroughly. Remove the core and seeds, then grate or finely chop the apple. You should have about 1 cup (150 g).
- In a large bowl, combine the grated apple, oat flour, whole wheat flour, rolled oats, applesauce, egg, and peanut butter. Mix well.
- Gradually add water, starting with 2 tablespoons (30 ml), and mix until a firm dough forms. You may not need all the water; the dough should be stiff but not sticky.
- On a lightly floured surface, roll the dough out to about 1/4-inch (0.6 cm) thickness.
- Use a cookie cutter (bone-shaped or any fun shape) to cut out treats. Re-roll scraps and cut again.
- Place the treats on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between each.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the treats are golden brown and firm to the touch.
- Let the treats cool completely on a wire rack. They will harden as they cool.
Tips
- Peanut butter safety: Always check the label to ensure your peanut butter does not contain xylitol, a sweetener that is toxic to dogs. Unsalted, natural peanut butter is best.
- Apple prep: Always remove the core and seeds before using the apple. Apple seeds contain a small amount of cyanide, which is harmful to dogs if consumed in large quantities.
- Dough consistency: If the dough is too dry and crumbly, add a little more water, one teaspoon at a time. If it’s too sticky, add a bit more oat flour.
- Storage: These treats are best stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep for up to 2 weeks, or you can freeze them for up to 3 months.
Serving Suggestions
Give your dog one or two treats as a reward, during training, or just as a special snack. Remember that treats should not make up more than 10% of your dog’s daily calorie intake. For smaller dogs, break the treats into smaller pieces. These treats are also great for stuffing into a puzzle toy for mental stimulation.
Variations
- Pumpkin Apple Treats: Replace the applesauce with 1/4 cup (60 g) of canned pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling). This adds fiber and a different flavor.
- Carrot Apple Treats: Grate a small carrot and add it along with the apple. This adds extra crunch and vitamins.
- Gluten-Free: Use only oat flour (certified gluten-free if needed) and omit the whole wheat flour. You may need to adjust the water amount slightly.
- Banana Apple Treats: Mash half a ripe banana and substitute it for the egg. This is a good option if your dog is allergic to eggs.
Storage and Reheating
Store the baked treats in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. For longer storage, place them in a freezer-safe bag or container and freeze for up to 3 months. To serve frozen treats, simply thaw them in the refrigerator overnight or give them frozen as a crunchy, cooling snack. There is no need to reheat these treats; they are served at room temperature or cold.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use any type of apple? Yes, any variety of apple is fine. Just make sure it’s fresh and washed. Avoid using apples that are overripe or bruised.
Are these treats safe for puppies? Yes, these treats are safe for puppies, but you should always supervise them when giving any treat. Also, be mindful of the size of the treat; break it into smaller pieces for puppies to prevent choking.
Can I use honey instead of peanut butter? Yes, you can substitute honey for peanut butter, but use it in smaller quantities (about 1 tablespoon) as it is high in sugar. Also, note that honey should not be given to puppies under 1 year old due to the risk of botulism.
Why are my treats too hard? If your treats are too hard, you may have overbaked them or rolled the dough too thin. Next time, try baking them for less time (check at 18 minutes) or rolling them slightly thicker.
Can I use a food processor to make the dough? Yes, you can use a food processor. Pulse the ingredients together until a dough forms, but be careful not to overprocess, as this can make the treats tough.
How many treats can I give my dog per day? This depends on your dog’s size and daily calorie needs. As a general rule, treats should not exceed 10% of their daily calorie intake. For a medium-sized dog, 2-3 treats per day is usually fine, but adjust based on your dog’s activity level and weight.
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