Homemade Dog Treats From Scratch
Perhaps you haven't stopped to read the ingredients on the side of those cute little bacon, liver or cheese flavored dog treats you have been rewarding Fido with for the last few years. If you haven't, you may get a shock when you read the preservatives, chemicals and dyes that are added. Many dog owners have moved away from commercial dog snacks and are delving into the world of homemade treats for their pets.
A homemade dog treat provides your pooch with a good, healthy snack that is freshly made and preservative and chemical free. There are a great number of outstanding and tasty recipes for homemade treats that are simple to make and even kids can help out. A homemade dog treat is really a simple way to ensure that your dog is eating right without having to pay extra money at the pet store for gourmet dog treats.
Homemade Dog Treat Ingredients
There are a huge number of websites offering homemade treat recipes, however you can also make your very own, unique and original dog treats. Start by doing a bit of experimenting and use the following general guidelines:
- 1 cup uncooked slow cooking rolled oats (not the quick cooking ones)
- 3 cups whole wheat flour
- ¾ cup powder milk
- ½ cup oil (olive, canola, canola blends, lard or shortening)
- 1-2 cups beef broth (low or no sodium)
- 1 beaten egg
Mix dry ingredients together in one bowl, liquids in another. Slowly add the liquid to the dry until a workable dough forms. You may need to add more flour or more liquid. Kneed until well mixed. Roll out to about ½ inch thick, cut into bars or use a cookie cutter for cute shapes. Bake at 325 degrees for about 60 minutes or until hard through and then allow to cool.
Variations On Homemade Dog Treats
A homemade dog treat is just not special if it doesn't have that great taste your dog loves. Try experimenting with the basic recipes and add things that your dog enjoys. Some homemade dog treats include peanut butter or cheese, grated veggies or even small amounts of apple or applesauce. Other options for dog treats include those made with salmon, liver or bacon to add that meaty flavor.
Storage of Homemade Dog Treats
It is essential to keep in mind that your homemade dog treat varieties are just like cookies you would make for your family. They do not have the preservatives and chemicals that the store bought dog treats do so you will need to store your homemade treats in the freezer as they will only stay fresh a few days after baking.
