Every dog loves a good chew treat, but not all store-bought options are safe or healthy. Many contain artificial additives, preservatives, or low-quality ingredients that can be harmful to your furry friend. DIY dog chew treats allow you to control what goes into your dog’s treats while saving money and ensuring they get a nutritious, long-lasting chew.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore why homemade dog chews are a great option, the best ingredients to use, step-by-step recipes, safety tips, and much more. By the end, you’ll be fully equipped to make the best homemade dog chew treats for your pup!
Why Make Your Own DIY Dog Chew Treats?
Are Store-Bought Dog Chews Safe?
Many commercial dog chews contain harmful ingredients that can negatively impact your pet’s health. Here are some common concerns:
- Artificial Preservatives & Additives – BHA, BHT, and artificial colors can cause allergic reactions and digestive issues.
- Rawhide Risks – Rawhide chews can cause choking, digestive blockages, and are often processed with toxic chemicals.
- Plastic-Based Chews – Some synthetic chews, like nylon bones, may splinter and pose choking hazards.
Benefits of Homemade Dog Chews
Making your own DIY dog chew treats has numerous advantages:
✅ Healthier Ingredients – You can use organic, grain-free, and allergy-friendly options. ✅ Cost-Effective – Homemade chews are cheaper in the long run. ✅ Customizable – Tailor chews to your dog’s dietary needs (low-fat, protein-rich, etc.). ✅ Supports Dental Health – Many chews help clean teeth and strengthen jaw muscles. ✅ Avoids Toxins – No need to worry about harmful chemicals found in some commercial treats.
Best Ingredients for Homemade Dog Chews
Natural Ingredients That Make Great Dog Chews
The best homemade dog chews come from simple, whole-food ingredients that are safe and beneficial for your pet. Consider these options:
| Ingredient | Benefits |
| Sweet Potatoes | Rich in fiber and vitamins |
| Carrots | Great for dental health |
| Bananas | Natural sweetness and potassium |
| Apples | Low in fat, high in fiber |
| Lean Meats (Chicken, Beef) | High in protein and essential amino acids |
| Peanut Butter (xylitol-free) | Source of healthy fats and protein |
| Coconut, Pumpkin, Flaxseeds | Promote digestive health and shiny coats |
Ingredients to Avoid in DIY Dog Chews
Certain foods can be toxic to dogs. Always avoid:
🚫 Chocolate – Contains theobromine, which is toxic to dogs. 🚫 Grapes & Raisins – Can cause kidney failure. 🚫 Onions & Garlic – Can lead to anemia. 🚫 Xylitol – A common sugar substitute that is highly toxic. 🚫 Excess Salt & Fat – Can lead to pancreatitis.
10 Easy DIY Dog Chew Treats Your Pup Will Love
Making your own DIY dog chew treats is a fun and easy way to pamper your pup while controlling the ingredients they consume. With just a few simple ingredients found in your kitchen, you can whip up delicious and healthy snacks that will keep their tails wagging. Let’s get started on creating tasty treats your dog will love!
Chicken and Rice Chew Rolls
Chicken and rice chew rolls are a delightful treat for your dog. These rolls are not only tasty but also packed with nutrients. The combination of chicken and rice makes them a great source of protein and carbohydrates, perfect for keeping your pup energized.
Making these chew rolls is simple and fun. You can easily whip them up at home using fresh ingredients. Plus, your dog will love the flavor! These treats are ideal for training or just as a special snack.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup whole wheat flour
- 1/4 cup oats
- 1 egg
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, mix the shredded chicken, cooked rice, chicken broth, whole wheat flour, oats, and egg until well combined.
- Roll the mixture into small logs or shapes that are easy for your dog to chew.
- Place the rolls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and firm.
- Let them cool completely before serving to your dog.
Pumpkin and Coconut Chews
These pumpkin and coconut chews are a fantastic treat for your dog. They are not only tasty but also packed with nutrients. Pumpkin is great for digestion, while coconut adds a fun flavor and healthy fats. Your pup will love these homemade goodies!
Making these chews is simple. Start by gathering your ingredients. You’ll need pumpkin puree, coconut flour, and a few other pantry staples. Once you have everything ready, it’s just a matter of mixing, rolling, and baking. Your kitchen will smell amazing, and your dog will be eagerly waiting for a taste!
These treats are perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a special reward or just a way to show your love, your dog will appreciate the effort. Plus, you can feel good knowing exactly what’s in their treats.
Ingredients
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- 1/2 cup coconut flour
- 1/4 cup peanut butter (unsweetened)
- 1 egg
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, mix together the pumpkin puree, peanut butter, and egg until smooth.
- Add the coconut flour, cinnamon, and honey (if using). Stir until a dough forms.
- Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thick.
- Use a cookie cutter to cut out shapes and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until they are firm and lightly golden.
- Let them cool completely before serving to your dog.
Sweet Potato Chew Strips
Sweet potato chew strips are a fantastic treat for your dog. They are not only tasty but also packed with nutrients. In the image, you can see a curious dog eyeing a pile of these vibrant orange strips. The dog’s excitement is palpable, showing just how much they love these homemade goodies.
Making sweet potato chew strips is simple and fun. You can control the ingredients, ensuring your pup gets a healthy snack without any additives or preservatives. Plus, they are a great way to keep your dog occupied and happy.
Let’s get to the recipe so you can whip up a batch of these delicious treats!
Ingredients
- 2 large sweet potatoes
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 250°F (120°C).
- Wash and peel the sweet potatoes. Cut them into strips about 1/4 inch thick.
- In a bowl, toss the sweet potato strips with olive oil and cinnamon if using.
- Place the strips on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper in a single layer.
- Bake for about 2-3 hours, turning them halfway through, until they are dried and chewy.
- Let them cool completely before serving to your dog.
Carrot and Oat Chew Bites
These Carrot and Oat Chew Bites are a fantastic way to treat your dog with something healthy and delicious. The image shows a bowl filled with golden, square-shaped treats surrounded by fresh carrots and oats. The vibrant colors of the carrots and the natural ingredients make these bites not only appealing but also nutritious.
Making these treats at home is simple and ensures your pup enjoys a wholesome snack. Carrots are packed with vitamins, and oats provide a great source of fiber. Together, they create a chewy texture that dogs love. Plus, you can feel good knowing exactly what goes into their treats!
Ingredients
- 1 cup grated carrots
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup peanut butter (unsweetened)
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, mix together the grated carrots, rolled oats, peanut butter, and water. If you want a touch of sweetness, add honey.
- Stir until everything is well combined and forms a dough.
- Roll the dough into small balls or press it into a baking dish to cut into squares later.
- Place the treats on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for about 20-25 minutes until they are firm and golden.
- Let them cool completely before serving them to your dog.
Your pup will love these Carrot and Oat Chew Bites! Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to a week.
Peanut Butter and Banana Chews
Peanut butter and banana chews are a fantastic treat for your dog. They are easy to make and packed with flavor. The image shows a variety of dog treats shaped like bones and circles, made from peanut butter and banana. A ripe banana sits next to these tasty chews, highlighting the main ingredients. Your pup will love the smell and taste of these homemade goodies!
Making these treats is a fun activity. You can involve your kids too! They’ll enjoy helping mix the ingredients and shaping the treats. The combination of peanut butter and banana not only tastes great but also provides some nutritional benefits for your dog. Peanut butter is rich in protein, while bananas offer potassium and vitamins.
These chews are perfect for training or just as a special reward. Plus, you know exactly what’s in them, which is always a plus. Let’s get started on making these delightful treats!
Ingredients
- 1 ripe banana
- 1 cup peanut butter (unsweetened)
- 1 1/2 cups whole wheat flour
- 1/4 cup oats
- 1/4 cup water (as needed)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, mash the ripe banana until smooth.
- Add the peanut butter to the mashed banana and mix well.
- Gradually stir in the whole wheat flour and oats until a dough forms. If the dough is too dry, add a little water.
- Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thick.
- Use cookie cutters to cut out shapes, like bones or circles.
- Place the treats on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
- Let them cool completely before serving to your dog.
Now your furry friend can enjoy these tasty peanut butter and banana chews!
Fish and Sweet Potato Chews
Fish and sweet potato chews are a fantastic treat for your dog. They combine the rich flavor of fish with the sweetness of potatoes, creating a snack that dogs love. The image shows a delicious fish alongside diced sweet potatoes, which are perfect for making these chews.
Making these treats is simple and fun. You can use fresh fish or canned fish, depending on what you have on hand. Sweet potatoes are packed with nutrients, making this treat not just tasty but healthy too.
These chews are great for training or just as a special reward. Your dog will appreciate the effort you put into making them, and you’ll feel good knowing exactly what’s in their treats.
Ingredients
- 1 cup cooked fish (boneless and skinless)
- 1 cup mashed sweet potatoes
- 1 egg
- 1/2 cup whole wheat flour
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, mix the cooked fish, mashed sweet potatoes, and egg until well combined.
- Add the whole wheat flour and olive oil, mixing until a dough forms.
- Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thick.
- Cut into shapes using cookie cutters or simply slice into strips.
- Place the chews on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
- Let them cool completely before serving to your dog.
Apple and Cheddar Chew Squares
These Apple and Cheddar Chew Squares are a fun and tasty treat for your dog. The combination of sweet apples and savory cheddar cheese creates a flavor that dogs love. Plus, they are easy to make at home, ensuring your pup gets a healthy snack without any added preservatives.
In the image, you can see the delightful squares stacked up, showcasing their bright yellow color. They look like little bites of joy, perfect for rewarding your pet. The apple in the recipe adds a natural sweetness, while the cheddar provides a rich taste that dogs find irresistible.
Making these treats is simple and requires just a few ingredients. Your dog will appreciate the effort, and you’ll enjoy knowing exactly what’s in their snacks.
Ingredients
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 cup whole wheat flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, mix together the cheddar cheese, applesauce, and water until well combined.
- Add the whole wheat flour and baking powder. Stir until a dough forms.
- Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thick.
- Cut into squares using a knife or cookie cutter.
- Place the squares on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
- Let them cool completely before serving to your dog.
Beef Jerky Dog Chews
Making beef jerky dog chews at home is a fun and rewarding project. The image shows a dog eagerly eyeing several strips of beef jerky hanging on a rack. These treats are not only tasty but also healthy for your pup. You can control the ingredients, ensuring there are no additives or preservatives.
To start, you’ll need some lean beef, like sirloin or round. Slice it thinly against the grain for the best texture. Marinating the beef in a simple mix of soy sauce, garlic powder, and a touch of honey can add flavor without being overwhelming. After marinating, you can dehydrate the strips in a dehydrator or an oven set to a low temperature.
Once dried, these jerky treats can be stored in an airtight container. Your dog will love chewing on these, and you’ll feel good knowing exactly what’s in them. Plus, they make great training rewards!
Ingredients
- 2 pounds lean beef (sirloin or round)
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon black pepper (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Beef: Slice the beef into thin strips, about 1/4 inch thick. Make sure to cut against the grain for a tender chew.
- Marinate: In a bowl, mix soy sauce, garlic powder, honey, and black pepper. Add the beef strips, ensuring they are well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight for more flavor.
- Dehydrate: Preheat your oven to 160°F (70°C) or set your dehydrator to the appropriate setting. Place the marinated beef strips on a baking sheet or dehydrator trays, leaving space between each piece.
- Dry the Jerky: If using an oven, prop the door open slightly to allow moisture to escape. Dry the beef for 4-6 hours, or until it is firm and dry but still slightly pliable.
- Cool and Store: Let the jerky cool completely before storing it in an airtight container. It can last for several weeks if kept in a cool, dry place.
Yogurt and Berry Chew Pops
Yogurt and berry chew pops are a fun and healthy treat for your dog. These popsicles are not just tasty; they are also packed with nutrients. The image shows a happy dog lounging outside, enjoying these colorful pops. The pops are made with creamy yogurt and fresh berries, making them a delightful snack on a warm day.
Making these chew pops is simple and requires just a few ingredients. You can use any berries your dog likes, such as strawberries or blueberries. The yogurt provides a creamy texture that dogs love. Plus, these treats are easy to prepare and can be stored in the freezer for those hot summer days.
Ingredients
- 2 cups plain yogurt (unsweetened)
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, chopped
- 1/2 cup blueberries
- 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
- Popsicle molds or ice cube trays
Instructions
- Mix the Ingredients: In a bowl, combine the yogurt and honey (if using). Stir well until smooth.
- Add the Berries: Gently fold in the chopped strawberries and blueberries, ensuring they are evenly distributed.
- Pour into Molds: Carefully pour the mixture into popsicle molds or ice cube trays. Leave a little space at the top as they will expand when frozen.
- Freeze: Place the molds in the freezer for at least 4-6 hours, or until completely frozen.
- Serve: Once frozen, remove the pops from the molds and let your dog enjoy this refreshing treat!
Minty Fresh Breath Chews
Minty Fresh Breath Chews are a fun and tasty way to keep your dog’s breath smelling great. These treats not only help freshen breath but also support dental health. The image shows a happy dog eagerly waiting to enjoy these green, bone-shaped chews. The treats are placed on a decorative plate with a leaf design, adding a nice touch to the presentation.
Making these chews at home is simple and rewarding. You can control the ingredients, ensuring your dog gets a healthy snack. Plus, your pup will love the minty flavor!
Ingredients
- 1 cup whole wheat flour
- 1/2 cup oats
- 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup parsley, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup chicken or beef broth
- 1 egg
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, mix the whole wheat flour and oats.
- Add the chopped mint and parsley to the dry ingredients.
- In another bowl, whisk together the broth, egg, and coconut oil.
- Combine the wet and dry ingredients, mixing until a dough forms.
- Roll out the dough to about 1/4 inch thick and cut into bone shapes using a cookie cutter.
- Place the treats on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
- Let the chews cool completely before serving them to your dog.
Safety Tips for Homemade Dog Chews
How to Choose the Right Chew for Your Dog’s Size & Age
Different dogs require different chews:
- Puppies & Seniors – Soft chews like banana-oat treats.
- Adult Dogs – Moderate chews like dehydrated fruits.
- Aggressive Chewers – Hard, long-lasting chews like baked sweet potatoes or homemade jerky.
How to Store DIY Dog Chew Treats
- Refrigeration – Keeps treats fresh for up to 2 weeks.
- Freezing – Extends shelf life for up to 3 months.
- Vacuum Sealing – Ideal for long-term storage.
Frequently Asked Questions About DIY Dog Chew Treats
How Often Can I Give My Dog Chew Treats?
Moderation is key. 2-3 times per week is ideal to prevent excessive calorie intake.
Can I Make Vegan or Vegetarian Dog Chews?
Yes! Sweet potatoes, bananas, and carrots make great plant-based chews.
Are Homemade Dog Chews Good for Dental Health?
Yes! Chewing helps reduce plaque and strengthens teeth.
Final Thoughts: Start Making Your Own DIY Dog Chew Treats Today!
Making DIY dog chew treats is not only fun but also ensures your pet gets the healthiest, safest treats possible. With simple ingredients and easy recipes, you can provide your dog with tasty, nutritious chews that suit their needs.
