Homemade Dog Treat Recipe for Allergies Using Venison & Cranberry

Zack Keithy, our author, is a certified veterinarian technician (UC Blue Ash) for over 6 years (contact him here). The articles written here are based on his expertise and experience, combined with a review by our expert vet reviewers including Dr M. Tarantino. Learn more about us here.

I know how difficult it is when your dog has allergies. You observe them scratching, their stomach being upset, and safe treats seem to be the hardest thing to find with so many mystery ingredients.

It puts you in a state of worry about what they are actually eating.

However, you don’t need to guess anymore, at least after going through this recipe. Right here, I have a solution that is simple, safe, and very delicious for ​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌your pup.

Recipe Overview

• This homemade dog treat recipe is perfect for pups with sensitive tummies or common protein allergies.
• It uses venison, a novel protein, and antioxidant-rich cranberries.
• Prep time: About 15 minutes
• Cook time: 25-30 minutes
• Serving size: Makes about 30-40 small treats, depending on how you cut them.

Ingredients List

• 1 pound ground venison (approx. $12.00 – $18.00)
• 1 cup oat flour (approx. $3.00 – $5.00)
• 1/2 cup finely chopped fresh cranberries (approx. $2.50 – $4.00)
• 1/2 cup cooked and mashed sweet potato (approx. $1.00 – $2.00 for one potato)
• 1 large egg (approx. $0.20 – $0.30)
• 2 tablespoons water (free)

Total estimated cost: $18.70 – $29.30

Substitutions: You can use ground kangaroo or rabbit instead of venison if your dog has other specific sensitivities. For cranberries, you can use unsweetened dried cranberries, but chop them well and soak them in a little warm water first to soften. You can also use pumpkin puree instead of sweet potato if preferred.

Step-by-Step Instructions

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
• In a large bowl, mix the ground venison, oat flour, chopped cranberries, mashed sweet potato, and egg.
• Use your hands to combine everything really well.
• The mixture should be firm enough to roll.
• Add water, one tablespoon at a time, if the dough feels too dry and crumbly.
• Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface (using oat flour) to about 1/4 inch thickness.
• Use a cookie cutter or a knife to cut out desired treat shapes.
• Place the treats on the prepared baking sheet.
• Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the treats are firm and slightly golden at the edges.
• Let them cool completely on a wire rack before serving.

Feeding Guidelines

• These are treats, not a meal replacement.
• For small dogs (under 20 lbs): 1-2 treats per day.
• For medium dogs (20-50 lbs): 2-3 treats per day.
• For large dogs (over 50 lbs): 3-4 treats per day.
• Puppies and highly active dogs might have a bit more, while senior or less active dogs should have fewer.
• Always adjust based on your dog’s size, activity level, and overall diet.
• Always check with your vet before making significant changes to your dog’s diet, especially for allergy management.

Nutritional Benefits of the Recipe

• Venison: It is a lean, high-quality protein source. It provides essential amino acids for muscle health. It’s also a novel protein, which means it’s less likely to trigger common food allergies than chicken or beef.
• Cranberries: Packed with antioxidants and Vitamin C. They support immune health and can help promote a healthy urinary tract.
• Sweet Potato: A great source of complex carbohydrates for sustained energy. It also offers dietary fiber for healthy digestion and is rich in vitamins A and C.
• Oat Flour: A naturally gluten-free grain. It provides fiber and is easier on sensitive stomachs than wheat flour.
• Egg: Adds extra protein and healthy fats. It also acts as a binder for the treats.

This recipe provides a good balance of protein, fiber, and important vitamins without common allergens. These treats are designed to be a healthy addition to a complete diet, not a substitute. If you’re looking for a complete homemade meal for your allergic dog, you’ll want to consult with a veterinary nutritionist to ensure it meets all their vitamin and mineral requirements, possibly with a canine-specific supplement.

Storage and Serving Tips

• Store these treats in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5-7 days.
• For longer storage, freeze the cooled treats in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months.
• When ready to serve from frozen, let them thaw in the refrigerator overnight or briefly warm them in the microwave.
• You can serve them at room temperature or slightly warmed.
• These treats are also great crumbled over your dog’s regular kibble for an extra boost of flavor and nutrition.

Common Questions & Troubleshooting

Can I use dried venison instead of ground?

No, this recipe specifically calls for ground venison. Dried venison is too tough and dry and won’t mix into the dough correctly.

My dough is too sticky, what should I do?

If your dough is too sticky, add a little more oat flour, one tablespoon at a time, until it reaches a workable consistency. You want it firm enough to roll without sticking to your hands too much.

Are these treats suitable for puppies?

Yes, these treats are generally safe for puppies. However, remember to feed them in very small quantities and always supervise your puppy to ensure they chew them properly.

Can I add other vegetables?

You can add small amounts of other dog-safe vegetables like finely grated carrots or green beans. Just make sure they are very finely chopped so they blend well into the dough and don’t make it too watery.

Wrapping Up

Making your own dog treats means you know exactly what your furry friend is eating. This venison and cranberry recipe is easy, healthy, and allergy-friendly, giving you peace of mind and your dog a happy wag.

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