2-Ingredient Dog Treat Recipe: Tuna & Egg Squares

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.

Does​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌ your pet refuse to eat treats that you buy from the store? You are not the only one.

A number of dog owners have a hard time finding nutritious and attractive snacks which their dogs like.

It is really annoying that you want to give your dog a treat but you are worried about the presence of artificial ingredients or fillers that you do not know.

Well, the answer is in your ​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌kitchen. Let’s make this simple dog treat for your dog today!

Recipe Overview

• This simple 2-ingredient dog treat recipe for Tuna & Egg Squares takes just 5 minutes to prep and 20 minutes to cook.
• It yields about 24-30 small squares, perfect for training or everyday rewards.
• These treats are packed with protein and omega-3s, ideal for all dogs, especially those with sensitive stomachs or picky palates.
• They’re also grain-free and super easy to digest.

Ingredients List

• Canned Tuna in Water (drained): 1 (5-ounce) can – Cost: $1.50 – $2.50
• Large Eggs: 2 – Cost: $0.50 – $0.75
• Total Estimated Cost: $2.00 – $3.25

You can swap the tuna for canned salmon (drained) if your dog prefers, or if you have it on hand. Just make sure it’s in water, not oil, and has no added salt.

Step-by-Step Instructions

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Line a small baking sheet (like an 8×8 inch pan) with parchment paper. This helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup easy.
• Open and drain the can of tuna really well. You want to get rid of as much water as you can.
• Crack the two eggs into a mixing bowl.
• Add the drained tuna to the bowl with the eggs.
• Use a fork to mash the tuna and mix it thoroughly with the eggs until you have a fairly uniform mixture. It doesn’t need to be perfectly smooth, some tuna flakes are fine.
• Spread the mixture evenly onto the prepared baking sheet. Aim for about a quarter-inch thickness.
• Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the mixture is firm to the touch and lightly golden brown around the edges.
• Let the treats cool completely on the baking sheet. This is important because they firm up more as they cool.
• Once cool, cut them into small, bite-sized squares.

Feeding Guidelines

• These treats are best given in moderation, as they are rich in protein and fats.
• For small dogs (under 20 lbs), offer 1-2 small squares per day.
• Medium dogs (20-50 lbs) can have 2-4 squares daily.
• Large dogs (over 50 lbs) might enjoy 4-6 squares, depending on their activity level.
• Puppies and senior dogs might need smaller pieces due to their teeth or digestive systems.
• Always adjust the amount based on your dog’s size, activity level, and overall diet.
• It’s a good idea to chat with your vet for exact feeding advice, especially if your dog has specific health needs or is on a special diet.

Nutritional Benefits of the Recipe

• Tuna: This fish is a fantastic source of lean protein, which is vital for muscle development and repair. It also provides omega-3 fatty acids (DHA and EPA), great for a healthy coat, skin, and brain function.
• Eggs: Eggs are a complete protein source, meaning they contain all essential amino acids dogs need. They also offer important vitamins like B12, A, and D, plus minerals like selenium and iron. These support energy levels and overall well-being.
• Overall Benefits: These treats are low in carbohydrates and free from common allergens like grains, soy, and dairy. They’re easy on the digestive system and great for dogs who need extra protein or a boost of healthy fats.

Storage and Serving Tips

• Once baked and cooled, store these tuna and egg squares in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for up to 5-7 days.
• For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to 2-3 months.
• When you want to serve frozen treats, just thaw them in the fridge overnight or microwave for a few seconds until room temperature.
• You can serve these treats warm or at room temperature.
• They’re great on their own as a reward, or you can crumble a bit over your dog’s kibble to make mealtime more exciting.

Common Questions & Troubleshooting

Can I use tuna in oil?

No, it’s best to stick to tuna in water. Tuna in oil adds unnecessary fat and might upset your dog’s stomach.

Are these treats suitable for puppies?

Yes, in moderation. Puppies need high-quality protein, and these provide it. Just make sure the pieces are small enough for them to chew easily.

My dog has a fish allergy. What can I use instead of tuna?

If your dog is allergic to fish, you could try using cooked, shredded chicken or turkey mixed with the eggs. Just be sure to cook the meat plain, without any seasonings.

How can I make them last longer?

Freezing is your best bet for extending shelf life. Portion them into small batches before freezing so you can easily grab what you need.

Do I need to add anything else for nutrients?

No, for a simple treat, these two ingredients are perfectly fine. If you were making this a regular part of their diet, you’d need to consider a balanced supplement, but for occasional treats, it’s not necessary.

Wrapping Up

Making your own dog treats doesn’t get much easier than these 2-ingredient Tuna & Egg Squares. They’re a healthy, protein-packed way to show your dog some love, and they taste great too!

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