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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.
Have you ever thought about what is actually put into those dog treats that you buy in the store? Are they not just full of fillers and things that are kind of questionable?
It is quite difficult to find treats that are not only delicious but also genuinely healthy for your dog.
But, you can make wholesome, tasty treats at home which is as simple as can be, with no need for a hassle.
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Recipe Overview
- This homemade salmon and sweet potato dog treat recipe is super simple.
- It takes just 15 minutes to prep and 25 minutes to cook.
- You’ll get about 30-40 delicious bites, perfect for training or just a special snack.
- It’s packed with healthy fats, protein, and essential vitamins.
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Ingredients List
- Canned Salmon (in water, no salt added): 14.75 oz can (approx. $3.50 – $5.00)
- Sweet Potato: 1 large (approx. $1.00 – $2.00)
- Optional: A pinch of dried parsley for fresh breath (approx. $0.10)
- Total estimated cost: $4.60 – $7.10
Substitutions: You can use cooked, flaked fresh salmon instead of canned. For sweet potato, pumpkin puree (plain, unsweetened) can work too, though it changes the texture slightly.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup easy.
- Wash the sweet potato well.
- Prick the sweet potato all over with a fork.
- Microwave the sweet potato for 5-7 minutes until it’s very soft. Or, you can bake it for about 45-60 minutes.
- Once cool enough to handle, scoop out the sweet potato flesh into a large bowl.
- Drain the canned salmon thoroughly.
- Add the drained salmon to the bowl with the sweet potato.
- Mash the salmon and sweet potato together until well combined. It should form a thick, sticky dough.
- If using, stir in the dried parsley.
- Roll the mixture into small, bite-sized balls, about 1/2 to 1 inch in diameter.
- Place the balls on the prepared baking sheet. Leave a little space between each one.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the treats are firm and lightly browned.
- Let them cool completely on a wire rack before serving.
Feeding Guidelines
- These treats are intended as a supplement to your dog’s regular diet, not a meal replacement.
- Small dogs (under 20 lbs): 1-2 treats per day.
- Medium dogs (20-50 lbs): 2-4 treats per day.
- Large dogs (over 50 lbs): 4-6 treats per day.
- For puppies or very active dogs, you might give a little more, but always in moderation.
- If your dog is overweight or has a sensitive stomach, start with fewer treats.
- Always talk to your vet if you have questions about your dog’s diet, especially for puppies, seniors, or dogs with health issues.
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Nutritional Benefits of the Recipe
- Salmon: This is a powerhouse of Omega-3 fatty acids, like EPA and DHA. These are fantastic for healthy skin, a shiny coat, and joint health. It also provides high-quality protein, which is essential for muscle maintenance.
- Sweet Potato: A great source of complex carbohydrates for sustained energy. It’s also rich in fiber, which helps with healthy digestion. Plus, sweet potatoes are packed with vitamins A, C, and B6, and minerals like potassium and manganese.
- Together, these ingredients offer a balanced treat with essential fats, proteins, fiber, and a good range of vitamins and minerals like calcium, phosphorus, and iron.
Storage and Serving Tips
- Store these treats in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5-7 days.
- For longer storage, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.
- To serve from frozen, thaw in the refrigerator overnight or let them sit at room temperature for an hour.
- You can serve them at room temperature. Some dogs might enjoy them slightly warm.
- These treats can also be crumbled over your dog’s regular kibble for an extra enticing meal.
Common Questions & Troubleshooting
Can I use raw salmon or sweet potato?
No, both salmon and sweet potato should be cooked before making these treats. Raw salmon can contain parasites, and raw sweet potato is hard for dogs to digest.
My dog has allergies, can I substitute anything?
If your dog is allergic to salmon, you could try cooked, plain tuna in water or cooked ground turkey. For sweet potato, plain pumpkin puree is a good alternative. Always introduce new foods slowly.
Why are my treats crumbly?
This can happen if there isn’t enough moisture or if the sweet potato wasn’t mashed well enough. Make sure the sweet potato is very soft. If the mix feels too dry, you can add a tiny bit of water or unsalted chicken broth, a teaspoon at a time, until it binds better.
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Need more ideas on what to cook for your dog? Then you must check out my library of homemade dog food recipes today!
Wrapping Up
Making these salmon and sweet potato bites is such an easy way to give your dog a healthy, delicious snack you can feel good about. It’s simple, budget-friendly, and your pup will absolutely love them.
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