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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 really in those treats for dogs that you buy from the store?
At times, it seems like a secret, which is stuffed with components that we are not able to pronounce.
Such things can irritate our dogs a lot, thus causing stomach problems or something worse.
However, what if you were able to make treats that are tasty and, at the same time, very healthy with the ingredients you have? The answer is yes, you can.
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Recipe Overview
- This simple 2-ingredient dog treat recipe takes just 5 minutes to prep and about an hour to freeze.
- It’s perfect for a quick, healthy snack that your dog will adore.
- Makes approximately 30-40 small drops, depending on size.
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Ingredients List
- Plain, unsweetened yogurt (full-fat or low-fat): 1 cup (Cost: $0.75 – $1.50)
- Natural peanut butter (xylitol-free): 1/2 cup (Cost: $1.50 – $2.50)
- Total Estimated Cost: $2.25 – $4.00
- Suitable substitutions: For yogurt, you can use plain kefir. For peanut butter, make sure it’s natural and absolutely free of xylitol, a sugar substitute that’s toxic to dogs. Almond butter can also be used if it’s natural and xylitol-free.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Get a mixing bowl.
- Add 1 cup of plain, unsweetened yogurt to the bowl.
- Then, scoop in 1/2 cup of natural peanut butter (check that label, no xylitol!).
- Mix them together really well until it’s smooth and creamy.
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat. This helps prevent sticking.
- Spoon small dollops of the mixture onto the lined baking sheet. You can use a teaspoon or a small piping bag for neat drops.
- Put the baking sheet in the freezer for at least one hour, or until the drops are solid.
- Once they’re frozen, peel them off the paper or mat.
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Feeding Guidelines
- These treats are best for occasional snacking, not as a main meal.
- Small dogs (under 20 lbs): 1-2 drops per day.
- Medium dogs (20-50 lbs): 3-4 drops per day.
- Large dogs (over 50 lbs): 5-6 drops per day.
- Puppies and senior dogs might enjoy these as they are soft when slightly thawed. Reduce the quantity for puppies, maybe 1 drop per day.
- If your dog has any health conditions or is on a special diet, it’s always smart to talk to your vet first.
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Nutritional Benefits of the Recipe
- Plain Yogurt: This has probiotics, which are good for your dog’s gut health and digestion. It also gives them calcium for strong bones and teeth, and some protein.
- Natural Peanut Butter: A good source of healthy fats, protein, and vitamins like B and E. It also contains niacin, which is important for energy. Just make sure it’s natural and has no xylitol, as that is super dangerous for dogs.
- Together, these ingredients offer a nice boost of energy and support a healthy digestive system.
Storage and Serving Tips
- Keep these treats in an airtight container in the freezer.
- They’ll stay fresh for up to 2-3 months this way.
- You can serve them straight from the freezer for a cool treat, especially on a hot day.
- Or, let them sit out for a minute or two to soften slightly before giving them to your dog.
- They’re great as a reward during training or just a special snack.
Common Questions & Troubleshooting
Can I use flavored yogurt?
No, you should only use plain, unsweetened yogurt. Flavored yogurts often contain artificial sweeteners, sugar, or other ingredients that aren’t good for dogs, and some can be toxic, like xylitol.
My peanut butter is really thick, will it mix well?
If your natural peanut butter is very thick, you can warm it slightly in the microwave for a few seconds to make it easier to mix with the yogurt. Just make sure it’s not hot.
Are these treats good for dogs with allergies?
These treats are generally good for dogs without dairy or peanut allergies. If your dog has a sensitive stomach or known allergies, always check with your vet before introducing new foods.
Can I add anything else to the recipe?
It’s best to stick to just these two ingredients for simplicity and safety. Adding other things could change the nutritional balance or introduce something that isn’t dog-safe.
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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 2-ingredient yogurt and peanut butter drops is such an easy way to show your dog some love with a healthy snack. Your pup will go crazy for them, and you’ll feel good knowing exactly what they’re eating.
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