Homemade Puppy Treats Recipe Using Sardine & Rice

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.

Isn’t there a kind of treat that simply can’t go unnoticed by a new dog? A little something savory, a little something fishy, that makes their tiny noses stun with happiness.

And if that treat is full of good things for their development, then it’s really wonderful. These homemade sardine and rice puppy treats are exactly the healthy treat ideal for the little ones who are growing.

Recipe Overview

This homemade puppy treat recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 20-25 minutes to bake. These savory bites are packed with Omega-3 fatty acids for brain development and protein for growth, making them an excellent choice for training and rewarding your growing pup.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
• Serving Size: Makes about 30-40 small bites (depending on cutter size)

Ingredients List

Here’s what you’ll need for these nourishing puppy treats. All ingredients are dog-safe and readily available.

• 1 (3.75 oz) can sardines in water (no salt added), drained: About $1.50 – $2.00
• 1/2 cup cooked white rice: About $0.20 – $0.30
• 1/4 cup whole wheat flour (or oat flour for gluten-free): About $0.10 – $0.15
• 1 large egg: About $0.20 – $0.30
• Optional: 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped: About $0.10 – $0.20
• Total Estimated Cost: Approximately $2.10 – $2.95

Substitutions:

• Sardines: Cooked salmon (flaked) or mackerel (canned in water, no salt) can be used.
• White Rice: Cooked brown rice (finely ground if needed for very young puppies) can be used.
• Whole Wheat Flour: Oat flour or rice flour can be used for a gluten-free option.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Making these bites is quite straightforward. Just follow these simple steps:

1. Preheat oven and prepare baking sheet. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Prepare sardines. Drain the can of sardines thoroughly. In a medium bowl, mash the sardines with a fork until they are well broken up.
3. Combine ingredients. Add the cooked white rice, whole wheat flour, and large egg to the mashed sardines. If using, add the finely chopped parsley.
4. Mix well. Mix all the ingredients together thoroughly until a soft, uniform dough forms. It should be easy to handle.
5. Roll out the dough. Lightly flour a clean surface with a little extra flour. Roll out the dough to about 1/4-inch thickness.
6. Cut out treats. Use a small cookie cutter (a bone shape or a small circle works well) to cut out individual treats. You can also just use a knife to cut them into small squares.
7. Place on baking sheet. Carefully transfer the cut-out treats to the prepared baking sheet.
8. Bake. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the treats are firm and lightly golden brown. They should be soft enough for a puppy to chew easily.
9. Cool completely. Remove the treats from the oven and let them cool completely on a wire rack before giving them to your puppy.

Feeding Guidelines

These bites are designed for puppies, but moderation is still key. They’re a reward, not a meal.

• Small Puppies (under 10 lbs): 1-2 small bites per day.
• Medium Puppies (10-25 lbs): 2-4 small bites per day.
• Large Puppies (over 25 lbs): 4-6 small bites per day.

Always consider your puppy’s overall daily calorie intake. Treats should make up no more than 10% of their total calories. Introduce these treats slowly, starting with just one or two, to ensure they agree with your puppy’s tummy. If your puppy has any specific health concerns or dietary needs, always consult your veterinarian for personalized advice.

Nutritional Benefits of the Recipe

These savory bites are packed with goodness for your growing pup.

• Sardines: An excellent source of Omega-3 fatty acids (EPA and DHA), crucial for brain and eye development, cognitive function, and promoting a healthy, shiny coat. They also provide high-quality protein and Vitamin D.
• Cooked White Rice: Offers easily digestible complex carbohydrates for a steady energy supply, important for active puppies. It’s gentle on sensitive puppy tummies.
• Whole Wheat Flour (or Oat Flour): Provides some complex carbohydrates and fiber.
• Egg: Contributes additional high-quality protein and essential amino acids for growth and development.
• Overall: These treats support healthy brain and eye development, promote a shiny coat, provide gentle energy, and contribute to overall growth and vitality.

Storage and Serving Tips

These treats are easy to store and serve, making them convenient for daily use.

• Refrigeration: Store the cooled treats in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5-7 days.
• Freezing: For longer storage, place the treats in a freezer-safe bag or container and freeze for up to 2-3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
• Serving Ideas: These soft bites are perfect for breaking into even smaller pieces for training. They can also be given as a general reward or a little snack between meals. Always ensure they are at room temperature before serving.

Common Questions & Troubleshooting (FAQ)

My puppy doesn’t like the smell of fish. What can I do?

You can try adding a little fresh parsley to the mixture, which can help to neutralize some of the fishy odor. Or, consider one of the other treat recipes.

Can I use sardines packed in oil?

It’s best to use sardines packed in water with no added salt. Sardines in oil can add too much fat to a puppy’s diet and may cause digestive upset.

The dough is too sticky/dry. What should I do?

If the dough is too sticky, add a tiny bit more flour. If it’s too dry, add a tiny bit more water, a teaspoon at a time, until it comes together.

Wrapping Up

These Homemade Puppy Treats Using Sardine & Rice are a simple, wholesome way to reward your growing pup with a nutrient-dense, savory treat. They’re easy to make and perfect for supporting their development.

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