Homemade Puppy Treats Recipe Using Cottage Cheese & Flaxseed

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.

Quietly, almost to oneself, there is a certain pleasure in being able to provide your furry friend a treat that is really nice for them, isn’t there?

Something that energizes their growing bones and their developing bodies, without them needing to cry or ask for it.

These cottage cheese and flaxseed squares puppy treats are definitely healthy and full of good stuff, just right for those tiny doggies.

Recipe Overview

This homemade puppy treat recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 20-25 minutes to bake. These soft, chewy squares are gentle on a puppy’s digestive system, providing easily digestible protein, calcium for strong bones, and Omega-3s for overall development. They’re excellent for training and rewarding your growing pup.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
• Serving Size: Makes about 30-40 small squares (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.

• 1/2 cup low-fat cottage cheese: About $0.75 – $1.25
• 1/4 cup ground flaxseed: About $0.25 – $0.50
• 1/2 cup whole wheat flour (or oat flour for gluten-free): About $0.20 – $0.30
• 1 large egg: About $0.20 – $0.30
• Optional: 1 tablespoon water (to adjust consistency): About $0.01
• Total Estimated Cost: Approximately $1.41 – $2.36

Substitutions:

• Low-Fat Cottage Cheese: Plain, low-fat ricotta cheese can be used.
• Ground Flaxseed: Chia seeds (ground) can be used for similar Omega-3 benefits.
• Whole Wheat Flour: Oat flour or rice flour can be used for a gluten-free option.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Making these squares 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. Combine ingredients. In a medium bowl, combine the low-fat cottage cheese, ground flaxseed, whole wheat flour, and large egg. If the mixture seems too dry, you can add a tablespoon of water.
3. Mix well. Mix all the ingredients together thoroughly until a soft, uniform dough forms. It should be easy to handle.
4. Roll out the dough. Lightly flour a clean surface with a little extra flour. Roll out the dough to about 1/4-inch thickness.
5. Cut out treats. Use a small knife to cut the dough into small squares, about 1/2-inch to 1-inch in size. These are perfect for puppy mouths.
6. Place on baking sheet. Carefully transfer the cut-out squares to the prepared baking sheet.
7. 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.
8. 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 squares are designed for puppies, but moderation is still key. They’re a reward, not a meal.

• Small Puppies (under 10 lbs): 1-2 small squares per day.
• Medium Puppies (10-25 lbs): 2-4 small squares per day.
• Large Puppies (over 25 lbs): 4-6 small squares 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 gentle squares are packed with goodness for your growing pup.

• Low-Fat Cottage Cheese: Provides easily digestible, high-quality protein essential for muscle growth and repair. It’s also an excellent source of calcium for strong bone development.
• Ground Flaxseed: Offers plant-based Omega-3 fatty acids (ALA), which are crucial for brain development, cognitive function, and promoting a healthy, shiny coat. It also provides dietary fiber.
• Whole Wheat Flour (or Oat Flour): Provides complex carbohydrates for a steady energy supply, important for active puppies. It also contributes some fiber.
• Egg: Contributes additional high-quality protein and essential amino acids for growth and development.
• Overall: These treats support strong bone and muscle development, healthy brain function, a shiny coat, and provide gentle energy for training and play.

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 squares 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 is sensitive to dairy. What can I use instead of cottage cheese?

You could try using a plain, unsweetened, dairy-free yogurt alternative (ensure it’s xylitol-free) mixed with a bit more flour to create a dough.

Can I add herbs to these treats?

Yes, a tiny pinch of finely chopped fresh parsley or dill can be added for a little extra flavor and mild digestive support.

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 Cottage Cheese & Flaxseed are a simple, wholesome way to reward your growing pup with a nutritious, gentle treat. They’re easy to make and perfect for supporting their development.

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