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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 been in a situation of giving your dog store-bought treats that have a long list of unknown ingredients and feeling guilty about it?
That concern is very real when you want to take the best care of your dog, especially during the holidays.
Those commercial options may be full of artificial stuff and some sort of fillers which may be harmful to your dog in the long run without you knowing.
Well, I am here to teach you how to make the most wonderful holiday dog treat that your dog can not help but love.
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Recipe Overview
- This festive Homemade Dog Treat Recipe for Christmas: Candy Cane Chews (Dog-Friendly) takes just 15 minutes to prep and 20 minutes to bake.
- It makes about 2 dozen charming candy cane-shaped chews.
- These treats are packed with wholesome ingredients like whole wheat flour, peanut butter, and a touch of natural cranberry for that holiday flair.
- They’re perfect for dogs who deserve something special and healthy this Christmas.
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Ingredients List
- 1 ½ cups whole wheat flour (Estimated Cost: $0.50)
- ½ cup unsweetened applesauce (Estimated Cost: $0.75)
- ½ cup natural peanut butter (xylitol-free!) (Estimated Cost: $1.50)
- 1 large egg (Estimated Cost: $0.25)
- ¼ cup fresh cranberries, finely chopped (Estimated Cost: $1.00)
- 1 tablespoon water (if needed for dough consistency) (Estimated Cost: $0.00)
- Suitable Substitutions: You can swap whole wheat flour for oat flour if your dog has a wheat sensitivity. Pumpkin puree can stand in for applesauce.
Total Estimated Cost: $4.00
Step-by-Step Instructions
- First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Then, line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This helps prevent sticking.
- In a large bowl, mix together the whole wheat flour, applesauce, peanut butter, and egg until a dough forms.
- Now, divide the dough in half.
- Gently fold the finely chopped cranberries into one half of the dough until evenly distributed. This gives it that festive red color.
- On a lightly floured surface, roll out small portions of the plain dough into thin ropes, about 4-5 inches long.
- Do the same with the cranberry dough.
- Carefully twist one plain rope and one cranberry rope together to create a candy cane effect.
- Bend one end slightly to form the candy cane hook.
- Place the shaped treats onto the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the treats are firm and lightly golden.
- Let them cool completely on a wire rack before serving.
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Feeding Guidelines
- These are treats, so they should be given in moderation.
- For small dogs (under 20 lbs), one small candy cane chew per day is usually a good amount.
- Medium dogs (20-50 lbs) can have 1-2 chews daily.
- Large dogs (over 50 lbs) might enjoy 2-3 chews per day.
- Adjust based on your dog’s activity level and overall diet. An active dog might need a little more, while a less active dog needs less.
- Puppies, senior dogs, and pregnant/nursing dogs have different nutritional needs. Always check with your vet for personalized advice on treats and diet. For example, puppies might need smaller, softer pieces, and overweight dogs should have very limited treats.
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Nutritional Benefits of the Recipe
- Whole wheat flour provides complex carbohydrates for sustained energy and fiber for healthy digestion.
- Unsweetened applesauce adds natural sweetness, vitamins A and C, and more fiber. It’s great for gut health.
- Natural peanut butter is an excellent source of protein, healthy fats (Omega-6), and vitamins E and B. Make sure it’s xylitol-free for safety.
- Eggs contribute high-quality protein and essential amino acids, along with vitamins like B12 and D.
- Cranberries are packed with antioxidants and vitamin C, which can support urinary tract health.
Storage and Serving Tips
- Once cooled, store these treats in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 7 days.
- For longer storage, freeze the treats in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months.
- When ready to serve from frozen, let them thaw at room temperature or warm them slightly in the microwave for a few seconds.
- Serve them at room temperature as a special snack, or even crumble a small piece over their regular meal for added excitement.
Common Questions & Troubleshooting
Can I use other types of flour?
Yes, you can. Oat flour or rice flour are good alternatives if your dog has a sensitivity to wheat. Just make sure the dough consistency is similar; you might need to adjust the water slightly.
Is peanut butter safe for all dogs?
Most dogs can have peanut butter, but it’s crucial to use natural, unsweetened peanut butter that does NOT contain xylitol. Xylitol is highly toxic to dogs. Always check the label carefully.
My dog has allergies. What substitutions can I make?
If your dog is allergic to peanuts, try sunflower seed butter or almond butter (again, ensuring no xylitol). For egg allergies, you can use a flax egg (1 tbsp ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tbsp water, let sit for 5 minutes) as a binder.
How do I know if the treats are cooked enough?
They should be firm to the touch and slightly golden brown. If they’re too soft, bake them for a few more minutes. They will firm up more as they cool.
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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 homemade Candy Cane Chews is a super simple way to show your dog some extra love this holiday season. They’re healthy, festive, and guaranteed to get tails wagging without any worry about weird ingredients. It’s a win-win for everyone.
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