Homemade Dog Cookies With Lamb & Rosemary

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.

Sick of squinting at those weird ingredient lists on dog treats? Wondering what’s actually in those snacks you give your pup?

It’s hard to tell if they’re really good for your dog.

But honestly, you can make tasty, healthy homemade dog cookies in your own kitchen. Let me walk you through it.

Recipe Overview

• This homemade dog cookie recipe takes about 20 minutes to prep and 25 minutes to bake.
• It makes around 30-40 cookies, depending on your cookie cutter size.
• These cookies are packed with lean protein from lamb, gut-friendly fiber, and natural antioxidants.
• They are perfect for training rewards or just a special snack.

Ingredients List

• 1 cup cooked lamb, finely minced or shredded (about 0.25 lbs raw lamb): $3.00 (substitute with cooked chicken or turkey)
• 1.5 cups whole wheat flour: $0.50 (substitute with oat flour for gluten-free)
• 1/2 cup old-fashioned oats: $0.20
• 1/4 cup fresh rosemary, finely chopped: $1.00 (substitute with 1 tablespoon dried rosemary)
• 1 large egg: $0.25
• 1/2 cup lamb broth (low sodium, no onion/garlic): $0.50 (substitute with chicken or vegetable broth)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil: $0.30
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder: $0.05
• Total Estimated Cost: $5.80

Step-by-Step Instructions

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
• In a large bowl, mix the cooked lamb, whole wheat flour, old-fashioned oats, fresh rosemary, and baking powder. Stir until everything is well combined.
• In a separate small bowl, whisk the egg, lamb broth, and olive oil together.
• Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Mix well with a spoon or your hands until a stiff dough forms.
• Lightly flour a clean surface. Roll out the dough to about 1/4 inch thick.
• Use a cookie cutter to cut out shapes. You can use any dog-friendly shape you like.
• Place the cut-out cookies on the prepared baking sheet.
• Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cookies are firm and lightly golden brown.
• Let them cool completely on a wire rack before serving to your dog.

Feeding Guidelines

• These cookies are treats, not a meal replacement.
• For small dogs (under 20 lbs), offer 1-2 cookies per day.
• Medium dogs (20-50 lbs) can have 2-4 cookies daily.
• Large dogs (over 50 lbs) can enjoy 4-6 cookies daily.
• Adjust based on your dog’s activity level. More active dogs might have a few extra, less active dogs fewer.
• Puppies and senior dogs might need smaller, softer pieces. Always break them up if needed.
• Always talk to your vet to get personalized advice on portion sizes, especially if your dog has any health conditions or specific dietary needs.

Nutritional Benefits of the Recipe

• Lamb is a fantastic source of high-quality protein, essential for muscle maintenance and overall energy. It also provides B vitamins and iron.
• Whole wheat flour offers complex carbohydrates for sustained energy and dietary fiber for digestive health.
• Old-fashioned oats add more fiber, which helps with gut regularity and can be soothing for sensitive stomachs.
• Rosemary is more than just a flavor; it’s a natural antioxidant and anti-inflammatory, good for your dog’s immune system.
• Olive oil provides healthy monounsaturated fats and Omega-6 fatty acids, beneficial for skin and coat health.
• Eggs contribute complete protein, vitamins A, D, E, and B vitamins, along with minerals like selenium.
• This recipe offers a good balance of protein, healthy fats, and complex carbohydrates. It naturally provides B-complex vitamins, iron, zinc, and antioxidants.

Storage and Serving Tips

• Store these homemade dog cookies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 7 days.
• For longer storage, freeze the cookies for up to 2 months. Thaw them in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature for a few hours before serving.
• You can serve these cookies at room temperature.
• Some dogs enjoy them slightly warmed in the microwave for a few seconds (make sure they aren’t hot).
• These are great as a standalone treat or broken into smaller pieces and mixed with your dog’s regular kibble for an extra special meal.

Common Questions & Troubleshooting (FAQ)

Can I use a different meat?

Yes, absolutely. Cooked chicken, turkey, or beef (lean ground beef, for example) would work well. Just be sure it’s plain and unseasoned.

Is rosemary safe for dogs?

Yes, in moderate amounts, rosemary is safe and beneficial for dogs. It’s a mild antioxidant. Avoid excessive use, but the amount in this recipe is fine.

What if my dog has allergies to wheat?

You can easily substitute whole wheat flour with oat flour or a gluten-free flour blend. Just ensure the texture of the dough is still manageable.

My dough is too crumbly/too sticky. What should I do?

If it’s too crumbly, add a tiny bit more lamb broth or water, a teaspoon at a time, until it comes together. If it’s too sticky, add a little more whole wheat flour, a tablespoon at a time.

Wrapping Up

Making these Homemade Dog Cookies with Lamb & Rosemary is a simple way to show your dog some extra love. They’re tasty, healthy, and you know exactly what’s in them. So go ahead, treat your best friend!