Homemade Dog Cookies With Pear & Mint

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 trying to decode those ingredient lists on dog treats? You’re not alone. It’s tough to figure out what’s actually good for your pup.

Here’s the thing: you can whip up tasty, healthy snacks for your dog at home, and I’ll walk you through it.

Today, we’re making homemade dog cookies with pear and mint. Let’s get started!

Recipe Overview

• This homemade dog cookie recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep and 30 minutes of baking.
• It makes about 24 medium cookies, perfect for a treat or training reward.
• These cookies are packed with fiber, essential vitamins, and a refreshing twist of mint.
• They are great for dogs of all sizes and can help with fresh breath.

Ingredients List

• 1 ripe pear, cored and grated (about 1 cup) – $0.80
• 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, finely chopped – $2.00
• 1 1/2 cups whole wheat flour – $0.50
• 1/2 cup rolled oats – $0.20
• 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce – $0.30
• 1 large egg – $0.30
• 1 tablespoon olive oil – $0.10
• 1/4 cup water (or more, as needed) – $0.00
• Total Estimated Cost: $4.20
• Substitutions: You can use oat flour or rice flour instead of whole wheat flour if your dog has a wheat sensitivity. For the pear, you could try grated apple or banana.

Step-by-Step Instructions

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
• In a large bowl, combine the grated pear, chopped mint, whole wheat flour, and rolled oats.
• In a separate small bowl, whisk together the applesauce, egg, and olive oil.
• Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients.
• Mix well until a dough forms.
• If the dough is too dry, add water a tablespoon at a time until it comes together.
• Roll out the dough to about 1/4 inch thickness on a lightly floured surface.
• Use a cookie cutter to cut out shapes.
• Place the cookies on the prepared baking sheet.
• Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cookies are golden brown and firm.
• Let them cool completely on a wire rack before serving.

Feeding Guidelines

• For small dogs (under 20 lbs): 1-2 cookies per day.
• For medium dogs (20-50 lbs): 2-3 cookies per day.
• For large dogs (over 50 lbs): 3-4 cookies per day.
• Puppies or very active dogs might need a bit more, while senior or less active dogs might need less.
• Always adjust based on your dog’s size, activity level, and overall diet.
• Remember these are treats and should not replace a balanced meal.
• It is a good idea to chat with your vet for personalized feeding advice, especially if your dog has special dietary needs.

Nutritional Benefits of the Recipe

• Pears offer a good source of fiber, which helps with healthy digestion, and also provide vitamins C and K.
• Mint is known for its breath-freshening qualities and can help soothe an upset stomach.
• Whole wheat flour provides complex carbohydrates for energy and additional fiber.
• Rolled oats are another great source of fiber and can be gentle on sensitive stomachs.
• Eggs add high-quality protein and essential amino acids, important for muscle health.
• Olive oil provides healthy fats, including Omega-6 fatty acids, which support skin and coat health.
• This recipe ensures a balanced treat, offering carbs for energy, protein for muscles, and fiber for digestion.
• While these cookies are nutritious, they are a treat.
• For complete nutritional balance, especially for daily meals, consider adding a canine multivitamin supplement or consulting your vet about dietary completeness.

Storage and Serving Tips

• These homemade cookies will stay fresh in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5-7 days.
• For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to 2-3 months.
• Thaw frozen cookies in the fridge overnight or let them come to room temperature before serving.
• You can serve them as a special reward, a training aid, or simply as a healthy snack.
• Some dogs like them slightly warmed, but room temperature is usually fine.
• They can also be crumbled over kibble to make mealtime more exciting.

Common Questions & Troubleshooting

Can I use dried mint?

Fresh mint is best for flavor and benefits, but if you only have dried, use about 1/3 of the amount of fresh mint.

My dough is too sticky. What should I do?

Add a little more whole wheat flour, a tablespoon at a time, until it is easier to handle.

My dog is allergic to wheat. What can I use instead of whole wheat flour?

Oat flour, rice flour, or a gluten-free all-purpose blend are good alternatives. Just be sure to check that all ingredients are safe for your dog.

How can I make these cookies last longer?

Ensure they are baked until fully firm and dry, then store them in the freezer. A fully dehydrated cookie will last longer at room temperature.

Are these suitable for puppies?

Yes, in moderation. Pears and mint are safe. Always introduce new treats slowly to puppies to watch for any sensitivities.

Wrapping Up

Making your dog treats at home is a simple way to show love and ensure they eat well. These pear and mint cookies are healthy, easy, and sure to be a hit with your pup.

Feeling inspired? Pin this recipe to your Homemade Dog Food board for easy access and follow us for more pet-friendly tips!