Homemade Dog Treats Recipe With Salmon & Spinach

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.

Let’s be real, scooping out the same dry kibble every day gets old fast, for you and your dog. Maybe you’re tired of reading labels full of mystery fillers, or maybe your dog just stares at their bowl like they’re bored out of their mind.

The good news? You can take charge. When you make their meals yourself, you know exactly what’s going in. Fresh, real food. Stuff your dog actually gets excited about.

Recipe Overview

This homemade dog treat recipe uses salmon and spinach, offering a powerful punch of Omega-3s and essential vitamins. These treats are great for dogs with dull coats, joint stiffness, or general food sensitivities.

• Purpose: High-value, nutritious training treats or healthy snacks.
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Serving Size: Approximately 40-50 small treats.

Ingredients List

We chose ingredients that are easy to find and highly beneficial for canine health, focusing on protein, healthy fats, and fiber.

• 1 can (14.75 oz) boneless, skinless wild-caught salmon, drained ($3.50)
• 1 cup rolled oats (uncooked) ($0.75)
• 1/2 cup fresh spinach, finely chopped ($0.50)
• 1 large egg, lightly beaten ($0.25)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil or coconut oil ($0.10)
• 1 tablespoon unsweetened plain yogurt (optional, aids binding) ($0.15)
• 1/4 cup unsalted low-sodium chicken broth ($0.20)
• Total Estimated Cost: $5.45

Substitutions: You can use cooked, flaked fresh salmon instead of canned, or substitute the salmon with canned mackerel for a similar Omega-3 profile. If your dog is sensitive to dairy, skip the yogurt and add one extra tablespoon of broth or water.

Step-by-Step Instructions

This recipe is straightforward—it’s just mixing and baking. Keep an eye on the oven near the end to get the perfect texture.

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
• In a large mixing bowl, flake the drained salmon thoroughly using a fork, ensuring there are no large chunks.
• Add the rolled oats, chopped spinach, beaten egg, oil, and yogurt (if using) to the salmon.
• Pour in the chicken broth and mix all ingredients well until a stiff dough forms. The oats will absorb some moisture.
• If the mixture seems too wet, add one more tablespoon of oats. If it is too dry and crumbly, add a splash more broth.
• Roll the dough out onto a lightly floured surface or between two sheets of parchment paper to about 1/4 inch thickness.
• Use a small cookie cutter (or a knife to cut squares) to shape the treats. Small shapes are better for training.
• Place the cut treats onto the prepared baking sheet.
• Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the edges are lightly browned and the treats are firm.
• Turn off the oven and let the treats sit inside for 10-15 minutes as the oven cools. This makes them crispier and helps them last longer.
• Cool completely on a wire rack before storing.

Feeding Guidelines

These treats are calorie-dense and rich in healthy fats, so moderation is important. Treats should not make up more than 10% of your dog’s daily caloric intake.

• Small Dogs (under 20 lbs): 1-2 small treats per day.
• Medium Dogs (20-50 lbs): 3-4 small treats per day.
• Large Dogs (over 50 lbs): 5-6 small treats per day.
• High Activity or Working Dogs: These dogs can handle slightly more due to their increased calorie expenditure.
• Puppies and Senior Dogs: These treats are excellent for seniors due to the joint-supporting Omega-3s. Puppies can enjoy them once they are fully weaned and consuming solid foods.
• Always check with your veterinarian to confirm the appropriate portion sizes based on your dog’s specific needs and weight goals.

Nutritional Benefits of the Recipe

Every ingredient here was chosen for its specific nutritional contribution to canine health.

• Salmon: An exceptional source of Omega-3 fatty acids (DHA and EPA), which support brain development, reduce inflammation, and lead to a glossy coat and healthier skin. It also provides high-quality protein.
• Spinach: Loaded with Vitamins A, C, K, iron, and antioxidants. It helps support the immune system and promote healthy bone density.
• Rolled Oats: A complex carbohydrate and an excellent source of soluble fiber, which aids digestion and helps stabilize blood sugar levels. They are naturally gluten-free, making them safe for sensitive stomachs.
• Egg: A complete protein source, offering essential amino acids, choline, and fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E).
• Olive/Coconut Oil: Provides easily digestible fats and energy. Coconut oil, in particular, contains medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), which can support brain function in senior dogs.

Storage and Serving Tips

Proper storage is crucial since these treats do not contain synthetic preservatives.

• Refrigeration: Store cooled treats in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 7 days.
• Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the treats for up to 3 months. Lay them flat on a baking sheet first to flash freeze, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Reheating: Thaw frozen treats overnight in the fridge or at room temperature.
• Serving Temperature: Serve at room temperature. Many dogs prefer them slightly warmed, so you can microwave one for 5 seconds if you want.
• Serving Suggestion: These treats are perfect for high-distraction training scenarios. They crumble easily, making them good for quick rewards.

Common Questions & Troubleshooting

Can I make these treats grain-free?

Yes, you can substitute the rolled oats with an equal amount of oat flour (grind oats in a blender first) or use cooked, mashed sweet potato or brown rice flour as a binder instead. This keeps the recipe easily digestible.

Do I need to add a vitamin supplement?

Since this is a treat recipe and not a complete meal replacement, you do not need to add a full canine vitamin and mineral supplement. However, if you plan to use this recipe as part of a rotational meal plan, discuss supplementation needs with your vet to ensure dietary completeness.

Why are my treats soft after baking?

The softness usually means they need to dry out more. Leave them in the cooling oven for a longer time, or try baking them for another 5-10 minutes at a lower temperature (around 300°F). Soft treats should be refrigerated immediately and might not last as long.

Wrapping Up

Making your own salmon and spinach treats is a simple way to boost your dog’s health and happiness. These treats are packed with joint-supporting Omega-3s and fiber, and your dog will love the taste.

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