Homemade Air Fryer Dog Treats Recipe With Turkey & 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 honest: reading the ingredient list on most dog treats is a headache. So much filler, so many chemicals, and honestly, who knows what half of it even means?

When you make treats at home, you skip the mystery and know exactly what’s going into your dog’s bowl. This easy air fryer dog treat recipe keeps things simple: lean turkey, fresh spinach, and that’s pretty much it.

Your dog gets something tasty and healthy, and you get to save a little cash and time in the process. Win-win.

Recipe Overview

This homemade turkey and spinach treat recipe is designed to be quick, easy, and high in protein and fiber. We use the air fryer to get a perfect crunchy texture that helps clean teeth.

• Purpose: High-protein, low-fat training treats or daily snacks.
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10–12 minutes (per batch)
• Serving Size: Makes about 60–70 small treats
• Benefits: Great for picky eaters or dogs needing weight management.

Ingredients List

Here is everything you need for these simple, wholesome air fryer dog treats. We aim for ingredients that offer maximum nutrition.

• 1 lb Ground Turkey (93% lean): $4.50 (High-quality protein source.)
• 1 cup Cooked Oatmeal, plain (rolled oats): $0.50 (Excellent complex carb and fiber.)
• 1/2 cup Fresh Spinach, finely chopped: $0.75 (Provides Vitamin K and Iron.)
• 1 large Egg: $0.25 (Binder and source of protein and fat.)
• 1/4 cup Low-Sodium Chicken Broth: $0.15 (Adds moisture and flavor.)
• 1 tbsp Olive Oil or Coconut Oil: $0.10 (Healthy fats for skin and coat.)
• 1/2 cup Whole Wheat Flour (or Oat Flour for gluten sensitivity): $0.30 (Binder and texture.)
• Total Estimated Cost: $6.55
• Substitutions: You can swap the ground turkey for lean ground chicken or beef. If your dog is sensitive to wheat, use rice flour or oat flour instead.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Making these treats in the air fryer is fast and keeps the kitchen clean. Follow these steps for the best results.

• Step 1: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
• Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground turkey, cooked oatmeal, chopped spinach, egg, and chicken broth.
• Step 3: Mix the ingredients by hand until they are just combined. You don’t want to overmix the dough.
• Step 4: Gradually add the whole wheat flour and olive oil. Continue mixing until a slightly sticky dough forms.
• Step 5: Lightly flour a clean surface. Roll the dough out to about 1/4 inch thickness.
• Step 6: Use a small cookie cutter (or a knife) to cut the dough into treat shapes. Small, bite-sized pieces work best for quick cooking.
• Step 7: Place the cut treats in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Don’t crowd the basket; this is important for crunch.
• Step 8: Air fry for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the treats are golden brown and feel firm.
• Step 9: Let them cool completely on a wire rack before serving or storing. Cooling them fully helps them crisp up.

Feeding Guidelines

These treats are meant to be a supplemental snack, not a complete meal. Always factor treats into your dog’s total daily caloric intake.

• Small Dogs (under 20 lbs): Limit to 2–3 small treats per day.
• Medium Dogs (20–50 lbs): Give 4–5 treats daily, especially if they are active.
• Large Dogs (over 50 lbs): Up to 6–8 treats daily, depending on energy level.
• For puppies, use slightly smaller, softer pieces and ensure they are fully cooled to prevent burning.
• Important Note: Dogs with high activity levels can handle more calories, while seniors or less active dogs need fewer.
• Always talk to your veterinarian before making significant changes to your dog’s diet, especially for treating specific medical conditions or allergies.

Nutritional Benefits of the Recipe

Every ingredient in this recipe serves a purpose to support your dog’s health.

• Turkey: This is a lean, high-quality protein essential for building and maintaining strong muscle mass. It is easier to digest than some other meats.
• Oatmeal: A great source of complex carbohydrates, providing sustained energy. It also contains soluble fiber which aids in healthy bowel movements and can soothe the digestive tract.
• Spinach: Packed with antioxidants, Vitamin K (good for blood clotting), and iron. It’s a low-calorie addition that boosts overall nutrient density.
• Egg: Supplies essential fatty acids and protein, acting as a complete nutritional booster and binding the ingredients together naturally.
• Olive Oil: Provides Omega-6 fatty acids, which are crucial for maintaining a shiny coat and healthy skin.

Storage and Serving Tips

Proper storage is key to keeping these air-fried treats fresh and safe to eat.

• Refrigeration: Store cooled treats in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the treats in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Make sure they are fully cooled before freezing to prevent condensation.
• Reheating: To serve frozen treats, let them thaw at room temperature. If they lose their crispness, you can pop them back in the air fryer for 1–2 minutes at 350°F.
• Serving Suggestions: Serve them at room temperature. They are perfect for training since they hold their shape and have a strong, appealing smell.

Common Questions & Troubleshooting

Can I substitute the meat for fish?

Yes, absolutely. Cooked, boneless, and skinless salmon or cod works well, but be aware that the dough might be slightly oilier. You may need to add a bit more flour to achieve the right texture for rolling.

Why are my treats soft instead of crunchy?

The treats likely need more time in the air fryer. The key to crunch is removing as much moisture as possible. Try adding 2–3 more minutes to the cook time or letting them cool completely on a wire rack.

Are these treats safe for dogs with kidney issues?

Due to the protein content from the turkey, they might be too high in protein for dogs with pre-existing kidney conditions. Always consult your vet before feeding high-protein snacks to dogs with kidney problems.

Wrapping Up

Making your own air fryer dog treats is easy, fast, and ensures your dog gets the best nutrition. These turkey and spinach snacks are healthy and satisfying rewards. Feeling inspired? Pin this recipe to your Homemade Dog Food board for easy access and follow us for more pet-friendly tips!