Homemade Dehydrator Dog Treats Recipe With Carrot Sticks & Flaxseed

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.

Ever look at those store-bought dog treats and wonder what’s actually inside? A lot of them are packed with fillers, weird chemicals, and preservatives that can mess with your dog’s stomach or even cause bigger health problems down the road.

It’s hard to tell which snacks are truly safe for your pup. The good news? There’s a simple, natural fix using this homemade dehydrator dog treats recipe.

Recipe Overview

• This homemade dehydrator dog treats recipe is super simple and uses whole ingredients.
• It’s perfect for dogs with sensitive stomachs or those needing a healthy, low-calorie snack.
• Prep time: 15 minutes.
• Dehydrator time: 8-12 hours (depending on desired crispness).
• Yields: About 40-50 small treats.

Ingredients List

• 2 medium carrots (about 1 cup chopped) – Estimated cost: $0.50
• 1/4 cup ground flaxseed – Estimated cost: $0.75
• 1/4 cup warm water – Estimated cost: $0.00
• 1 tablespoon olive oil – Estimated cost: $0.20
• Total Estimated Cost: $1.45

Suitable substitutions:

• Carrots can be swapped for sweet potato, pumpkin puree (not pie filling), or zucchini.
• Flaxseed can be replaced with chia seeds or finely ground oats for similar binding and fiber benefits.

Step-by-Step Instructions

• Start by peeling and trimming your carrots.
• Then, grate the carrots finely or chop them into very small pieces using a food processor.
• In a mixing bowl, combine the grated carrots, ground flaxseed, warm water, and olive oil.
• Mix everything thoroughly until it forms a thick, sticky dough.
• If the mixture seems too dry, add a tiny bit more water, one teaspoon at a time.
• Lay out a piece of parchment paper on a clean surface.
• Spread the dough thinly (about 1/8 inch thick) onto the parchment paper.
• You can use a rolling pin or your hands to flatten it evenly.
• Cut the flattened dough into small, treat-sized squares or shapes using a knife or cookie cutter.
• Carefully transfer the parchment paper with the cut treats onto your dehydrator trays.
• Set your dehydrator to a temperature between 135-145°F (57-63°C).
• Dehydrate for 8-12 hours.
• The exact time will depend on the thickness of your treats and how crispy you want them.
• Check them periodically and flip them if needed for even drying.
• They are done when they are completely dry and firm to the touch.

Feeding Guidelines

• These treats are healthy, but moderation is key for any dog snack.
• Small dogs (under 20 lbs): 1-2 treats per day.
• Medium dogs (20-50 lbs): 2-3 treats per day.
• Large dogs (over 50 lbs): 3-4 treats per day.
• Adjust based on your dog’s activity level. More active dogs might have a few more.
• Puppies can enjoy these in smaller amounts, but always supervise.
• For senior dogs or those with dental issues, ensure treats are not too hard.
• Always talk to your vet for personalized feeding advice, especially if your dog has specific health conditions or dietary needs.

Nutritional Benefits of the Recipe

• Carrots are packed with Vitamin A, which is great for vision and immune health.
• They also provide fiber, which aids digestion.
• Ground flaxseed is a powerhouse of Omega-3 fatty acids.
• These fats support healthy skin, a shiny coat, and can reduce inflammation.
• Flaxseed also adds dietary fiber, helping with regular bowel movements.
• Olive oil contributes healthy monounsaturated fats.
• These fats are good for heart health and can help with nutrient absorption.
• This recipe is naturally low in calories and free from common allergens like wheat, corn, and soy.

Storage and Serving Tips

• Once fully dehydrated and cooled, store these treats in an airtight container.
• They will stay fresh at room temperature for up to 2-3 weeks.
• For longer storage, you can keep them in the refrigerator for up to 1 month.
• Freezing is not typically needed for dehydrated treats, as the lack of moisture prevents spoilage.
• Serve them as a healthy reward, a training aid, or simply a tasty snack.
• Some dogs might enjoy them softened slightly by a quick dip in warm water, especially if they have sensitive teeth.

Common Questions & Troubleshooting

Why do my treats come out soft instead of crispy?

This usually means they haven’t been dehydrated long enough. Increase the dehydration time or make sure your dough was spread very thinly.

Can I use whole flaxseeds instead of ground?

It’s best to use ground flaxseed. Whole flaxseeds often pass through a dog’s digestive system undigested, so they won’t get the full nutritional benefits.

Is this recipe suitable for all dogs?

Generally, yes, as the ingredients are very safe and common. But, always introduce new foods slowly and watch for any signs of allergies or digestive upset. If your dog has a known allergy to any of the ingredients, use a suitable substitution.

Wrapping Up

Making these homemade carrot and flaxseed dehydrator treats is an easy way to give your dog a healthy snack you can feel good about. It’s simple, nutritious, and your pup will love them. Feeling inspired? Pin this recipe to your Homemade Dog Treats board for easy access and follow us for more pet-friendly tips!