Homemade Dehydrator Dog Treats Recipe With Beef Liver & 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.

Sick of not knowing what’s in those pricey dog treats at the store? You’re not alone as plenty of dog owners feel the sting in their wallet and worry about what their pups are actually eating.

The good news? You can make tasty, homemade dehydrator dog treats without spending a fortune or stressing about weird ingredients. This recipe puts you in charge, so every bite is something you can feel good about.

Recipe Overview

• Purpose: Create healthy, single-ingredient-focused dog treats.
• Benefits: Rich in protein, vitamins, and minerals; grain-free; ideal for training or everyday rewards.
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 8-12 hours (dehydrator time)
• Serving Size: Makes approximately 2-3 cups of treats

Ingredients List

• Beef Liver (1 lb): About $5.00 – High in protein, iron, and B vitamins.
• Fresh Spinach (1 cup, packed): About $2.50 – Provides vitamins K, A, and C, and iron.
• Filtered Water (1/4 cup): About $0.05 – Helps with blending.
• Optional: Nutritional Yeast (1 tbsp): About $0.50 – Adds B vitamins and a cheesy flavor dogs love.

Total Estimated Cost: $8.05

Substitutions:

• Beef liver can be swapped for chicken liver or turkey liver.
• Spinach can be replaced with kale or finely chopped green beans.

Step-by-Step Instructions

• Trim any tough membranes or excessive fat from the beef liver.
• Cut the liver into 1-inch chunks.
• Wash the spinach thoroughly.
• Combine the liver, spinach, and filtered water in a food processor or high-speed blender.
• If using, add the nutritional yeast.
• Process until the mixture is smooth, like a thick paste.
• Line your dehydrator trays with parchment paper or silicone sheets.
• Spread the liver mixture thinly and evenly onto the lined trays.
• Aim for about 1/8 to 1/4 inch thick.
• Dehydrate at 145°F (63°C) for 8-12 hours, or until completely dry and brittle.
• The time will vary depending on your dehydrator and the thickness of the spread.
• Break or cut the dried sheets into smaller, treat-sized pieces.

Feeding Guidelines

• These treats are calorie-dense.
• Offer them in moderation as a reward or supplement, not a main meal.
• For small dogs (under 20 lbs): 1-2 small pieces per day.
• For medium dogs (20-50 lbs): 3-4 small pieces per day.
• For large dogs (over 50 lbs): 5-6 small pieces per day.
• Adjust for activity level; highly active dogs might get a bit more.
• Puppies can have small amounts, but consult your vet for very young pups.
• Always encourage consulting a veterinarian for personalized feeding advice, especially for dogs with specific health conditions or dietary needs.

Nutritional Benefits of the Recipe

• Beef liver is an excellent source of high-quality protein, which supports muscle maintenance and growth.
• It’s packed with iron for healthy red blood cells and B vitamins (B12, B6, folate) crucial for energy and metabolism.
• Spinach adds vitamins K, A, and C, promoting bone health, vision, and immune function.
• It also provides iron and antioxidants, which help combat inflammation.
• This recipe is grain-free, making it suitable for dogs with grain sensitivities or allergies.
• The natural ingredients provide essential fatty acids, contributing to healthy skin and a shiny coat.

Storage and Serving Tips

• Store the fully dehydrated treats in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2-3 weeks.
• For longer storage, freeze the treats for up to 3 months.
• To reheat, simply let them thaw at room temperature.
• Serve these treats as is; they are perfectly crunchy and delicious.
• You can break them into smaller pieces for training or for smaller dogs.
• Some owners crumble them over kibble as a meal topper for an extra boost of flavor and nutrition.

Common Questions & Troubleshooting

Can I use a regular oven instead of a dehydrator?

Yes, you can. Set your oven to the lowest possible temperature (usually around 150-200°F or 65-93°C), prop the door open slightly with a wooden spoon for ventilation, and bake for several hours until the treats are completely dry and brittle. This often takes longer than a dehydrator.

My treats are still chewy. What went wrong?

They likely need more drying time. Return them to the dehydrator or oven until they are firm and brittle, with no moisture remaining. If they are chewy, they can mold quickly.

Are these treats suitable for puppies?

Yes, in moderation. Liver is very rich, so offer small pieces and observe your puppy’s digestion. Always check with your vet for specific puppy dietary needs.

How can I make these treats last even longer?

Ensuring they are completely dry before storage is key. You can also vacuum seal them for extended freshness in the pantry, or keep them frozen.

Wrapping Up

Making these homemade beef liver and spinach treats is a simple way to give your dog healthy, delicious snacks. You’ll love knowing exactly what goes into every bite. Feeling inspired? Pin this recipe to your Homemade Dog Treats board for easy access and follow us for more pet-friendly tips!