Homemade Dehydrator Dog Treats Recipe With Green Beans & Nutritional Yeast

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 in them? Some of those ingredients sound more like a science experiment than food.

You want to spoil your dog, sure, but you also want them to stay healthy. And if your pup has a sensitive stomach, forget it, half those snacks just make things worse.

But here’s some good news: you don’t have to pick between showing your dog some love and keeping them healthy. I’ll show you how to make homemade dehydrator dog treats that do both.

Recipe Overview

• This homemade dehydrator dog treat recipe uses green beans and nutritional yeast.
• It takes about 15 minutes of prep time and 6-8 hours of dehydration.
• The recipe makes about 100 small treats, perfect for training or everyday rewards.
• These treats are great for dogs with allergies or those on a limited ingredient diet.
• They’re packed with vitamins, fiber, and a cheesy flavor dogs love.

Ingredients List

• 2 cups fresh green beans, trimmed and cut into 1/2-inch pieces (Estimated Cost: $2.50)
• 1/4 cup nutritional yeast (Estimated Cost: $1.00)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (Estimated Cost: $0.25)
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder (optional, for anti-inflammatory benefits) (Estimated Cost: $0.10)
• Total Estimated Cost: $3.85

You can substitute green beans with other dog-safe vegetables like carrots or zucchini if your dog prefers them. Instead of olive oil, you could use coconut oil, which also has health benefits.

Step-by-Step Instructions

• First, wash your green beans well.
• Next, trim the ends and cut them into small, bite-sized pieces. Aim for about 1/2 inch so they dehydrate evenly.
• Then, in a medium bowl, combine the chopped green beans, nutritional yeast, and olive oil.
• If you’re using turmeric, add it in now too.
• Mix everything thoroughly until the green beans are coated evenly.
• After that, arrange the coated green beans in a single layer on your dehydrator trays. Make sure they don’t overlap, so the air can circulate.
• Set your dehydrator to 135°F (57°C).
• Dehydrate for 6 to 8 hours, or until the treats are completely dry and crisp.
• Check them periodically; you want them to snap, not bend.
• Once they’re done, let them cool completely before storing.

Feeding Guidelines

• For small dogs (under 20 lbs): Offer 3-5 treats per day.
• For medium dogs (20-50 lbs): Give 5-8 treats per day.
• For large dogs (over 50 lbs): You can give 8-12 treats daily.
• Puppies and very active adult dogs might need a few more treats, but always in moderation.
• Less active or senior dogs should have fewer to maintain a healthy weight.
• These treats are low in calories, but remember they are still additions to your dog’s main diet.
• Always talk to your veterinarian to get personalized feeding advice for your dog’s specific needs, especially if they have health conditions or are on a special diet.

Nutritional Benefits of the Recipe

• Green beans are low in calories and high in fiber, helping with digestion and weight management.
• They also provide vitamins K, C, and A, as well as manganese and folate.
• Nutritional yeast is a great source of B vitamins, which support metabolism and nerve function.
• It also adds a cheesy flavor that most dogs really love, without the dairy.
• Olive oil provides healthy fats, including Omega-3s, which are good for skin and coat health.
• Turmeric, if added, offers anti-inflammatory properties that can help with joint health.
• This recipe ensures a good balance of fiber, vitamins, and healthy fats, supporting overall dog health.

Storage and Serving Tips

• Store these dehydrated treats in an airtight container at room temperature.
• They will stay fresh for up to 3-4 weeks.
• You can also freeze them for longer storage, up to 3 months.
• To serve from frozen, just let them thaw at room temperature for a few minutes.
• Serve them as a crunchy reward for good behavior or during training sessions.
• You can also crumble a few over your dog’s regular kibble for an extra flavor boost.

Common Questions & Troubleshooting

Can I use canned green beans?

It’s best to use fresh or frozen green beans. Canned green beans often have added sodium, which isn’t ideal for dogs. If you must use canned, rinse them very thoroughly to remove as much salt as possible.

My dog doesn’t like green beans. What else can I use?

Many other dog-safe vegetables work well, like thinly sliced carrots, zucchini, or sweet potato. Just make sure they are cut small and dehydrated until fully crisp.

How do I know if the treats are fully dehydrated?

They should be completely dry and hard. If you try to bend one, it should snap easily, not bend or feel chewy. Any moisture left can cause them to spoil quickly.

Is nutritional yeast safe for dogs?

Yes, nutritional yeast is safe and beneficial for dogs. It’s different from active yeast used in baking and provides B vitamins and a savory flavor.

Do I need a dehydrator for this recipe?

Yes, a dehydrator is recommended for the best results and consistency. You can try baking them on a very low oven temperature for several hours, but it’s harder to get them perfectly crisp and dried without burning.

Wrapping Up

Making your own dehydrated dog treats is simple, rewarding, and so much healthier for your furry friend. These green bean and nutritional yeast treats are a tasty, nutritious way to show your love. Feeling inspired? Pin this recipe to your Homemade Dog Treats board for easy access and follow us for more pet-friendly tips!