Homemade Dehydrator Dog Treats Recipe With Pork Loin & Apple Sauce

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.

Worried about what’s actually in your dog’s treats? You’re not alone. Most of the stuff on store shelves is packed with fillers and weird ingredients you can barely pronounce.

It makes you wonder if you’re really treating your dog right. Finding something healthy and tasty for them shouldn’t be so hard.

The good news? You don’t have to just accept what’s out there. There’s an easy, honest way to make homemade dehydrator dog treats you’ll both love.

Recipe Overview

• This homemade dehydrator dog treat recipe uses lean pork loin and natural applesauce.
• It takes about 20 minutes to prep and 6-8 hours to dehydrate, depending on your machine.
• You’ll end up with roughly 100-150 small treats, perfect for training or everyday rewards.
• These treats are packed with protein, natural fiber, and essential vitamins, making them a healthy alternative to store-bought options.

Ingredients List

• 1 pound lean pork loin, trimmed of fat – Estimated Cost: $5.00 – $8.00
• 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce (make sure it has no xylitol) – Estimated Cost: $0.50 – $1.00
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional, for flavor and digestive aid) – Estimated Cost: $0.10
• Substitutions: You can swap pork loin for lean beef, turkey breast, or even chicken breast. Plain mashed pumpkin can be used instead of applesauce.

Total Estimated Cost: $5.60 – $9.10

Step-by-Step Instructions

• Trim all visible fat from the pork loin. This is important because fat can go rancid quickly.
• Partially freeze the pork loin for about 30-60 minutes. This makes it much easier to slice thinly.
• Slice the pork loin as thinly as possible, ideally 1/8 to 1/4 inch thick. Thinner slices dehydrate faster and result in crispier treats.
• In a bowl, mix the unsweetened applesauce and cinnamon (if using).
• Dip each slice of pork into the applesauce mixture, ensuring it’s lightly coated on both sides. You can also brush the mixture on.
• Arrange the coated pork slices in a single layer on your dehydrator trays. Don’t let them overlap.
• Set your dehydrator to 145°F (63°C). This temperature is safe for meat dehydration.
• Dehydrate for 6-8 hours, or until the treats are completely dry and brittle. They should snap cleanly, not bend. Check them periodically.
• Allow the treats to cool completely on the trays before storing. This prevents condensation.

Feeding Guidelines

• Small dogs (under 20 lbs): 1-2 treats per day.
• Medium dogs (20-50 lbs): 2-4 treats per day.
• Large dogs (over 50 lbs): 4-6 treats per day.
• Puppies or very active dogs might need a bit more, while senior or less active dogs might need less.
• Remember, these are treats and should not make up a significant portion of your dog’s daily calorie intake.
• Always talk to your veterinarian about your dog’s specific dietary needs. They can give personalized advice based on your dog’s age, breed, and health.

Nutritional Benefits of the Recipe

• Pork Loin: This is a great source of lean protein, which is essential for muscle development, repair, and overall health. It provides vital amino acids.
• Applesauce: Unsweetened applesauce adds natural fiber, which helps with digestion. It also contains vitamins A and C.
• Cinnamon: A tiny bit of cinnamon can help with inflammation and digestion, and it adds a pleasant flavor that many dogs enjoy.
• Low Fat: By trimming the fat and using lean pork, these treats are lower in fat than many commercial options. This is good for dogs prone to pancreatitis or weight gain.
• No Artificial Ingredients: You control exactly what goes into them, avoiding artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives.

Storage and Serving Tips

• Once fully dehydrated and cooled, store these treats in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2-3 weeks.
• For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to 3 months. Thaw them in the refrigerator before serving.
• You can serve them as they are, or break them into smaller pieces for very small dogs or for training rewards.
• Some dogs like them slightly warmed up, but room temperature is usually fine.
• You can also mix a few pieces with their regular kibble for an extra-special meal.

Common Questions & Troubleshooting

Can I use other meats for this recipe?

Yes, absolutely. Lean beef, turkey breast, or chicken breast work wonderfully. Just make sure to trim any excess fat from whatever meat you choose.

Is applesauce safe for my dog?

Unsweetened applesauce with no xylitol is perfectly safe and a good source of fiber. Always check the label carefully for xylitol, which is toxic to dogs.

My treats aren’t crispy; what went wrong?

They likely need more time in the dehydrator. The thickness of the slices also matters. Thicker slices take longer. Keep dehydrating until they snap cleanly.

How can I make these treats last longer?

Ensuring they are completely dry is the key. Any moisture left in the treats can cause mold. For extended storage, freezing is your best bet.

Wrapping Up

Making your own dehydrated pork loin and applesauce treats is a simple way to show your dog extra love. They’re healthy, delicious, and you know exactly what your furry friend is eating. Feeling inspired? Pin this recipe to your Homemade Dog Food board for easy access and follow us for more pet-friendly tips!