Chicken & Spinach Low Calorie Training Dog Treats For Overweight Dogs

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.

It’s hard seeing your dog pack on extra pounds. You want them to feel good, but every treat from the store just makes things worse. You end up feeling bad every time you hand one over, and honestly, it’s stressful worrying about their health down the road.

The good news? You really can treat them without the guilt. This chicken and spinach dog treat recipe is one that actually helps them slim down.

Recipe Overview

• This homemade Chicken & Spinach treat recipe is perfect for overweight dogs.
• It’s low in calories but big on flavor and nutrients.
• Prep time: 15 minutes.
• Cook time: 20-25 minutes.
• Serving size: Approximately 60-70 small treats.

Ingredients List

• 1 cup cooked, shredded chicken breast (no skin, no bones) – approximately $2.50
• 1 cup fresh spinach, finely chopped – approximately $0.50
• 1/2 cup rolled oats (quick or old-fashioned) – approximately $0.30
• 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce – approximately $0.20
• 1 egg – approximately $0.25
• 1 tablespoon olive oil – approximately $0.10
• 1/4 cup low-sodium chicken broth – approximately $0.15
• Optional: 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley (for fresh breath) – approximately $0.05
• Total Estimated Cost: $4.05

Substitutions:

• Chicken can be swapped for cooked, lean ground turkey.
• Spinach can be replaced with finely chopped kale or green beans.

Step-by-Step Instructions

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
• In a large bowl, combine the cooked shredded chicken, finely chopped spinach, rolled oats, unsweetened applesauce, egg, olive oil, and low-sodium chicken broth.
• If you’re using dried parsley, add it now.
• Mix everything thoroughly until it forms a thick, sticky dough. You might need to use your hands to ensure all ingredients are well combined.
• Roll the dough out onto a lightly floured surface (you can use a little extra oat flour if you have it) to about 1/4 inch thickness.
• Use a small cookie cutter (about 1 inch) or a knife to cut the dough into treat-sized pieces. Remember, these are training treats, so keep them small.
• Place the cut treats onto the prepared baking sheet.
• Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the treats are golden brown and firm to the touch.
• Let the treats cool completely on a wire rack before serving or storing. This helps them firm up and reduces moisture.

Feeding Guidelines

• For small dogs (under 20 lbs): 2-4 treats per day.
• For medium dogs (20-50 lbs): 4-8 treats per day.
• For large dogs (over 50 lbs): 8-12 treats per day.

Here’s the thing:

• These treats are low calorie, but they should still be part of your dog’s overall daily calorie intake. Adjust their regular meal portions slightly if you’re giving a lot of treats.
• For very active dogs, they might need a few more; for less active seniors, fewer is better.
• Always talk to your vet about your dog’s specific dietary needs and weight management plan. They can give you personalized advice.

Nutritional Benefits of the Recipe

• Chicken Breast: Provides high-quality lean protein, essential for muscle maintenance and repair without adding excess fat. It has vital amino acids.
• Spinach: Packed with vitamins K, A, C, and B vitamins, plus iron and antioxidants. It supports bone health, vision, and immunity.
• Rolled Oats: A good source of complex carbohydrates for sustained energy and dietary fiber, which aids digestion and can help dogs feel fuller.
• Applesauce (Unsweetened): Adds natural sweetness and moisture with additional fiber, supporting gut health.
• Egg: Another source of protein and healthy fats, providing essential amino acids and vitamins.
• Olive Oil: Supplies healthy monounsaturated fats and antioxidants, beneficial for skin, coat, and overall cell health.

Storage and Serving Tips

• These treats will stay fresh in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5-7 days.
• For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to 2-3 months. Just thaw them in the fridge overnight or let them sit at room temperature for a bit before serving.
• Serve them at room temperature or slightly warmed for an extra tasty reward.
• You can also break them into smaller pieces for very small dogs or for shorter training sessions.
• They mix well with kibble as a meal topper for a little extra flavor.

Common Questions & Troubleshooting

Can I use a different type of flour instead of oats?

Yes, you can. You could use whole wheat flour or a gluten-free option like rice flour, but rolled oats provide good fiber and a specific texture that works well for these treats.

My dog is allergic to chicken. What can I use?

Lean ground turkey is a great alternative. Just make sure it’s cooked thoroughly and unseasoned, like the chicken.

How can I make these treats crunchier?

For a crunchier treat, bake them for an extra 5-10 minutes at a slightly lower temperature (around 325°F/160°C) and let them cool completely in the oven with the door ajar. This helps remove more moisture.

Are these suitable for puppies?

These treats are generally safe for puppies, especially for training. But remember, puppies have different nutritional needs than adult dogs, so keep treats to a minimum and always prioritize their balanced puppy food.

Wrapping Up

Making these low-calorie chicken and spinach treats is a simple way to show your love and help your dog stay healthy. It’s about more than just food; it’s about their well-being. So, give it a try. Pin this recipe to your Homemade Dog Food board for easy access and follow us for more pet-friendly tips!