Egg White & Parsley 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 tough seeing your dog carry around extra weight. You love giving them treats, it’s part of the fun, but you know those little snacks add up fast. It’s a hard balance. Finding something healthy that still feels like a treat? That’s not always easy.

You worry about what’s really in those store-bought treats, and honestly, you don’t want to make things worse. But here’s some good news: you can whip up your own treats at home that are actually good for your dog. This dog treats recipe does exactly that.

Recipe Overview

• This homemade treat recipe takes just 15 minutes to prep and 20 minutes to bake.
• It’s specifically designed to be low in calories and fat.
• These treats are perfect for overweight dogs needing a healthy reward.
• The recipe makes about 40 small training treats.

Ingredients List

• 1 cup (240ml) water – estimated cost: $0.01
• 1/4 cup (28g) fresh parsley, finely chopped – estimated cost: $0.75 (from a bunch)
• 6 large egg whites – estimated cost: $1.50 (from a carton or 6 eggs)
• 1/2 cup (60g) oat flour (or finely ground rolled oats) – estimated cost: $0.50
• 1/4 cup (30g) whole wheat flour – estimated cost: $0.20
• 1 tablespoon (15ml) olive oil – estimated cost: $0.25
• 1/4 teaspoon sea salt – estimated cost: $0.02

Total estimated cost: $3.23

Substitutions: You can use brown rice flour instead of whole wheat flour for dogs with wheat sensitivities. You can also use other dog-safe fresh herbs like cilantro or dill instead of parsley, but always check for safety first.

Step-by-Step Instructions

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
• In a large bowl, whisk together the water, finely chopped fresh parsley, and egg whites until they are well combined and slightly frothy.
• Add the oat flour, whole wheat flour, olive oil, and sea salt to the wet mixture.
• Stir everything together until you have a smooth batter.
• Make sure there are no dry lumps of flour remaining.
• Pour the batter onto the prepared baking sheet.
• Spread it evenly into a thin layer, about 1/4 inch thick.
• Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the center is set.
• The mixture should feel firm to the touch.
• Remove from the oven and let it cool completely on the baking sheet.
• Once cool, cut the baked treat into small, bite-sized pieces suitable for training treats.

Feeding Guidelines

• These treats are very low calorie, but moderation is still key for overweight dogs.
• For small dogs (under 20 lbs), offer 2-4 treats per day.
• For medium dogs (20-50 lbs), offer 4-6 treats per day.
• For large dogs (over 50 lbs), offer 6-10 treats per day.
• Adjust the quantity based on your dog’s size, activity level, and weight loss goals.
• Active dogs might need a few more, while very inactive dogs might need fewer.
• Puppies and senior dogs might need smaller, softer pieces, or you can slightly underbake for a chewier texture.
• Always consult your veterinarian for personalized feeding advice and to ensure these treats fit into your dog’s specific weight management plan.

Nutritional Benefits of the Recipe

• Egg whites are a high-quality, lean protein source. They provide essential amino acids without adding extra fat or cholesterol. This helps maintain muscle mass while reducing overall calorie intake.
• Parsley is rich in vitamins K, C, and A, and it’s a good source of antioxidants. It also helps with fresh breath!
• Oat flour adds healthy complex carbohydrates and a good amount of fiber. This helps with satiety, meaning your dog feels fuller longer, and supports healthy digestion.
• Whole wheat flour also provides complex carbohydrates and fiber. It offers some B vitamins too.
• Olive oil provides a small amount of healthy monounsaturated fats. This helps with nutrient absorption and supports skin and coat health, even in a low-fat diet.
• These treats offer a good balance of protein and fiber, which are crucial for weight management. They help keep your dog full and satisfied.
• The low-calorie and low-fat profile makes them suitable for dogs on a strict weight-loss diet, as they won’t derail their progress.

Storage and Serving Tips

• These treats will stay fresh in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• For longer storage, freeze the cut treats in a single layer on a baking sheet.
• Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored for up to 2 months.
• To serve frozen treats, let them thaw in the refrigerator overnight or for a few hours at room temperature.
• You can serve them at room temperature.
• These treats are best given as individual rewards during training sessions or as small, healthy snacks between meals.
• Because they are small and low calorie, they are excellent for frequent positive reinforcement.

Common Questions & Troubleshooting

Can I make these treats grain-free?

Yes, you can swap out the oat flour and whole wheat flour for grain-free alternatives like coconut flour or almond flour. Be aware that these flours absorb liquid differently, so you might need to adjust the water amount slightly to get the right batter consistency.

My dog has allergies, what can I substitute?

If your dog has a specific allergy, always check each ingredient. For flour, use a known safe alternative like brown rice flour. For the egg whites, if there’s an egg allergy, it’s best to consult your vet for a different recipe as eggs are a core component here. Always introduce new ingredients slowly.

How can I make these treats even more appealing to my dog?

While these are plain to keep them low calorie, you can sprinkle a tiny bit of nutritional yeast on top before baking for a cheesy flavor boost without many extra calories. Or, mix in a pinch of dog-safe herb like basil. Do not add any extra fats or sugars.

Can puppies eat these treats?

Yes, puppies can eat these treats. They are easily digestible and low in calories, making them a good option for puppy training. Just make sure to cut them into very small, puppy-appropriate pieces.

Wrapping Up

These egg white and parsley treats are a simple, healthy way to show your overweight dog some love. They’re easy to make and support their weight management goals. So here’s the thing: give them a try!

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