Easy Homemade Dog Training Treats Using Canned Tuna & Egg

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 when your dog refuses store-bought treats or ends up with an upset stomach because of them. You want something healthy that actually gets them excited, especially during training.

Imagine making treats at home that your dog goes crazy for, work perfectly for training, and you know exactly what’s inside. Sounds pretty great, right?

Recipe Overview

• This homemade tuna and egg dog training treat recipe takes just 20 minutes to prep and 25 minutes to cook, yielding approximately 150 small, high-value treats.
• It is perfect for dogs of all sizes and life stages, offering a boost of protein and Omega-3 fatty acids for brain health and energy.
• These treats are ideal for intense training sessions or as a special reward.

Ingredients List

• One (1) 5-ounce can of tuna in water, no salt added (drained) – Estimated cost: $1.29
• Two (2) large eggs – Estimated cost: $0.40
• One-half (0.5) cup of whole wheat flour – Estimated cost: $0.15
• One-quarter (0.25) cup of rolled oats – Estimated cost: $0.10
• One-quarter (0.25) cup of low-sodium chicken broth – Estimated cost: $0.20
• One (1) tablespoon of olive oil – Estimated cost: $0.05
• One (1) tablespoon of fresh parsley (finely chopped, optional, for breath and antioxidants) – Estimated cost: $0.15

Total Estimated Cost: $2.34

Suitable Substitutions:

• Tuna: You can use canned salmon in water (drained) for a similar nutritional profile.
• Whole wheat flour: All-purpose flour or rice flour can be used for dogs with wheat sensitivities.
• Rolled oats: Quick oats work too.
• Chicken broth: Vegetable broth (low sodium) is another good option.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. In a medium bowl, mash the drained tuna with a fork until it’s finely broken apart.
4. Add the eggs, rolled oats, low-sodium chicken broth, and olive oil to the bowl with the tuna.
5. Stir everything together until it is well combined.
6. Gradually mix in the whole wheat flour until a thick batter forms.
7. If using, stir in the chopped fresh parsley.
8. Spread the mixture evenly onto the prepared baking sheet. Aim for about a quarter-inch thickness.
9. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the mixture is firm and lightly golden brown.
10. Remove from the oven and let it cool completely on the baking sheet.
11. Once cool, cut the baked sheet into small, bite-sized pieces suitable for your dog’s size and training needs.

Feeding Guidelines

• For small dogs (under 20 lbs): Offer 3-5 small treats per training session.
• For medium dogs (20-50 lbs): Give 5-8 small treats per training session.
• For large dogs (over 50 lbs): Provide 8-12 small treats per training session.
• Adjust the number based on your dog’s activity level and overall daily caloric intake.
• Puppies may need smaller pieces and fewer treats, while highly active dogs or working breeds might benefit from a few more.
• For senior dogs or those with weight management needs, ensure these treats fit within their daily calorie budget.
• Always consult your veterinarian for personalized feeding advice, especially for puppies, pregnant/nursing dogs, or dogs with specific health conditions.

Nutritional Benefits of the Recipe

• Tuna and Eggs: Both are excellent sources of high-quality protein, essential for muscle growth, repair, and overall body function. They provide essential amino acids.
• Tuna: Rich in Omega-3 fatty acids (DHA and EPA), which support brain health, reduce inflammation, and promote a healthy coat and skin.
• Eggs: Offer a wide range of vitamins like A, D, E, K, B-complex, and minerals such as calcium, phosphorus, and iron.
• Rolled Oats: A good source of complex carbohydrates for sustained energy and dietary fiber, which aids digestion and promotes gut health.
• Whole Wheat Flour: Provides additional complex carbohydrates and fiber.
• Olive Oil: Supplies healthy monounsaturated fats and some Omega-6 fatty acids, beneficial for skin and coat health.
• Parsley (optional): Acts as a natural breath freshener and provides antioxidants and vitamins like K and C.
• Overall, this recipe is balanced for adult dogs, with sufficient protein (around 20-25% of calories), healthy fats (around 8-10% of calories), and complex carbohydrates (around 45-50% of calories), including good fiber content.

Storage and Serving Tips

• Store these treats in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5-7 days.
• For longer storage, freeze the treats in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They will keep for up to 2-3 months.
• To reheat, simply thaw frozen treats in the refrigerator overnight or warm them slightly in the microwave for a few seconds.
• Serve treats at room temperature or slightly warmed.
• These are high-value treats, so they work great on their own. You can also mix them with your dog’s regular kibble for an extra enticing meal.

Common Questions & Troubleshooting

Can I make these treats grain-free?

Yes, you can substitute the whole wheat flour with an alternative like coconut flour or chickpea flour and ensure your oats are certified gluten-free. Just be aware that flour absorbency varies, so you might need to adjust the amount of liquid slightly.

My dog has allergies, what can I substitute?

If your dog has an egg allergy, consider using a flax egg substitute (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water per egg). For tuna, use canned salmon. If your dog has multiple allergies, it’s best to consult your vet for safe protein and carb alternatives.

How do I know if the treats are cooked through?

The treats should feel firm to the touch and be lightly golden brown. If they still feel soft or doughy in the middle, bake them for a few more minutes. Overcooking can make them too hard.

Are these treats suitable for puppies?

Yes, these treats are generally safe for puppies due to their balanced nutrition. Just make sure to cut them into very small, puppy-appropriate sizes to prevent choking and ensure they are easy to chew.

Can I add vegetables to this recipe?

Absolutely! Finely grated carrots, zucchini, or spinach can be added to the mixture for extra vitamins and fiber. Make sure any vegetables added are dog-safe.

Wrapping Up

So, making your own dog training treats is easy, healthy, and a huge hit with your pup. They will love the taste, and you will love knowing exactly what goes into their rewards. Feeling inspired? Pin this recipe to your Homemade Dog Treats for Training board for easy access and follow us for more pet-friendly tips!