Easy Homemade Dog Training Treats Using Baby Food & Rice Flour

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.

Tired of guessing what’s really in those store-bought dog treats? Finding healthy, low-calorie snacks that actually motivate your dog during training can feel impossible.

You need treats that are safe, effective, and gentle on their stomach without adding extra weight. Here’s the good news: when you make your own, you know exactly what goes in. It’s honestly a lot easier than it sounds. This recipe makes it simple.

Recipe Overview

• Purpose: Homemade training treats using baby food and rice flour, perfect for sensitive tummies.
• Benefits: Hypoallergenic, low calorie, easy to digest, and highly motivating for training sessions.
• Prep time: 10 minutes
• Cook time: 20 minutes
• Serving size: About 150 small treats

Ingredients List

• 1 jar (4 oz) meat-based baby food (e.g., plain chicken, turkey, or beef, no onion/garlic): $1.20
• 1/2 cup rice flour: $0.40
• 1 large egg: $0.20
• 1/4 teaspoon ground turmeric (optional, for anti-inflammatory benefits): $0.05
• Total Estimated Cost: $1.85

Substitutions:

• Baby food: Ensure it’s pure meat and vegetable, without any seasonings like onion or garlic powder. You can use different meat purees like lamb or salmon for variety.
• Flour: If your dog has a rice allergy, a small amount of oat flour or chickpea flour can be used, but rice flour is generally well-tolerated.

Step-by-Step Instructions

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
• In a medium bowl, combine the baby food, rice flour, egg, and turmeric (if using).
• Mix well until a thick, uniform dough forms. It should be sticky but hold together.
• Spread the dough thinly (about 1/8 to 1/4 inch thick) onto the prepared baking sheet. You can use a spatula or the back of a spoon.
• Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the dough is firm and slightly golden at the edges.
• Remove from the oven and let it cool completely on the baking sheet. This helps it firm up.
• Once cool, cut into very small, bite-sized pieces suitable for training. Aim for pea-sized pieces.

Feeding Guidelines

• These treats are low in calories but should still be given in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
• For small dogs (under 20 lbs): 5-10 treats per training session.
• For medium dogs (20-50 lbs): 10-20 treats per training session.
• For large dogs (over 50 lbs): 20-30 treats per training session.
• Adjust treat amounts based on your dog’s activity level and overall diet. A highly active dog might tolerate more, but a less active dog needs fewer.
• Puppies, senior dogs, and pregnant or nursing dogs have different caloric and nutritional needs. Consult your vet for personalized advice on how many treats are appropriate for them.
• Always consult your veterinarian before making significant changes to your dog’s diet, especially for dogs with health conditions or allergies.

Nutritional Benefits of the Recipe

• Baby Food (Meat-based): Provides high-quality protein, essential for muscle development and repair. It’s also easy to digest, which is good for sensitive stomachs.
• Rice Flour: A good source of complex carbohydrates for energy without gluten, making it suitable for dogs with wheat sensitivities or allergies.
• Egg: Offers a complete protein source with essential amino acids, as well as choline for brain health.
• Turmeric (optional): Contains curcumin, which has natural anti-inflammatory properties and can support joint health and a healthy immune system.

Storage and Serving Tips

• Refrigerate: Store the cooled treats in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5-7 days.
• Freeze: For longer storage, freeze the treats in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They will last for up to 2-3 months.
• Reheating: Thaw frozen treats in the refrigerator overnight or microwave them briefly (10-15 seconds) if you want to serve them warm.
• Serving: Serve at room temperature or slightly warmed. You can mix them with your dog’s regular kibble for an extra boost of flavor during meal times or use them exclusively for high-value training rewards.

Common Questions & Troubleshooting (FAQ)

Can I use fruit or vegetable baby food?

Yes, but stick to dog-safe options like pumpkin, sweet potato, or green bean purees. Avoid any baby food with onion, garlic, or excessive sugar.

My dough is too sticky, what should I do?

Add a little more rice flour, one tablespoon at a time, until it’s manageable. It should be sticky but not liquid.

My treats are too hard/soft. What went wrong?

If they’re too hard, you might have over-baked them. For softer treats, reduce baking time slightly. If they’re too soft, they might need a few more minutes in the oven to dry out more.

Are these treats suitable for puppies?

Yes, due to their simple ingredients and small size, they are generally great for puppies. Always introduce new foods slowly and monitor for any digestive upset.

Wrapping Up

Making these simple, healthy training treats is a great way to show your dog some love and keep them focused during training. They’re easy, cost-effective, and you know exactly what your dog is eating. Feeling inspired? Pin this recipe to your Homemade Dog Food board for easy access and follow us for more pet-friendly tips!