Easy Homemade Dog Training Treats Using Cottage Cheese & Blueberries

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.

Sick of not knowing what’s actually in your dog’s training treats?

You want to reward them, but you end up worrying if you’re actually helping.

Training is important, though, and let’s be honest, those treats really work.

So why not make your own? It’s easier than you’d think. I’ll walk you through a simple dog training treats recipe that’s easy, and your dog’s going to go nuts for it.

Recipe Overview

• These homemade cottage cheese and blueberry training treats are quick to make, taking about 35 minutes from start to finish.
• They’re packed with protein, calcium, and antioxidants, perfect for active training sessions.
• This recipe yields roughly 150 small treats, ideal for frequent rewards.
• The treats are low in calories and very palatable, which is great for keeping your dog focused.

Ingredients List

• 1 cup (226g) low-fat cottage cheese (e.g., Daisy Brand): Estimated cost $2.50
• 1/2 cup (75g) fresh or frozen blueberries (e.g., Driscoll’s): Estimated cost $1.50
• 1/4 cup (30g) oat flour (e.g., Bob’s Red Mill): Estimated cost $0.50
• 1 tablespoon (15ml) flaxseed meal (e.g., Spectrum Essentials): Estimated cost $0.20
• Total Estimated Cost: $4.70

You can swap low-fat cottage cheese for fat-free or a lactose-free variety if your dog has sensitivities. If blueberries aren’t available, raspberries or even finely diced carrots can work, but avoid grapes or raisins.

Step-by-Step Instructions

• First, preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C).
• Then, line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup easier.
• In a medium bowl, mash the cottage cheese and blueberries together with a fork. You want the blueberries to burst and mix with the cheese.
• After that, stir in the oat flour and flaxseed meal. Mix everything until you have a thick, sticky dough. It should be firm enough to roll.
• Now, scoop small, pea-sized amounts of the mixture and roll them into tiny balls. These should be small enough for quick rewards during training.
• Place the balls on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between each one.
• Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the treats are firm and lightly golden.
• Let them cool completely on a wire rack before storing. This helps them firm up and stay fresh.

Feeding Guidelines

• For small dogs (under 20 lbs), offer 5-10 treats per training session.
• Medium dogs (20-50 lbs) can have 10-20 treats per session.
• Large dogs (over 50 lbs) might get 20-30 treats.
• Puppies and highly active dogs might need slightly more, while senior or less active dogs should have fewer to avoid excess calories.
• These treats are intended for training, not as a meal replacement.
• Always talk to your veterinarian for personalized feeding advice, especially if your dog has specific health conditions or dietary needs.

Nutritional Benefits of the Recipe

• Cottage cheese is a great source of lean protein and calcium, helping with muscle development and strong bones.
• Blueberries are packed with antioxidants, which can boost your dog’s immune system and protect against cell damage.
• Oat flour adds complex carbohydrates for sustained energy during training and provides some fiber for healthy digestion.
• Flaxseed meal offers Omega-3 fatty acids, good for skin, coat, and brain health.
• These treats are relatively low in fat and calories, making them perfect for frequent rewarding without overfeeding.

Storage and Serving Tips

• Store these treats 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 use.
• You can serve them at room temperature or slightly chilled.
• They work wonderfully as standalone training rewards.
• You can also crumble a few over your dog’s regular kibble as a special meal topper.

Common Questions & Troubleshooting (FAQ)

Can I make these treats crunchy?

Yes, for a crunchier treat, bake them for an extra 10-15 minutes at a lower temperature, around 250°F (120°C). Then, turn off the oven and let them cool inside to dry out further.

Are these treats suitable for puppies?

Absolutely. The ingredients are safe and beneficial for puppies. Just make sure the treats are small enough for them to chew easily.

My dog has a dairy sensitivity. What can I use instead of cottage cheese?

If your dog is sensitive to dairy, you can try using a lactose-free cottage cheese or even pureed cooked sweet potato as a base, though the texture and nutritional profile will change slightly. Always introduce new foods slowly.

How can I make these treats last longer?

Drying them out completely will extend their shelf life. You can use a dehydrator after baking, or bake them longer and at a very low temperature until they are fully dry and hard. Store these extra-dry treats in a cool, dark place, or the fridge.

Wrapping Up

Making these cottage cheese and blueberry training treats is a simple way to give your dog healthy, delicious rewards. They’re packed with good stuff and your dog will absolutely love them. Feeling inspired? Pin this recipe to your Homemade Dog Treats board for easy access and follow us for more pet-friendly tips!