Homemade Dog Dental Treat using Kelp & Peanut Butter

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 your dog’s stinky breath? You’re not alone. Most of us end up spending too much on fancy treats or weird chemical sprays that never quite do the trick.

Here’s the thing, freshening up your pup’s mouth doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive.

You can whip up these homemade dental treats with just a few simple ingredients from your kitchen and help keep those teeth clean and that breath way more bearable.

Recipe Overview

• This homemade dental treat recipe uses kelp and peanut butter.
• It takes about 15 minutes to prep and 25 minutes to cook.
• You’ll get around 30-40 small treats from one batch.
• These treats help clean teeth and support overall dental health.
• They are made with natural ingredients.

Ingredients List

• 1 cup oat flour (make your own by blending rolled oats): $0.50
• 1/2 cup unsweetened, xylitol-free peanut butter: $1.50
• 1/4 cup unsweetened apple sauce: $0.25
• 1 large egg: $0.30
• 1 tablespoon dried kelp powder: $0.75
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional, for scent and mild anti-inflammatory): $0.10
• 2-4 tablespoons water (as needed): $0.00

Total estimated cost: $3.40

Suitable substitutions:

• Oat flour can be swapped for whole wheat flour if your dog doesn’t have a grain sensitivity.
• Pumpkin puree can replace apple sauce for a different flavor and added fiber.
• Almond butter can be used instead of peanut butter, as long as it’s unsweetened and xylitol-free.

Step-by-Step Instructions

• First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
• Next, in a large bowl, mix the oat flour, kelp powder, and cinnamon together. Stir until they are well combined.
• Then, add the peanut butter, apple sauce, and egg to the dry ingredients. Mix everything with a spoon or your hands until a thick dough forms.
• If the dough is too dry, add water one tablespoon at a time until it comes together. It should be firm but pliable.
• Lightly flour a clean surface. Roll out the dough to about 1/4 inch thickness.
• Use a small cookie cutter to cut out shapes. You can also just cut squares with a knife.
• Place the cut treats on the prepared baking sheet. Leave a little space between each one.
• Bake for 20-25 minutes. The treats should be firm and slightly golden brown.
• Let them cool completely on a wire rack before giving them to your dog. This makes them nice and crunchy.

Feeding Guidelines

• For small dogs (under 20 lbs), offer 1-2 treats per day.
• Medium dogs (20-50 lbs) can have 2-3 treats daily.
• Large dogs (over 50 lbs) can enjoy 3-4 treats each day.
• Adjust the amount based on your dog’s activity level and overall diet.
• A very active dog might need a bit more.
• Puppies and senior dogs might need softer treats, so you could bake them slightly less.
• Pregnant or nursing dogs often have higher caloric needs. You can increase their portion slightly, but always check with your vet first.
• If your dog is overweight, consider these as part of their daily calorie intake.
• Always talk to your veterinarian before making big changes to your dog’s diet. They can give personalized advice based on your dog’s specific needs.

Nutritional Benefits of the Recipe

• Kelp powder is the star here. It contains enzymes that help break down plaque and tartar on your dog’s teeth.
• Kelp is also rich in iodine, which supports a healthy thyroid gland.
• Oat flour provides complex carbohydrates for sustained energy and fiber for good digestion.
• Peanut butter adds healthy fats and protein. It’s a good source of vitamins E and B.
• Apple sauce offers natural sweetness and some extra vitamins and fiber.
• Eggs contribute high-quality protein and essential amino acids.
• These treats provide Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids, important for skin, coat, and overall health.
• They also contain essential minerals like Calcium, Phosphorus, and Magnesium from the natural ingredients.

Storage and Serving Tips

• Store these homemade treats in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
• For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to 3 months.
• To reheat from frozen, simply let them thaw at room temperature for a few hours.
• You can serve them as a standalone treat.
• Some dogs enjoy them slightly warm, but room temperature is usually best.
• These treats are a great crunchy addition to your dog’s regular kibble.

Common Questions & Troubleshooting

Can I make these treats softer for an older dog?

Yes, you can. Bake them for a shorter time, around 15-18 minutes, so they stay a bit chewy. You can also add a little more apple sauce to the dough to make it softer before baking.

My dog has allergies. What are some safe substitutions?

If your dog is allergic to grains, you can use a grain-free flour like chickpea flour or almond flour. For peanut allergies, use sunflower seed butter or almond butter, making sure it’s unsweetened and xylitol-free.

How often should I give these for dental health?

Giving 1-2 treats daily is a good starting point for promoting dental health. The kelp works best with regular use. Remember, these are treats and should not replace regular dental care like brushing.

Wrapping Up

Giving your dog these homemade kelp and peanut butter dental treats is a simple way to boost their dental health and show them some love. Your dog will appreciate the tasty reward, and you’ll love their fresher breath. Feeling inspired? Pin this recipe to your Homemade Dog Treats board for easy access and follow us for more pet-friendly tips!