Homemade Dog Dental Treat using Dried Sweet Potato & Coconut

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 your dog’s stinky breath and that stubborn plaque? You’re not alone as almost every pet owner deals with it at some point, and if you let it slide, it can turn into real health issues down the road.

But what if you could whip up something easy and natural that actually helps your dog’s teeth and they’ll be excited to eat it?

Let’s make a simple, tasty homemade dog dental treat that does exactly that.

Recipe Overview

• Purpose: A natural, chewy treat to support dental health and freshen breath.
• Benefits: Helps reduce plaque and tartar, strengthens gums, and provides essential nutrients.
• Prep time: 10 minutes
• Cook time: 2-3 hours (dehydrating)
• Serving size: Approximately 15-20 treats, depending on sweet potato size.

Ingredients List

• 1 large sweet potato (about 1.5 lbs) – Estimated cost: $1.50 – $2.50
• 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted – Estimated cost: $0.75 – $1.00
• Total Estimated Cost: $2.25 – $3.50
• Substitutions: For an extra boost, you can sprinkle a pinch of dried parsley onto the sweet potato slices before dehydrating. This adds a natural breath freshener.

Step-by-Step Instructions

• Preheat your oven to the lowest setting, typically around 170-200°F (75-95°C), or prepare your food dehydrator.
• Wash the sweet potato thoroughly and trim off the ends.
• Slice the sweet potato into thin rounds, about 1/4 inch thick. Aim for consistent thickness so they dry evenly.
• In a small bowl, melt the coconut oil.
• Brush each sweet potato slice lightly with the melted coconut oil. This adds flavor and helps with the drying process.
• Arrange the oiled sweet potato slices in a single layer on baking sheets lined with parchment paper or on your dehydrator trays. Make sure there’s space between each slice for air circulation.
• If using an oven, bake for 2-3 hours, flipping the slices every hour. The goal is to dry them out completely until they are leathery and firm, not brittle. If using a dehydrator, follow the manufacturer’s instructions for sweet potatoes, usually 6-12 hours at a moderate temperature.
• The treats are done when they are flexible but no longer soft or moist.
• Let them cool completely on a wire rack before storing.

Feeding Guidelines

• Small Dogs (under 20 lbs): 1-2 small treats per day.
• Medium Dogs (20-50 lbs): 2-3 treats per day.
• Large Dogs (over 50 lbs): 3-4 treats per day.
• Puppies (over 4 months): Offer smaller pieces and monitor their chewing. Consult your vet before introducing new treats.
• Senior Dogs: These softer chews are great for older dogs with sensitive teeth.
• High-activity dogs might benefit from an extra treat. For dogs needing to lose weight, sweet potatoes are naturally lower in calories than many commercial treats, but always adjust their main meal intake accordingly.
• Always talk to your veterinarian to get personalized feeding advice based on your dog’s specific needs, health conditions, and life stage.

Nutritional Benefits of the Recipe

• Sweet Potato: This is a powerhouse of complex carbohydrates for sustained energy. It’s rich in dietary fiber, which aids digestion and promotes a healthy gut. Sweet potatoes also provide essential vitamins like A (for vision and immune function) and C (an antioxidant), plus minerals such as potassium and manganese.
• Coconut Oil: This provides healthy fats, including medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs). MCTs can support brain health and provide an immediate energy source. The lauric acid in coconut oil also has antimicrobial properties that can help fight bacteria in the mouth, contributing to better dental hygiene and fresher breath.
• Dental Health: The chewy texture of the dried sweet potato helps scrape away plaque and tartar as your dog chews, acting like a natural toothbrush. The fiber content further aids in maintaining healthy gums.

Storage and Serving Tips

• Store these homemade dental treats in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.
• For longer storage, you can refrigerate them for up to 3 weeks or freeze them for up to 2 months.
• If frozen, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature for a few hours before serving.
• Serve these treats at room temperature as a healthy snack or reward.
• You can offer them as a stand-alone treat, or break them into smaller pieces and use them during training sessions.

Common Questions & Troubleshooting

Can I use other vegetables?

Yes, you can. Vegetables like pumpkin or zucchini can also be dehydrated, but make sure they are dog-safe and introduce new foods slowly.

My dog isn’t interested in them. What can I do?

Some dogs are picky. You can try adding a tiny sprinkle of low-sodium chicken broth powder or a dash of cinnamon to the coconut oil for extra appeal.

Are these treats suitable for puppies?

They are generally safe for puppies over 4 months old once they have their adult teeth coming in. Always supervise your puppy while they are chewing and ensure the pieces are small enough to prevent choking.

Wrapping Up

Making these sweet potato and coconut dental treats is a simple way to boost your dog’s dental health and give them a treat they’ll adore. It’s wholesome, natural, and you know exactly what’s in it.

Feeling inspired? Pin this recipe to your Homemade Dog Treats board for easy access and follow us for more pet-friendly tips!