How To Make Healthy Vegan Carrot And Apple Dog Treats For A Low-calorie Snack

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.

Do you ever worry about the ingredients in pet food? There is so much out there filled with fillers, artificial flavors, and who really knows what else!

It can be really confusing and hard to know if you are giving your dog a good treat or not when you read through the ingredients on the product. The ingredients read like a mystery novel.

Making your own dog treats made out of wholesome, healthy ingredients can be accomplished in a few easy steps. Here’s how to do it!

Recipe Overview

• This homemade treat recipe for Vegan Carrot Apple Balls takes just 15 minutes of prep time and 20 minutes of cook time.
• It yields about 24 small balls, perfect for rewarding your dog or just as a healthy snack.
• These treats are sweet, fruity, and totally pup-approved, great for dogs with meat allergies or sensitive stomachs.

Ingredients List

• 1 large carrot, grated (approx. 1 cup) – $0.50
• 1 medium apple, cored and grated (approx. 1 cup) – $1.00
• 1/2 cup rolled oats – $0.25
• 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce – $0.30
• 2 tablespoons ground flaxseed – $0.40
• 1 tablespoon coconut oil, melted – $0.20
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional) – $0.05
• Total Estimated Cost: $2.70

Suitable substitutions: If you don’t have rolled oats, you can use oat flour. For applesauce, ensure it’s unsweetened. You can also try adding a pinch of turmeric for an anti-inflammatory boost.

Step-by-Step Instructions

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
• In a large mixing bowl, combine the grated carrot and grated apple.
• Add the rolled oats, unsweetened applesauce, ground flaxseed, melted coconut oil, and optional cinnamon.
• Mix all ingredients thoroughly until a uniform, sticky dough forms.
• Take small portions of the mixture and roll them into 1-inch balls.
• Place the balls on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between each one.
• Bake for 20 minutes, or until the balls are firm and slightly golden.
• Let them cool completely on a wire rack before serving to your dog.

Feeding Guidelines

• These treats are meant to be given in moderation as a supplement to a balanced diet, not as a main meal.
• For small dogs (under 20 lbs), offer 1-2 balls per day.
• Medium dogs (20-50 lbs) can have 2-3 balls per day.
• Large dogs (over 50 lbs) may enjoy 3-4 balls daily.
• Puppies and senior dogs might need smaller, softer pieces; you can break the balls in half for them.
• Active dogs might burn more calories and could have an extra treat, but always monitor their weight.
• Always consult your veterinarian for personalized feeding advice, especially if your dog has specific dietary needs or health conditions.

Nutritional Benefits of the Recipe

• Carrots are packed with beta-carotene, which converts to Vitamin A, great for vision and immune health.
• Apples provide fiber for digestive health and Vitamin C, an antioxidant.
• Rolled oats offer complex carbohydrates for sustained energy and soluble fiber for a healthy gut.
• Ground flaxseed is a fantastic source of Omega-3 fatty acids, promoting healthy skin and a shiny coat.
• Coconut oil provides healthy fats and can support brain function and energy levels.
• Cinnamon can help regulate blood sugar and has anti-inflammatory properties.

Storage and Serving Tips

• Store leftover Vegan Carrot Apple Balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5-7 days.
• For longer storage, freeze the treats for up to 2-3 months.
• To serve frozen treats, let them thaw in the refrigerator overnight or microwave for a few seconds until soft.
• Serve them at room temperature or slightly warmed.
• You can offer them as a standalone treat or crumble them over your dog’s regular kibble for an added flavor boost.

Common Questions & Troubleshooting

Can I use different fruits or vegetables?

Yes, you can. Just make sure they are dog-safe. Berries, sweet potatoes, or pumpkin are good alternatives. Avoid grapes, raisins, onions, or garlic.

Are these treats suitable for puppies?

Yes, they are generally safe for puppies. However, introduce new treats slowly to watch for any sensitivities. You might want to break them into smaller pieces for younger pups.

My dog has allergies, what should I watch out for?

This recipe is naturally vegan and gluten-free if you use certified gluten-free oats. If your dog has a coconut allergy, you can omit the coconut oil or use a tiny bit of olive oil instead. Always check with your vet for severe allergies.

How do I know if my dog likes them?

Offer one treat and observe your dog’s reaction. Most dogs love the sweet and fruity flavor of apples and carrots. If they gobble it up, you’ve got a winner!

Wrapping Up

Making these Vegan Carrot Apple Balls for your pup is a simple, loving way to ensure they get healthy, delicious treats. You’ll feel good knowing exactly what’s in every bite, and your dog will love them. Feeling inspired? Pin this recipe to your Homemade Dog Food board for easy access and follow us for more pet-friendly tips!