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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.
Have you ever wondered what is really inside the treats you buy at the store for your dog? The thing is, lots of commercial treats are not only bad for the health of your dog, but they also have the potential to cause allergies or make sensitive stomachs uncomfortable.
However, what if you could make yummy, healthy treats at home with only two ingredients? Yes, you can and it is less complicated than you presume. This dog treat recipe is a perfect answer to those concerns, thus providing you with the comfort and your dog with a delicious and healthy treat.
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Recipe Overview
- This homemade 2-ingredient dog treat recipe is super simple and quick.
- It’s perfect for dogs with sensitive tummies or those needing a low-calorie option.
- Prep time: 10 minutes.
- Cook time: 2 hours (freezing time).
- Serving size: Approximately 30-40 small drops.
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Ingredients List
- 1 medium apple (organic recommended): Estimated cost $1.00 – $1.50
- 1 cup plain, unsweetened yogurt (dairy or non-dairy, no xylitol): Estimated cost $0.50 – $1.00
Total estimated cost: $1.50 – $2.50
Substitutions:
- Yogurt: If your dog can’t have dairy, use a plain, unsweetened coconut yogurt or almond yogurt. Just be sure to check the label for xylitol, which is toxic to dogs.
- Apple: You can use other dog-safe fruits like blueberries or bananas, but apples are great for their crunch and nutrients. Always remove seeds and core.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- First, wash your apple thoroughly.
- Then, core the apple and remove all seeds. Apple seeds contain a small amount of cyanide and aren’t good for dogs.
- Chop the apple into small pieces.
- Next, blend the apple pieces until they’re a smooth puree.
- In a bowl, mix the apple puree with the plain, unsweetened yogurt.
- Stir well until both ingredients are fully combined.
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Using a spoon or a piping bag, drop small dollops of the mixture onto the parchment paper. Make them treat-sized for your dog.
- Place the baking sheet in the freezer.
- Freeze for at least 2 hours, or until the drops are solid.
- Once frozen, peel the drops off the parchment paper.
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Feeding Guidelines
- Small dogs (under 20 lbs): 2-3 drops per day.
- Medium dogs (20-50 lbs): 4-6 drops per day.
- Large dogs (over 50 lbs): 7-10 drops per day.
- Puppies: Give sparingly, 1-2 drops as a special reward. Their main diet should be complete puppy food.
- Seniors: These are great low-calorie options, but monitor for any digestive changes.
- Always adjust the quantity based on your dog’s activity level and overall caloric intake. For example, a very active dog might have a few more, while a less active or overweight dog should have fewer.
- Always talk to your vet to figure out the best feeding plan for your specific dog.
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Nutritional Benefits of the Recipe
- Apples provide dietary fiber, which aids in healthy digestion. They also offer Vitamin C and antioxidants, supporting the immune system.
- Yogurt (plain, unsweetened) is a good source of protein and calcium for strong bones. It also contains probiotics, which are beneficial for gut health.
- These treats are low in calories and fat, making them a healthy option for weight management.
- They are free from common allergens like wheat, corn, and soy often found in commercial treats.
Storage and Serving Tips
- Store the frozen apple and yogurt drops in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.
- You can serve them directly from the freezer as a refreshing, cool treat.
- Alternatively, let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes to soften slightly before serving.
- These drops can also be mixed into your dog’s regular kibble as a tasty topper, especially if they need a little extra encouragement to eat.
- Never leave them out for too long, as they will melt.
Common Questions & Troubleshooting
Can I use flavored yogurt?
No, only use plain, unsweetened yogurt. Flavored yogurts often contain sugar, artificial sweeteners (especially xylitol, which is highly toxic to dogs), and other ingredients not suitable for dogs.
What if my dog is lactose intolerant?
If your dog is lactose intolerant, use a plain, unsweetened dairy-free yogurt alternative like coconut yogurt or almond yogurt. Just double-check the label for xylitol.
Are apple seeds really that bad?
Yes, apple seeds contain small amounts of cyanide, which can be toxic to dogs if consumed in large quantities. Always remove the core and all seeds before preparing apples for your dog.
My dog doesn’t like frozen treats. What can I do?
You can try serving them slightly thawed. If your dog still isn’t keen, you might try mixing the puree and yogurt together and serving it as a lickable topping over their food, but make sure to only give a small amount if not frozen.
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Need more ideas on what to cook for your dog? Then you must check out my library of homemade dog food recipes today!
Wrapping Up
Making these 2-ingredient Apple & Yogurt drops is a simple way to treat your dog to something healthy and delicious. It’s easy, affordable, and you know exactly what’s in them.
Feeling inspired? Pin this recipe to your Homemade Dog Food board for easy access and follow us for more pet-friendly tips!
