2-Ingredient Dog Treat Recipe: Cottage Cheese & Parsley Drops

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.

If you’ve ever questioned the contents of those store bought dog treats, it means you’re probably tired of the mystery ingredients and desperate to give your best friend some healthy snacks.

I’ve got you covered! This article is gonna show a very easy homemade dog treat recipe with just 2 ingredients so you make your dog a treat that is nutritious and made with love in your kitchen.

Recipe Overview

• This homemade dog treat recipe is unbelievably simple, using just two ingredients you likely already have.
• It’s perfect for a quick, healthy snack, ideal for training, or just because you love your dog.
• Prep time: 5 minutes.
• Cook time: 15-20 minutes.
• Serving size: About 30-40 small drops.

Ingredients List

• Cottage Cheese (full-fat, plain): 1 cup (Estimated cost: $2.50 – $4.00)
• Fresh Parsley (flat-leaf or curly), finely chopped: 2 tablespoons (Estimated cost: $1.00 – $2.00)
• Total Estimated Cost: $3.50 – $6.00

Suitable Substitutions:

• For cottage cheese, you can use plain, unsweetened Greek yogurt (ensure it has no xylitol).
• If you don’t have fresh parsley, a small pinch of dried parsley can work, but fresh is best for flavor and nutrients.

Step-by-Step Instructions

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
• In a small bowl, mix the cottage cheese and finely chopped parsley together really well.
• Make sure the parsley is evenly distributed throughout the cottage cheese.
• Use a spoon or a small piping bag (without a tip, just snip the end) to drop small dollops of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet.
• Make them about the size of a dime or a nickel, depending on your dog’s size.
• Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the treats are firm.
• The exact time can change based on your oven and the size of your drops.
• Let them cool completely on the baking sheet before giving them to your dog.
• They’ll get firmer as they cool.

Feeding Guidelines

• These treats are best for occasional snacking or training rewards, not as a meal replacement.
• For small dogs (under 20 lbs): 2-3 drops per day.
• For medium dogs (20-50 lbs): 4-6 drops per day.
• For large dogs (over 50 lbs): 7-10 drops per day.
• Remember that every dog is different.
• Puppies can have these in moderation, usually 1-2 drops as a reward.
• Older dogs or those on a restricted diet should have fewer.
• Always talk to your vet to figure out the best feeding plan for your dog, especially if they have health issues or are pregnant/nursing.

Nutritional Benefits of the Recipe

• Cottage cheese is a great source of protein, which is super important for muscle maintenance and overall health.
• It also gives your dog calcium for strong bones and teeth.
• Parsley helps with fresh breath naturally, and it has vitamins K, C, and A, plus antioxidants.
• Vitamin K is good for blood clotting, and vitamin C supports the immune system.
• The combination offers a low-calorie, high-protein snack.
• These drops are also low in fat and carbohydrates compared to many commercial treats.

Storage and Serving Tips

• Once cooled, 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 months.
• Lay them flat on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag.
• Thaw frozen treats in the refrigerator overnight or microwave for a few seconds until soft.
• Serve them at room temperature or slightly chilled.
• You can break larger drops into smaller pieces for smaller dogs or for frequent training rewards.
• They’re great on their own, or as a little topper on their regular kibble for extra flavor.

Common Questions & Troubleshooting

Can I use low-fat cottage cheese?

Yes, you can use low-fat cottage cheese. Just make sure it’s plain and doesn’t have any added sugars or artificial sweeteners like xylitol, which is toxic to dogs.

My treats aren’t firm enough, what went wrong?

If your treats aren’t firm, they might need a little more baking time. Ovens can be different, so keep baking until they are golden and feel solid to the touch. They will also firm up more as they cool.

Is too much parsley bad for dogs?

A small amount of parsley, like in this recipe, is fine and beneficial for dogs. Too much can sometimes act as a diuretic, so moderation is key. This recipe uses a safe amount.

Can puppies eat these treats?

Yes, puppies can have these treats in moderation. Cottage cheese is a good source of calcium for growing bones, and parsley adds nutrients. Just offer smaller pieces.

Wrapping Up

Making your dog these simple cottage cheese and parsley drops is a fantastic way to show love and boost their health. They’re easy, delicious, 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!