6 Simple Homemade Dog Chews To Keep Your Heavy Chewer Busy And Happy

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.

Your dogs deserves the best in their lives but all those mass-produced commercial pet treats have possibly bad quality ingredients and little to nothing in terms of actual nourishment

Are you actually wasting your money?

All dog owners want to be able to provide their dogs with special treats that are healthy for them, which is why I have created these 6 healthy and tasty homemade DIY dog chews you can easily make.

Recipe Overview

• Purpose: Offer healthy, engaging, and long-lasting chew treats for dogs.
• Benefits: Provides dental benefits, nutritional value, and mental stimulation.
• Prep Time: Varies per recipe, typically 10-20 minutes.
• Cook Time: Varies per recipe, from 1-3 hours (dehydrating) to 30-45 minutes (baking).
• Serving Size: Each recipe yields 10-20 treats, depending on size.

Ingredients List

Here are the ingredients for six different DIY chew treat recipes. You will use some common ingredients across multiple recipes.

• Sweet Potato Chews:
• 1 large sweet potato ($1.50)
• Chicken Jerky:
• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thigh ($4.00)
• Peanut Butter & Banana Bites:
• 1 ripe banana ($0.30)
• 1/2 cup natural peanut butter (xylitol-free) ($1.50)
• 1 1/2 cups whole wheat flour ($0.50)
• 1/2 cup rolled oats ($0.20)
• 1/4 cup water ($0.00)
• Apple & Carrot Crisps:
• 1 large apple ($0.80)
• 2 medium carrots ($0.40)
• Frozen Yogurt Pupsicles:
• 1 cup plain, unsweetened yogurt (dairy or non-dairy) ($1.00)
• 1/2 cup blueberries or strawberries ($1.50)
• Beef & Veggie Strips:
• 1 lb lean ground beef ($5.00)
• 1/2 cup cooked and mashed pumpkin (canned, plain) ($0.75)
• 1/4 cup finely chopped spinach ($0.50)
• 1 egg ($0.20)

Total Estimated Cost for all ingredients across these six recipes: $18.25

Substitutions:

• Chicken can be swapped for turkey or lean beef.
• Sweet potato can be replaced with pumpkin or butternut squash for similar chews.
• Peanut butter can be exchanged for almond butter (ensure no xylitol).
• Whole wheat flour can be substituted with oat flour or rice flour for gluten-sensitive dogs.
• Yogurt can be dairy-free if your dog has sensitivities.
• Blueberries and strawberries can be swapped for other dog-safe fruits like raspberries or banana.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Sweet Potato Chews

• Preheat your oven to 250 degrees Fahrenheit.
• Wash the sweet potato and slice it into 1/4-inch thick rounds or strips.
• Place the slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
• Bake for 3-4 hours, flipping halfway, until they are dried and firm.
• They should be chewy but not crispy.

2. Chicken Jerky

• Preheat your oven to 200 degrees Fahrenheit.
• Trim any fat from the chicken breasts.
• Slice the chicken into very thin strips, about 1/8-inch thick.
• Arrange the strips on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
• Bake for 2-3 hours, or until the chicken is completely dried out and firm.
• The goal is a tough, chewy texture.

3. Peanut Butter & Banana Bites

• Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
• Mash the banana in a large bowl.
• Add the peanut butter and water, mixing well.
• Stir in the whole wheat flour and rolled oats until a dough forms.
• Roll the dough to 1/4-inch thickness and use cookie cutters to make shapes.
• Bake for 20-25 minutes, until golden brown and firm.

4. Apple & Carrot Crisps

• Preheat your oven to 200 degrees Fahrenheit.
• Wash and thinly slice the apple and carrots, about 1/8-inch thick.
• Remove any apple seeds as they are not good for dogs.
• Lay the slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
• Bake for 1-2 hours, flipping halfway, until they are dried and slightly crisp.

5. Frozen Yogurt Pupsicles

• Blend the yogurt with your chosen fruit (blueberries or strawberries).
• Pour the mixture into silicone molds or an ice cube tray.
• Freeze for at least 4 hours, or until solid.
• These are great for warm days.

6. Beef & Veggie Strips

• Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
• In a bowl, mix the ground beef, cooked pumpkin, chopped spinach, and egg until well combined.
• Press the mixture evenly onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, about 1/2-inch thick.
• Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the beef is cooked through and firm.
• Once cooled, cut into strips or squares.

Feeding Guidelines

• Small Dogs (under 20 lbs): 1-2 small treats per day.
• Medium Dogs (20-50 lbs): 2-3 medium treats per day.
• Large Dogs (over 50 lbs): 3-4 large treats per day.

And here’s the thing, these are treats, not meal replacements. So, they should make up no more than 10% of your dog’s daily caloric intake.

Puppies need more calories for growth, so they might have a slightly higher treat allowance, but always in moderation. Very active dogs can have a bit more, while less active or senior dogs should have fewer to prevent weight gain.

Pregnant or nursing dogs also have higher caloric needs, so a few extra treats are fine, but ensure they are still getting a balanced diet.

Always talk to your vet before making significant changes to your dog’s diet, especially if they have health conditions or specific dietary needs. They can give you advice tailored just for your dog.

Nutritional Benefits of the Recipe

• Sweet Potatoes: Great source of dietary fiber, beta-carotene (Vitamin A), and Vitamin C. They support healthy digestion and immune function.
• Chicken: Lean protein for muscle development and repair. It provides essential amino acids.
• Bananas: Full of potassium, Vitamin C, and fiber. They help with heart health and digestion.
• Peanut Butter (natural, xylitol-free): Provides healthy fats, protein, and Vitamin B. It is a good energy source.
• Apples: Good for fiber and Vitamin C. Just remember to remove the seeds.
• Carrots: Packed with Vitamin A (beta-carotene), fiber, and antioxidants. They support vision and overall health.
• Yogurt (plain, unsweetened): Contains probiotics for gut health and calcium for strong bones.
• Blueberries/Strawberries: Rich in antioxidants, fiber, and Vitamin C. They help fight cell damage.
• Ground Beef: High-quality protein, iron, and B vitamins, crucial for energy and muscle function.
• Pumpkin: An excellent source of fiber, helping with digestion. It also provides Vitamin A.
• Spinach: Loaded with vitamins K, A, and C, as well as iron and antioxidants. It supports bone health and immunity.

Storage and Serving Tips

• Refrigeration: Most baked or dehydrated treats last 5-7 days in an airtight container in the fridge.
• Freezing: For longer storage, freeze treats for up to 2-3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight or microwave briefly before serving.
• Reheating: Warm treats slightly in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to enhance aroma and texture.
• Serving: Serve treats at room temperature or slightly warm. You can give them alone or crumble them over regular kibble for an extra special meal.

Common Questions & Troubleshooting

Are these treats safe for puppies?

Yes, most of these recipes are safe for puppies. Just make sure the treats are cut into small, easy-to-chew pieces to prevent choking. Always supervise your puppy when they are eating treats.

My dog has allergies. What can I substitute?

If your dog has allergies, consider substitutions like turkey for chicken, gluten-free flours (oat or rice) for whole wheat, or dairy-free yogurt for regular yogurt. Always introduce new ingredients slowly to monitor for reactions.

How can I make the treats last longer?

To make dehydrated treats like sweet potato chews or chicken jerky last longer, ensure they are completely dried out during cooking. For other treats, freezing is the best option for extended storage. An airtight container is key for freshness.

Can I add supplements to these treats?

It is generally best to give supplements separately as directed by your vet. Adding them to treats might affect their potency or how much your dog gets. If you want to include extra nutrients, stick to naturally beneficial ingredients like flaxseed or chia seeds.

Wrapping Up

Making your own dog treats is simple, rewarding, and a fantastic way to ensure your pup gets wholesome goodness. Your dog will love the variety and you will love knowing exactly what they are eating. Feeling inspired? Pin this recipe to your Homemade Dog Treats board for easy access and follow us for more pet-friendly tips!