Blueberry & Yogurt Low Calorie Training Dog Treats For Overweight Dogs

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.

Seeing your dog slow down because of extra weight really hurts. You just want them to be lively and healthy, but every time you hand out those store-bought treats, you worry you’re making things worse.

It’s tough finding a treat that doesn’t pack on more calories feels like a lost cause. Still, there’s actually an easy fix. You can reward your pup without any of the guilt, and they’ll love it.

Let’s make this low calorie training dog treat, shall we?

Recipe Overview

• This homemade treat recipe makes delicious, low-calorie snacks perfect for training overweight dogs.
• It takes about 15 minutes to prep and 25 minutes to bake.
• You’ll get around 60 small treats from one batch.
• These treats are packed with antioxidants and probiotics to support your dog’s health.
• They are also great for dogs with sensitive stomachs.

Ingredients List

• 1 cup rolled oats (do not use instant oats) – Estimated Cost: $0.50
• 1/2 cup plain, unsweetened Greek yogurt (full fat is fine) – Estimated Cost: $0.75
• 1/4 cup fresh or frozen blueberries (do not use artificial blueberry flavoring) – Estimated Cost: $0.60
• 1 egg, large – Estimated Cost: $0.25
• 1 tablespoon coconut oil, melted – Estimated Cost: $0.30
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (optional, for flavor) – Estimated Cost: $0.05
• Total Estimated Cost: $2.45

Suitable Substitutions:

• For rolled oats, you can use oat flour.
• If your dog is sensitive to dairy, you can use a plain, unsweetened, dog-safe plant-based yogurt.
• Strawberries or raspberries can replace blueberries if preferred.

Step-by-Step Instructions

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
• In a food processor, blend the rolled oats until they become a fine flour.
• In a mixing bowl, combine the oat flour, Greek yogurt, blueberries, egg, and melted coconut oil.
• If you’re using it, add the cinnamon now.
• Mix everything until it forms a thick batter.
• The batter will be thick, so use a spatula to mix thoroughly.
• Drop small spoonfuls (about half a teaspoon) of the batter onto the prepared baking sheet.
• Flatten each spoonful slightly with the back of a spoon.
• Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the treats are firm and lightly golden brown.
• Let the treats cool completely on a wire rack before serving them to your dog.

Feeding Guidelines

• For small dogs (under 20 lbs), offer 1-2 treats per day.
• Medium dogs (20-50 lbs) can have 2-4 treats daily.
• Large dogs (over 50 lbs) may enjoy 4-6 treats per day.
• Puppies need treats sparingly due to their developing digestive systems.
• Senior dogs can benefit from these soft, easy-to-chew treats.
• Highly active dogs might need slightly more treats, while less active dogs should have fewer.
• Always adjust the treat portion based on your dog’s overall calorie intake.
• These are treats, not a meal replacement.
• Always consult your veterinarian for personalized feeding advice, especially for overweight dogs or those with specific health conditions.

Nutritional Benefits of the Recipe

• Rolled oats provide complex carbohydrates for sustained energy and fiber for healthy digestion.
• Oats also contain B vitamins and iron, supporting overall vitality.
• Blueberries are packed with antioxidants, which help fight cell damage and support the immune system.
• They also offer essential vitamins like C and K.
• Plain Greek yogurt delivers probiotics, promoting a healthy gut microbiome and aiding digestion.
• It’s also a good source of protein and calcium.
• The egg adds high-quality protein and essential amino acids for muscle health.
• Coconut oil provides healthy fats, which can support skin and coat health.
• This recipe ensures a good balance of fiber (from oats and blueberries), quality protein (egg, yogurt), and healthy fats (coconut oil), making it ideal for managing weight without compromising nutrition.

Storage and Serving Tips

• Store these treats in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5-7 days.
• For longer storage, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 2-3 months.
• Thaw frozen treats in the refrigerator overnight or microwave for a few seconds if serving immediately.
• Serve treats at room temperature.
• You can break larger treats into smaller pieces for smaller dogs or for more frequent, low-calorie rewards during training sessions.
• They can also be mixed with your dog’s regular kibble for an extra flavor boost.

Common Questions & Troubleshooting

Can I use flavored yogurt?

No, only plain, unsweetened yogurt is safe. Flavored yogurts often contain artificial sweeteners, like xylitol, which are toxic to dogs, or added sugars that are unhealthy.

Are these treats suitable for puppies?

Yes, in moderation. Puppies have specific nutritional needs for growth, so treats should be a very small part of their diet. Always check with your vet first.

My dog has a grain allergy. Can I still make these?

Oats are technically a pseudo-grain and often tolerated better than wheat or corn. But if your dog has a known grain allergy, you should consult your vet before introducing oats.

How can I make them even lower in calories?

You can reduce the amount of coconut oil slightly or make the treats smaller. The current recipe is already very low in calories per treat.

Wrapping Up

Making these Blueberry & Yogurt Low Calorie Training Dog Treats is a loving step towards your dog’s health. They’re simple, nutritious, and a fantastic way to reward your best friend without the guilt. Feeling inspired? Pin this recipe to your Homemade Dog Treats board for easy access and follow us for more pet-friendly tips!