Easy Homemade Dog Training Treats Using Applesauce & Coconut Flour

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.

Ever wonder what’s actually in those store-bought training treats? A lot of them are packed with fillers and weird ingredients that can mess with your dog’s stomach or even trigger allergies.

It’s tough to feel confident you’re giving your pup something genuinely healthy.

But here’s the good news: you can whip up tasty, wholesome dog training treats right at home. Let me show you how easy it is.

Recipe Overview

• This homemade applesauce and coconut flour training treat recipe takes just 15 minutes to prep and 25 minutes to bake.
• It yields about 60 small treats, perfect for training sessions.
• These treats are grain-free, packed with fiber, and naturally sweet, making them great for dogs with sensitivities or those needing a low-calorie reward.
• They are simple to make and use ingredients you likely have on hand.

Ingredients List

• 1 cup unsweetened applesauce (Cost: $0.75 – $1.00)
• 1/2 cup coconut flour (Cost: $1.50 – $2.00)
• 1 large egg (Cost: $0.20 – $0.30)
• 1/4 cup natural peanut butter (xylitol-free) (Cost: $0.50 – $0.75)
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (Cost: $0.10 – $0.15)
• Total Estimated Cost: $3.05 – $4.20

Substitutions:

• Applesauce: You can use mashed pumpkin puree (not pie filling) or sweet potato puree instead.
• Peanut Butter: Almond butter or cashew butter (ensure they are xylitol-free) are good alternatives.

Step-by-Step Instructions

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
• In a medium bowl, mix the applesauce, coconut flour, egg, and peanut butter until everything is well combined.
• Add the cinnamon to the mixture and stir it in thoroughly.
• The dough will be thick.
• Roll the dough out onto a lightly floured surface (you can use a little extra coconut flour for dusting).
• Aim for about 1/4 inch thickness.
• Use a small cookie cutter (or a knife to cut small squares) to make individual treats.
• Place the cut treats onto the prepared baking sheet.
• Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the treats are firm and lightly golden.
• Let them cool completely on a wire rack before serving.

Feeding Guidelines

• These treats are for training and should not replace a balanced meal.
• For small dogs (under 20 lbs), offer 2-4 treats per day.
• Medium dogs (20-50 lbs) can have 4-8 treats daily.
• Large dogs (over 50 lbs) can enjoy 8-12 treats per day.
• Adjust based on your dog’s activity level.
• Very active dogs might need a few more, while less active dogs should have fewer to prevent weight gain.
• Puppies can have these in moderation, but ensure they are soft enough for their developing teeth.
• Older dogs with dental issues might need them broken into smaller pieces.
• Always talk to your veterinarian for personalized feeding advice, especially if your dog has specific health conditions or dietary needs.

Nutritional Benefits of the Recipe

• Applesauce provides natural sweetness and fiber, which helps with healthy digestion.
• Coconut flour is a fantastic source of dietary fiber and is grain-free, making it great for dogs with gluten sensitivities.
• The egg adds high-quality protein, essential for muscle health, and various vitamins and minerals like Vitamin D and B vitamins.
• Peanut butter (xylitol-free) offers healthy fats, protein, and B vitamins, contributing to skin and coat health.
• Cinnamon is an antioxidant and can help regulate blood sugar, offering anti-inflammatory properties.
• This recipe is naturally low in calories but rich in nutrients, supporting overall dog wellness.

Storage and Serving Tips

• Store these treats in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5-7 days.
• For longer storage, freeze the treats in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months.
• Thaw frozen treats in the refrigerator overnight or microwave them briefly (10-15 seconds) until soft.
• You can serve them at room temperature or slightly warmed.
• These treats are excellent on their own for positive reinforcement during training.
• They can also be crumbled over your dog’s regular kibble as a meal topper for added flavor and nutrients.

Common Questions & Troubleshooting

Can I make these treats softer for puppies or older dogs?

Yes, you can add a tablespoon of water or broth to the dough to make it slightly softer before baking. You can also bake them for a minute or two less.

My dog has allergies. What if they are allergic to eggs?

You can try a “flax egg” substitute: mix 1 tablespoon ground flaxseed with 3 tablespoons water and let it sit for 5 minutes until gel-like. This can replace one egg.

Can I add other ingredients to this recipe?

You can add a small amount of finely chopped carrots or spinach for extra nutrients, but be careful not to add too much liquid. Always ensure any additions are dog-safe.

Wrapping Up

Making these applesauce and coconut flour treats is a simple way to show your dog love with wholesome ingredients. They are tasty, healthy, and perfect for training. Feeling inspired? Pin this recipe to your Homemade Dog Treats board for easy access and follow us for more pet-friendly tips.