Homemade Dehydrator Dog Treats Recipe With Beef Strips & Parsley

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.

Getting bored with the usual treats from the store? If you’re anything like me, you probably wonder what’s really in those bags. So many weird ingredients you can’t even pronounce.

It’s tough finding snacks that are actually good for your dog, and who wants to risk an upset stomach or some allergy just because of a hidden additive?

Honestly, the easiest way to know what’s in your dog’s treats is to make them yourself. Here’s a simple dehydrator dog treat recipe that’ll have your dog wagging their tail and you won’t have to worry about what’s inside.

Recipe Overview

• This homemade dehydrator dog treat recipe takes just 15 minutes to prep and then dehydrates for 6-10 hours, creating wholesome, chewy beef strips.
• It’s packed with lean protein and fresh parsley, supporting digestion and fresh breath.
• This recipe is perfect for dogs of all sizes and those with common food sensitivities.
• It yields about 2 cups of treats, depending on how thinly you slice the beef.

Ingredients List

• 1 pound lean beef (sirloin, flank, or round steak preferred) – Estimated cost: $7.00 – $12.00
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped – Estimated cost: $1.50 – $2.50

Total estimated cost: $8.50 – $14.50

Suitable substitutions:

• Beef: You can use lean turkey breast or chicken breast if your dog prefers poultry or has a beef allergy.
• Parsley: For an alternative digestive aid or different flavor, you can swap parsley for a small amount of fresh mint, but always use sparingly.

Step-by-Step Instructions

• Trim any excess fat from the beef.
• Place the beef in the freezer for about 30 minutes. This makes it much easier to slice thinly.
• Remove the beef from the freezer and slice it into thin strips, about 1/8 to 1/4 inch thick. Aim for uniform thickness so they dry evenly.
• In a bowl, toss the beef strips with the finely chopped parsley, ensuring the parsley sticks to the meat.
• Arrange the beef strips in a single layer on your dehydrator trays. Make sure they don’t overlap, as this will prevent proper drying.
• Set your dehydrator to 145-160°F (63-71°C). This temperature range is safe for meat and helps prevent spoilage.
• Dehydrate for 6-10 hours, or until the strips are completely dry, firm, and pliable. They should snap cleanly when bent, not be moist or bendy. The exact time depends on your dehydrator, the thickness of the meat, and your local humidity.
• Check the treats regularly after about 6 hours.
• Let the dehydrated treats cool completely on the trays before storing.

Feeding Guidelines

• For small dogs (under 20 lbs): Offer 1-2 small strips per day as a treat.
• For medium dogs (20-50 lbs): Give 2-3 medium strips daily.
• For large dogs (over 50 lbs): Provide 3-5 large strips daily.

Puppies and highly active dogs might need a few more treats, but always in moderation.

Older or less active dogs should have fewer treats to avoid excess calories.

Always talk to your veterinarian about your dog’s specific dietary needs and treat allowances, especially if they have health conditions or are on a special diet. Treats should not make up more than 10% of your dog’s daily caloric intake.

Nutritional Benefits of the Recipe

• Beef provides high-quality protein, which is essential for muscle growth and repair, healthy skin, and a strong immune system. It’s also a good source of iron, zinc, and B vitamins.
• Parsley is more than just a garnish; it’s rich in vitamins K, C, and A. It acts as a natural breath freshener and can aid digestion.
• These treats are low in fat and free from artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives often found in commercial treats.
• They offer a concentrated source of energy without unnecessary fillers, supporting overall vitality.

Storage and Serving Tips

• Store the completely cooled dehydrated treats in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2-3 weeks.
• For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to 3 months. Thaw them in the refrigerator before serving.
• Always check for any signs of mold or spoilage before giving them to your dog, especially if stored for longer periods.
• Serve these treats as a reward during training, a special snack, or just to show some love. They can be given at room temperature.

Common Questions & Troubleshooting (FAQ)

Can I use ground beef for this recipe?

No, ground beef usually has too much fat, even if it’s lean. This can lead to spoilage and uneven drying in the dehydrator. Stick to whole, lean cuts of beef for best results.

Do I need to marinate the beef before dehydrating?

No, for this recipe, a marinade isn’t necessary. The fresh parsley adds flavor and nutritional benefits without needing to soak the meat. Marinating can also introduce extra moisture, prolonging drying time.

My treats are bendy and not snapping. Are they done?

No, if they are still bendy, they need more time in the dehydrator. They should be firm, dry, and snap cleanly when you try to bend them. Any moisture left can cause mold, so keep dehydrating until fully dry.

Can I add other vegetables to these treats?

While parsley is safe, adding other vegetables might change the texture and drying time significantly. If you want to add other dog-safe veggies, like finely grated carrots or sweet potato, it’s best to dry them separately or in a different recipe to ensure even dehydration.

Wrapping Up

Making these homemade beef and parsley dehydrator treats is an easy way to give your dog a healthy, delicious snack you made yourself. They’re full of good stuff and your dog will love them. Feeling inspired? Pin this recipe to your Homemade Dog Treats board for easy access and follow us for more pet-friendly tips!