Homemade Dehydrator Dog Treats Recipe With Beetroot Chips & Coconut Oil

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.

Sick of staring at a list of weird ingredients on dog treats? I get it, most of us wonder what’s really packed into those store-bought snacks.

Fillers, fake flavors, who knows what else. It just doesn’t sit right, handing over something to your dog that you wouldn’t eat yourself.

But honestly, you don’t have to put up with that. There’s a better, healthier way, and I’m here to walk you through it. Let’s make this homemade dehydrator dog treat recipe!

Recipe Overview

• This homemade dehydrator dog treat recipe makes crunchy, healthy snacks your dog will love.
• It’s perfect for pups with sensitive stomachs or those needing a boost of natural nutrients.
• Prep time is about 15 minutes, not including dehydrating.
• Dehydrating time can range from 6-12 hours, depending on your machine and desired crispness.
• This recipe yields about 2 cups of treats.

Ingredients List

• 1 large beetroot, organic if possible – Estimated cost: $1.50
• 1/4 cup coconut oil, unrefined virgin – Estimated cost: $1.00
• Total Estimated Cost: $2.50

Suitable Substitutions:

• If you don’t have beetroot, you can use sweet potato or pumpkin. Just be sure to slice them thin.
• For coconut oil, you can use a small amount of olive oil, but coconut oil offers unique benefits for dogs.

Step-by-Step Instructions

• First, wash the beetroot thoroughly. You don’t need to peel it, as the skin has good nutrients.
• Next, use a mandoline slicer or a very sharp knife to cut the beetroot into thin chips. Aim for about 1/8 inch thick slices. Thin slices dry faster and become crispier.
• Melt the coconut oil in a small saucepan over low heat, or in the microwave for 30 seconds.
• Arrange the beetroot slices in a single layer on your dehydrator trays. Don’t let them overlap, or they won’t dry evenly.
• Brush a light layer of melted coconut oil onto each beetroot chip. You want just enough to coat them without making them greasy.
• Set your dehydrator to 135°F (57°C).
• Dehydrate for 6-12 hours, checking every few hours. The treats are done when they are completely dry, hard, and crisp.
• Let the chips cool completely before storing them.

Feeding Guidelines

• These treats are meant as a snack, not a meal replacement.
• For small dogs (under 20 lbs), offer 1-2 chips per day.
• Medium dogs (20-50 lbs) can have 2-4 chips per day.
• Large dogs (over 50 lbs) might enjoy 4-6 chips daily.
• Puppies and very active adult dogs might need a few more, while senior or less active dogs should have fewer.
• Always talk to your vet about your dog’s specific dietary needs, especially if they have health conditions.

Nutritional Benefits of the Recipe

• Beetroot is packed with fiber, which helps with healthy digestion.
• It also contains vitamins C and A, potassium, and manganese.
• These nutrients support immune health and overall vitality.
• Coconut oil provides healthy fats, including medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs).
• MCTs can help with brain function, skin health, and a shiny coat.
• This recipe offers a good source of natural vitamins and minerals without added sugars or preservatives.
• This treat provides fermentable fiber from the beetroot, which supports a healthy gut microbiome.

Storage and Serving Tips

• Store these 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.
• If freezing, make sure they are completely thawed before serving.
• Serve them as a crunchy snack, a reward during training, or break them into smaller pieces for smaller dogs.
• You can even crumble a few pieces over their regular kibble for an extra flavor and nutrient boost.

Common Questions & Troubleshooting

Why aren’t my treats crispy?

They likely need more time in the dehydrator. Make sure your slices are thin and don’t overlap on the trays. Increase the dehydrating time until they are hard and brittle.

Can I use an oven instead of a dehydrator?

Yes, you can. Set your oven to the lowest temperature, usually around 150-200°F (65-93°C). Prop the oven door open slightly to allow moisture to escape. This will take longer than a dehydrator, often 3-5 hours or more, so keep a close eye on them to prevent burning.

Are these treats suitable for dogs with allergies?

This recipe uses minimal ingredients, which can be great for dogs with common food allergies. Beetroot and coconut oil are generally well-tolerated. However, if your dog has specific allergies, always check with your vet first. This treat is free from common allergens like wheat, corn, and soy.

Wrapping Up

Making these beetroot chips is a simple way to give your dog healthy, delicious treats you can feel good about. It’s easy, and they love the crunch. Feeling inspired? Pin this recipe to your Homemade Dog Treats board for easy access and follow us for more pet-friendly tips!