Homemade Dehydrator Dog Treats Recipe With Blueberries & Yogurt Drops

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 not knowing what’s actually in those dog treats from the store? All those fillers and weird additives can mess with your dog’s stomach, and honestly, who needs that worry?

Believe me, I’ve stared at those ingredient lists too, and half the time they make no sense. So I started making these homemade dehydrator dog treats. That way, I know exactly what goes in, and I don’t have to stress about it, and you can easily do it too.

Recipe Overview

• This homemade dehydrator dog treat recipe is super simple.
• It takes about 15 minutes of prep time.
• Dehydration time varies, usually 6-12 hours, but it’s mostly hands-off.
• This recipe makes about 40-50 bite-sized treats.
• It’s packed with antioxidants and probiotics, great for digestion and a strong immune system.

Ingredients List

• 1 cup fresh blueberries, organic (approx. $3.00)
• 1 cup plain, unsweetened Greek yogurt (full-fat) (approx. $2.50)
• 1/4 cup old-fashioned rolled oats (not instant) (approx. $0.50)
• Total Estimated Cost: $6.00
• Substitutions:
  • Blueberries: You can use other dog-safe fruits like chopped strawberries or raspberries.
  • Greek Yogurt: Plain, unsweetened kefir can be used for a similar probiotic boost.

Step-by-Step Instructions

• Start by washing your blueberries thoroughly.
• Mash the blueberries gently with a fork in a small bowl.
• You want them mostly mashed but with a few small pieces left for texture.
• Next, add the plain Greek yogurt to the mashed blueberries.
• Stir them together until they are well combined.
• Now, mix in the rolled oats.
• The oats will help thicken the mixture a bit and add some fiber.
• Line your dehydrator trays with parchment paper or silicone dehydrator sheets.
• This stops the mixture from sticking.
• Spoon the blueberry-yogurt mixture into a piping bag or a Ziploc bag with a corner snipped off.
• Pipe small, dime-sized drops onto your prepared dehydrator trays.
• Leave a little space between each drop so they don’t stick together.
• Set your dehydrator to 135°F (57°C).
• Dehydrate for 6-12 hours, or until the drops are firm and dry to the touch.
• They should be pliable but not sticky or wet inside.
• Check them periodically for dryness, especially after 6 hours.
• Cool the treats completely before storing them.

Feeding Guidelines

• These treats are intended as a supplement, not a meal replacement.
• For small dogs (under 20 lbs), offer 2-3 treats per day.
• Medium dogs (20-50 lbs) can have 4-6 treats daily.
• Large dogs (over 50 lbs) may enjoy 7-10 treats per day.
• Puppies and senior dogs might need softer treats; ensure these are chewy enough for them.
• For very active dogs, you can slightly increase the amount, but watch their weight.
• Always talk to your veterinarian for personalized feeding advice, especially for dogs with specific health conditions or dietary needs.

Nutritional Benefits of the Recipe

• Blueberries are packed with antioxidants, which fight free radicals and support immune health.
• They also provide vitamins C and K, and dietary fiber.
• Plain Greek yogurt is a great source of protein and probiotics.
• Probiotics help maintain a healthy gut microbiome, aiding digestion and nutrient absorption.
• The protein in yogurt supports muscle health and overall vitality.
• Rolled oats add complex carbohydrates for sustained energy and extra fiber.
• Fiber helps regulate bowel movements and can contribute to feelings of fullness.

Storage and Serving Tips

• Once fully dehydrated and cooled, store these treats in an airtight container.
• They will stay fresh at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.
• For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a month.
• You can also freeze them for up to 3 months; just thaw before serving.
• Serve these treats as a reward, training aid, or just a healthy snack.
• They are great on their own, or you can crumble a few over their regular meal for an extra flavor boost.

Common Questions & Troubleshooting

Can I use frozen blueberries?

Yes, you can use frozen blueberries. Just thaw them first and drain any excess liquid before mashing.

My treats are still sticky after dehydrating for hours. What’s wrong?

This usually means they need more time in the dehydrator. Increase the dehydration time, or try slicing your drops a bit thinner next time. Make sure your dehydrator temperature is consistent.

Are these treats suitable for puppies?

Yes, these treats are generally safe for puppies in moderation. Just ensure they are soft enough for a puppy’s developing teeth and digestive system. If your puppy is very young, consider making the drops smaller.

Can I add other ingredients?

You can experiment with other dog-safe additions like a tiny pinch of turmeric for anti-inflammatory benefits, or a little pure pumpkin puree (not pie filling). Always research if an ingredient is safe for dogs before adding it.

Wrapping Up

Making these blueberry and yogurt drops at home is an easy way to give your dog a healthy, delicious treat without any mystery ingredients. Your pup will love them, and you’ll feel good knowing exactly what they’re munching on.

Feeling inspired? Pin this recipe to your Homemade Dog Food board for easy access and follow us for more pet-friendly tips!