Homemade Dehydrator Dog Treats Recipe With Sardines & Kelp

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 in those pricey dog treats—and still seeing your pup beg for more? You’re not alone. We all wonder if those store-bought snacks are actually good for our dogs.

The truth is, your dog deserves better, and you don’t have to spend a fortune to make it happen. Let me show you how to whip up tasty, healthy dehydrator dog treats in your own kitchen.

Recipe Overview

• This homemade dehydrator dog treat recipe uses sardines and kelp.
• It takes about 15 minutes of prep time.
• Cook time is typically 8-12 hours in a dehydrator, depending on thickness.
• This recipe yields roughly 50-70 small treats, perfect for training or everyday rewards.

Ingredients List

• 1 (4.25 oz) can wild-caught sardines in water, no salt added (approx. $2.50)
• 1/2 cup whole wheat flour (approx. $0.30) – Suitable substitution: oat flour or rice flour for gluten-sensitive dogs.
• 1/4 cup finely ground rolled oats (approx. $0.20) – Suitable substitution: chickpea flour.
• 1 tablespoon dried kelp powder (approx. $0.50)
• 1 large egg (approx. $0.30)
• 2 tablespoons water (free)

Total estimated cost: $3.80

Step-by-Step Instructions

• Drain the sardines and mash them well in a medium bowl with a fork.
• Add the whole wheat flour, ground oats, kelp powder, and egg to the mashed sardines.
• Mix everything thoroughly until a stiff dough forms.
• If the dough is too dry, add water one tablespoon at a time until it’s pliable.
• Roll the dough out onto a lightly floured surface to about 1/8 to 1/4 inch thickness.
• Use a small cookie cutter or a knife to cut the dough into desired treat shapes.
• Place the cut treats in a single layer on your dehydrator trays.
• Dehydrate at 145°F (63°C) for 8-12 hours. Here’s a tip: Treats are done when they are completely dry, firm, and snap cleanly. They should not be soft or bendy.
• Check them periodically and rotate trays if your dehydrator doesn’t heat evenly.

Feeding Guidelines

• Offer small dogs (under 20 lbs) 1-2 treats per day.
• Give medium dogs (20-50 lbs) 2-4 treats daily.
• Large dogs (over 50 lbs) can have 4-6 treats daily.
• For very active dogs, you might offer a slightly higher amount. But here’s the thing, always count treats as part of their daily caloric intake.
• Puppies and senior dogs might need softer treats; ensure these are fully hydrated if they struggle to chew.
• Always consult your veterinarian for personalized feeding advice, especially for dogs with specific health conditions or dietary needs.

Nutritional Benefits of the Recipe

• Sardines are packed with Omega-3 fatty acids (EPA and DHA). These support healthy skin, a shiny coat, and reduce inflammation. They are also a great source of lean protein.
• Kelp powder provides essential minerals like iodine, which supports thyroid function. It also contains trace minerals, fiber, and vitamins.
• Whole wheat flour and rolled oats offer complex carbohydrates for sustained energy and dietary fiber. Fiber helps with healthy digestion.
• Eggs contribute high-quality protein and essential vitamins and minerals like choline, biotin, and Vitamin B12.
• This recipe provides a good balance of protein, healthy fats, and complex carbohydrates. And that’s why it matters for your dog’s overall health.

Storage and Serving Tips

• Once fully dehydrated, store the treats in an airtight container at room temperature.
• They will stay fresh for up to 3-4 weeks.
• For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to 3 months.
• Thaw frozen treats at room temperature before serving.
• Serve these treats as a reward during training or as a daily snack.
• Some dogs enjoy them slightly warmed, but room temperature is usually fine.

Common Questions & Troubleshooting

Can I use fresh sardines instead of canned?

Yes, you can. Make sure they are boneless and skinless, and pureed well before mixing with other ingredients.

What if my dehydrator doesn’t get hot enough or takes too long?

Ensure your dehydrator is working correctly. You might need to increase drying time or cut treats thinner. Also, make sure there’s good air circulation around the trays.

Are these treats suitable for puppies?

Yes, in moderation. Sardines are excellent for puppy development due to Omega-3s. Just ensure the treats are small enough and easy for them to chew.

Can I add other ingredients?

You can add other dog-safe ingredients like a small amount of finely chopped parsley for fresh breath or a pinch of turmeric for anti-inflammatory benefits. But here’s the problem, too many additions can change the consistency and drying time.

My treats are still soft after dehydrating. What should I do?

This means they need more drying time. Put them back in the dehydrator until they are completely firm and brittle. Soft treats can mold quickly.

Wrapping Up

Making these sardine and kelp dog treats is a simple way to show your furry friend some love with healthy, homemade goodness. They’re tasty, nutritious, and free from unwanted additives. So here’s what happened, your dog gets a fantastic treat and you get peace of mind.