Homemade Dehydrator Dog Treats Recipe With Venison Strips & Rosemary

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.

Giving your dog treats from the store sometimes feels like rolling the dice. You flip over the bag, squint at the ingredients, and start worrying, what’s really in these things?

Maybe that’s why your dog’s stomach acts up. You want the best for them, but it’s hard to trust what you’re buying.

Here’s the good news: you can whip up homemade dehydrator dog treats that are tasty, safe, and healthy easily. Let me show you how.

Recipe Overview

• This homemade dehydrator dog treat recipe uses venison and rosemary.
• It is perfect for dogs with sensitive stomachs or common protein allergies.
• The treats are high in lean protein and free from artificial additives.
• Prep time: 15 minutes.
• Cook time: 6-12 hours (dehydration time varies).
• Serving size: Approximately 60-80 small strips.

Ingredients List

• 1 pound Venison round or loin, trimmed of fat (approx. $15.00 – $20.00)
• 2 sprigs fresh Rosemary, leaves finely chopped (approx. $2.00)
• 1/4 cup Apple Cider Vinegar (approx. $1.00)
• Total Estimated Cost: $18.00 – $23.00

Suitable Substitutions:

• Venison can be swapped for lean beef (like sirloin or top round) or turkey breast.
• Rosemary can be replaced with fresh parsley or thyme for different flavor and digestive benefits.

Step-by-Step Instructions

• Trim all visible fat from the venison. Fat can go rancid during dehydration.
• Partially freeze the venison for about 30-60 minutes. This makes it much easier to slice thinly.
• Slice the venison into thin strips, about 1/8 to 1/4 inch thick. Aim for strips that are 1-2 inches long and 1/2 inch wide.
• In a bowl, combine the venison strips, finely chopped rosemary, and apple cider vinegar.
• Mix well to ensure all strips are coated. The vinegar helps tenderize the meat and acts as a natural preservative.
• Arrange the venison strips in a single layer on your dehydrator trays. Make sure they don’t overlap, so air can circulate evenly.
• Set your dehydrator to 145-160°F (63-71°C).
• Dehydrate for 6-12 hours, or until the strips are completely dry and brittle. They should snap cleanly when bent, not bend or feel chewy.
• Check the strips periodically for dryness. Thicker pieces will take longer.

Feeding Guidelines

• Small dogs (under 20 lbs): 1-2 strips per day.
• Medium dogs (20-50 lbs): 2-4 strips per day.
• Large dogs (over 50 lbs): 4-6 strips per day.
• Puppies and highly active dogs might need slightly more, but always in moderation.
• Older or less active dogs may need fewer treats to avoid excess calories.
• For puppies, you can break the strips into smaller, more manageable pieces.
• Consult your veterinarian for personalized feeding advice, especially if your dog has specific dietary needs or health conditions.

Nutritional Benefits of the Recipe

• Venison is a lean protein source, rich in iron, zinc, and B vitamins. It supports muscle health and energy.
• It’s an excellent choice for dogs with sensitivities to common proteins like chicken or beef.
• Rosemary acts as a natural antioxidant and anti-inflammatory. It can also help with digestion and promote fresh breath.
• Apple cider vinegar aids in digestion and can help preserve the treats naturally.
• These treats are low in fat and free from artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives often found in commercial treats.
• The dehydration process retains most of the essential nutrients, offering a wholesome snack.
• There are good levels of essential fatty acids (Omega-3 and Omega-6) from the venison, though a balanced diet with other foods is always key.

Storage and Serving Tips

• Once completely cooled, store the dehydrated treats in an airtight container.
• They will stay fresh at room temperature for up to 2-3 weeks.
• For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to 1 month or freeze them for up to 3 months.
• If freezing, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
• Serve these treats as a reward during training, a high-value snack, or simply to show your dog some love.
• They are best served at room temperature.
• You can break them into smaller pieces for very small dogs or as training rewards.

Common Questions & Troubleshooting

Why is trimming fat important for dehydrating?

Fat can go rancid during the dehydration process, which can make the treats spoil faster and taste bad. It’s best to remove as much fat as possible.

Can I use other herbs instead of rosemary?

Yes, you can. Fresh parsley or thyme are good dog-safe alternatives that also offer health benefits. Just make sure they are used in moderation.

My treats are not snapping, they’re still chewy. What should I do?

This means they need more time in the dehydrator. Continue drying them until they are completely brittle and snap easily. Chewy treats can still contain moisture and spoil faster.

Are these treats suitable for puppies?

Yes, they are. Venison is a lean protein and rosemary is safe for puppies in small amounts. Just ensure the strips are broken into very small, manageable pieces to prevent choking.

Wrapping Up

Making your own venison and rosemary dog treats is easy and so rewarding. Your dog will love these healthy, natural snacks. Go ahead, give this recipe a try today! Pin this recipe to your Homemade Dog Food board for easy access and follow us for more pet-friendly tips!