Homemade Dog Cookies With Blueberries & Yogurt

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 playing detective with your dog’s treats? It’s stressful, not knowing what’s actually in those bags, especially when your pup ends up with an upset stomach.

So many store-bought snacks have weird ingredients you can’t even say out loud, and honestly, who wants to feed their dog that stuff?

Here’s the good news: making your own homemade dog cookies treats isn’t just easy, it’s a way to know exactly what your dog’s eating. Plus, you get to skip all the junk and keep them happy and healthy.

Homemade Dog Cookies With Blueberries & Yogurt Overview

• Purpose: Delicious and nutritious homemade dog treats.
• Benefits: Packed with antioxidants, probiotics, and fiber; great for sensitive stomachs.
• Prep time: 15 minutes.
• Cook time: 25 minutes.
• Serving size: Approximately 24-30 cookies (depending on cutter size).

Ingredients List

• 1 cup whole wheat flour ($0.25) – Substitution: Oat flour or gluten-free flour blend for dogs with wheat sensitivities.
• 1/2 cup rolled oats ($0.15) – Not instant oats.
• 1/4 cup fresh blueberries ($1.00) – Washed and lightly mashed.
• 1/4 cup plain, unsweetened yogurt ($0.50) – Regular or Greek, full-fat is fine. Ensure it contains no xylitol.
• 1 large egg ($0.25) – Binder and protein boost.
• 2 tablespoons peanut butter ($0.30) – All-natural, xylitol-free. Check labels carefully.
• 1 tablespoon honey ($0.20) – Optional, for a touch of sweetness; choose raw local honey if possible.
• 1/4 cup water ($0.00) – Or as needed to achieve dough consistency.
• 1 teaspoon baking powder ($0.05) – Make sure it’s aluminum-free.

Total estimated cost: $2.70

Step-by-Step Instructions

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
• In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the whole wheat flour, rolled oats, and baking powder. Make sure there are no lumps.
• In a separate medium bowl, combine the mashed blueberries, plain yogurt, egg, peanut butter, and honey (if using). Stir until well mixed.
• Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Mix everything until a thick dough forms.
• Add water, one tablespoon at a time, until the dough comes together and is easy to handle. It should not be too sticky or too dry.
• Flour your work surface lightly. Roll out the dough to about 1/4 inch thickness.
• Use a cookie cutter to cut out shapes. You can use any dog-friendly shape or just cut squares with a knife.
• Place the cut cookies on your prepared baking sheet. Leave a little space between each one.
• Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the cookies are firm. The exact time depends on your oven and cookie thickness.
• Let the cookies cool completely on a wire rack before serving. This makes them firm up and prevents them from getting soggy.

Feeding Guidelines

• Small dogs (under 20 lbs): 1-2 cookies per day.
• Medium dogs (20-50 lbs): 2-3 cookies per day.
• Large dogs (over 50 lbs): 3-4 cookies per day.
• Puppies and highly active dogs might need a bit more. But here’s the thing, these are treats, not a meal replacement.
• For older dogs or those needing to lose weight, adjust portions down. And remember, every dog is different.
• Always talk to your vet for personalized feeding advice, especially if your dog has any health conditions or dietary restrictions.

Nutritional Benefits of the Recipe

• Whole Wheat Flour: Provides complex carbohydrates for sustained energy and dietary fiber for digestive health.
• Rolled Oats: A great source of soluble fiber, which supports healthy digestion and can help regulate blood sugar. They are also gentle on sensitive stomachs.
• Blueberries: Packed with antioxidants, like anthocyanins, which help fight free radicals and support overall cellular health and immune function. They also contain Vitamin C and K.
• Plain Yogurt: A natural probiotic source, promoting a healthy gut microbiome and aiding digestion. It also provides calcium for strong bones and teeth.
• Egg: A complete protein source, offering all essential amino acids for muscle maintenance and repair. It also contains vitamins D, E, and B vitamins.
• Peanut Butter (xylitol-free): Provides healthy fats, protein, and essential vitamins like B-complex and E. Remember to check for xylitol.
• Honey (optional): Contains antioxidants and may have some antibacterial properties. It also offers a natural energy boost.

Storage and Serving Tips

• Store these homemade cookies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 7-10 days.
• For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2-3 months. Thaw them in the refrigerator or at room temperature before serving.
• You can serve these cookies at room temperature. Some dogs might like them slightly warmed up, but be careful not to make them hot.
• These treats are great on their own or can be crumbled and mixed into their regular kibble for an extra flavor boost.

Common Questions & Troubleshooting (FAQ)

Can I use frozen blueberries?

Yes, you can use frozen blueberries. Just thaw them first and pat them dry to remove excess moisture before mashing.

My dog is allergic to wheat. What flour can I use?

You can substitute whole wheat flour with oat flour or a gluten-free flour blend. Always check the ingredients to ensure they are dog-safe.

Can I add other fruits or vegetables?

Absolutely! Small amounts of other dog-safe fruits like strawberries or mashed banana, or finely grated carrots or pumpkin puree, can be added. Avoid grapes, raisins, onions, and garlic.

Why did my cookies turn out soft and crumbly?

This usually means they needed more baking time to dry out or were rolled too thick. Try baking them a bit longer next time, or rolling the dough thinner.

Is the honey really necessary?

No, honey is optional. It adds a touch of sweetness but isn’t required for the cookies to be tasty or beneficial for your dog. If your dog has weight issues or diabetes, it’s best to omit it.

Wrapping Up

Making these homemade blueberry and yogurt dog cookies is a simple way to show your pet some love with healthy, wholesome ingredients. They are easy to make, packed with good stuff, and your dog will absolutely adore them.

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