Homemade Dog Cookies With Spinach & Flaxseed

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.

Ever wonder what’s actually in those treats you buy for your dog? All those weird ingredients and fillers on the label don’t exactly inspire confidence.

Sometimes they even leave your dog with an upset stomach or allergies, or just kind of sluggish.

You want to give your pup something better, something you can trust. Good news: you can whip up healthy, tasty homemade dog cookies without much fuss. Here’s a quick recipe your dog will love, and you’ll feel good about giving them.

Recipe Overview

• This homemade dog cookie recipe takes about 20 minutes to prep and 25 minutes to bake.
• It’s packed with spinach for vitamins, flaxseed for Omega-3s, and whole wheat for fiber.
• These treats are great for all adult dogs, supporting skin, coat, and digestive health.
• The recipe yields roughly 30-40 cookies, depending on cookie cutter size.

Ingredients List

• 1 cup whole wheat flour – Estimated cost: $0.25 (for portion)
• 1/2 cup rolled oats (uncooked) – Estimated cost: $0.15 (for portion)
• 1/4 cup ground flaxseed – Estimated cost: $0.75 (for portion)
• 1/2 cup fresh spinach, finely chopped – Estimated cost: $0.50 (for portion)
• 1 large egg – Estimated cost: $0.20
• 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce – Estimated cost: $0.20 (for portion)
• 1/4 cup water (or low-sodium chicken broth) – Estimated cost: $0.00 / $0.10
• 1 tablespoon olive oil – Estimated cost: $0.10 (for portion)
• Total Estimated Cost: $2.15 – $2.25

Substitutions:

• Whole wheat flour: You can use oat flour or rice flour for gluten-sensitive dogs.
• Rolled oats: Quick oats work fine too, but rolled oats offer a bit more texture.
• Applesauce: Mashed banana or pumpkin puree can be used instead.
• Water: Low-sodium chicken or beef broth adds extra flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
• In a large bowl, mix the whole wheat flour, rolled oats, and ground flaxseed until well combined.
• Add the finely chopped fresh spinach to the dry ingredients and mix evenly.
• In a separate small bowl, whisk together the egg, unsweetened applesauce, water (or broth), and olive oil.
• Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Mix until a firm dough forms.
• Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for a couple of minutes until smooth.
• Roll the dough out to about 1/4 inch thickness.
• Use a dog bone-shaped cookie cutter (or any small cookie cutter) to cut out shapes.
• Place the cookies on the prepared baking sheet.
• Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the cookies are firm.
• Let the cookies cool completely on a wire rack before serving to your dog.

Feeding Guidelines

• These cookies are treats and should not replace a balanced diet.
• For small dogs (under 20 lbs), offer 1-2 cookies per day.
• Medium dogs (20-50 lbs) can have 2-3 cookies daily.
• Large dogs (over 50 lbs) can enjoy 3-4 cookies daily.
• Adjust quantity based on your dog’s activity level. Very active dogs might get a little more, while less active dogs should have fewer.
• For puppies or seniors, consider breaking cookies into smaller pieces.
• Always talk to your veterinarian for personalized feeding advice, especially if your dog has specific health conditions or dietary needs.

Nutritional Benefits of the Recipe

• Whole Wheat Flour: Provides complex carbohydrates for sustained energy and fiber for healthy digestion.
• Rolled Oats: A good source of soluble fiber, which supports gut health and can help regulate blood sugar. It’s also gentle on sensitive stomachs.
• Ground Flaxseed: Rich in Omega-3 fatty acids (ALA), important for a shiny coat, healthy skin, and anti-inflammatory benefits. It also adds dietary fiber.
• Fresh Spinach: Packed with vitamins K, A, C, and B vitamins, plus iron and antioxidants, which support immune function and overall vitality.
• Egg: A complete protein source, offering essential amino acids vital for muscle growth and repair.
• Applesauce: Adds natural sweetness and moisture, along with some fiber and vitamin C.
• Olive Oil: Provides healthy monounsaturated fats, beneficial for heart health and coat condition.

Storage and Serving Tips

• Store these homemade dog cookies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
• For longer storage, freeze the cookies for up to three months. Thaw them in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature for a few hours before serving.
• You can serve them at room temperature or slightly warmed.
• These cookies are great on their own, or you can crumble a piece over your dog’s regular kibble as a special meal topper.

Common Questions & Troubleshooting

Can I use different vegetables?

Yes, you can swap spinach for other dog-safe vegetables like finely grated carrots, pumpkin puree, or sweet potato puree. Just ensure they are plain and cooked if necessary.

Are these cookies suitable for puppies?

Yes, in moderation. Puppies have specific nutritional needs, but these cookies can be a healthy treat. Just break them into smaller, puppy-sized pieces. Always check with your vet first.

My dog has a wheat allergy. What flour can I use?

You can use oat flour, rice flour, or a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Make sure the blend does not contain xylitol or other dog-unsafe ingredients.

How can I make these cookies more flavorful?

Using low-sodium chicken or beef broth instead of water adds a nice boost of flavor that dogs love. A tiny bit of plain peanut butter (xylitol-free) can also be added to the wet ingredients.

Wrapping Up

Making these spinach and flaxseed dog cookies is an easy way to show your dog some love with healthy, homemade treats. They’re simple, nutritious, and your dog will absolutely adore them.

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