Homemade Dog Cookies With Tuna & Oat Flour

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 your dog’s treats? A lot of the stuff you grab off the shelf is packed with fillers and weird preservatives that can mess with your pup’s stomach and even lead to bigger health problems down the road.

Labels don’t make it any easier, they’re confusing at best.

Here’s the good news: you can skip all that and make a simple, tasty homemade dog cookie. Your dog will love them, and you’ll know exactly what’s inside.

Recipe Overview

• This homemade dog cookie recipe takes about 15 minutes to prep and 20 minutes to bake.
• It yields roughly 24-30 small cookies, depending on size.
• These treats are packed with lean protein from tuna and fiber from oat flour, making them great for sensitive tummies.
• They are a healthy, grain-free option that dogs love.

Ingredients List

• 1 (5-ounce) can tuna in water, undrained – $1.50 (provides omega-3 fatty acids and lean protein)
• 1 cup oat flour (gluten-free if preferred) – $2.00 (provides fiber and complex carbohydrates)
• 1 large egg – $0.30 (binds ingredients, adds protein)
• 1/4 cup shredded carrots – $0.25 (adds vitamins A and K, fiber)
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped – $0.15 (natural breath freshener, vitamins C and K)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil – $0.10 (healthy fats for skin and coat)
• Optional: 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce – $0.20 (adds moisture and natural sweetness, optional)

Total estimated cost: $4.50

Substitutions: You can swap tuna for canned salmon (in water, no salt added) or shredded cooked chicken. If you don’t have oat flour, you can make your own by blending rolled oats until fine. For carrots, pumpkin puree (not pie filling) is another good option.

Step-by-Step Instructions

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
• In a medium bowl, combine the undrained tuna, oat flour, egg, shredded carrots, chopped parsley, and olive oil.
• If using, add the unsweetened applesauce now.
• Mix everything thoroughly until a firm dough forms.
• It should be easy to handle, not too sticky.
• Roll the dough out on a lightly floured surface (use oat flour) to about 1/4 inch thickness.
• Use a small cookie cutter (or a knife to cut squares) to shape the cookies.
• Place the shaped cookies onto the prepared baking sheet.
• Bake for 18-22 minutes, or until the cookies are golden brown and firm to the touch.
• Let them cool completely on a wire rack before serving.

Feeding Guidelines

• These cookies are treats, not a meal replacement.
• For small dogs (under 20 lbs): 1-2 cookies per day.
• For medium dogs (20-50 lbs): 2-3 cookies per day.
• For large dogs (over 50 lbs): 3-4 cookies per day.
• Adjust based on your dog’s activity level. Very active dogs might get a little more, while less active dogs should have fewer.
• Puppies and senior dogs might need smaller, softer pieces. Always break them into appropriate sizes.
• If your dog has health conditions or allergies, talk to your vet first. They can give you personalized advice on treats and portion sizes.

Nutritional Benefits of the Recipe

• Tuna provides high-quality lean protein, which is essential for muscle maintenance and overall health. It also delivers beneficial omega-3 fatty acids for skin and coat health.
• Oat flour is a good source of complex carbohydrates and dietary fiber, supporting healthy digestion and providing sustained energy. It’s often well-tolerated by dogs with grain sensitivities.
• Eggs contribute additional protein, essential amino acids, and vital vitamins like B12 and D. They also offer healthy fats.
• Carrots are packed with beta-carotene, which converts to Vitamin A, crucial for good vision and immune function. They also add fiber.
• Parsley acts as a natural breath freshener and provides vitamins K and C, and antioxidants.
• Olive oil offers monounsaturated fats, beneficial for cardiovascular health and promoting a shiny coat.

Storage and Serving Tips

• Store these homemade dog cookies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 7 days.
• For longer storage, freeze the cooled cookies in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2-3 months.
• To thaw frozen cookies, simply place them in the refrigerator overnight or let them sit at room temperature for an hour.
• You can serve them at room temperature.
• They make great training treats.
• Break them into smaller pieces for puppies or older dogs with dental issues.

Common Questions & Troubleshooting

Can I use other types of flour?

Yes, you can. Chickpea flour or brown rice flour are other dog-safe alternatives, but the texture might vary slightly. Always check that any flour you use is safe for dogs.

My dog has a fish allergy. What can I use instead of tuna?

If your dog is allergic to fish, you can substitute the tuna with cooked, shredded chicken breast or lean ground turkey. Make sure it’s plain and unseasoned.

How do I know if these cookies are suitable for my dog?

Every dog is different. It’s always best to introduce new treats slowly and watch for any digestive upset. If you have concerns, talk to your vet, especially if your dog has existing health conditions or dietary restrictions.

Wrapping Up

Making these homemade tuna and oat flour dog cookies is a simple way to show your dog some love with a healthy, delicious treat. They are easy to make and your furry friend will surely appreciate them. Feeling inspired? Pin this recipe to your Homemade Dog Food board for easy access and follow us for more pet-friendly tips!