Homemade Dog Dental Treat using Cinnamon & Oat

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.

Does your dog’s breath make you cringe? Tired of squinting at labels on store-bought treats, wondering what’s really inside?

Of course you want the best for your pup, but honestly, finding something safe and that actually works can be tough.

Here’s the good news: you’ve probably got a simple, natural homemade dog dental treat recipe to help their teeth and gums sitting in your kitchen right now.

Recipe Overview

• Purpose: Supports dental health and freshens breath naturally.
• Benefits: All-natural, easy to digest, no artificial additives.
• Prep time: 15 minutes
• Cook time: 20-25 minutes
• Serving size: Approximately 30-40 small treats

Ingredients List

• 1 cup rolled oats (quick or old-fashioned): $0.50
• 1/2 cup unsweetened apple sauce: $0.75
• 1/4 cup unsalted, unsweetened peanut butter: $1.00
• 1 large egg: $0.20
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: $0.10
• 1/4 cup water (as needed for consistency): $0.00
• Total Estimated Cost: $2.55

Substitutions:

• Oats: You can use oat flour if you prefer, or grind your own rolled oats into a flour.
• Apple sauce: Pureed pumpkin (canned, not pie filling) works well too.
• Peanut butter: SunButter (sunflower seed butter) is a good alternative if your dog has a peanut allergy. Just make sure it’s xylitol-free.

Step-by-Step Instructions

• Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
• Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
• In a large bowl, mix the rolled oats, apple sauce, peanut butter, egg, and cinnamon.
• Stir well until a thick dough forms.
• If the dough is too dry, add water a teaspoon at a time until it’s pliable.
• Roll the dough out on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness.
• Use a small cookie cutter to cut out shapes.
• Place the treats on the prepared baking sheet.
• Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and firm.
• Let them cool completely on a wire rack before serving.

Feeding Guidelines

• Small dogs (under 20 lbs): 1-2 treats per day.
• Medium dogs (20-50 lbs): 2-3 treats per day.
• Large dogs (over 50 lbs): 3-4 treats per day.

Puppies, senior dogs, and very active dogs might have different needs.

For puppies, you might break treats into smaller pieces. Older dogs might benefit from softer treats, so you could bake them for slightly less time. Very active dogs might get an extra treat now and then, but remember these are treats, not a meal replacement.

Always talk to your vet about your dog’s diet and treat intake. They know your dog best.

Nutritional Benefits of the Recipe

• Oats: A great source of fiber, which helps digestion. They also provide B vitamins and support skin and coat health.
• Apple Sauce: Contains vitamins A and C, and is a good source of fiber. It adds natural sweetness without sugar.
• Peanut Butter: Provides protein and healthy fats (Omega-6). It’s also a good source of vitamins B and E.
• Egg: Packed with protein, essential amino acids, and fatty acids for overall health.
• Cinnamon: Natural anti-inflammatory properties and helps with fresh breath.

These treats offer complex carbohydrates for sustained energy.

The fiber content from oats and apple sauce supports gut health. The protein from eggs and peanut butter is crucial for muscle maintenance. Cinnamon is a natural way to help with bad breath and can have antioxidant benefits.

Storage and Serving Tips

• Once cooled, store the treats in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 7 days.
• For longer storage, these treats freeze well.
• Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months.
• Thaw frozen treats in the refrigerator overnight or warm them slightly before serving.

You can serve these treats warm, at room temperature, or even crumbled over their regular kibble for an extra boost of flavor and nutrition.

Common Questions & Troubleshooting (FAQ)

Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?

Yes, you can use quick oats. The texture might be slightly different, but the recipe will still work. Quick oats are simply cut smaller and processed more.

Is cinnamon safe for dogs?

Yes, small amounts of ground cinnamon are safe for dogs. It can even offer health benefits like anti-inflammatory properties and breath freshening. Just avoid large quantities or products with artificial cinnamon flavorings.

My dough is too sticky. What should I do?

If your dough is too sticky to roll, add a little more oat flour or ground oats, a teaspoon at a time, until it’s easier to handle. Sometimes humidity can affect dough consistency.

Can I add other ingredients for dental benefits?

You can add a pinch of dried parsley for extra breath freshening. Just make sure any additions are dog-safe and in small quantities.

Wrapping Up

Giving your dog these homemade dental treats is a simple, loving way to support their health. You’ll feel good knowing exactly what they’re eating, and they’ll love the taste. Feeling inspired? Pin this recipe to your Homemade Dog Treats board for easy access and follow us for more pet-friendly tips!