Homemade Dog Dental Treat using Frozen Parsley & 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 your dog’s breath clearing the room? You’re not alone.

Most store-bought dental treats come packed with weird ingredients, and honestly, they don’t always work. You end up annoyed, and your dog’s breath still reeks.

The good news? You can whip up a natural dog dental treat at home, and it’s easier than you think.

Recipe Overview

• This homemade dental treat recipe takes just 15 minutes of prep time and about 2 hours to freeze.
• It’s packed with natural breath fresheners and probiotics.
• Ideal for maintaining your dog’s dental hygiene and gut health.
• Yields approximately 24 treats, depending on mold size.

Ingredients List

• 1 cup plain, unsweetened yogurt (e.g., Greek yogurt or regular plain yogurt, full-fat or low-fat): Approximately $0.75 – $1.00
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped (about 1/2 bunch): Approximately $0.50 – $0.75
• 1 tablespoon fresh mint, finely chopped (optional, but good for extra freshness): Approximately $0.25 – $0.50
• 1 tablespoon coconut oil, melted: Approximately $0.10 – $0.20
• Total Estimated Cost: $1.60 – $2.45

Suitable substitutions:

• Yogurt: For dogs with dairy sensitivities, use plain, unsweetened kefir or a dairy-free plain yogurt alternative like unsweetened coconut yogurt.
• Parsley/Mint: You can use a bit more parsley if mint isn’t available. Remember, fresh is best for maximum benefit.

Step-by-Step Instructions

• Get a small mixing bowl.
• Add the plain yogurt to the bowl.
• Finely chop the fresh parsley.
• Add the chopped parsley to the yogurt.
• If you’re using mint, chop it finely and add it to the mixture too.
• Melt the coconut oil. You can do this in the microwave for a few seconds or in a small pan over low heat.
• Pour the melted coconut oil into the yogurt and herb mixture.
• Stir everything together until it’s well combined. Make sure the parsley and mint are evenly distributed.
• Get an ice cube tray or silicone mold. Small molds work best for treat portions.
• Spoon the mixture into each cavity of the mold. Don’t overfill them.
• Carefully place the filled mold into your freezer.
• Let them freeze for at least 2 hours, or until completely solid.
• Once frozen, pop them out of the molds.

Feeding Guidelines

• Small dogs (under 20 lbs): 1 treat per day. For example, a Chihuahua or a Pug.
• Medium dogs (20-50 lbs): 1-2 treats per day. Think a Beagle or a Border Collie.
• Large dogs (over 50 lbs): 2-3 treats per day. For instance, a Golden Retriever or a German Shepherd.
• Puppies: Consult your vet before introducing new treats, especially frozen ones. For puppies, a smaller portion might be more appropriate.
• Seniors: These treats are generally safe and good for senior dogs. Adjust portion if they have dental issues.
• Pregnant/Nursing dogs: These dogs have higher caloric needs, but always check with your vet for dietary changes.
• Activity levels: Highly active dogs might tolerate a bit more, while less active dogs might need less to avoid excessive calories.

Always talk to your veterinarian for personalized feeding advice, especially if your dog has any health conditions or dietary restrictions. They can help you determine the best portion for your specific dog.

Nutritional Benefits of the Recipe

• Yogurt: This provides probiotics, which are good bacteria that support a healthy gut. A healthy gut means better digestion and can even help with bad breath from the inside out. It’s also a source of calcium for strong bones.
• Parsley: This herb is a natural breath freshener. It contains chlorophyll, which helps neutralize odors in the mouth and gut. It also provides vitamins A, C, and K, and some iron.
• Mint: Another excellent natural breath freshener. Mint helps mask bad odors and can aid in digestion.
• Coconut Oil: This is great for skin and coat health, and it has some antibacterial properties that can help with oral hygiene. It also provides healthy fats for energy.

This recipe offers a good mix of protein (from yogurt), healthy fats (from coconut oil), and essential vitamins and minerals (from the herbs and yogurt). The fiber content from the herbs is small but adds to overall digestive health.

Storage and Serving Tips

• The treats stay fresh in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months.
• They are designed to be served frozen. Just pop one out and give it to your dog.
• You can offer them as a refreshing treat on a warm day.
• These treats can be given after meals to help with breath or anytime as a healthy snack.
• Don’t microwave or reheat them, as they are meant to be frozen.

Common Questions & Troubleshooting

Can I use flavored yogurt?

No, only plain, unsweetened yogurt is safe. Flavored yogurts often contain artificial sweeteners, sugar, or ingredients like xylitol, which are toxic to dogs.

My dog won’t eat them. What can I do?

Some dogs are picky. You can try adding a tiny bit of peanut butter (xylitol-free) to the mixture before freezing. Or, crumble a small piece over their regular food to introduce the new taste gradually.

How often should I give these treats?

Refer to the feeding guidelines. Giving them daily can help maintain fresh breath and contribute to overall dental health.

Are these a complete meal replacement?

No, these are treats and should not replace your dog’s regular balanced diet. They are a supplement to support dental and digestive health.

Can I use dried parsley or mint?

Fresh is much better for flavor and active compounds that help with breath. Dried herbs have less potency.

Wrapping Up

Making these simple frozen parsley and yogurt dental treats is a great way to tackle bad breath naturally. Your dog gets a healthy, tasty treat, and you get closer to those fresh-smelling puppy kisses. Feeling inspired? Pin this recipe to your Homemade Dog Treats board for easy access and follow us for more pet-friendly tips!