Homemade Dog Treat Recipe for Allergies Using Sardines & Oats

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.

Want a dog that is happy and healthy but manufactured treats are not doing the job?

Quite a lot of treats are loaded with filler ingredients that may cause your pet to develop allergies and thus, he may start scratching, biting, and feeling uneasy.

It is really hard to watch them suffer and the process of finding something that they love and that is good for them can be really difficult.

That said, the fact remains that you can provide your dog tasty, nutritious treats made just for digestive tracts that are ​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌sensitive.

Recipe Overview

• This homemade dog treat recipe is great for dogs with allergies, especially to common proteins like chicken or beef.
• It uses sardines and oats, which are gentle on the tummy and packed with good stuff.
• Prep time: 15 minutes
• Cook time: 25-30 minutes
• Serving size: Approximately 40-50 small treats

Ingredients List

• 1 (3.75 oz) can wild-caught sardines in water (no salt added), drained: $2.50
• 1 cup oat flour (or grind rolled oats into flour): $0.75
• 1/2 cup rolled oats (quick or old-fashioned): $0.50
• 1 large egg: $0.20
• 1/4 cup unsweetened apple sauce: $0.30
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped: $0.15
• Optional: 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder for anti-inflammatory benefits: $0.10

Total estimated cost: $4.50

Substitutions:

• Sardines: If your dog doesn’t like sardines, you can use canned salmon in water (ensure it’s boneless and skinless if not buying salmon for pets).
• Oat Flour/Oats: If your dog has an oat allergy, you can use rice flour or chickpea flour as alternatives. Always introduce new ingredients slowly.

Step-by-Step Instructions

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
• In a medium bowl, mash the drained sardines with a fork until they are a fine paste.
• Add the oat flour, rolled oats, egg, unsweetened apple sauce, and chopped parsley to the bowl with the sardines.
• If you’re using turmeric, add it now.
• Mix everything well until a firm dough forms.
• You might need to use your hands to get it all combined.
• On a lightly floured surface (use oat flour), roll out the dough to about 1/4 inch thickness.
• Use a small cookie cutter or a knife to cut out desired treat shapes.
• Place the cut treats on the prepared baking sheet.
• Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the treats are golden brown and firm.
• The baking time can vary, so keep an eye on them.
• Let the treats 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.
• These are treats, not a meal replacement.
• Always adjust based on your dog’s size, activity level, and overall diet.
• Puppies might need smaller pieces.
• Older dogs might need softer treats; if so, you can bake them slightly less or break them into smaller bits.
• If your dog is very active, they might handle a few more.
• If your dog is trying to lose weight, reduce the number of treats.
• It’s always a good idea to talk to your vet about your dog’s specific dietary needs.
• They can give you personalized advice.

Nutritional Benefits of the Recipe

• Sardines: These are tiny powerhouses of Omega-3 fatty acids (EPA and DHA), which are good for brain health, joint health, and a shiny coat. They also provide high-quality protein and essential minerals like calcium and vitamin D.
• Oats: A great source of soluble fiber, which helps with digestion and can be soothing for sensitive stomachs. Oats are also packed with B vitamins and iron. They’re a good complex carbohydrate for sustained energy.
• Egg: Provides high-quality protein and a range of vitamins and minerals like Vitamin A, B12, and selenium.
• Unsweetened Apple Sauce: Offers some dietary fiber and antioxidants. It’s a natural sweetener without added sugars.
• Parsley: More than just a garnish, parsley contains vitamins K, A, and C, and is known for its breath-freshening properties.
• Turmeric (optional): This spice has anti-inflammatory properties, which can be helpful for dogs with joint issues or general inflammation.

Storage and Serving Tips

• Once completely cooled, store the treats in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5-7 days.
• For longer storage, you can freeze the treats for up to 2-3 months.
• Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• To thaw, just move them from the freezer to the fridge overnight, or let them sit at room temperature for a bit.
• You can serve these treats at room temperature or slightly warmed.
• Some dogs like them mixed in with their regular kibble as a special topper.
• Always make sure your dog has fresh water available, especially after eating treats.

Common Questions & Troubleshooting

Can I use fresh sardines instead of canned?

Yes, you can. Just make sure they are deboned, descaled, and cooked plain (steamed or baked) without any seasonings or oils. Canned sardines in water are often easier and safer because they are already processed for consumption.

My dog is allergic to eggs. What can I use instead?

You can try a “flax egg” (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water, let sit for 5 minutes) or a commercial egg replacer if your dog tolerates it. The egg acts as a binder, so an alternative binder is needed.

Why did my treats turn out too crumbly or too soft?

If too crumbly, your dough might have been too dry; add a tiny bit more apple sauce or water next time. If too soft, they might need a few more minutes in the oven to dry out. Oven temperatures can vary, so adjust baking time as needed.

Wrapping Up

Making these homemade sardine and oat treats for your dog is a great way to show them love, especially if they have allergies.

They’re simple, healthy, and your pup will adore them.

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