Homemade Dog Treat Recipe for Allergies Using Sweet Potato

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.

Is​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌ your dog always itching, scratching, or having stomach troubles after eating?

It is hard to see them suffer, and products bought from the store usually worsen the situation because of the hidden ingredients.

Just think of how this simple and nutritious way that would give them relief and tail ​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌wagging. Try it out!

Recipe Overview

• Purpose: Hypoallergenic, grain-free treat for dogs with allergies or sensitive stomachs.
• Benefits: Rich in fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants. Supports digestion and skin health.
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Serving Size: Approximately 20-30 treats (depending on cutter size)

Ingredients List

• 1 large sweet potato (about 1.5 lbs) – Estimated cost: $2.50
• 1/2 cup gluten-free oat flour – Estimated cost: $1.00 (from a 16oz bag)
• 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce – Estimated cost: $0.50
• 1 tablespoon coconut oil, melted – Estimated cost: $0.30
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon – Estimated cost: $0.10
• Supplement (optional, but recommended)

Substitutions: You can use pumpkin puree instead of applesauce. For oat flour, chickpea flour is another good gluten-free option. If your dog can have grains, regular whole wheat flour can work, but for allergies, stick to gluten-free.

Total Estimated Cost: $4.40

Step-by-Step Instructions

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
• Wash the sweet potato well, then peel it.
• Cut the sweet potato into small cubes.
• Steam or boil the sweet potato cubes until they are very tender, about 10-15 minutes. You should be able to mash them easily with a fork.
• Drain the cooked sweet potato thoroughly.
• In a large bowl, mash the sweet potato until it’s smooth. There should be no lumps.
• Add the oat flour, applesauce, melted coconut oil, and cinnamon to the mashed sweet potato.
• Mix everything together until it forms a stiff dough. It might be a little sticky, and that’s okay.
• On a lightly floured surface (use more oat flour), roll out the dough to about 1/4 inch thickness.
• Use a small cookie cutter (like a bone or circle shape) to cut out your treats.
• Place the cut-out treats on your prepared baking sheet.
• Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the treats are firm and slightly golden brown. They should be crisp when done.
• Let the treats cool completely on a wire rack before serving. This makes them nice and crunchy.

Feeding Guidelines

• Small dogs (under 20 lbs): 1-2 treats per day.
• Medium dogs (20-50 lbs): 2-4 treats per day.
• Large dogs (over 50 lbs): 4-6 treats per day.
• Puppies: Give smaller pieces, 1-2 times a day, always supervised.
• Seniors: These treats are soft once chewed and good for older dogs. Stick to smaller portions to manage calorie intake.
• Pregnant/nursing dogs: Can have a few extra treats for added nutrients, but ensure they are eating their regular complete diet.
• For dogs with severe allergies or other health conditions, talk to your vet first. They can give you personalized advice.

Nutritional Benefits of the Recipe

• Sweet Potato: This is a powerhouse. It’s loaded with fiber for digestion and gut health. Plus, it has tons of vitamins like A and C, which are great for skin, coat, and immunity.
• Oat Flour: A fantastic gluten-free carb source. It offers soluble fiber, helping with stable blood sugar and a healthy digestive system. It’s gentle on sensitive stomachs.
• Applesauce: Adds natural sweetness and moisture. It’s another good source of fiber, helping keep things moving smoothly.
• Coconut Oil: Contains medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), which are easily digestible and can give an energy boost. It’s also known for supporting skin and coat health, which is a big plus for allergy dogs.
• Cinnamon: More than just a spice. It has anti-inflammatory properties and can help regulate blood sugar. Use it in small amounts.
• Overall: These treats are lower in fat than many commercial options. They provide important vitamins and minerals like potassium and manganese. They’re also free from common allergens like corn, soy, and wheat.

Storage and Serving Tips

• Store these treats in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
• For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to 10 days.
• You can also freeze the baked treats for up to 2 months. Thaw them in the fridge overnight or warm them slightly in the oven before serving.
• Serve them at room temperature.
• These treats are great on their own, but you can also crumble a piece over their regular kibble for an extra special meal.

Common Questions & Troubleshooting

Can I add other ingredients?

Yes, but be careful. You can add a tablespoon of ground flaxseed for Omega-3s or a sprinkle of turmeric for anti-inflammatory benefits. Always check if new ingredients are dog-safe.

My dough is too sticky/dry. What should I do?

If it’s too sticky, add a little more oat flour, a tablespoon at a time, until it’s workable. If it’s too dry, add a tiny bit more applesauce or water, a teaspoon at a time.

How do I make these treats crunchy?

Bake them until they are firm and golden brown. If they’re not crunchy enough, you can turn off the oven and leave them inside as the oven cools down. This helps dry them out more.

Are these suitable for puppies?

Yes, in moderation. They are soft enough for puppy teeth and easy to digest. Break them into smaller pieces for little mouths.

Wrapping Up

Making these homemade sweet potato treats is a simple way to show your dog love and support their health, especially if they have allergies. It’s rewarding to know exactly what goes into their food.

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