Homemade Dog Treat Recipe for Christmas: Sweet Potato & Rosemary Wreaths

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.

Have​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌ you had enough of trying to figure out the ingredients of those Christmas treats that you buy from the store? There are numerous pet snacks that are packed with strange things and artificial ingredients.

And as a matter of fact, you want your pet to have a nice time during the holidays, not to be concerned with a bad stomach. The good news is that I have a straightforward and nutritious homemade dog treat recipe for you ​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌here.

Recipe Overview

• This homemade dog treat recipe is perfect for the holidays, using sweet potato and fresh rosemary.
• It’s made with simple, wholesome ingredients you probably already have.
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Serving Size: Makes about 2 dozen small wreaths

Ingredients List

• 1 large Sweet Potato (about 1.5 cups mashed): $1.50
• 1 cup Oat Flour (or rolled oats blended into flour): $0.75
• 1/4 cup Fresh Rosemary, finely chopped: $0.50
• 1/4 cup Water (as needed): $0.00
• 1 Egg, large: $0.30
• Total Estimated Cost: $3.05

Substitutions:

• Sweet Potato: You can use pumpkin puree (canned, unsweetened) for a similar texture and nutritional profile.
• Oat Flour: Whole wheat flour or brown rice flour can work too, but check for dog sensitivities.
• Rosemary: Fresh parsley or mint can offer different flavors and benefits.

Step-by-Step Instructions

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
• First, cook your sweet potato. You can boil it, steam it, or microwave it until it’s really soft.
• Once it’s cooked, let it cool down a bit, then peel it and mash it well in a large bowl.
• Add the oat flour, chopped rosemary, and egg to the mashed sweet potato.
• Mix everything together until it forms a thick dough.
• If the dough is too dry, add water one tablespoon at a time until it’s pliable but not sticky.
• Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface (use oat flour) to about 1/4 inch thickness.
• Use a small round cookie cutter (about 1.5-2 inches) to cut out circles.
• Then, use an even smaller round cutter or the wide end of a piping tip to cut out the center of each circle, creating a wreath shape.
• Carefully place the wreaths on your prepared baking sheet.
• Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the treats are firm and slightly golden brown.
• Let them cool completely on a wire rack before letting your dog enjoy.

Feeding Guidelines

• These treats are intended as a supplement, not a meal replacement.
• Small Dogs (under 20 lbs): 1-2 wreaths per day.
• Medium Dogs (20-50 lbs): 2-3 wreaths per day.
• Large Dogs (over 50 lbs): 3-4 wreaths per day.
• Adjust based on your dog’s activity level and overall diet. An active dog might get a little more, a couch potato less.
• For puppies, senior dogs, or dogs with specific health conditions, always talk to your vet first. They can give you personalized advice.

Nutritional Benefits of the Recipe

• Sweet Potato: A fantastic source of dietary fiber, beta-carotene (a precursor to Vitamin A), and essential vitamins like B6 and C. It supports digestive health and boosts the immune system.
• Oat Flour: Provides complex carbohydrates for sustained energy and is rich in soluble fiber, which is great for digestion and can help regulate blood sugar. It’s also naturally gluten-free, making it good for sensitive stomachs.
• Rosemary: Contains antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds. It’s also a natural preservative and can help with bad breath.
• Egg: An excellent source of high-quality protein, essential amino acids, and healthy fats. It contributes to muscle health and energy.
• Overall, these treats offer a good balance of fiber, vitamins, and protein, contributing to a healthy digestive system, skin, and coat.

Storage and Serving Tips

• Store these treats in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5-7 days.
• For longer storage, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2-3 months.
• Thaw frozen treats in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature for a few hours before serving.
• You can serve them at room temperature. Some dogs might even like them slightly warmed up for a few seconds in the microwave.
• These are great as a special reward, training treat, or just a festive holiday snack.

Common Questions & Troubleshooting

Can I add other ingredients?

Sure, but be careful. Always make sure any new ingredient is dog-safe. A little cinnamon (not too much) or some flax seeds could be nice.

My dog has allergies, what should I do?

If your dog has specific allergies, always check the substitution section and consult your vet. For example, if they’re sensitive to grains, you might use coconut flour in tiny amounts, but it changes the texture.

The dough is too sticky/dry.

If it’s too sticky, add a little more oat flour. If it’s too dry and crumbly, add water one teaspoon at a time until it comes together.

How do I know if the treats are fully cooked?

They should be firm to the touch and slightly golden around the edges. They’ll also feel dry, not soft or moist in the center.

Wrapping Up

Making these Sweet Potato & Rosemary Wreaths is an easy way to show your dog some extra holiday love with healthy, homemade goodness. They’re simple, safe, and super tasty for your best friend.

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