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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.
Itchy skin is a horror for our dogs. The thing is, they keep scratching and biting, and it’s such a heartbreaker.
Maybe you have done it all – from using the special shampoo to taking your pet to the vet at an expensive price – but most of the time the relief is just for a little while.
How about if the answer was there in your kitchen all along? I’m gonna show you a homemade dog treat recipe which directly targets the annoying itch.
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Recipe Overview
- This homemade dog treat recipe for itchy skin takes about 20 minutes to prep and 25 minutes to bake.
- It uses natural ingredients like aloe vera and chicken broth to soothe your dog’s skin from the inside out.
- The recipe yields roughly 30-40 small treats, depending on how you cut them.
- They are perfect for dogs with sensitive skin or mild allergies.
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Ingredients List
- 1 cup Oat Flour (about $0.50): Provides complex carbohydrates and fiber. You can also make your own by blending rolled oats.
- 1/2 cup Cooked Chicken, finely shredded (about $1.50): Excellent source of lean protein. Turkey is a good substitute.
- 1/4 cup Pure Aloe Vera Juice (food grade, not topical gel) (about $1.00): Known for its anti-inflammatory properties. Make sure it’s xylitol-free and safe for internal consumption.
- 1/4 cup Low Sodium Chicken Broth (about $0.25): Adds flavor and moisture. Ensure it’s onion and garlic free. Vegetable broth can be used as an alternative.
- 1 tablespoon Coconut Oil, melted (about $0.30): Contains medium-chain triglycerides, good for skin and coat health. Olive oil is another option.
- 1 Egg (about $0.20): Acts as a binder and provides extra protein.
- Optional: 1/2 teaspoon Turmeric Powder (about $0.10): For added anti-inflammatory benefits.
Total Estimated Cost: $3.85
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, mix the oat flour and shredded chicken. Make sure the chicken is broken down really well.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the aloe vera juice, chicken broth, melted coconut oil, and egg. If you’re using turmeric, add it here too.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients.
- Stir until everything is well combined and forms a firm dough. It should be easy to handle, not too sticky.
- On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to about 1/4 inch thick.
- Use a cookie cutter or a knife to cut the dough into small treat shapes.
- Place the treats on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the treats are golden brown and firm.
- Let them cool completely on a wire rack before serving.
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Feeding Guidelines
- These treats are meant as a supplement, not a full meal.
- For small dogs (under 20 lbs), offer 1-2 treats per day.
- Medium dogs (20-50 lbs) can have 2-3 treats daily.
- Large dogs (over 50 lbs) can enjoy 3-4 treats daily.
- Adjust based on your dog’s activity level and overall diet.
- Puppies, senior dogs, and pregnant/nursing dogs may have different nutritional needs.
- Always check with your vet before introducing new foods, especially if your dog has existing health conditions or severe allergies.
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Nutritional Benefits of the Recipe
- Chicken: A high-quality protein source, crucial for muscle maintenance and overall health.
- Oat Flour: Provides complex carbohydrates for sustained energy and is rich in fiber for healthy digestion. It’s also a good source of B vitamins and iron.
- Aloe Vera Juice: Contains compounds known to reduce inflammation and support skin health. It’s often used for its soothing properties.
- Coconut Oil: Rich in medium-chain fatty acids which can improve skin hydration and coat shine. It also has antimicrobial properties.
- Egg: A complete protein source, offering all essential amino acids and vital vitamins like B12, D, and E.
- Turmeric (Optional): Contains curcumin, a powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant that can help alleviate skin irritation.
- This recipe ensures a good balance of protein, healthy fats, and complex carbohydrates, along with beneficial vitamins and minerals.
Storage and Serving Tips
- Store these homemade treats in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 7 days.
- For longer storage, freeze the treats for up to 3 months.
- Thaw frozen treats in the refrigerator overnight or microwave them briefly until soft.
- You can serve them at room temperature or slightly warmed.
- They can be given as a standalone treat or broken into smaller pieces and mixed with your dog’s regular kibble.
Common Questions & Troubleshooting
How can I be sure the aloe vera is safe for my dog?
Always use pure, food-grade aloe vera juice that is specifically labeled for internal consumption and is free of aloin (a laxative compound) and xylitol. Xylitol is toxic to dogs, so check the label carefully.
My dog has other allergies. Can I substitute ingredients?
Yes, you can. If your dog is allergic to chicken, try cooked turkey or even a plant-based protein like pureed lentils. For oat flour, chickpea flour or rice flour can be good alternatives. Just ensure any substitutions are dog-safe.
What if my dog doesn’t like the taste?
Some dogs can be picky. Try adding a little extra low-sodium chicken broth for more flavor, or a tiny bit of peanut butter (xylitol-free) to the dough. You can also experiment with different protein sources your dog enjoys.
How often should I give these treats for itchy skin?
These treats are for daily supplementation. Consistent use over a few weeks will show the best results. If the itching is severe or doesn’t improve, it’s really important to see your vet.
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Need more ideas on what to cook for your dog? Then you must check out my library of homemade dog food recipes today!
Wrapping Up
Giving your dog these homemade treats means giving them comfort and care. It’s a simple way to help soothe their itchy skin naturally, and they’ll love the taste too.
Feeling inspired? Pin this recipe to your Homemade Dog Food board for easy access and follow us for more pet-friendly tips!
