Homemade Dog Treats for Itchy Skin using Cod Liver Oil & Cornmeal

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 constantly scratching, and you feeling terrible and not knowing what to do? An itchy skin problem is not only irritating; it can also be a symptom that your pet is in discomfort and needs to be relieved. How about providing a tasty, homemade dog treat for itchy skin straight from your ​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌kitchen?

Recipe Overview

• This homemade dog treat recipe is made for dogs with itchy skin.
• It uses simple ingredients to help soothe and nourish their skin from the inside out.
• Prep time: 15 minutes.
• Cook time: 20-25 minutes.
• Serving size: Approximately 24-30 small treats.

Ingredients List

• 1 ½ cups whole wheat flour (organic, human-grade, ~$0.45 per cup) – Total cost: $0.68
• ½ cup cornmeal (fine-ground, ~$0.30 per cup) – Total cost: $0.15
• 1 large egg (pasture-raised, ~$0.40 each) – Total cost: $0.40
• ¼ cup cod liver oil (pure, human-grade, ~$0.75 per tablespoon) – Total cost: $3.00
• ¼ cup warm water (filtered) – Total cost: $0.00
• 1 tablespoon natural peanut butter (xylitol-free, unsalted, ~$0.20 per tablespoon) – Total cost: $0.20

Total estimated cost: $4.43

Substitutions: If your dog has a wheat allergy, you can use oat flour or rice flour instead of whole wheat flour. For a different flavor, try unsweetened pumpkin puree instead of peanut butter, but only use a small amount.

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 whole wheat flour and cornmeal.
• In a separate small bowl, whisk together the egg, cod liver oil, warm water, and peanut butter until it’s smooth.
• Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients.
• Mix everything until a stiff dough forms.
• You might need to use your hands to bring the dough together.
• On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to about ¼-inch thickness.
• Use a cookie cutter to cut out 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.
• This makes sure they are crunchy and won’t get moldy quickly.

Feeding Guidelines

• These treats are a supplement, not a meal replacement.
• 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.
• Adjust the amount based on your dog’s activity level and overall diet.
• Puppies and senior dogs might need smaller portions.
• Always check with your vet for personalized advice, especially if your dog has existing health conditions or is on medication.

Nutritional Benefits of the Recipe

• Cod Liver Oil: This is the star ingredient for skin health.
• It’s packed with Omega-3 fatty acids (EPA and DHA), which are anti-inflammatory.
• These help reduce itching and improve coat shine.
• It also provides Vitamin A and D, important for immune function and bone health.
• Cornmeal: Provides complex carbohydrates for energy.
• It also offers some dietary fiber for digestive health.
• Whole Wheat Flour: Offers complex carbohydrates, fiber, and B vitamins.
• This contributes to sustained energy release and overall vitality.
• Eggs: A great source of high-quality protein and essential amino acids.
• They support muscle maintenance and provide biotin, which is good for skin and coat.
• Peanut Butter (natural, xylitol-free): Adds a bit of extra protein and healthy fats.
• It also makes the treats tasty, making them more appealing to your dog.

Storage and Serving Tips

• Once cooled, store these treats in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 7 days.
• For longer storage, freeze them for up to 2 months.
• Thaw frozen treats in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature for a few hours.
• Serve them at room temperature as a reward or a healthy snack.
• You can also crumble a treat over their regular kibble for an extra boost.

Common Questions & Troubleshooting

Can I give these treats to my puppy?

Yes, but in smaller amounts. Puppies have sensitive stomachs, so introduce new foods slowly. Always check with your vet first.

My dog won’t eat them. What can I do?

Try making the treats smaller, or break them into pieces. You can also mix a piece into their regular food to get them used to the taste.

How often should I give these treats for itchy skin?

Consistency is key. Give them daily as recommended in the feeding guidelines. You should start to see improvements in a few weeks, but results vary for every dog.

Wrapping Up

Making these homemade treats is a simple way to help your dog’s itchy skin and show them some extra love. It feels good knowing exactly what’s in their snacks.

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