Do you know what DOG ESSENTIALS you are missing out? Find out now!
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.
It must be really frustrating to see your dog suffering from itchy skin without being able to do something for them.
Sometimes, the over-the-counter remedies that you apply might not be effective. What would you say if I told you that there is a tasty and simple way to heal the itch from the inside of the body?
Let’s make this homemade dog treat recipe for itchy skin, shall we?
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Recipe Overview
- This homemade dog treat recipe uses flaxseed and pumpkin to naturally support healthy skin and coat.
- It’s designed to be gentle and beneficial for dogs prone to skin irritations.
- Prep time: 15 minutes.
- Cook time: 25-30 minutes.
- Serving size: Approximately 30-40 small treats.
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Ingredients List
- 1 ½ cups whole wheat flour (Cost: $0.40) – Substitution: oat flour or rice flour for gluten-sensitive dogs.
- ½ cup ground flaxseed (Cost: $1.50)
- ½ cup unsweetened pumpkin puree (canned, not pie filling) (Cost: $0.75)
- ¼ cup peanut butter (xylitol-free) (Cost: $0.60)
- 1 large egg (Cost: $0.25)
- ¼ cup water (Cost: $0.00)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (Cost: $0.10)
Total estimated cost: $3.60
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 ground flaxseed until they are well combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, peanut butter, egg, water, and olive oil.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients.
- Mix everything until a stiff dough forms.
- If the dough is too dry, add a tiny bit more water, a teaspoon at a time.
- Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about ¼-inch thickness.
- Use a cookie cutter to cut out shapes.
- Place the treats on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 25-30 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 intended as 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 quantity based on your dog’s activity level and overall diet.
- Puppies, senior dogs, or pregnant/nursing dogs may have different nutritional needs.
- Always consult your veterinarian for personalized advice, especially if your dog has underlying health conditions.
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Nutritional Benefits of the Recipe
- Flaxseed: Rich in Omega-3 fatty acids, particularly alpha-linolenic acid (ALA). These help reduce inflammation, which is key for soothing itchy skin. It also supports a shiny coat.
- Pumpkin Puree: Packed with fiber, which aids digestion and can help remove toxins from the body. It also provides Vitamin A, Vitamin C, and zinc, all beneficial for skin health.
- Whole Wheat Flour: Provides complex carbohydrates for energy and some fiber.
- Peanut Butter: A good source of protein and healthy fats. Make sure it’s xylitol-free.
- Egg: Offers high-quality protein and essential amino acids, crucial for skin and hair growth.
- Olive Oil: Contains healthy monounsaturated fats and antioxidants that can further support skin health.
Storage and Serving Tips
- Store these treats in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
- For longer storage, freeze them in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months.
- Thaw frozen treats in the refrigerator overnight or let them come to room temperature before serving.
- Serve them plain as a healthy snack.
- You can also crumble a treat over their regular kibble for an extra boost of flavor and nutrients.
Common Questions & Troubleshooting
Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh pumpkin. Just make sure it’s cooked and pureed without any added spices or sugar. Canned pumpkin puree is usually more convenient.
My dog has allergies. Can I substitute ingredients?
Absolutely. For flour, try oat flour or rice flour if your dog is sensitive to wheat. If peanut butter is an issue, you can use unsweetened sunflower seed butter (make sure it’s xylitol-free).
How do I know if these treats are helping my dog’s itchy skin?
Look for a reduction in scratching, less redness, and an improvement in coat shine. Give it a few weeks of consistent use to see noticeable changes. Always talk to your vet about persistent itching.
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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
Making these flaxseed and pumpkin treats is a simple way to show your dog some extra love and support their skin health naturally. You’ll feel good knowing exactly what’s in their snacks.
Feeling inspired? Pin this recipe to your Homemade Dog Food board for easy access and follow us for more pet-friendly tips!
