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.
Is your dog always scratching, licking, or biting their skin? It really breaks your heart to see your lovely companion going through such a terrible ordeal of itchiness.
It’s not just a small problem that can escalate to skin infections, hair loss, and a very sad dog.
But what if the answer to your dog’s suffering was a simple homemade dog treat? We have a recipe that involves the use of nature-derived ingredients to calm their skin internally.
Medical Questions? Talk to a Veterinarian 24/7.
Connect one-on-one with a licensed vet who will answer your questions in minutes.
*Article may contain affiliate links to retailers like Amazon and Chewy. Learn more on our disclosure page.
Recipe Overview
- This homemade dog treat recipe focuses on soothing itchy skin using the natural benefits of green-lipped mussel and rice flour.
- It’s a simple, wheat-free option perfect for dogs with sensitive skin or common allergies.
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Cook time: 20-25 minutes
- Serving size: Approximately 30-40 small treats
[lasso ref=”fave” id=”19043″]
Ingredients List
- Green-Lipped Mussel Powder (1 tablespoon): Approximately $0.50 per serving from a larger container.
- Rice Flour (1 cup): Approximately $0.75.
- Egg (1 large): Approximately $0.25.
- Water (1/4 cup, or more as needed): Negligible cost.
- Coconut Oil (1 tablespoon, melted): Approximately $0.30.
- Total Estimated Cost: Approximately $1.80.
You can swap rice flour for oat flour if your dog handles oats well. You could also use a different lean protein powder, like chicken or turkey, but green-lipped mussel offers unique anti-inflammatory benefits.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Next, in a large bowl, mix the rice flour and green-lipped mussel powder together. Stir them until they are well combined.
- Then, crack the egg into the dry ingredients. Add the melted coconut oil and 1/4 cup of water.
- Mix everything thoroughly. Use your hands if needed to form a soft dough.
- If the dough is too dry, add a little more water, a teaspoon at a time, until it comes together.
- Roll the dough out onto a lightly floured surface (use rice flour for this). Aim for about 1/4 inch thickness.
- Cut the dough into small treat shapes using a cookie cutter or a knife.
- 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 giving them to your dog. This is important for texture.
Look, prepping and cooking for your dog is great, but sometimes you might be too tired or maybe a tad lazy, or maybe you just want to give yourself a well deserved break.
In such times, you want something reliable and nutritious for your dog, and that’s where Ollie comes in. It’s my favorite dog food subscription ever.
Fresh human grade dog food sent to your doorstep, and there’s no lock in.
Give it a shot, will ya?
Feeding Guidelines
- For small dogs (under 20 lbs): Offer 1-2 treats per day.
- For medium dogs (20-50 lbs): Give 2-3 treats per day.
- For large dogs (over 50 lbs): 3-4 treats per day should be fine.
- Puppies and highly active dogs might need a bit more. Older or less active dogs may need less.
- Always talk to your vet to figure out the best amount for your dog’s specific needs, especially if they have underlying health conditions.
[lasso ref=”the-forever-dog-life-120-recipes-longevity-tips-and-new-science-for-better-bowls-and-healthier-homes” id=”18607″]
Nutritional Benefits of the Recipe
- Green-Lipped Mussel Powder: This is packed with Omega-3 fatty acids, especially EPA and DHA. These fatty acids are amazing for reducing inflammation, which is often the cause of itchy skin. It also contains glucosamine and chondroitin, great for joint health.
- Rice Flour: It’s a gluten-free carbohydrate, making it gentle on sensitive stomachs and a good choice for dogs with wheat allergies. It provides energy without triggering common skin sensitivities.
- Egg: A fantastic source of high-quality protein, which helps with muscle repair and overall health. It also provides vitamins like B12 and D, and minerals such as selenium.
- Coconut Oil: Contains medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs). These can help improve skin and coat health, add a healthy fat source, and have some anti-inflammatory properties.
- Overall: This recipe offers a good balance of healthy fats, easily digestible carbohydrates, and quality protein, all while focusing on ingredients known to support skin health.
Storage and Serving Tips
- These treats will stay fresh in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 7 days.
- For longer storage, freeze the treats for up to 3 months. Thaw them in the fridge overnight or for a few hours before serving.
- You can serve them at room temperature. Some dogs might like them slightly warmed up, but make sure they aren’t hot.
- These treats are a great standalone snack or can be broken up and mixed into your dog’s regular kibble for an extra boost.
Common Questions & Troubleshooting
Can I give these treats to my puppy?
Yes, these treats are generally safe for puppies. Just make sure to adjust the portion size to be very small, and always supervise them. Ask your vet if you’re unsure.
What if my dog doesn’t like the taste?
Some dogs are picky. Try breaking the treat into smaller pieces, or mixing it with a tiny bit of peanut butter (xylitol-free) to entice them.
My dog has other allergies. Is this recipe safe?
This recipe avoids common allergens like wheat and corn. However, if your dog has specific allergies, always check with your vet before introducing new foods. Rice flour is generally hypoallergenic.
How long until I see results for my dog’s itchy skin?
Results can vary. Some dogs might show improvement in a few weeks, while others might take longer. Consistency is key, and remember, these treats are a supplement to a good diet, not a cure for severe conditions. Your vet can give more specific advice.
📖 Don’t Miss This…
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 Green-Lipped Mussel and Rice Flour treats is a loving way to support their skin health and ease that irritating itch. You’re providing a treat that’s not just yummy but truly beneficial.
Feeling inspired? Pin this recipe to your Homemade Dog Food board for easy access and follow us for more pet-friendly tips!
