Salmon & Pea Low Calorie Training Dog Treats For Overweight Dogs

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’s tough seeing your dog carry extra weight, and honestly, those treats from the store just make things worse. They’re loaded with junk your pup doesn’t need.

Finding snacks you feel good about giving? That’s not easy. But here’s some good news: you can whip up tasty, low-calorie dog treats at home that actually help your dog slim down. Let’s walk through how to make it happen, step by step.

Recipe Overview

• This homemade Salmon & Pea Low Calorie Training Dog Treat recipe takes just 15 minutes of prep and 25 minutes to bake.
• It yields about 60 small training treats, perfect for multiple training sessions.
• These treats are packed with lean protein, fiber, and Omega-3s, designed specifically for overweight dogs.
• They are grain-free and free from common allergens.

Ingredients List

• 1 (14.75 oz) can wild-caught salmon, undrained, bones and skin removed (Estimated Cost: $3.50 – $4.50)
• 1 cup frozen green peas, thawed (Estimated Cost: $1.00 – $1.50)
• 1/2 cup coconut flour (Estimated Cost: $1.50 – $2.00)
• 2 large eggs (Estimated Cost: $0.30 – $0.50)
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped (Estimated Cost: $0.25 – $0.50)
• Total Estimated Cost: $6.55 – $9.00

Substitutions: You can use canned sardines (in water, no salt added) instead of salmon for a different flavor and similar nutritional profile. If peas aren’t available, steamed green beans can be used, though the texture might vary slightly.

Step-by-Step Instructions

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
• In a medium bowl, flake the canned salmon with a fork, making sure to remove any bones and skin.
• Add the thawed green peas to the salmon.
• Mash the salmon and peas together until mostly combined.
• Stir in the coconut flour, eggs, and chopped parsley.
• Mix well until a thick, uniform dough forms.
• The dough will be sticky.
• Spoon small dollops (about 1/2 teaspoon each) of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet.
• You can also roll the dough between two sheets of parchment paper and cut into small squares.
• Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the treats are firm and lightly golden.
• Allow the treats to cool completely on a wire rack before serving or storing.

Feeding Guidelines

• For small dogs (under 20 lbs) aiming for weight loss, offer 3-5 treats per day as training rewards.
• Medium dogs (20-50 lbs) can have 5-8 treats daily.
• Large dogs (over 50 lbs) may have 8-12 treats per day.
• Remember these are treats, not a meal replacement.
• Adjust the number based on your dog’s current weight, activity level, and the total calorie intake for the day.
• For puppies, these treats are suitable in moderation due to the protein and fat content.
• Senior dogs will benefit from the Omega-3s for joint health.
• Always consult your veterinarian for personalized feeding advice, especially for dogs with specific health conditions or significant weight loss goals.

Nutritional Benefits of the Recipe

• Salmon is a fantastic source of high-quality protein and Omega-3 fatty acids (DHA and EPA).
• Omega-3s support healthy skin, a shiny coat, and reduce inflammation, which is great for joints and overall health in overweight dogs.
• Green peas add fiber, which aids digestion and helps dogs feel full, supporting weight management.
• Peas also provide vitamins like K, A, and several B vitamins, plus minerals like iron and zinc.
• Coconut flour is a grain-free, low-carb flour rich in dietary fiber.
• It helps bind the treats and adds a subtle sweetness without increasing calorie count much.
• Eggs provide complete protein and essential amino acids vital for muscle maintenance.
• Parsley is a good source of vitamins K and C and acts as a natural breath freshener.

Storage and Serving Tips

• Store these homemade treats in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5-7 days.
• For longer storage, treats can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.
• Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
• To serve frozen treats, let them thaw in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature for an hour.
• You can warm them slightly in the microwave for a few seconds to enhance the aroma, but ensure they are not hot before serving.
• These treats are excellent on their own, but you can also crumble them over your dog’s regular kibble to boost flavor and nutrition without adding many calories.

Common Questions & Troubleshooting

Can I use fresh salmon instead of canned?

Yes, you can use cooked fresh salmon. Just make sure it’s plain, unseasoned, and flaked before mixing with the other ingredients. This might slightly increase your prep time.

Are these treats suitable for dogs with allergies?

This recipe is grain-free and dairy-free. It uses salmon and eggs, which are common protein sources. If your dog has specific allergies to salmon, peas, or eggs, this recipe may not be suitable. Always check with your vet if you’re unsure.

My dough is too sticky, what should I do?

Coconut flour absorbs a lot of liquid. If your dough is extremely sticky and hard to handle, you can add another tablespoon of coconut flour at a time until it’s more manageable. The consistency should be thick enough to hold its shape when spooned.

Wrapping Up

Making these low-calorie salmon and pea treats is a simple way to support your dog’s health and weight goals. They are nutritious, easy to make, and your dog will love them. Feeling inspired? Pin this recipe to your Homemade Dog Treats board for easy access and follow us for more pet-friendly tips!