Turkey & Cranberry 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.

Is your dog packing on a few extra pounds from treats? You’re not alone as lots of us have trouble finding snacks that won’t make our pups pudgy.

Nobody wants to trade affection for weight gain, but handing out those calorie bombs can really mess with your dog’s health. The good news? There’s an easy, tasty way to spoil your dog without the guilt.

Let’s make this super easy low calorie dog treats, shall we?

Recipe Overview

• Purpose: Delicious, low-calorie training treats for overweight dogs.
• Benefits: Supports weight management, high in lean protein and fiber, full of antioxidants.
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Serving Size: Approximately 100-120 small treats

Ingredients List

• 1 pound ground turkey, 93% lean ($5.00)
• 1/2 cup fresh cranberries, finely chopped ($2.50)
• 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce ($0.75)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil ($0.20)
• 1/2 cup whole wheat flour ($0.30)
• 1/4 cup rolled oats (not instant) ($0.15)
• 1 large egg ($0.25)
• Total Estimated Cost: $9.35

Substitutions:

• Ground turkey can be swapped with lean ground chicken.
• Cranberries can be replaced with blueberries, finely chopped.

Step-by-Step Instructions

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
• In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey, chopped cranberries, unsweetened applesauce, olive oil, whole wheat flour, rolled oats, and the egg.
• Mix everything thoroughly until all ingredients are well combined. You can use your hands for this.
• Spread the mixture evenly onto the prepared baking sheet. Aim for a thickness of about 1/4 inch.
• Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the mixture is firm and cooked through. The top should be slightly golden.
• Let the mixture cool completely on the baking sheet. This makes it easier to cut.
• Once cooled, cut the mixture into small, bite-sized squares or shapes. These should be appropriate for training rewards.
• Here’s a tip: If you want crispier treats, you can bake the cut treats for an additional 10-15 minutes at a lower temperature (around 250°F / 120°C).

Feeding Guidelines

• For small dogs (under 20 lbs): Offer 3-5 treats per day, depending on their activity level.
• For medium dogs (20-50 lbs): Give 5-8 treats daily.
• For large dogs (over 50 lbs): You can provide 8-12 treats per day.
• Adjust these amounts based on your dog’s specific needs. Very active dogs might need a few more, while very sedentary dogs might need fewer.
• These treats are designed to be low in calories but should still be part of your dog’s overall daily calorie intake.
• Always talk to your veterinarian for personalized feeding advice, especially for dogs with specific health conditions or weight management plans.

Nutritional Benefits of the Recipe

• Ground Turkey: This is a lean protein source, providing essential amino acids for muscle maintenance without excessive fat. It’s crucial for keeping an overweight dog’s muscle mass while losing fat.
• Cranberries: Packed with antioxidants, which support immune health and can help prevent urinary tract infections. They also add a small amount of fiber.
• Unsweetened Applesauce: A natural source of fiber and vitamins A and C. It adds moisture and a touch of sweetness without added sugar.
• Olive Oil: Provides healthy monounsaturated fats and some Omega-6 fatty acids, beneficial for skin and coat health.
• Whole Wheat Flour: Offers complex carbohydrates for sustained energy and dietary fiber, aiding digestion.
• Rolled Oats: Another source of complex carbohydrates and soluble fiber, which can help regulate blood sugar and promote a feeling of fullness.
• Egg: A complete protein source, providing essential amino acids, vitamins, and minerals. It also acts as a binder for the treats.

Storage and Serving Tips

• Refrigerate leftover treats in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• For longer storage, freeze the treats in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months.
• To thaw, simply move them to the refrigerator overnight or let them sit at room temperature for a bit.
• You can serve these treats at room temperature or slightly warmed.
• They work great on their own as a reward or can be crumbled over regular kibble for an extra boost of flavor and nutrition.

Common Questions & Troubleshooting

Can I use a different type of flour?

Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour with oat flour or even a gluten-free blend if your dog has sensitivities. Just make sure it’s a dog-safe option.

Are these treats suitable for puppies?

While generally safe, puppies have different nutritional needs. It’s best to consult your vet before introducing new treats, especially for very young puppies or those on specific growth diets.

My dog is allergic to chicken. Is turkey a good alternative?

Often, dogs allergic to chicken can tolerate turkey. However, always introduce new proteins slowly and watch for any adverse reactions to be sure.

How can I make these treats last longer?

The best way to extend shelf life is to freeze them. Freezing helps maintain freshness and prevents spoilage. You can also bake them a bit longer at a low temperature to remove more moisture, which makes them crispier and less prone to mold.

Wrapping Up

Making these low-calorie turkey and cranberry treats is an easy way to spoil your dog responsibly. They’re tasty, healthy, and perfect for training without the guilt. Feeling inspired? Pin this recipe to your Homemade Dog Treats board for easy access and follow us for more pet-friendly tips!