DIY Dehydrated Fish Dog Treats: A Simple Recipe for Happy Pups

Updated at: 25/03/2025

Spoiling your furry friend with delicious and healthy treats is a joy for any pet owner, but store-bought options can often be expensive and filled with unnecessary additives. Why not take control and create nutritious, personalized treats right in your own kitchen? Dehydrating fish is a fantastic way to provide your dog with a protein-packed, naturally flavorful snack they'll adore, and it's surprisingly simple to do. The process allows you to control the ingredients entirely, ensuring only the best goes into your dog's bowl.

This recipe offers a straightforward method for making delectable dehydrated fish dog treats, perfect for pups of all sizes and breeds. From selecting the right type of fish to the crucial drying process, we'll guide you through each step, making homemade healthy treats easier than you might think. Let's dive into the step-by-step instructions and start creating those tail-waggingly good treats!

Preparation and Safety Guidelines

Tools Needed
  • Spanish Mackerel
  • Dehydrator
Safety Guidelines
  • Always use human-grade fish, free from added preservatives, excessive salt, or seasonings. Avoid fish with small bones that could be choking hazards.
  • Ensure the fish is completely dehydrated to prevent bacterial growth. Properly drying eliminates moisture, a key factor in food safety.
  • Introduce new treats gradually to monitor for any allergic reactions. Observe your dog for signs of digestive upset after consumption.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Prepare the Fish

    • Obtain Spanish Mackerel fish, specifically for your dog.

  2. Slice the Mackerel

    • Slice the mackerel into thin strips, similar to beef jerky.
    Slice the fish thinly: Slice the mackerel into thin strips, similar to beef jerky.
    Slice the Mackerel

  3. Dehydrate the Fish

    • Place the sliced fish into a dehydrator. Set the temperature to approximately 150 degrees Fahrenheit (Note: video mentions it's done outside to avoid indoor smell).
    Dehydrate the fish: Place the sliced fish into a dehydrator. Set the temperature to approximately 150 degrees Fahrenheit (Note: video mentions it's done outside to avoid indoor smell).
    Dehydrate the Fish

  4. Monitor and Check Dryness

    • Leave the fish in the dehydrator for several hours (around 4-6 hours as shown in the video), until the treats are completely dry and crispy.
    • After a couple of hours, check the treats for dryness. They should be crisp and not overly tender. Continue dehydrating if needed.
    Check for dryness: After a couple of hours, check the treats for dryness. They should be crisp and not overly tender. Continue dehydrating if needed.Check for dryness: After a couple of hours, check the treats for dryness. They should be crisp and not overly tender. Continue dehydrating if needed.
    Monitor and Check Dryness

  5. Give Treats to Dog

    • Once the treats are completely dry and crispy, remove them from the dehydrator and give them to your furry friend.
    Give treats to your dog: Once the treats are completely dry and crispy, remove them from the dehydrator and give them to your furry friend.
    Give Treats to Dog

Read more: Easy Homemade Cranberry Dog Treats: A Simple & Cheap Recipe

Tips

  • Dehydrate outdoors: Dehydrate the fish outside to avoid stinking up your house.
  • Cut into small pieces: Slice the fish into small, bite-sized pieces for easy consumption by your dog.
  • Ensure complete dryness: Make sure the treats are completely dry before giving them to your dog to prevent spoilage and potential health issues.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Overdrying the Fish

Reason: Overdried fish becomes brittle and can crumble, making it difficult for your dog to chew and potentially causing choking hazards.
Solution: Reduce the drying time or lower the temperature to maintain a slightly chewy texture.

2. Using Contaminated Fish

Reason: Using fish that isn't properly cleaned or stored can introduce bacteria or parasites, leading to illness in your dog.
Solution: Ensure the fish is fresh, thoroughly cleaned, and handled hygienically throughout the process.

FAQs

What types of fish are best for making dog treats?
Choose firm, white-fleshed fish low in mercury, like cod, haddock, or pollock. Avoid oily fish like salmon or tuna, as they can go rancid quickly during dehydration.
How long do dehydrated fish treats last?
Properly dehydrated and stored in an airtight container in a cool, dry place, your fish treats should last for 2-3 weeks. Always check for signs of spoilage before feeding.
My dog has allergies. Can I still use this recipe?
Yes, but be mindful of your dog's specific allergies. Only use fish your dog is known to tolerate. Always introduce new treats gradually to monitor for any adverse reactions.