Homemade Apple Oatmeal Dog Treats: A Delicious & Easy Recipe

Spoil your furry friend with a healthy and delicious treat they'll adore! Homemade dog treats offer a fantastic way to show your love while ensuring you know exactly what ingredients are going into your pet's snacks. Forget the mystery ingredients and artificial preservatives found in store-bought options; this recipe for homemade apple oatmeal dog treats is simple, quick, and utilizes wholesome ingredients your dog will gobble up in seconds. Apples provide natural sweetness and fiber, while oatmeal offers a healthy dose of complex carbohydrates. These treats are not only easy on your wallet but also a fantastic way to bond with your canine companion during the baking process.

This simple recipe requires minimal ingredients and baking expertise, making it perfect for even the most novice bakers. Ready to get started on creating these delightful, healthy, and irresistible apple oatmeal dog treats? Let's dive into the step-by-step instructions!

Preparation and Safety Guidelines

Tools Needed
  • knife
  • mixing bowls
  • cookie sheet
  • cookie scoop (optional)
Safety Guidelines
  • Never use xylitol, an artificial sweetener, in any dog treats. It's highly toxic to dogs and can be fatal.
  • Apples should be thoroughly washed and cored to remove seeds and stems. Apple seeds contain small amounts of cyanide.
  • Introduce new treats gradually to monitor for any allergic reactions or digestive upset. Start with a small amount and observe your dog for the next 24 hours.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Prepare the Apples

    • Cut up a couple of apples (approximately 1/2 to 3/4 cup).
    Cut up a couple of apples (approximately 1/2 to 3/4 cup).
    Prepare the Apples
  2. Combine Dry Ingredients

    • In a bowl, mix 1 1/2 cups oatmeal, 1/4 cup water, 1 egg, and 1/2 cup flour (any kind).
    In a bowl, mix 1 1/2 cups oatmeal, 1/4 cup water, 1 egg, and 1/2 cup flour (any kind).
    Combine Dry Ingredients
  3. Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients

    • Mix the ingredients until well combined. The mixture will be dry.
    • Add 1 tablespoon of honey and mix until the dough holds together.
    Add 1 tablespoon of honey and mix until the dough holds together.Add 1 tablespoon of honey and mix until the dough holds together.
    Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients
  4. Shape and Bake the Treats

    • Scoop the dough onto a cookie sheet. Flatten slightly if desired.
    • Bake in a 350°F oven for about 25 minutes.
    Bake in a 350°F oven for about 25 minutes.Bake in a 350°F oven for about 25 minutes.
    Shape and Bake the Treats
  5. Cut and Store

    • Break each cookie into four smaller treats.
    • Store in the refrigerator for up to two days or freeze for longer storage.
    Store in the refrigerator for up to two days or freeze for longer storage.
    Cut and Store

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

Tips

  • You don't need exact measurements; 1/2 to 3/4 cup of apples works well.
  • Any type of flour can be used.
  • The cookies will not flatten during baking; flattening them beforehand is optional.
  • Breaking the cookies into four smaller treats makes them more exciting for your dog.
  • Store in the refrigerator to maintain freshness; freezing is recommended for longer storage.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Using Too Much Apple

Reason: Excessive apple can lead to mushy treats that don't hold their shape and may spoil faster.
Solution: Reduce the apple quantity to the specified amount in the recipe or slightly less to ensure proper consistency.

2. Overbaking the Treats

Reason: Overbaked treats will be hard and dry, making them less appealing and potentially difficult for your dog to chew.
Solution: Start checking for doneness a few minutes earlier than indicated and adjust baking time based on your oven and the desired texture.

3. Ignoring Proper Cooling

Reason: Removing treats from the baking sheet too early can lead to breakage and uneven cooling, potentially resulting in a sticky mess.
Solution: Allow treats to cool completely on the baking sheet before transferring them to a storage container.

FAQs

Can I use other fruits besides apples?
Yes! Bananas, blueberries (in moderation), and pumpkin puree are all great substitutes or additions. Just remember to avoid grapes and raisins, which are toxic to dogs.
How long can I store the treats?
Store the cooled treats in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. You can also freeze them for longer storage – up to a month.
My dog has allergies. Are these treats suitable?
While these treats use common ingredients, always check the ingredients list carefully to ensure they're safe for your dog's specific allergies. If your dog has a history of food sensitivities, consult your veterinarian before introducing new treats.