Homemade Soft Tuna Dog Treats: A Simple Recipe

Updated at: 28/01/2025

Does your furry friend deserve a tasty and healthy treat? Look no further! Homemade dog treats are a fantastic way to show your canine companion some love, offering control over ingredients and ensuring they're getting only the best. Forget store-bought snacks filled with questionable additives and preservatives; this simple recipe for soft tuna dog treats provides a delicious and nutritious alternative that your dog will adore. Made with readily available ingredients, these treats are surprisingly easy to whip up, offering a guilt-free indulgence for your beloved pet. They're perfect for training, rewarding good behavior, or simply showering your pup with affection.

These soft and savory tuna treats are not only healthy but incredibly easy to make, even for novice bakers. They require minimal cooking time and readily available ingredients, making them a perfect weekend project. Ready to get started and spoil your furry friend? Let's dive into the step-by-step instructions below!

Preparation and Safety Guidelines

Tools Needed
  • Bowl
  • Whisk
  • Rolling pin
  • Cookie cutters (optional)
  • Baking sheet
  • Airtight container
  • Cooling rack
Safety Guidelines
  • Always use high-quality, human-grade tuna packed in water, not oil. Oil can cause digestive upset in dogs.
  • Avoid giving your dog raw tuna. It can contain harmful bacteria and parasites.
  • Introduce new treats gradually to monitor for any allergic reactions or digestive issues. Start with a small amount and observe your dog's reaction before offering more.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Combine Ingredients

    • Add 8 ounces of tuna, 1 cup of flour, 1 cup of cornmeal, ½ cup of oil, 1 teaspoon of salt, and ¼ cup of water into a bowl.
    Combine ingredients: Add 8 ounces of tuna, 1 cup of flour, 1 cup of cornmeal, ½ cup of oil, 1 teaspoon of salt, and ¼ cup of water into a bowl.
    Combine Ingredients

  2. Mix Dough

    • Mix all ingredients until smooth and there are no visible chunks of tuna. Scrape the sides of the bowl to ensure everything is well combined.
    Mix thoroughly: Mix all ingredients until smooth and there are no visible chunks of tuna. Scrape the sides of the bowl to ensure everything is well combined.
    Mix Dough

  3. Roll and Cut First Batch

    • Split the dough into two sections. On a floured surface, roll out one section to about ¼ inch thickness.
    • Cut the dough into desired shapes (rectangles, squares, or use cookie cutters). Trim edges and re-roll scraps.
    Cut shapes: Cut the dough into desired shapes (rectangles, squares, or use cookie cutters). Trim edges and re-roll scraps.Cut shapes: Cut the dough into desired shapes (rectangles, squares, or use cookie cutters). Trim edges and re-roll scraps.
    Roll and Cut First Batch

  4. Roll and Cut Second Batch

    • Repeat the rolling and cutting process for the second section of dough.
    Repeat steps 3 & 4: Repeat the rolling and cutting process for the second section of dough.
    Roll and Cut Second Batch

  5. Bake Treats

    • Bake treats at 350°F (180°C) for about 15 minutes, until slightly soft and chewy.
    Bake: Bake treats at 350°F (180°C) for about 15 minutes, until slightly soft and chewy.
    Bake Treats

  6. Cool and Store Treats

    • Let the treats cool completely on a wire rack before storing them in an airtight container to maintain their texture.
    Cool and store: Let the treats cool completely on a wire rack before storing them in an airtight container to maintain their texture.
    Cool and Store Treats

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

Tips

  • Ensure a smooth dough: Mix well to avoid visible tuna chunks in the final product.
  • Flour your surface and rolling pin: Prevents the dough from sticking.
  • Make indents before cutting: This helps estimate the size and shape before cutting to avoid wasted dough.
  • Don't overbake: Slightly soft and chewy treats are less messy for your dog.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Overmixing the dough

Reason: Overmixing develops the gluten in the flour, resulting in tough, chewy treats that your dog might find difficult to eat.
Solution: Mix the ingredients until just combined; avoid overmixing.

2. Baking at too high a temperature or for too long

Reason: High heat or excessive baking time will lead to dry, hard, and potentially burnt treats.
Solution: Bake at a lower temperature for a longer time, checking for doneness frequently.

FAQs

Can I use canned tuna in oil for this recipe?
It's best to use tuna packed in water to avoid excess oil, which can upset your dog's stomach. Drain the water thoroughly before mixing.