A Sweet Story Before We Bake
The first time I made this Dog Dental Sticks Recipe, it was for my goofy pup Max. He loves chewing everything from toys to twigs and his breath didn’t always smell great. I wanted a homemade treat that tasted good, helped clean his teeth, and felt safe to feed him. These Apple & Cranberry Dog Dental Sticks quickly became his favorite. They’re chewy, fruity, and perfect for supporting fresh breath. Even my neighbor’s picky Yorkie loves them.
Table of Contents
Ingredients (Dog Dental Sticks Recipe)
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Unsweetened applesauce (no xylitol) | 1 cup |
| Fresh or dried cranberries (unsweetened; soak if dried) | ½ cup |
| Coconut oil (melted) | 2 tbsp |
| Ground flaxseed | 2 tbsp |
| Honey (optional) | 1 tbsp |
| Oat flour | 1 cup |
| Whole wheat flour (or chickpea flour) | 1 cup |
| Cinnamon (optional) | ¼ tsp |
How to Make the Apple & Cranberry Dog Dental Sticks Recipe
1. Soak the Cranberries
Soak dried cranberries in warm water for about 10 minutes. Chop them roughly so they blend well into the dough.
2. Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, stir together applesauce, coconut oil, flaxseed, and honey. The flaxseed helps everything bind into a chewy texture.
3. Add the Dry Ingredients
Add the oat flour, whole wheat flour, and cinnamon. Mix until you get a firm dough. Add a spoonful of water if the dough feels dry.
4. Shape the Dental Sticks
Roll about 2 tablespoons of dough into a 4–5 inch log. For a fun “red center” look:
- Roll a thin log
- Press cranberries inside the center
- Wrap more dough around it and seal
5. Bake Until Chewy
Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Place the sticks on a parchment-lined tray and bake for 35–40 minutes until firm and lightly golden. Let them cool fully before serving. For softer chews, bake for 25–30 minutes.
Serving Sizes by Dog Weight
| Dog Weight | Serving | Max Per Day |
|---|---|---|
| Under 20 lbs | ½ stick | 1 stick |
| 20–50 lbs | 1 stick | 1–2 sticks |
| 50+ lbs | 1–2 sticks | 2 sticks |
Always adjust portions for your dog’s age, health, and activity level. Ask your vet if unsure.
Storage Tips
Store at room temperature for up to 10 days in an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 weeks. Freeze for up to 3 months for longer freshness.
Health Benefits of This Dog Dental Sticks Recipe
- Apples add natural fiber for digestion and immune support.
- Cranberries help reduce bacteria linked to plaque buildup.
- Coconut oil offers healthy fats for skin and coat support.
- Flaxseed provides omega-3s for overall wellness.
- Oat and wheat flour give the sticks their chewy, tooth-cleaning texture.
For trusted ingredient safety, check AKC’s dog nutrition resources or PetMD’s guidelines.
Apple & Cranberry Dog Dental Sticks Recipe for Fresh Breath
A yummy Dog Dental Sticks Recipe made with apples and cranberries to support fresh breath and healthy teeth. Easy, homemade, and pup-approved!
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Unsweetened applesauce (no xylitol) | 1 cup |
| Fresh or dried cranberries (unsweetened; soak if dried) | ½ cup |
| Coconut oil (melted) | 2 tbsp |
| Ground flaxseed | 2 tbsp |
| Honey (optional) | 1 tbsp |
| Oat flour | 1 cup |
| Whole wheat flour (or chickpea flour) | 1 cup |
| Cinnamon (optional) | ¼ tsp |
| Image ALT text: Dog Dental Sticks Recipe Apple Cranberry homemade treats |
Instructions
1. Soak the Cranberries
Soak dried cranberries in warm water for about 10 minutes. Chop them roughly so they blend well into the dough.
2. Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, stir together applesauce, coconut oil, flaxseed, and honey. The flaxseed helps everything bind into a chewy texture.
3. Add the Dry Ingredients
Add the oat flour, whole wheat flour, and cinnamon. Mix until you get a firm dough. Add a spoonful of water if the dough feels dry.
4. Shape the Dental Sticks
Roll about 2 tablespoons of dough into a 4–5 inch log. For a fun “red center” look:
-
Roll a thin log
-
Press cranberries inside the center
-
Wrap more dough around it and seal
5. Bake Until Chewy
Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Place the sticks on a parchment-lined tray and bake for 35–40 minutes until firm and lightly golden. Let them cool fully before serving. For softer chews, bake for 25–30 minutes.
FAQs About This Dog Dental Sticks Recipe
1. Can I make this Dog Dental Sticks Recipe grain-free?
Yes. Swap whole wheat flour with chickpea or almond flour. You may need a small splash of water to adjust the dough.
2. Are cranberries safe for all dogs?
Most dogs tolerate cranberries well in small amounts. Dogs with sensitive stomachs may need a slower introduction.
3. How do I make the sticks softer for senior dogs?
Reduce the bake time to about 25 minutes. This keeps the texture tender and easier to chew.
4. Can I use fresh apples instead of applesauce?
Yes. Blend peeled apples into a smooth puree. Remove all seeds, as they are unsafe for dogs.
5. How often can my dog have these dental sticks?
Most dogs do well with one to two sticks a day, depending on size.
6. Can I add parsley or mint for extra fresh breath?
Yes. A teaspoon of chopped parsley or mint is a natural breath freshener.
Final Takeaway
Your pup will enjoy these fruity, chewy dental sticks, and you’ll enjoy knowing they’re homemade, simple, and made with love. Visit our Dog Treat Recipes category for more healthy, happy treats your dog will look forward to every week.