Your pup will wag their tail the moment these Meatballs for Dogs come out of the oven. I made this recipe after my own dog kept sniffing around the kitchen whenever turkey was cooking. These soft, warm meatballs became an instant favorite and now they’re one of our regular treat-time rewards. They smell yummy, feel tender, and make your dog feel loved with every bite.
Table of Contents
What You Need for Meatballs for Dogs
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Lean ground turkey | 1 pound |
| Finely chopped carrots (steamed or raw) | 1/2 cup |
| Oat flour (or finely ground rolled oats) | 1/2 cup |
| Plain pumpkin purée (not pie filling) | 1/4 cup |
| Egg | 1 |
| Ground flaxseed | 1 tablespoon |
| Dried parsley (optional) | 1 teaspoon |
How to Make Meatballs for Dogs
1. Mix the meatball dough
Place the ground turkey in a bowl. Add carrots, oat flour, pumpkin, egg, flaxseed, and parsley. Stir until the mixture feels thick and sticky.
2. Shape into small meatballs
Use your hands or a small scoop to form 1-inch balls. Keep them equal in size so they bake evenly.
3. Bake until firm
Place meatballs on a parchment-lined tray. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 18–22 minutes, or until the centers reach a safe cooked temperature. Let them cool before serving to your dog.
Storage Tips for Meatballs for Dogs
Keep your meatballs fresh with these simple steps:
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Freeze in a zip bag for up to 2 months.
- Thaw in the fridge, not on the counter, for safe serving.
- If your dog has a sensitive stomach, introduce this treat slowly.
Serving Sizes for Meatballs for Dogs
Treat portions should match your dog’s size and daily diet.
| Dog Weight | Portion | Max per Day |
|---|---|---|
| Under 20 lbs | 1 small meatball | 1–2 |
| 20–50 lbs | 1–2 meatballs | 2–3 |
| Over 50 lbs | 2–3 meatballs | 3–4 |
Health Benefits of These Meatballs for Dogs
- Turkey: Lean protein that supports strong muscles.
- Carrots: Natural crunch with vitamin A for eye health.
- Pumpkin: Gentle on the tummy and helps digestion.
- Oat Flour: Great for sensitive stomachs and provides happy energy.
- Flaxseed: Adds healthy fats for a shiny coat.
Meatballs for Dogs
Make healthy Meatballs for Dogs with turkey, carrots, and pumpkin. A soft, homemade treat your pup will love. Easy, natural, and vet-trusted recipe.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Lean ground turkey | 1 pound |
| Finely chopped carrots (steamed or raw) | 1/2 cup |
| Oat flour (or finely ground rolled oats) | 1/2 cup |
| Plain pumpkin purée (not pie filling) | 1/4 cup |
| Egg | 1 |
| Ground flaxseed | 1 tablespoon |
| Dried parsley (optional) | 1 teaspoon |
Instructions
Place the ground turkey in a bowl. Add carrots, oat flour, pumpkin, egg, flaxseed, and parsley. Stir until the mixture feels thick and sticky.
2. Shape into small meatballsUse your hands or a small scoop to form 1-inch balls. Keep them equal in size so they bake evenly.
3. Bake until firm
Place meatballs on a parchment-lined tray. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 18–22 minutes, or until the centers reach a safe cooked temperature. Let them cool before serving to your dog.
FAQs About Meatballs for Dogs
Can I use chicken instead of turkey?
Yes. Chicken works well and keeps the texture soft for dogs who prefer easy chewing.
Can I air-fry these meatballs for dogs?
Yes. Cook at 350°F for 10–12 minutes, checking halfway so they don’t over-brown.
Can dogs eat parsley?
Small amounts of dried parsley are safe. Avoid large fresh bunches, especially curly parsley, if your dog has kidney issues.
Can I make mini meatballs for training?
Yes. Just roll smaller balls and shorten the bake time by a few minutes.
Are these safe for puppies?
These soft Meatballs for Dogs are puppy-friendly, but offer tiny portions and check with your vet if your pup has allergies.
What if my dog can’t eat oats?
Use rice flour or chickpea flour instead for a simple swap.
Final Takeaway
These soft and yummy Meatballs for Dogs bring joy to treat time and make your pup feel loved with every bite. You can find more homemade ideas in our Dog Treat Recipes section.
