When the holidays roll in, your kitchen fills with warm smells and happy memories. Your dog usually waits nearby, hoping a yummy bite might fall their way. These Christmas treats for dogs make the moment even sweeter because they’re safe, homemade, and filled with festive flavors. With crunchy apple bones and fluffy banana snowballs, your pup gets to join every bit of the holiday fun.
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WHAT MAKES THESE CHRISTMAS TREATS FOR DOGS SPECIAL
Christmas treats for dogs should be simple, wholesome, and full of holiday charm. These recipes keep things natural with fruit, oats, and yogurt, so your pup enjoys tasty snacks without sugar or unsafe spices. Each treat is made in minutes, letting you spend more time cuddling by the tree.
FESTIVE APPLE & OAT BONES (RECIPE 1)
Christmas Treats for Dogs Festive Apple Oat Bones
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Oat flour | 1 ½ cups |
| Unsweetened applesauce | ½ cup |
| Grated apple | ¼ cup |
| Egg | 1 |
Instructions
-
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place a baking sheet aside so it’s ready when your dough is shaped.
-
Mix the applesauce, grated apple, and egg in a bowl until smooth. The mixture should smell sweet and fresh.
-
Add the oat flour and stir until a soft dough forms. If it feels sticky, sprinkle in a bit more flour.
-
Roll the dough and cut into bone, star, or Christmas tree shapes to make them extra festive.
-
Bake for 12–15 minutes until the edges look golden and firm. Let them cool fully before treat time.
Safety Notes: Avoid nutmeg or holiday spices, as they can be unsafe for dogs. Keep portions small for puppies and senior pups.
NO-BAKE BANANA SNOWBALLS (RECIPE 2)
Christmas Treats for Dogs Banana Snowballs
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Mashed ripe banana | 1 cup |
| Oat flour | ½ cup |
| Plain Greek yogurt (unsweetened) | 2 tbsp |
| Unsweetened shredded coconut | ¼ cup |
Instructions
-
- Mix the banana, yogurt, and oat flour in a bowl until it forms a soft dough. It should feel cool and sticky like cookie batter.
-
Roll the dough into tiny bite-sized balls that fit your dog’s mouth safely.
-
Coat each ball in shredded coconut to create a snowy look.
- Chill the treats for 1–2 hours so they firm up and become chewy.
- Safety Notes: Use plain yogurt only. Avoid flavored or sweetened varieties.
SERVING SIZES BY DOG WEIGHT
| Dog Weight | Portion | Max per Day |
|---|---|---|
| Under 20 lbs | 1–2 small treats | 2 |
| 20–50 lbs | 2–3 treats | 3 |
| Over 50 lbs | 3–4 treats | 4 |
| Always adjust based on your dog’s needs and talk to your vet if your dog has allergies or tummy troubles. |
INGREDIENT BENEFITS
- Apple: Helps digestion with natural fiber and vitamins
- Banana: Gives potassium and gentle sweetness
- Oat Flour: Soft on sensitive stomachs and gluten-free
- Coconut: Adds healthy fats and fun texture
- Yogurt: Gives probiotics for a happy gut
STORAGE TIPS
Apple bones stay fresh for 7–10 days in an airtight container or up to 2 months in the freezer.
Banana snowballs last up to 1 week in the fridge.
COMMON ISSUES & FIXES
Dough too sticky? Add a spoonful of oat flour.
Bones too dry? Mix in a bit more applesauce.
Snowballs too soft? Chill longer or add a pinch more flour.
HOLIDAY BONDING MOMENTS
Making Christmas treats for dogs is more than a kitchen task. Your pup watches every move, nose twitching as holiday smells drift around. When the tray comes out or the fridge opens, their wagging tail fills the room with excitement.
FAQs ABOUT CHRISTMAS TREATS FOR DOGS
1. Are these Christmas treats for dogs safe for puppies?
Yes, but make the pieces very small and start with tiny portions.
2. Can I add cinnamon to the recipes?
A sprinkle of plain cinnamon is safe for most dogs. Avoid nutmeg and mixed holiday spices.
3. Can I swap the applesauce for pumpkin?
Yes, pumpkin works well and gives a bright holiday color.
4. Are these good training treats?
The apple bones can be made smaller for training. The snowballs are better as a soft reward.
5. Can dogs eat coconut safely?
Yes, in small amounts. Always use unsweetened coconut.
FINAL TAKEAWAY
These Christmas treats for dogs bring simple joy to the holiday season, filling your kitchen with happy moments and giving your pup delicious memories to share with you.