A Cozy Story to Start
You know that happy tail-thump when your pup smells something baking? That’s the moment this list was made for. Every Dog Treat here is full of safe, simple ingredients like pumpkin, peanut butter, and oats—no mystery stuff, just homemade love baked into every bite.
Quick Safety & Ingredient Notes
You want Dog Treats that smell like the holidays but stay safe for every pup.
- Avoid: chocolate, xylitol, raisins, grapes, onions, garlic, nutmeg, alcohol, macadamia nuts.
- Use: xylitol-free peanut butter, pure pumpkin puree, oat or brown-rice flour, low-sodium broth.
- Start small and watch for tummy reactions.
- Treats = snacks, not meals.
- Check peanut butter labels—xylitol hides in some brands.
Learn more about safe foods at AKC’s nutrition guide.
Sweet Potato Reindeer Chews
Wholesome and chewy Sweet Potato Reindeer Chews (Dog-Safe) made with simple, natural ingredients your pup will love this holiday season!
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Sweet potatoes | 2 large |
| Melted coconut oil (optional) | 1 Tbsp |
Instructions
-
Heat oven 250 °F (120 °C).
-
Slice ¼–⅓ inch lengthwise, brush with oil.
-
Bake 2–3 hours, flip halfway, until chewy.
Storage & Tips: Paper bag 1 week. Dehydrate longer for extra chew.
Gingerbread Pup Cookies (Dog-Safe)
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Oat flour | 2 cups |
| Unsweetened applesauce | ½ cup |
| Unsulfured molasses | 2 Tbsp |
| Egg | 1 |
| Ground ginger | 1 tsp |
| Cinnamon | ½ tsp |
| Water (as needed) | 1–2 Tbsp |
Instructions
-
Preheat oven 350 °F (175 °C). Line a sheet with parchment.
-
Whisk applesauce, molasses, and egg until smooth.
-
Stir in ginger, cinnamon, and flour. Add water if needed.
-
Roll to ¼ inch and cut cute shapes.
-
Bake 12–15 min until edges set; cool fully.
Storage & Tips: 1 week airtight or freeze 2 months. Use oat flour for sensitive pups.
Cheddar & Parsley Stars
Crunchy, cheesy Cheddar & Parsley Stars (Dog-Safe) made with wholesome ingredients for a tail-wagging, homemade treat your pup will adore!
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Whole-wheat or oat flour | 1 ½ cups |
| Shredded low-fat cheddar | 1 cup |
| Egg | 1 |
| Low-sodium chicken broth | ¼ cup |
| Chopped parsley | 1 Tbsp |
Instructions
-
Preheat oven 350 °F.
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Mix everything into dough; roll ¼ inch.
-
Cut stars and bake 12–15 min until lightly golden.
Storage & Tips: Airtight 1 week or freeze 2 months. Low-sodium broth keeps salt safe.
Blueberry Yogurt Snow Bites (Frozen)
Cool, creamy Blueberry Yogurt Snow Bites (Dog-Safe) — a refreshing frozen treat packed with fruity goodness for happy, healthy pups!
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Plain Greek yogurt (unsweetened) | 1 cup |
| Blueberries (fresh or thawed) | ½ cup |
| Water (if needed) | Splash |
Instructions
-
Mash berries slightly and fold into yogurt.
-
Spoon into silicone molds and freeze 3–4 hours.
Storage & Tips: Keep frozen up to 2 months. Use lactose-free yogurt for sensitive tummies.
Notes
| Dog Weight | Portion | Max Per Day |
|---|---|---|
| Under 20 lbs | ½–1 small treat | 2 |
| 20–50 lbs | 1–2 medium treats | 3 |
| 50 + lbs | 2–3 large treats | 4 |
Nutritional Benefits
- Pumpkin: rich in fiber and beta-carotene.
- Peanut Butter: protein and healthy fats (choose xylitol-free).
- Oats: gentle on digestion and gluten-free-friendly.
- Sweet Potato: natural vitamins A and C.
- Blueberries: antioxidants for immune health.
- Cheddar & Parsley: calcium plus fresh breath.
FAQs
1. Can I use almond butter instead of peanut butter?
Yes—but make sure it’s unsalted and xylitol-free.
2. How long do homemade Dog Treats stay fresh?
Most last 5–7 days in a sealed jar or up to 2 months frozen.
3. Can I add honey for sweetness?
A small drizzle is okay for most dogs, but skip it for pups with sugar issues.
4. My treats turned soft—why?
Moisture in the air. Let them cool fully and rebake a few minutes to crisp up.
5. Are these Dog Treats good for puppies?
Yes, in tiny pieces. Check with your vet first for puppies under 12 weeks.
6. Where can I learn more about safe holiday ingredients?
https://mydoggystory.com/
Happy Holiday Treat Time
Your kitchen just became Santa’s dog bakery. Keep portions small, freeze extras, and share joy safely. When your dog’s tail wags that hard, you’ll know these homemade Dog Treats were totally worth it.
Got a question, a recipe idea, or a photo of your happy pup? Send us a message below! 💌
