Frannie Says:

When it comes to treating our pups, homemade goodies take the cake. Not only will you have a blast in the kitchen, but you’ll also ensure your pup enjoys healthy and tasty snacks. So, let’s roll up our sleeves and dive into the incredible world of homemade treats!

By making treats at home, you have full control over the ingredients. You can choose high-quality, dog-friendly ingredients, ensuring that your pup’s taste buds are delighted and their health is prioritized.

Homemade treats can be great for the pickiest of pups or dogs with dietary restrictions. Making treats at home allows you to tailor recipes to your furball’s requirements. Consider including any vitamins and supplements that your veterinarian might recommend for your dog. Whether it’s grain-free, gluten-free or limited ingredient treats, you can cater to their unique needs.

Plus, spending time in the kitchen whipping up treats is an opportunity for quality bonding time with your dog. They’ll be thrilled to be by your side, eagerly waiting for a taste of the delicious creations. It’s a win-win situation for you both! 

Tips and Tricks for Homemade Dog Treats:

1. Ask your veterinarian for their list of recommended/  approved ingredients which may include:  pumpkin puree, sweet  potatoes, carrots, and blueberries. Yogurt and peanut butter that is free of artificial sweeteners like Xylitol may also be recommended. 
2. Ask your veterinarian for their list of foods/supplements that can be mildly to severely harmful to dogs including but not limited to chocolate, onions, garlic, grapes, raisins, tomatoes, and macadamia nuts. Some herbs, supplements, and spices that are perfectly harmless to humans can be dangerous for dogs, so be sure to defer to the veterinarian that knows YOUR dog with regard to these ingredients too. 
3. Ask your veterinarian for recipe ideas and sources. Be leery of recipes on the internet as they are often not reviewed by a veterinarian. 
4. Once your goodies are baked to perfection, it’s important to store treats safely! To err on the side of caution, keep homemade treats in the refrigerator for no more than a few days or in the freezer for a longer term snack stash. Use airtight containers or Ziplock bags. If you are on-the-go and packing a “doggy bag,” be sure to keep homemade treats with an ice pack or in a cooler. 

 If you are tight on time but still want to make treats at home for your pup, our new Change Unleashed! Barktique, in the lobbies at Downtown Dogs and Dog’s Day Out, has just what you need: Pet Cakes [https://ilovepetcakes.com]! Best In Show-New Product Winner at this year’s Global Pet Expo, Pet Cakes are healthy, homemade treat kits that you can buy to easily whip up goodies for your furry besties in minutes! You’ll love that there are two sizes available, both of which come with a reusable, bone-shaped mini pan AND that 3% of any merchandise you purchase at Change Unleashed Barktique gets donated  to local, non-profit animal rescue and welfare organizations.We love that Pet Cakes is a woman owned company and that their kits are made from all natural, human-grade ingredients. 

The joy of making treats and seeing your puppy’s tail wag in appreciation is simply priceless. So, grab your apron, gather the ingredients, and let the baking adventures begin!

Happy treat-making! 

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The advice provided is based on many years of experience as dog parents and operators of one of the largest and longest established dog daycare and boarding facilities in the Twin Cities. Always consult your veterinarian. When not sharing advice, our dog bloggers — Frannie, Lyle, and Helen — share a space with their people, Downtown Dogs owner Ralph Bernstein and his wife, Abbe