Discover the ease of making calming chamomile gummy dog treats at home for your furry companion. This simple, homemade dog food recipe is perfect for all life stages – puppies, adult dogs, and senior dogs alike – offering a soothing and beneficial treat option. It’s packed with natural ingredients to promote relaxation and well-being for your beloved pet.
Key Ingredients for Calming Chamomile Gummy Dog Treats
Here’s everything you’ll need to create these delightful calming chamomile gummy dog treats:
- 1 cup Unsweetened Applesauce: Provides natural sweetness and a good source of fiber to aid digestion.
- 1/2 cup Pure Pumpkin Puree (not pie filling): Rich in beta-carotene and fiber, excellent for supporting healthy digestion and a shiny coat.
- 1/4 cup Plain Yogurt (unsweetened): A source of probiotics, promoting a healthy gut microbiome and aiding nutrient absorption. Ensure it contains no artificial sweeteners like xylitol, which is toxic to dogs.
- 2 tablespoons Unsweetened Coconut Oil: Known for its healthy fats which can contribute to skin and coat health, and may offer some digestive benefits.
- 2 tablespoons Fresh Chamomile Flowers (dried and finely ground) or 1/4 cup Brewed Chamomile Tea (cooled and concentrated): The star ingredient, renowned for its calming properties, helping to soothe anxious dogs. If using dried flowers, grind them into a fine powder. If using tea, brew it strong and let it cool completely.
- 2 tablespoons Gelatin Powder (unflavored, unflavored beef or pork flavored is usually best): Acts as a natural gelling agent to give the treats their gummy texture and is also a source of collagen, beneficial for joints.
Health Benefits of This Homemade Dog Food
Our calming chamomile gummy dog treats are more than just a tasty snack; they’re a nutritional boost for your canine friend! The natural ingredients work synergistically to offer a range of benefits. The pumpkin and applesauce provide essential fiber, which is crucial for maintaining a healthy digestive system and promoting regular bowel movements. This can be especially helpful for dogs experiencing mild digestive upset or those needing a little extra fiber in their diet. For our senior pups, the probiotic-rich yogurt can support a balanced gut flora, essential for nutrient absorption and overall well-being. Furthermore, the healthy fats in coconut oil contribute to a lustrous coat and healthy skin, while the gelatin offers a gentle source of collagen, which can be beneficial for joint health, especially in active dogs or older companions.
How to Make Calming Chamomile Gummy Dog Treats
Creating these calming chamomile gummy dog treats is incredibly simple, taking less than 15 minutes of active preparation time! This recipe utilizes wholesome, dog-safe ingredients that are readily available, making it an easy and cost-effective way to provide your dog with a nutritious and calming treat. You’ll be delighted by how easy it is to whip up a batch of these delightful gummies that your dog will absolutely adore.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare Your Chamomile: If using dried chamomile flowers, grind them into a very fine powder using a spice grinder or mortar and pestle. If using chamomile tea, brew a concentrated cup (use about 1/4 cup of hot water to 1-2 chamomile tea bags, steep for 10 minutes, then cool completely).
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, gently warm the unsweetened applesauce and pumpkin puree over low heat. Stir in the plain yogurt and unsweetened coconut oil until well combined and the coconut oil has melted. Do not boil. You’re just aiming for a warm, liquid consistency.
- Bloom the Gelatin: In a separate small bowl, sprinkle the gelatin powder over the cooled, concentrated chamomile tea (or a few tablespoons of cool water if using powdered chamomile). Let it sit for 5 minutes to “bloom” or thicken. If you used powdered chamomile, you can add a a tablespoon of water here and let the powder bloom.
- Incorporate Gelatin and Chamomile: Add the bloomed gelatin mixture and the finely ground chamomile powder (or the chamomile tea if using it as the liquid base) to the warmed wet ingredients in the saucepan. Whisk continuously over low heat for about 2-3 minutes, ensuring the gelatin is fully dissolved and smoothly incorporated. Avoid boiling, as high heat can degrade the benefits of gelatin and chamomile. The mixture should be smooth and homogenous.
- Pour into Molds: Carefully pour the warm mixture into silicone dog treat molds, ice cube trays, or a shallow, parchment-lined baking dish. Silicone molds are ideal for easy removal and often come in fun shapes.
- Chill to Set: Once poured, place the molds in the refrigerator for at least 1-2 hours, or until the gummies are completely firm and set. They should have a gelatinous, firm texture.
- Demold and Serve: Gently pop the calming chamomile gummy dog treats out of their molds. If using a baking dish, cut them into small, bite-sized cubes.
Is This Recipe Safe for Dogs?
Absolutely! The calming chamomile gummy dog treats recipe is crafted using only dog-safe ingredients. We’ve specifically avoided common ingredients that are toxic to dogs, such as onions, garlic, xylitol (a dangerous artificial sweetener often found in sugar-free products), grapes, raisins, and excessive salt or sugar. Chamomile is generally considered safe for dogs when given in appropriate amounts and is often used to help calm them. While this recipe is safe for most dogs, it’s always a good idea to consult with your veterinarian before introducing any new food or treat to your dog’s diet, especially if your dog has known allergies, sensitivities, or pre-existing health conditions.
Why You’ll Love This Calming Chamomile Gummy Dog Treats
You’ll adore these calming chamomile gummy dog treats because they offer a natural and effective way to soothe your dog’s anxieties without resorting to artificial ingredients or expensive supplements. Many store-bought calming treats can be costly and contain a long list of ingredients you can’t pronounce. This homemade alternative empowers you to control exactly what goes into your dog’s body, providing peace of mind with every bite.
Furthermore, making these treats at home is significantly more cost-effective than purchasing commercial options. You’ll be using simple, wholesome ingredients that you might even have in your pantry, saving money while ensuring your dog receives the benefits of fresh, natural goodness. Whip up a batch today and treat your best friend to a nourishing snack made with love and care – they deserve it!
How Much of This Should I Feed My Dog?
These calming chamomile gummy dog treats are designed as a special treat or supplement, not a complete meal. For small dogs, offer 1-2 small gummies per day. Medium dogs can enjoy 2-3 gummies, and large dogs can have 3-4 gummies per day. It’s important to gauge your dog’s reaction and adjust accordingly. Always ensure your dog has access to fresh water. For personalized feeding advice tailored to your dog’s specific needs, age, breed, and activity level, please consult your veterinarian.
Storing and Reheating Tips
To store your calming chamomile gummy dog treats safely, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will typically stay fresh for up to 7-10 days. For longer storage, you can freeze portions in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2-3 months. To thaw, simply transfer the desired amount from the freezer to the refrigerator and let them thaw overnight. Reheating is not necessary for these treats, and they are best served chilled or at room temperature.
Frequently Asked Questions About Homemade Dog Food
- Can puppies eat this recipe? Yes, puppies can generally enjoy these calming chamomile gummy dog treats in smaller quantities. Ensure portion sizes are appropriate for their age and size, and always consult your veterinarian about introducing new treats to a young puppy.
- Can I freeze homemade dog food? Yes, freezing is an excellent way to store homemade dog food, including these gummies. It helps preserve freshness and allows you to make larger batches.
- How long does it stay fresh? When stored properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator, these gummies will stay fresh for approximately 7-10 days.
- Can this be fed daily? These calming chamomile gummy dog treats are intended as a supplemental treat to be fed in moderation. While generally safe for daily consumption in appropriate quantities, it’s best to consult your vet for specific daily feeding recommendations to ensure they complement your dog’s primary diet.
Final Thoughts
Making calming chamomile gummy dog treats at home is a wonderfully simple, safe, and nourishing way to show your dog you care. By using natural ingredients, you can provide your furry friend with a calming treat that supports their well-being. Give this recipe a try and treat your dog to a delicious and healthy homemade reward!
This homemade dog food recipe is intended as a general guide and should not replace veterinary-recommended diets.
Calming Chamomile Gummy Dog Treats
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- If using dried chamomile flowers, grind them into a very fine powder using a spice grinder or mortar and pestle. If using chamomile tea, brew a concentrated cup (use about 1/4 cup of hot water to 1-2 chamomile tea bags, steep for 10 minutes, then cool completely).2 tablespoons Fresh Chamomile Flowers
- In a medium saucepan, gently warm the unsweetened applesauce and pumpkin puree over low heat. Stir in the plain yogurt and unsweetened coconut oil until well combined and the coconut oil has melted. Do not boil. You’re just aiming for a warm, liquid consistency.1 cup Unsweetened Applesauce, 1/2 cup Pure Pumpkin Puree, 1/4 cup Plain Yogurt, 2 tablespoons Unsweetened Coconut Oil
- In a separate small bowl, sprinkle the gelatin powder over the cooled, concentrated chamomile tea (or a few tablespoons of cool water if using powdered chamomile). Let it sit for 5 minutes to “bloom” or thicken. If you used powdered chamomile, you can add a a tablespoon of water here and let the powder bloom.2 tablespoons Gelatin Powder, 2 tablespoons Fresh Chamomile Flowers
- Add the bloomed gelatin mixture and the finely ground chamomile powder (or the chamomile tea if using it as the liquid base) to the warmed wet ingredients in the saucepan. Whisk continuously over low heat for about 2-3 minutes, ensuring the gelatin is fully dissolved and smoothly incorporated. Avoid boiling, as high heat can degrade the benefits of gelatin and chamomile. The mixture should be smooth and homogenous.2 tablespoons Gelatin Powder, 2 tablespoons Fresh Chamomile Flowers, 1 cup Unsweetened Applesauce, 1/2 cup Pure Pumpkin Puree, 1/4 cup Plain Yogurt, 2 tablespoons Unsweetened Coconut Oil
- Carefully pour the warm mixture into silicone dog treat molds, ice cube trays, or a shallow, parchment-lined baking dish. Silicone molds are ideal for easy removal and often come in fun shapes.
- Once poured, place the molds in the refrigerator for at least 1-2 hours, or until the gummies are completely firm and set. They should have a gelatinous, firm texture.
- Gently pop the calming chamomile gummy dog treats out of their molds. If using a baking dish, cut them into small, bite-sized cubes.