Looking for a way to spoil your canine companion with a healthy, delicious treat? Homemade Cheesy Herb Baked Dog Treats are a fantastic option for dogs of all life stages, from playful puppies to wise seniors. These oven-baked delights are packed with beneficial ingredients that support your dog’s well-being, making them a superior choice compared to many store-bought alternatives.
Key Ingredients for Homemade Cheesy Herb Baked Dog Treats
- 1 ½ cups Whole Wheat Flour: The base of our treats, providing complex carbohydrates for sustained energy.
- ½ cup Rolled Oats (uncooked): A good source of fiber, aiding in digestion and promoting a feeling of fullness.
- ¼ cup Nutritional Yeast: Adds a cheesy flavor that dogs love, and is a good source of B vitamins, important for energy metabolism.
- 1 tablespoon Dried Parsley: A natural breath freshener and a source of antioxidants.
- 1 tablespoon Dried Rosemary: Known for its aromatic properties and often used to support healthy digestion.
- 2 large Eggs: Provide essential protein and act as a binder for our dough.
- ¼ cup Water: Helps to create the right dough consistency.
- 2 tablespoons Olive Oil: Adds healthy fats for a shiny coat and supports nutrient absorption.
- ½ cup Shredded Dog-Safe Cheese (like cheddar or mozzarella, in moderation): Adds irresistible flavor and a little extra calcium. Ensure the cheese is plain, without added onion, garlic, or other harmful seasonings.
Health Benefits of This Homemade Dog Food
These Homemade Cheesy Herb Baked Dog Treats are more than just tasty; they’re a nourishing choice for your dog. The whole wheat flour and rolled oats offer a good source of fiber, which is crucial for a healthy digestive system. This can help prevent tummy upsets and ensure regular bowel movements. The protein from the eggs supports strong muscles and overall body function. Furthermore, the natural herbs like parsley and rosemary offer subtle digestive support and can contribute to fresher breath. By using wholesome ingredients, you’re providing your dog with essential vitamins and minerals without the artificial additives often found in commercial treats, contributing to their overall vitality and well-being.
How to Make Homemade Cheesy Herb Baked Dog Treats
Whipping up these Homemade Cheesy Herb Baked Dog Treats is incredibly simple, taking less than 30 minutes of active preparation time! You’ll combine wholesome ingredients to create a nutritious dough that bakes into delightful, crunchy biscuits. Your dog will love the cheesy herb flavor and the satisfying crunch, and you’ll love knowing exactly what you’re feeding them.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the whole wheat flour, rolled oats, nutritional yeast, dried parsley, and dried rosemary until well combined.
- Add Wet Ingredients and Cheese: In a separate, smaller bowl, lightly beat the eggs. Add the eggs, water, olive oil, and shredded cheese to the dry ingredients.
- Mix the Dough: Stir the ingredients together with a spoon or spatula until a stiff dough forms. If the dough seems too dry, add another teaspoon of water at a time. If it’s too sticky, add a tablespoon of flour.
- Roll and Cut: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and gently knead it a few times until it’s cohesive. Roll the dough to about ¼ inch thickness. Use cookie cutters to create your desired treat shapes.
- Bake: Carefully place the cut-out treats onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between them. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the treats are firm to the touch.
- Cool: Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the treats cool completely on a wire rack before offering them to your dog. This ensures they harden properly and become delightfully crunchy.
Is This Recipe Safe for Dogs?
Absolutely! We’ve carefully selected every ingredient in these Homemade Cheesy Herb Baked Dog Treats to ensure they are safe and beneficial for your canine companion. We have intentionally avoided common ingredients that can be harmful to dogs, such as onions, garlic, xylitol (an artificial sweetener), and excessive salt or sugar. While these ingredients are generally safe, it’s always a good practice to introduce any new food to your dog slowly. If your dog has specific allergies, sensitivities, or underlying health conditions, please consult with your veterinarian before adding these homemade treats to their diet.
Why You’ll Love This Homemade Cheesy Herb Baked Dog Treats
These Homemade Cheesy Herb Baked Dog Treats offer a delicious and nutritious alternative to many commercially produced dog biscuits. Unlike store-bought options that can sometimes contain artificial preservatives, colors, and fillers, our recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients you can trust, ensuring your dog receives pure goodness in every bite. You’re in complete control of what goes into your dog’s treats, making them a perfect choice for dogs with sensitive stomachs or specific dietary needs.
Beyond the health advantages, making these treats at home is surprisingly cost-effective. Buying ingredients in bulk and preparing them yourself can significantly reduce your spending compared to purchasing premium dog treats regularly. Imagine the joy of your dog’s happy dances as they anticipate a freshly baked, homemade reward! Give these Homemade Cheesy Herb Baked Dog Treats a try today and watch your dog wag their tail with delight for this wholesome, love-infused snack.
How Much of This Should I Feed My Dog?
As these Homemade Cheesy Herb Baked Dog Treats are nutrient-dense, moderation is key. For small dogs, offering 1-2 small treats per day is generally sufficient. Medium-sized dogs can have 2-3 treats, while larger breeds can enjoy 3-4 treats daily. These treats are best served as a special reward or training aid, not as a primary food source. Always observe your dog’s reaction and adjust the quantity as needed. For personalized feeding advice tailored to your dog’s specific breed, age, activity level, and health status, it’s always recommended to consult with your veterinarian.
Storing and Reheating Tips
To keep your Homemade Cheesy Herb Baked Dog Treats fresh and delicious, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5-7 days. For longer storage, you can freeze portions of the cooled treats for up to 2-3 months. To thaw frozen treats, simply leave them at room temperature for a few hours. If you wish to gently reheat them to bring out their aroma, place them on a baking sheet in a warm oven (around 200°F or 95°C) for 5-10 minutes until warmed through. Avoid microwaving, as this can make them too hard or unevenly heated.
Frequently Asked Questions About Homemade Dog Food
Can puppies eat this recipe?
Yes, puppies can enjoy these Homemade Cheesy Herb Baked Dog Treats! The ingredients are generally safe for growing pups. However, always ensure the treats are broken into smaller, manageable pieces for very young puppies to prevent choking.Can I freeze homemade dog food?
Absolutely! Freezing is an excellent way to preserve the freshness of homemade dog treats and meals. Ensure the treats are completely cooled before packaging them in airtight containers or freezer bags.How long does it stay fresh?
When stored properly in an airtight container at room temperature, these Homemade Cheesy Herb Baked Dog Treats typically stay fresh for 5-7 days. For longer shelf life, refrigeration can extend this to about 10-14 days, and freezing offers the longest preservation period.Can this be fed daily?
Yes, these Homemade Cheesy Herb Baked Dog Treats can be fed daily as part of a balanced diet. However, remember they are a treat, so supervise your dog’s overall intake and ensure they are not exceeding recommended daily caloric allowances. Adjust treat quantity based on your dog’s size and activity level.
Final Thoughts
These Homemade Cheesy Herb Baked Dog Treats are a wonderfully simple, safe, and nourishing way to show your dog some extra love. By using fresh, wholesome ingredients, you can provide a delicious reward that contributes to your dog’s health and happiness. Treat your furry best friend to the goodness of homemade with this delightful recipe!
This homemade dog food recipe is intended as a general guide and should not replace veterinary-recommended diets.
Homemade Cheesy Herb Baked Dog Treats
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the whole wheat flour, rolled oats, nutritional yeast, dried parsley, and dried rosemary until well combined.1.5 cups Whole Wheat Flour, 0.5 cup Rolled Oats (uncooked), 0.25 cup Nutritional Yeast, 1 tablespoon Dried Parsley, 1 tablespoon Dried Rosemary
- In a separate, smaller bowl, lightly beat the eggs. Add the eggs, water, olive oil, and shredded cheese to the dry ingredients.2 large Eggs, 0.25 cup Water, 2 tablespoons Olive Oil, 0.5 cup Shredded Dog-Safe Cheese
- Stir the ingredients together with a spoon or spatula until a stiff dough forms. If the dough seems too dry, add another teaspoon of water at a time. If it’s too sticky, add a tablespoon of flour.
- Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and gently knead it a few times until it’s cohesive. Roll the dough to about ¼ inch thickness. Use cookie cutters to create your desired treat shapes.
- Carefully place the cut-out treats onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between them. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the treats are firm to the touch.
- Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the treats cool completely on a wire rack before offering them to your dog. This ensures they harden properly and become delightfully crunchy.