Homemade Dog Treat Recipes That Are Both Healthy and Delicious for Small Dogs

If you’ve ever looked at the ingredient list on store-bought dog treats, you know it can be a little… intimidating. Long words, artificial preservatives, and fillers don’t always sound like something you’d want your pup munching on. The good news? Making homemade dog treats is simple, fun, and gives you total control over what goes into your small dog’s snacks.

Not only can you pack them with wholesome ingredients, but you can also size them perfectly for tiny mouths and tummies. Let’s dive into some easy, healthy, and delicious homemade dog treat recipes your small dog will love.

Why Make Homemade Treats for Small Dogs?

• Portion control: Small dogs need small bites to avoid overfeeding.

• Healthier ingredients: No mystery additives—just natural goodness.

• Allergy-friendly: Perfect for pups with food sensitivities.

• Bonding time: Nothing says love like baking for your fur baby.

Recipe 1: Peanut Butter & Pumpkin Bites

Packed with protein, fiber, and flavor—these chewy bites are a pup favorite.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup canned pumpkin (unsweetened, plain)

• ½ cup natural peanut butter (xylitol-free)

• 2 cups whole wheat flour (or oat flour for sensitive pups)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. Mix pumpkin and peanut butter in a bowl.

3. Slowly add flour until dough forms.

4. Roll out dough and cut into tiny shapes using a cookie cutter.

5. Bake for 20–25 minutes until firm.

Storage: Keep in an airtight container for up to 5 days, or freeze for longer.

Recipe 2: Mini Apple Cinnamon Biscuits

A crunchy, naturally sweet treat that smells as good as it tastes.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup oat flour

• ½ cup finely grated apple (no seeds, no core)

• 1 egg

• ½ tsp ground cinnamon

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).

2. Mix all ingredients into a dough.

3. Roll into small balls (pea-sized for toy breeds) and flatten slightly.

4. Bake for 15–18 minutes until golden brown.

Storage: Store in a sealed jar for up to a week.

Recipe 3: Frozen Blueberry Yogurt Treats

Perfect for warm days or after a long walk.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup plain, unsweetened Greek yogurt

• ½ cup blueberries (fresh or frozen)

• 1 Tbsp honey (optional, skip if your dog is diabetic)

Instructions:

1. Blend ingredients until smooth.

2. Pour into silicone molds or ice cube trays.

3. Freeze for 2–3 hours until solid.

Storage: Keep in freezer and serve as needed.

Tips for Homemade Dog Treat Success

• Keep them small: Small dogs = small bites. Prevents overfeeding and choking.

• Avoid harmful ingredients: No chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, or xylitol.

• Moderation is key: Even healthy treats should make up no more than 10% of your dog’s daily diet.

• Have fun with shapes: Use tiny cookie cutters (hearts, bones, stars) for extra cuteness.

Final Thoughts

Homemade treats are a simple way to spoil your small dog with love, flavor, and nutrition. With these easy recipes, you’ll have your pup drooling in no time—and you’ll feel good knowing exactly what’s going into their snacks.

🐾 Healthy, homemade, and made with love—what could be better for your small best friend?