Will you be spending Christmas with a four-legged friend this year? As well as wrapping up gifts for your beloved humans, why not whip up something special for the pooches in your family? Human food can often be harmful for dogs and it’s just not worth the risk. Instead, keep your pups happy with these easy DIY treats, perfect for slipping under the table.
You can spoil your own pup or package them up and give them away as thoughtful gifts. If you really love dogs, why not spread the holiday cheer and drop off a few bags at your local shelter?
Apple Mint Christmas Bones
Armed with a bone-shaped cookie cutter, it’s all too easy to whip up these festive cookies from Best Dog Treat Recipes. Unlike the chocolates you’ve been devouring all December, they’re low-fat and low-calorie which makes them perfect for dogs on diets. The even better news is mint can help to aid digestion and freshen doggy breath.
Frozen Peanut Butter, Banana, Coconut Oil Dog Popsicles
Is the forecast calling for a balmy Christmas? These frozen peanut better, banana and coconut oil dog popsicles are a great way to keep your pups cool this Christmas. Bananas provide a valuable fix of vitamins and minerals, while coconut oil will help promote a glossy coat.
Peanut Butter Pumpkin Dog Treats
These treats sound good enough to eat, and after looking at the ingredients list you might be tempted. Created by the dog lovers at My Baking Addiction, they call for little more than pumpkin puree, eggs, oats, flour, peanut butter and cinnamon. They also offer some tasty variations so why not experiment with a few different flavours?
Gingerbread Cookies
Nothing says Christmas quite like the smell of cooking gingerbread. As well as filling your kitchen with a festive aroma, these spiced cookies from Baking Mischief will have your pups drooling. Ginger can help to boost the digestive system and help with issues like colic and flatulence. Just remember to leave out the nutmeg as it can be toxic to dogs.
Bacon bites
Filled with goodness, your pups are guaranteed to fall head over paws for these bite sized bacon treats from Damn Delicious. They’re also surprisingly healthy thanks to ingredients like old fashioned oats and pumpkin puree.
When whipping up these festive goodies, keep in mind that some ingredients, like peanut butter and bacon, are best fed in moderation to avoid upsetting sensitive stomachs or adding too many extra calories. As always, check with your vet if you’re unsure about any specific ingredients.
Do you have a tried and tested recipe your pups love? We’d love to see your DIY dog treat recipes.