Want a treat thatās healthy, delicious, and tail-waggingly easy to make? Meet your new best friend in the kitchen: apples.
Apples are crunchy, naturally sweet, and full of fiber and antioxidantsāmaking them a perfect dog-friendly ingredient (just skip the seeds and core, of course). From freezer snacks to baked goodies, weāre serving up six irresistible apple dog treats your pup will absolutely love.
Whether you’re a seasoned dog treat DIYer or a total beginner, these recipes are quick, wholesome, and budget-friendly. Letās dive into some paw-some goodness. šš¾
š¾ Note: Always introduce new foods gradually and check with your vet if your dog has dietary restrictions, allergies, or health concerns.
1. Apple Pupcakes (For Special Occasions or Just Because)
Perfect for birthdays, “adoptiversaries,” or spoiling your pup just because. These pupcakes are moist, soft, and topped with a healthy āfrostingā your dog will devour.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup whole wheat flour (or oat flour for sensitive tummies)
- 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 1/4 cup grated apple (peeled and cored)
- 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1 egg
- 1 tsp baking powder
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a muffin tin or use silicone molds.
- Mix flour and baking powder in a bowl.
- Stir in applesauce, grated apple, yogurt, and egg until fully combined.
- Spoon into liners, filling 2/3 full. Bake for 15ā20 minutes.
- Let cool. Top with Greek yogurt for dog-safe frosting.
Bonus Tip: Freeze extras for up to 2 months. They thaw quickly and make a perfect anytime snack!
2. Frozen Apple Slices (Cooling Treat for Hot Days)
These are your summer lifesaversācool, crunchy, and hydrating. Ideal for teething puppies or post-walk refreshers.
Ingredients:
- 1ā2 apples, peeled, cored, and sliced thin
- Optional: 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth
Instructions:
- Dip apple slices in broth or water.
- Arrange on parchment-lined tray and freeze for 2ā3 hours.
- Store in freezer-safe bag for up to a month.
Why It Works: Apples offer hydration and mild sweetness while the broth adds irresistible flavor. Great for picky eaters!
3. Apple & Peanut Butter Biscuits (Crunchy Training Rewards)
Apples + peanut butter = dog treat gold. These crunchy biscuits are high in fiber and proteināgreat for energy and coat health.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup whole wheat flour
- 1/2 cup rolled oats
- 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 1/4 cup peanut butter (xylitol-free)
- 1/4 cup grated apple
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a tray with parchment.
- Mix dry ingredients first, then stir in wet ingredients.
- Roll dough out and cut with cookie cutters.
- Bake 20ā25 minutes until firm and golden.
Storage Tip: Keep in an airtight jar for up to 10 days or freeze for 3 months.
4. Apple & Carrot Muffins (Full of Fiber & Antioxidants)
Like a dog-friendly power muffin! Carrots and apples combine to support vision, digestion, and immune health.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup whole wheat flour
- 1/2 cup grated carrot
- 1/2 cup grated apple
- 1/4 cup rolled oats
- 1/4 cup applesauce
- 1 egg
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Combine all ingredients into a thick batter.
- Spoon into greased muffin tin. Bake for 20ā25 minutes.
- Cool and serve. Refrigerate extras.
Pro Tip: Add a pinch of turmeric for anti-inflammatory benefits.
5. Apple & Cinnamon Dog Cookies (Smells Like Fall, Tastes Like Heaven)
Cinnamon is dog-safe in small amounts and has anti-inflammatory properties. Combined with apples, these cookies are like autumn in a bite!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup whole wheat flour
- 1/2 cup grated apple
- 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 1/4 cup water
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Mix all ingredients until dough forms.
- Roll and cut into fun shapes.
- Bake for 15ā20 minutes until firm.
Fun Fact: Cinnamon can help freshen your dogās breathānaturally.
6. Apple & Chicken Jerky Bites (High-Protein, Low-Fat)
Perfect for meat-loving pups! These chewy bites are protein-packed, lightly sweet, and much healthier than store-bought jerky.
Ingredients:
- 1 cooked chicken breast (shredded)
- 1/2 cup grated apple
- 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce
Instructions:
- Mix ingredients thoroughly.
- Spread on parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Bake at 200°F (95°C) for 2ā3 hours until dry and chewy.
- Cool and cut into small bites.
Storage: Refrigerate in airtight container up to 7 days.
FAQs
Can dogs eat apples daily?
Yes, in moderation. Apples are high in fiber and sugar, so they should be a treatānot a meal replacement.
Can I use other fruits?
Absolutely! Blueberries, bananas, pumpkin, and strawberries are dog-safe additions. Avoid grapes, raisins, and cherriesātheyāre toxic.
Are these treats good for puppies?
Yes, but always consult your vet. Puppies have more sensitive digestion, and portion sizes should be adjusted.
Can I use almond or coconut flour instead of wheat?
Yes. Coconut flour is grain-free and rich in healthy fats. Almond flour is also a great gluten-free option.
How do I store homemade treats?
Most last up to a week refrigerated or 2ā3 months in the freezer. Label batches and rotate frequently.
Final Thoughts
Making homemade apple dog treats isnāt just funāitās a wholesome way to show your pup some love (and maybe save a little cash, too). These six recipes are simple, safe, and vet-approved. Plus, they let you control exactly what goes into your dogās dietāno preservatives, no fillers, no mystery meat.
So, grab those apples, preheat your oven (or clear some freezer space), and watch your dog fall in loveābite after bite. š¶šš
Meta Description:
Discover 6 easy, healthy apple dog treats your pup will love! From pupcakes to frozen bites, these homemade recipes are nutritious, affordable, and vet-approved.