By Tanveer | Updated: June 26, 2025
If your dog is diabetic, overweight, or just needs a leaner lifestyle, switching to low-carb treats is one of the best things you can do.
Unfortunately, store-bought options are often filled with hidden starches, grains, and preservatives.
So, what’s the better alternative?
DIY low-carb dog treats. They’re easy to make, wallet-friendly, and packed with safe, dog-approved nutrition.
⚠️ Before You Start: Safety First
- ❗ Always check with your vet before starting new treats—especially for diabetic, senior, or allergy-prone dogs.
- 🛑 Avoid ingredients like xylitol, onions, raisins, and garlic—they’re toxic to dogs.
- 🔬 Some dogs may be lactose or gluten intolerant, so substitutions are suggested below.
🧀 1. Cheesy Cauliflower Bites (Keto-Friendly)
Great for: Overweight dogs, picky eaters
Prep Time: 5 min | Bake Time: 20 min
Yield: ~12 treats
Ingredients:
- 1 cup steamed cauliflower, finely chopped
- ½ cup shredded low-lactose cheese (like mozzarella)
- 1 egg
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Combine all ingredients in a bowl until well mixed.
- Drop spoonfuls onto parchment-lined baking tray.
- Bake for 15–20 mins until golden.
- Let cool fully before serving.
🧠 Nutritional Note:
Approx. 1.5g net carbs per bite. Rich in fiber, vitamin C & protein.
🧊 Storage:
Fridge: 5–7 days | Freezer: 2 months
🎃 2. Peanut Butter Pumpkin Balls (No Bake)
Great for: Dogs with sensitive digestion
Prep Time: 10 min | No baking required
Yield: ~15 balls
Ingredients:
- ½ cup pure pumpkin puree (not pie filling)
- ¼ cup natural peanut butter (NO xylitol)
- ½ cup coconut flour
Instructions:
- Mix everything until dough forms.
- Roll into bite-sized balls.
- Refrigerate for 1 hour before serving.
🧠 Nutritional Note:
High in fiber & healthy fat. Low glycemic index.
🧊 Storage:
Fridge: 1 week | Freezer: 3 months
🐔 3. Homemade Chicken Jerky Strips
Great for: High-protein training rewards
Prep Time: 5 min | Bake Time: 2–3 hours
Yield: Varies by strip size
Ingredients:
- 1–2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Instructions:
- Slice chicken into thin strips.
- Bake at 200°F (95°C) for 2–3 hours.
- Flip halfway and dry until leathery but chewy.
🧠 Nutritional Note:
Zero carbs, pure protein. Ideal for diabetic dogs.
🧊 Storage:
Fridge: 10 days | Freezer: 3 months
Vacuum-sealed = longer shelf life
🥒 4. Zucchini Crunch Chips
Great for: Dogs who love crispy texture
Prep Time: 10 min | Bake Time: 2–3 hours
Yield: 1–2 cups
Ingredients:
- 1 medium zucchini
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
- Slice thin zucchini rounds.
- Toss in olive oil.
- Bake at 225°F (110°C) for 2–3 hours until crisp.
🧠 Nutritional Note:
Almost zero carbs, low-calorie & full of antioxidants.
🧊 Storage:
Airtight container: 5–7 days
Tip: Add rosemary or parsley for variety (optional)
🐟 5. Salmon Super Bites
Great for: Skin, coat & brain health
Prep Time: 10 min | Bake Time: 15 min
Yield: ~20 small bites
Ingredients:
- 1 cup cooked salmon (boneless, flaked)
- ½ cup almond flour
- 1 egg
Instructions:
- Mix salmon, almond flour, and egg into a dough.
- Shape into small balls or press into molds.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15–20 mins until firm.
🧠 Nutritional Note:
Rich in omega-3s & protein. <2g carbs per bite.
🧊 Storage:
Fridge: 5–6 days | Freezer: 2–3 months
🦃 6. Turkey & Spinach Mini Meatballs
Great for: Active or large-breed dogs
Prep Time: 10 min | Bake Time: 20–25 min
Yield: ~15 meatballs
Ingredients:
- ½ lb ground turkey
- ½ cup chopped spinach
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan (optional)
Instructions:
- Mix all ingredients in a bowl.
- Form small meatballs.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20–25 mins.
🧠 Nutritional Note:
Low in fat, high in lean protein and iron.
🧊 Storage:
Fridge: 5 days | Freezer: 2 months
Tip: Great for meal toppers too!
🧊 7. Frozen Coconut Oil Popsicles
Great for: Summer, hydration, coat health
Prep Time: 5 min | Freeze Time: 2 hours
Yield: 6–8 small cubes
Ingredients:
- ¼ cup melted coconut oil
- ¼ cup unsweetened applesauce
- ¼ cup water
- (Optional: few blueberries or chopped parsley)
Instructions:
- Mix ingredients together.
- Pour into silicone molds or ice cube trays.
- Freeze for 2+ hours.
🧠 Nutritional Note:
Hydrating, soothing for dry skin. Use in moderation due to fat content.
🧊 Storage:
Freezer: 3–4 months
Tip: Use lick mats for slow feeding!
🧠 Nutritional Summary Table
| Treat Name | Carb Level | Storage Life | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cheesy Cauliflower Bites | Low | 1 week (fridge) | Picky, overweight dogs |
| PB Pumpkin Balls | Low | 1 week / 3 mo. | Sensitive stomachs |
| Chicken Jerky | 0 carbs | 10 days / 3 mo. | Diabetic or training dogs |
| Zucchini Chips | Very low | 1 week | Dogs who like crunchy snacks |
| Salmon Bites | Low (<2g) | 1 week / 3 mo. | Skin, coat, joint health |
| Turkey Meatballs | Low | 1 week / 2 mo. | Active or large breeds |
| Coconut Popsicles | Low | 3–4 months | Summer & hydration treats |
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I give these daily?
Yes, but keep them to 10% of daily calories to maintain a balanced diet.
Q2: Can I swap ingredients?
Absolutely! Just be sure you’re avoiding toxic ingredients (onions, chocolate, xylitol, raisins, etc.).
Q3: Are these safe for small dogs?
Yes—just reduce portion sizes. Always supervise chewing.
Q4: Can I use an air fryer or dehydrator?
Yes! For jerky and veggie chips, these are great tools and save time.
Q5: What if my dog has allergies?
Use alternative flours (coconut, oat) and skip dairy if needed. Always patch test new treats.
✅ Final Woof
Feeding your dog low-carb treats doesn’t have to be complicated—or boring. These 7 vet-safe recipes are delicious, nutritious, and tailored to different needs—from itchy skin to picky appetites.
Making them at home means:
- You control the ingredients 🧂
- You save money 💰
- You know your pup is getting what’s best ❤️
So preheat that oven (or freezer), grab your mixing bowl, and become your dog’s favorite chef today.