Because your dog deserves more than store-bought snacks filled with mystery meat and preservatives.
🐾 Why These Treats Deserve a Spot in Your Dog’s Bowl
Whether your pup’s tummy is a bit touchy or they simply refuse to sit unless food is involved, these chicken and rice treats are the wholesome, homemade solution you’ve been looking for.
- ✅ Gentle on Sensitive Stomachs
- ✅ Made with Real, Recognizable Ingredients
- ✅ Soft Texture – Great for puppies, seniors & picky eaters
- ✅ Freezer-Friendly – Make once, reward for weeks
- ✅ Vet-Approved Combo – Chicken & rice is a classic for a reason
🛒 What You’ll Need
All ingredients are safe, simple, and pantry-friendly:
- 1 cup cooked chicken breast, finely chopped or shredded
- 1 cup cooked white rice, mashed slightly for better binding
- 1 egg, for protein and binding (sub options below)
- ¼ cup oat flour (or whole wheat flour if tolerated)
- 1 tbsp olive oil or low-sodium chicken broth
- (Optional) A pinch of parsley (breath freshener) or turmeric (anti-inflammatory)
📋 Nutritional Snapshot (Per Treat – Approx.)
Based on 30 small-sized treats:
- Calories: 28 kcal
- Protein: 2.1g
- Fat: 1.3g
- Carbs: 2.4g
📌 These are estimates. Actual values may vary based on ingredient brands and size of treats.
👨🍳 Let’s Make Them! (Step-by-Step)
🔥 Step 1: Preheat
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
🥣 Step 2: Mix It Up
In a large bowl, combine all ingredients. Stir until it forms a slightly sticky dough. If too dry, add a splash of broth. If too wet, dust in more flour.
🍪 Step 3: Shape
Roll into bite-sized balls and flatten slightly with your palm. Or use small cookie cutters for extra cuteness. (Your dog won’t care, but your Instagram will.)
⏱️ Step 4: Bake
Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the treats are set and lightly golden. Soft texture is ideal for digestion and chewing.
❄️ Step 5: Cool & Store
Let them cool completely before serving.
Store in the fridge for up to 7 days, or freeze for 2 months in an airtight container.
🧠 Portion & Feeding Guide
Always consider your dog’s size, age, and activity level. Here’s a general guideline:
| Dog Size | Daily Treat Limit |
|---|---|
| Small (5–15 lbs) | 1–2 treats |
| Medium (16–40 lbs) | 2–4 treats |
| Large (41–75 lbs) | 3–6 treats |
| Extra Large (75+ lbs) | 4–8 treats |
🔔 Remember: Treats should make up no more than 10% of your dog’s daily calorie intake.
⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid
❌ Using seasoned chicken or rice – Onion, garlic, and certain spices are toxic.
❌ Skipping the mashing step – Whole grains don’t bind well and crumble.
❌ Making them too big – Stick with small, training-friendly sizes.
❌ Leaving them out – These are fresh-food treats; refrigerate or freeze.
🎨 Customization Ideas (Keep It Dog-Safe!)
- 🥕 Add grated carrot or zucchini for extra nutrients
- 🎃 Sub mashed pumpkin for rice for a digestive boost
- 🦃 Swap chicken for turkey (great for holiday leftovers)
- 🍌 No egg? Use ¼ cup mashed banana or unsweetened applesauce
👩⚕️ Health & Safety Notes
- Always consult your vet before introducing new ingredients—especially if your dog has food allergies, pancreatitis, or GI sensitivities.
- Introduce new treats slowly. Start with a small amount and observe for any reactions.
🖨️ Printable Recipe Card
plaintextCopyEdit🐶 Chicken & Rice Dog Treats
Ingredients:
- 1 cup cooked, shredded chicken breast
- 1 cup cooked, mashed white rice
- 1 egg
- ¼ cup oat flour or whole wheat flour
- 1 tbsp olive oil or low-sodium broth
- (Optional) Pinch of parsley or turmeric
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C), line baking tray.
2. Mix all ingredients in bowl until sticky dough forms.
3. Shape into small bites or cut with cookie cutters.
4. Bake for 20–25 minutes until set but soft.
5. Cool completely before serving.
Store in fridge 5–7 days or freeze up to 2 months.
🙋 FAQ: You Ask, We Fetch the Answers
Can I use brown rice instead?
Yes, just mash it well—it’s less sticky.
Are they safe for puppies or seniors?
Absolutely! Just keep them soft and small.
Can I microwave instead of baking?
Not recommended. Texture and shelf life suffer.
Can humans eat them?
Technically yes, but… why would you?
My dog has allergies. Can I sub ingredients?
Yes! Use oat flour for wheat allergies, and try pumpkin or banana instead of egg.
🐕 Final Thoughts
These chicken & rice dog treats are the edible equivalent of a warm blanket and a head scratch. They’re made with real food, require no fancy equipment, and win you massive dog-parent points.
Whether you’re rewarding a perfect heel, a dramatic spin, or just saying “I love you,” these treats are a tail-wagging win.