(Wholesome, Healthy & Easy — Because Your Dog Deserves the Best!)
Your dog loves turkey. Your dog loves apples.
Your dog once tried to eat a sock, but… we don’t talk about that. 😅
If you want to give your furry best friend something actually edible, nutritious, and drool-worthy, these homemade Turkey & Apple Dog Treats are perfect!
Bonus? They smell amazing in the oven, and you know exactly what’s going in them — no mystery meat or weird chemicals.
Whether you’re training your pup, rewarding good behavior, or just saying “I love you” (again), these treats will become a favorite in no time. 🦴💛🐶
🐕 Why Turkey & Apple? (Nutrition You Can Trust)
🦃 Turkey:
- Lean, easily digestible protein
- Supports muscle maintenance
- Great source of essential amino acids
- Low in fat compared to many red meats
🍎 Apple:
- Adds natural sweetness and crunch
- Provides fiber, which aids digestion
- Contains Vitamin C & antioxidants
- Low-calorie fruit option for dogs
⚠️ IMPORTANT: Always remove apple seeds and core! They contain amygdalin, which can release cyanide when digested.
📝 Ingredients You’ll Need
Simple, clean, wholesome ingredients — no fillers, no preservatives.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Lean ground turkey | 1 lb | Unseasoned (no garlic, onion, or spices) |
| Apple | 1 small | Finely chopped or grated (no seeds or core) |
| Egg | 1 large | Acts as a binder |
| Oat flour or rolled oats | ½ cup | For texture and fiber |
| Optional: Cinnamon | A pinch | Adds aroma, but use very sparingly |
Pro Tip: Avoid adding too much cinnamon — high quantities can be toxic to dogs.
🧑🍳 How to Make Turkey & Apple Dog Treats
Step 1: Prep the Oven
Preheat to 350°F (175°C).
Step 2: Combine Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl:
- Add ground turkey, grated apple, egg, and oats.
- Mix thoroughly with a spoon or your hands until a sticky dough forms.
Step 3: Shape Your Treats
Choose your style:
- Training Treats: Small balls (grape-sized)
- Baked Bars: Press mixture evenly into a parchment-lined baking dish, cut after baking
- Cute Shapes: Use silicone molds (bones, hearts, paws!)
Step 4: Bake
Place treats on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until:
- Edges are slightly golden
- Centers feel firm and fully cooked (use a toothpick test if needed)
For crunchier treats, bake an additional 5–10 minutes — watch carefully to avoid over-drying.
Step 5: Cool & Store
Let treats cool completely before serving — your dog will definitely be watching! 🐶👀
📦 Storage Tips
These are fresh, preservative-free treats, so proper storage matters.
- Refrigerator: Airtight container for up to 5–6 days.
- Freezer: Freeze in small portions for up to 2 months.
- Defrost overnight in the fridge or use a quick defrost setting (low power) in the microwave — but never serve hot.
Warning: Discard treats if you notice any sour smell or mold — freshness first!
📊 Nutritional Info (Approximate Per Treat)
(Based on 1 lb turkey making about 25 small treats)
| Nutrient | Amount per treat |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~20–25 kcal |
| Protein | ~2–3g |
| Fat | ~1g |
| Carbs | ~1–2g |
| Fiber | ~0.3g |
Remember: These are treats, not meal replacements. Keep portions appropriate to your dog’s size and daily calorie needs.
🐾 When to Use These Treats
✔️ During training sessions (cut into tiny bites)
✔️ As a meal topper for picky eaters
✔️ After grooming or bath time (perfect bribe)
✔️ As a soft, chewy reward for senior dogs or puppies
Bonus: Great for dogs with sensitive tummies — no artificial flavors or fillers.
❗ Safety Notes
- Avoid apple seeds & core — toxic for dogs
- Use lean, plain turkey only — skip garlic, onion, or seasoned ground turkey
- Feed in moderation — especially for dogs with weight or digestive issues
- Always check with your veterinarian if your dog has food allergies or medical concerns.
❓ FAQ: You Asked, We Answered
1️⃣ Can I use ground chicken instead of turkey?
Yes! Ground chicken works well — lean, unseasoned, and cooked fully.
2️⃣ Which apples are best for dogs?
Sweet apples like Fuji, Honeycrisp, or Gala. Avoid sour varieties.
3️⃣ Can I make them extra crunchy?
Yes — bake 5–10 min longer for a crunchier texture.
4️⃣ How many treats can my dog have per day?
Depends on size:
- Small dogs: 1–2 treats
- Medium dogs: 2–3 treats
- Large dogs: 3–4 treats
Always adjust based on overall calorie intake.
5️⃣ Can I add other ingredients?
You can experiment with:
- Parsley (for fresher breath)
- Shredded cheese (sparingly)
- Blueberries (small amounts)
But always research dog-safe foods first!
🌟 Final Thoughts: Why Homemade is Better
When you make treats at home:
- You control the ingredients
- You avoid artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives
- You can customize for your dog’s taste & health needs
- You get the joy of making something your dog LOVES! 🐾
So roll up your sleeves, preheat that oven, and get ready to be your dog’s favorite chef.
They’ll thank you with wagging tails, happy barks, and maybe some expert begging skills. 😉
Because at the end of the day — they deserve it. 🦴💛🐕
📌 Summary Checklist:
✅ Lean protein ✅ Natural fiber ✅ No additives ✅ Easy to make ✅ Loved by dogs of all ages