Looking for a dog treat that’s healthy, homemade, and tail-wagging delicious? These Turkey & Zucchini Mini Muffins are the perfect solution. Packed with lean protein, fiber, and essential vitamins, they’re ideal for training, snack time, or even as a nutrient-rich meal topper.
The best part? They’re easy to bake in batches, freezer-friendly, and made with 100% dog-safe ingredients. Let’s dive into the recipe, pro tips, and advanced nutrition insights so you can make the best for your furry friend.
🥕 Ingredients: Nutritious & Dog-Approved
✅ 1 lb ground turkey – Lean protein for muscle health, low in fat, gentle on sensitive stomachs.
✅ ½ cup shredded zucchini – Moisture, fiber, antioxidants, plus vitamins A & C for immune health.
✅ ¼ cup oat flour – Gluten-free binder, adds fiber, helps digestion.
✅ 1 egg – Protein booster + healthy fats for coat and skin.
✅ Optional: 1 tsp parsley (fresh breath), ½ tsp turmeric (anti-inflammatory).
🍴 Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prep
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a mini muffin tin or line with mini paper liners.
Step 2: Mix
In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, zucchini, oat flour, and egg. Mix until evenly blended. If too wet, add 1–2 tbsp extra oat flour.
Step 3: Fill
Scoop mixture into muffin tin, pressing gently so they hold shape. Fill each cup to the top.
Step 4: Bake
Bake for 20–25 minutes until golden and firm. For a firmer texture, bake 5 minutes longer.
Step 5: Cool & Serve
Cool completely before serving to your pup. Store extras for later (see storage tips below).
📊 Nutritional Breakdown (per mini muffin, approx.)
- Calories: 40–45 kcal
- Protein: 5 g
- Fat: 2 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Carbohydrates: 2 g
(Values may vary slightly based on portion size.)
🐾 Serving Size Guide
👉 Small dogs (under 20 lbs): ½ – 1 muffin per day
👉 Medium dogs (20–50 lbs): 1–2 muffins per day
👉 Large dogs (50+ lbs): 2–3 muffins per day
⚠️ Treats should not exceed 10% of your dog’s daily caloric intake.
❄️ Freezing & Storage Tips
- Refrigerator: Airtight container, up to 5 days
- Freezer: Store in freezer-safe bag, up to 3 months
- Pro Tip: Freeze in small batches, thaw as needed
🌟 Why These Ingredients Work
- Turkey: Lean, digestible protein for strong muscles.
- Zucchini: Hydrating, low-calorie veggie with fiber + antioxidants.
- Oat Flour: Gluten-free carb source that’s gut-friendly.
- Egg: Protein + fatty acids for a shiny coat and strong immune system.
🔄 Recipe Variations
- Grain-Free Option: Replace oat flour with coconut flour.
- Low-Fat Option: Use ground turkey breast only.
- Allergy-Friendly: Replace egg with flaxseed egg (1 tbsp flaxseed + 3 tbsp water).
- Veggie Boost: Add shredded carrots or sweet potato for extra nutrients.
🩺 Vet-Approved Note
All ingredients used are generally safe for dogs. However, every pup is unique! If your dog has allergies, pancreatitis, or other health issues, consult your vet before introducing new treats.
🙋 FAQs
Q: Can I eat these muffins too?
Yes, all ingredients are human-grade. Just note they’re bland (no salt, no seasoning).
Q: Can I make them in a regular muffin tin?
Yes, just increase baking time to 30–35 minutes.
Q: Are they safe for puppies?
Yes, but serve in small amounts. Puppies need balanced puppy food as their main diet.
❤️ Final Thoughts
These Turkey & Zucchini Mini Muffins aren’t just treats—they’re wholesome, nutrient-rich bites of love. Perfect for training, snack time, or mealtime variety, they’ll keep your dog happy, healthy, and begging for more.
So grab your ingredients, preheat the oven, and bake a batch today. 🐶✨