Nearly every dog owner knows the struggle…you sit down to watch Netflix with a bowl of oily, salty, highly processed snacks and your best bud stares at you with those eyes that not-so-discretely work to convince you that sharing your treats are akin to sharing your love.
We get it! Unfortunately, this scenario that plays out nightly across the nation is one of the main reasons our dogs have an alarmingly high rate of obesity and all the health problems that come with it. We’d like you to consider an alternative path. You can reward your taste buds while delighting your four-legged best friend at the same time without putting your pup into the danger zone of heart disease and cardiovascular problems.
Picture this: you, your loyal canine companion, and a plate of wholesome, homemade treats, all enjoyed guilt-free and together. It’s a scene that defines the very essence of companionship and shared joy.
We’ve put together a few recipes (we’ll keep this page updated) to help you create delectable, nutritious treats that bridge the gap between humans and our four-legged friends. Get ready to discover a world where indulgence meets wholesome goodness, where wagging tails and smiles go hand in paw, and where you can share precious moments and treats without an ounce of guilt. Let’s dive into the kitchen, roll up our sleeves, and cook up some magic that will leave both you and your dog begging for more.
3 Healthy Treats For Your Dog That You Can Share
Blueberry Frozen Yogurt You and Your Dog Can Enjoy
Ingredients
- 1- 16 oz container of Fat Free Plain Greek Yogurt
- 1 Ripe Banana
- 2 cups Frozen Blueberries (you can also use strawberries or even pumpkin purée if you want. I like to add 2 tsp of ground cinnamon to the pumpkin version)
Directions
- Place the container of yogurt into the freezer for 20–30 mins to allow to chill, which will help the frozen yogurt set up faster.
- Now place the blueberries and banana into a food processor and blend until smooth.
- Then add the yogurt into the berry/banana mixture and blend until smooth. Be sure to scrape down the sides during the blending to make sure that everything gets well incorporated.
- Finally, pour the yogurt mixture into a muffin pan and fill up each cup and cover with plastic wrap and place in the freezer for 20–30 mins for a soft serve consistency. Once the yogurt cups have completely frozen, you can let them sit out at room temp until they soften up to a soft serve consistency again.
Note: Be sure to divide the muffins into ¼’s (quarters) for small dogs and divide in ½ (half) for medium dogs. You can even use a mini muffin pan for your small or medium dog’s portion. Store any uneaten portions in the freezer.
Healthy Italian Egg White Muffin Cups That You and Your Dog Can Enjoy
Ingredients
- 1- 16 oz Carton of Eggbeaters (egg whites)
- ½ cup Fat Free Plain Greek Yogurt
- ½ cup Shredded Mozzarella Cheese
- 1 Large Diced Seeded Tomato
- 1 Tbsp Dried Oregano
- 1 ½ Tbsp Dried Basil
Directions
In a large mixing bowl, combine all the ingredients and mix well before ladling into a muffin tin that you’ve sprayed lightly with cooking spray. Fill ¾ (three-quarters) full.
Bake in a preheated 350 F oven for 25 mins, or until completely cooked.
Allow them to cool and cut into a size appropriate for your dog. For small dogs, you’ll want to divide the muffin into ¼’s (quarters) and for medium dogs, divide the muffin in half for each serving.
Note: You can use a mini muffin pan for your small or medium-sized dogs portions, just adjust the baking time by checking the muffins often to check for doneness. Store in the fridge for up to 2 days, or freeze any uneaten portions for longer storage.
Ground Turkey Or Chicken Meatloaf Muffins For You And Your Dog To Enjoy
Ingredients
1 lb Ground Turkey or Chicken
1 cup Cooked Barley
2 Egg Whites
1 cup Cheddar Cheese
1 Cup Chopped Broccoli Florets (be sure to avoid any woody pieces)
1 Tbsp Dried Parsley
1 Tbsp Dried Italian Seasoning
Directions
Mix all ingredients in a large mixing bowl until combined, then scoop into a muffin tin that’s been sprayed lightly with a cooking spray and fill 10 of the cups to the top.
Place into a preheated 350 F oven and bake for 40 mins until completely cooked through.
Allow to cool completely before serving to your dog, and divide the muffins into quarters (1/4) for small dogs and divide in half for medium-sized dogs.
You can also use a mini muffin pan for your small and medium-sized dogs’ portions, just adjust the cooking time and check often. Remove when completely cooked, approximately 15–20 mins.
Note: Store in the fridge for 3 days and freeze any uneaten portions for longer storage.
A Quick Closing Thought…
As we wrap up our culinary journey through the world of wholesome treats meant for both you and your beloved dog, I’d like to take a quick moment and acknowledge the significance of your choice to make healthy shareable snacks for your dog.
Beyond the joy they bring, these treats are a lifeline in the battle against canine obesity, a growing concern that affects far too many furry friends. And please know that I don’t use the word ‘battle’ lightly. As dog owners, we’re battling our own desire to make our pup instantly happy with an unhealthy snack, even though we know it’s not exactly the most responsible choice.
Did you know that approximately 56% of dogs in the United States alone are overweight or obese? The consequences of this battle are severe, with obesity linked to a plethora of health issues in dogs, including heart disease, diabetes, and joint problems. In fact, it’s estimated that obesity can shave off more than two precious years from a dog’s life, robbing them of countless moments by your side.
But it’s not just your dog’s health that’s at stake. Treating obesity can become a significant financial burden, with veterinary bills piling up as you work to address the consequences of excess weight. The truth is, prevention is the best cure, and it starts right in your kitchen.
By choosing to create and share wholesome treats with your dog, you’re taking a proactive step towards their well-being. You’re saying no to empty calories and yes to quality nutrition that nourishes their body and soul.
In the world of responsible pet ownership, the kitchen becomes a sanctuary where health and happiness intersect. Each treat you prepare becomes a small victory in the battle against obesity, a step closer to a longer, more vibrant life for your furry friend.
So, as you savor the last crumbs of your homemade treats, remember that you’re not just indulging in a delightful moment; you’re investing in a healthier, happier future for both you and your loyal companion. Here’s to the power of shared treats, the strength of a strong bond, and the promise of many more joyful years together. Happy treating, and may your journey be filled with love, health, and wagging tails.
