If you’re struggling to get your dog’s attention during training, the solution might be as simple as what’s in your treat pouch. Homemade dog training treats can be healthier, cheaper, and—most importantly—more effective than store-bought ones. In this post, we’ll share easy dog training treat recipes that are quick to make, full of flavor, and tailored to motivate your pup.
Why Use Homemade Training Treats?
Before we jump into the recipes, let’s talk about the benefits of making your own:
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Healthier Ingredients: You control what goes in—no fillers or preservatives.
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Cost-Effective: Make large batches on a budget.
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Customizable: Cater to your dog’s taste or dietary restrictions.
3 Easy Dog Training Treat Recipes
1. Peanut Butter & Oat Bites
Ingredients:
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1 cup rolled oats
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½ cup natural peanut butter (no xylitol)
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1 egg
Instructions:
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Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
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Mix all ingredients in a bowl until well combined.
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Scoop small portions onto a parchment-lined baking sheet.
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Bake for 15 minutes or until firm.
✅ Great for: Dogs who love peanut butter and need extra energy.
2. Cheesy Sweet Potato Chews
Ingredients:
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1 cup mashed sweet potato
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½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
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1 cup whole wheat flour
Instructions:
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Mix all ingredients into a dough.
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Roll out and cut into small pieces.
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Bake at 350°F for 20 minutes.
✅ Great for: Dogs who love cheese and need soft treats for easy chewing.
3. Chicken Liver Training Cubes
Ingredients:
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1 lb chicken liver
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1 egg
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½ cup oat flour
Instructions:
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Blend liver until smooth.
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Mix in egg and flour.
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Pour mixture into a greased baking dish and bake at 350°F for 25 minutes.
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Let cool, then cut into tiny training-sized cubes.
✅ Great for: High-value reward during tough training sessions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How long do homemade dog treats last?
A: Most will keep in the fridge for up to a week, or you can freeze them for up to 3 months.
Q: Can I use different flours?
A: Yes! Try oat flour, rice flour, or almond flour if your dog has allergies.
Q: How many treats should I use during training?
A: Use small treats frequently, and balance with your dog’s daily food intake to avoid overfeeding.
Q: Are these safe for puppies?
A: Yes, as long as your puppy has no allergies. Always introduce new foods slowly.
Final Thoughts
Training your dog doesn’t have to be a chore—especially when delicious, homemade treats are involved. With these easy dog training treat recipes, you’ll have your pup sitting, staying, and high-fiving in no time. Plus, you’ll feel good knowing exactly what’s going into your dog’s belly.
Helpful Notes
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Always avoid ingredients toxic to dogs such as xylitol, chocolate, onions, and garlic.
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Use mini treat portions to maintain your dog’s weight.
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For picky eaters, consider dehydrating meat like chicken or beef into small jerky-style treats.
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