Description
Homemade Apple & Carrot Chew Sticks for Dogs are nutritious, easy-to-make treats crafted from wholesome ingredients like apples, carrots, whole wheat flour, and rolled oats. These chewy snacks offer a healthy, flavorful option for canine companions, with a subtle hint of cinnamon to enhance flavor. Perfect for rewarding your dog or simply showing some love with a delicious, natural treat.
Ingredients
Scale
Dry Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups whole wheat flour (or oat flour for gluten-free option)
- 1/2 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (optional, for flavor)
Wet Ingredients
- 1/2 cup apple, finely grated (remove seeds)
- 1/2 cup carrot, finely grated
- 1 egg
- 2 tablespoons coconut oil (or unsweetened applesauce)
- 1/4 cup water (more if needed)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- Mix dry ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the whole wheat flour, rolled oats, and cinnamon if you choose to include it. Stir these together evenly.
- Add wet ingredients: Add the grated apple (making sure seeds are removed), grated carrot, egg, coconut oil or unsweetened applesauce, and water to the dry ingredients. Mix thoroughly until a cohesive dough forms. If the dough feels too dry or crumbly, add additional water one tablespoon at a time.
- Roll out the dough: Lightly flour your working surface and roll the dough out to roughly 1/4-inch thick, ensuring an even thickness for uniform baking.
- Cut the chew sticks: Using a knife or cookie cutter, cut the rolled dough into long stick shapes or any other fun shapes you prefer to create appealing chew sticks for your dog.
- Bake: Place the cut sticks onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them slightly apart. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the treats are firm to the touch and lightly golden in color.
- Cool and serve: Remove the baking sheet from the oven and transfer the treats onto a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, these chew sticks are ready to be served safely to your dog.
Notes
- Ensure apple seeds are fully removed as they can be harmful to dogs.
- Use oat flour instead of whole wheat flour for a gluten-free version suitable for dogs with sensitivities.
- Store the chew sticks in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
- These treats are intended as supplements to a balanced diet and should be given in moderation.
- Always observe your dog when introducing new treats to check for any adverse reactions.
