4 Healthy Holiday Dog Treats: Festive Recipes and Tips

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The holidays are here, and while you’re savoring cookies, pies, and spiced lattes, don’t forget to include your dog in the festivities. But instead of sneaking scraps from the table, why not whip up some healthy holiday dog treats? Not only will your pup feel included, but you’ll also ensure they’re munching on safe, nutritious goodies. Below, we’ll dive into easy-to-make recipes and practical tips to make this holiday season extra special for your dog.

Key Takeaways

• Homemade healthy treats let you control ingredients, ensuring your dog enjoys healthy snacks.
• Stick to dog-safe spices and ingredients like pumpkin, sweet potato, and cinnamon.
• Moderation is key—even the best healthy holiday dog treats should complement, not replace, their regular diet.

Why Choose Healthy Treats for Your Dog?

Let’s be honest: those puppy-dog eyes can be hard to resist, especially during a holiday feast. But many festive foods—think chocolate, stuffing, or gravy—are dangerous for dogs. Making treats at home lets you include your dog in holiday traditions safely.

Here’s why healthy treats should be your go-to:

• Gentle on Digestion: Rich holiday dishes can upset your dog’s stomach, while dog-friendly options are easy to digest.
• Nutrient-Dense: Wholesome ingredients like pumpkin and apples add vitamins and fiber to your dog’s diet.
• Customizable: Whether your dog has allergies or picky preferences, homemade recipes can be adjusted to suit their needs.

4 Healthy Holiday Dog Treat Recipes

Now that you know why healthy treats are the way to go, it’s time to get creative in the kitchen! These homemade holiday dog treat recipes are simple to make, use wholesome ingredients, and will have your dog wagging their tail in excitement.

1. Pumpkin Peanut Butter Cookies

Pumpkin is a seasonal superstar packed with fiber and vitamins, making it a perfect ingredient for pumpkin recipes for dogs.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup pure pumpkin puree (unsweetened)
• 1/4 cup natural peanut butter (xylitol-free)
• 2 cups whole wheat or oat flour

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Mix pumpkin puree and peanut butter. Gradually stir in flour to form a dough.
3. Roll out the dough and use holiday-shaped cookie cutters.
4. Bake on a parchment-lined sheet for 20–25 minutes.
5. Cool completely before serving.

2. Apple Cinnamon Bites

Perfect for holiday flavors without added sugar, these treats use ingredients featured in safe holiday spices.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup unsweetened applesauce
• 1 egg
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 2 cups oat flour

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C).
2. Mix applesauce, egg, and cinnamon in a bowl. Add flour to form a sticky dough.
3. Drop small spoonfuls onto a baking sheet and flatten slightly.
4. Bake for 18–20 minutes or until firm. Cool before serving.

3. Frozen Yogurt and Berry Holiday Pops

Live in a warmer climate? These refreshing treats double as a post-playtime snack!

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup plain, unsweetened Greek yogurt
• 1/4 cup fresh cranberries (unsweetened)
• 1/4 cup blueberries

Instructions:

1. Blend yogurt, cranberries, and blueberries.
2. Pour into holiday-themed molds or ice cube trays.
3. Freeze for 2 hours or until solid. Store leftovers in the freezer.

4. Sweet Potato Chews

This one-ingredient wonder is a natural, chewy snack—ideal if you’re hosting a dog-friendly holiday party and want a simple treat option.

Ingredients:

• 1 large sweet potato

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 250°F (120°C).
2. Slice the sweet potato into thin, even strips.
3. Bake for 2–3 hours, flipping halfway through. Cool before serving.

Tips for Safe and Enjoyable Holiday Treats

• Avoid Dangerous Ingredients: Skip chocolate, raisins, macadamia nuts, and anything with xylitol.
• Portion Control: Even the best holiday dog treats should be given in moderation.
• Get Creative: Use festive cookie cutters or drizzle treats with plain yogurt for decoration.
• Include Your Dog in Holiday Traditions: From decorating their treats to hosting a fun dog-treat exchange party, there are plenty of ways to make your dog feel part of the celebration.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use regular peanut butter for dog treats?
A: Yes, as long as it’s free of xylitol, a sweetener that’s toxic to dogs.

Q: Are there any spices safe for dogs?
A: Cinnamon and ginger, when used in small amounts, are safe and can even aid digestion. Avoid nutmeg, as it’s toxic to dogs.

Q: What’s an easy way to include my dog in holiday traditions?
A: Bake a special treat or prepare a dog-friendly holiday meal with simple, dog-safe ingredients like turkey, sweet potato, and green beans.

Make the Holidays Special for Your Dog

This holiday season, let your dog join the fun with healthy holiday dog treats that are as festive as they are nutritious. From homemade holiday dog treats to creative ways to include your dog in family traditions, there’s no shortage of options to make them feel loved. By sticking to wholesome ingredients, you’re not just treating your dog—you’re prioritizing their health and happiness.

Have a recipe or tip to share? Comment below and let us know how you make the holidays special for your pup!