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Our beloved dogs are like members of the family. As their companions, we want only the best for them and to keep them happy and healthy. However, many commercially available dog treats contain ingredients that can cause allergic reactions or other issues for some dogs. Making your own treats at home allows you to control exactly what goes into them. With the right recipes tailored for allergen-free ingredients, you can provide your pup with nutritious homemade snacks they can enjoy without worrying about triggering allergies.
In this extensive guide, we will cover everything you need to know about making homemade dog treats that are suitable for dogs with common food sensitivities and allergies. We’ll explore the most common food allergens dogs experience and how to identify an allergy. Then we’ll share over 30 different recipes using allergen-free ingredients like chicken, fish, sweet potato, pumpkin, and more. With the right recipes, homemade treats can be a safe and delicious way to reward your dog while accommodating their dietary needs. Read on to start baking up homemade snacks your pup can feel good about eating!
Identifying Food Allergies in Dogs
Before we dive into allergy-friendly recipes, let’s take a look at the most common food allergens dogs experience and the signs to watch out for that could indicate an allergy. Understanding what ingredients commonly cause issues will help you determine which recipes are safest for your dog. Some of the top food allergens include:
Wheat – Wheat is found in many commercial dog treats and baked goods. It can cause digestive upset, dermatitis, and other reactions in wheat-sensitive dogs.
Soy – Soy is another common grain substitute and protein booster that some dogs simply cannot tolerate. Soy allergies can range from mild to severe.
Chicken – Chicken is a very popular protein source, but it tops the list of protein allergies in dogs. Symptoms include itchy skin, recurrent ear infections, vomiting or diarrhea.
Beef – Like chicken, beef is a common cause of food allergies in dogs presenting with digestive and/or skin symptoms.
Dairy – Dairy products from cow, goat and other milk sources frequently elicit allergic responses in dogs with lactose intolerance or sensitivity.
Eggs – While a good source of protein, eggs can set off food allergy symptoms for some dogs.
Fish – Allergies to common fish like cod, salmon and tuna in dog food are not uncommon.
Peanuts – Peanut ingredients or residues in dog foods or treats may illicit a reaction.
Corn – An inexpensive grain filler, but corn sensitivity and allergies occur.
Soy – A protein and grain substitute that some dogs cannot tolerate.
Potatoes – Nightshade-family vegetables like potatoes can cause issues.
Signs of a possible food allergy may include:
Itchy skin (hot spots, rashes, constantly scratching or licking)
Recurrent ear infections
Chronic diarrhea or vomiting
Gastrointestinal upset (gas, bloating, painful abdomen)
Loss of fur or hair around the face, paws or rear end
Scooting or licking of the anal area
Excessive biting or chewing of the paws
Fatigue or reduced activity level
If your dog exhibits any of these signs but has not had any other changes to their routine or environment, it’s possible their symptoms are due to a food allergy or sensitivity. Consulting your vet can help determine if an elimination diet trial is needed to pinpoint the culprit ingredient(s).
Making Homemade Dog Treats
With the main food allergens identified, let’s move on to the fun part – making homemade treats your dog can safely enjoy! There are a few general guidelines to follow for allergen-free recipes:
Ingredients to Use:
Meat proteins like chicken, beef, pork, fish, lamb, rabbit
Eggs from pastured hens (if not allergic)
Sweet potatoes, carrots, pumpkin, beets – avoid nightshades if allergic
Brown rice, oats – avoid other grains if allergic
Greens like spinach, kale
Berries, bananas – frozen is best to help hold shape
Coconut oil, peanut or almond butter (if not allergic)
Flavor boosters: broth, bone broth, yogurt, kefir (dairy-free version if needed)
Tips:
Puree or finely chop moist ingredients for best binding
Use an electric mixer or food processor for easy mixing
Roll dough into balls or cut into shapes
Bake at 300°F for 15-30 minutes until crispy but not burnt
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week
Freeze extras for up to 3 months
Start with a small amount and increase based on your dog’s tolerance
Monitor for any negative reactions after eating treats
With those guidelines in mind, here are over 30 recipes to get you started on creating homemade, allergy-friendly snacks for your furry friend! Feel free to modify the recipes as needed based on your dog’s specific needs.
Sweet Potato Dog Treats
Sweet potatoes are a naturally hypoallergenic and nutritious ingredient that most dogs love. This basic recipe is a great place to start.
Ingredients:
2 medium sweet potatoes, baked and mashed
1/2 cup oat flour or brown rice flour
1 egg
Instructions:
Preheat oven to 325°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, combine the baked and mashed sweet potatoes with the egg and flour. Mix until a dough forms.
Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart.
Bake for 15-20 minutes, until dried out and slightly firm to the touch. Allow to cool completely before serving.
Chicken and Brown Rice Treats
These protein-packed treats are sure to please most dogs. Feel free to substitute white rice flour if brown rice is not tolerated.
Ingredients:
1 cup cooked and shredded or ground chicken breast
1/2 cup cooked brown rice
1 egg
1/2 cup brown rice flour or oat flour
Instructions:
Preheat oven to 300°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, mix together the chicken, cooked rice and egg until well combined.
Slowly mix in the flour until a dough forms. You may need to use your hands to fully incorporate.
Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place on the prepared baking sheet, spacing 1 inch apart.
Bake for 20-25 minutes, until dry and firm to the touch. Allow to cool before serving to your dog.
Pumpkin and Carrot Dog Biscuits
Packed with vitamin A from pumpkin and carrot, these treats are also a good source of fiber.
Ingredients:
1 cup canned pumpkin puree
1 medium carrot, grated
1 egg
1 1/2 cups brown rice flour or oat flour
Instructions:
Preheat oven to 325°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, stir together the pumpkin puree and grated carrot.
Mix in the egg until fully combined.
Gradually stir in the flour until a dough forms. You may need to use your hands towards the end.
Roll dough into 1-inch balls and place on the prepared baking sheet, spacing 1 inch apart.
Lightly flatten each ball with a fork in a crisscross pattern.
Bake for 20-25 minutes until dry and slightly firm. Cool completely before serving.
Salmon and Pea Treats
For dogs not allergic to fish, these omega-3 rich treats make a great training reward.
Ingredients:
1 (3.5 oz) can wild salmon, drained and flaked
1/2 cup frozen peas, thawed
1 egg
1/2 cup oat flour or brown rice flour
Instructions:
Preheat oven to 325°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a medium bowl, mix together the flaked salmon and peas.
Add the egg and stir to fully combine.
Gradually mix in the flour until a dough forms.
Roll into 1-inch balls and place on the prepared baking sheet.
Bake for 15-20 minutes until dry and slightly firm.
Cool completely before serving to your dog.
Beef and Carrot Bites
With shredded beef and carrot, these provide protein, fiber and natural flavor.
Ingredients:
1/2 lb extra lean ground beef
1 medium carrot, grated
1 egg
1/2 cup oat or brown rice flour
Instructions:
Preheat oven to 325
Here are some additional details on homemade dog treats for allergies:
Testing for Allergies
If you suspect your dog has a food allergy, working with your vet is important. They can recommend an elimination diet to test reactions. Here’s how it works:
Select a novel protein your dog hasn’t eaten before, like kangaroo or venison. Feed this exclusively for 8-12 weeks.
Monitor for any signs of allergy to disappear. If so, the previous diet likely caused the issues.
Reintroduce ingredients one at a time, waiting a few weeks between. Watch closely for returning symptoms.
The ingredient that causes a reaction is likely the allergen. Avoid it in future homemade treats.
Hypoallergenic Protein Options
For dogs with sensitivities to common proteins like chicken, beef or dairy, here are some gentler alternatives to use in treats:
Kangaroo – unusual meat that’s easily digestible. A novel option to test.
Lamb – mild red meat option that’s hypoallergenic for many dogs.
Venison – low-fat game meat rarely causes food allergies.
Rabbit – delicate white meat protein easily substituted in recipes.
Salmon – omega-3 rich fish is less allergenic than other varieties.
Quinoa – a complete plant-based protein grain substitute for those with grain allergies.
Chia seeds – high in fiber, protein and antioxidants. Great binder and topping.
Coconut – the meat and oil provide healthy fats and taste. Dairy-free.
Creating Texture
Variety in texture keeps treats interesting for dogs. Try these additions:
Oats – adding 1/4 cup rolled oats creates gentle chewiness.
Flax or chia seeds – 1 Tbsp adds crunch and nutrition. Grind for less texture.
Vegetables – grate carrots, zucchini, sweet potato into dough.
Nut or seed butters – almond, sunflower seed butter bind treats moistly.
Eggs – an egg adds richness and helps dough hold together nicely.
Yogurt – goat, coconut or plant-based yogurt adds probiotics and tang.
I hope these extra details provide more ideas and tips for crafting healthy homemade snacks your furry friend will love! Let me know if any other questions come up.
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