Safety & Tasty: DIY Holiday Dog Treats and Health Tips

The holidays are a time to gather with family, friends, and, of course, our beloved pets. While our dogs might spend the day gazing longingly at the dining table, it's crucial to remember that not all festive foods are safe for them. Including our furry family members in the celebrations can be easy and fun with the right treats.

Explore our guide to delicious DIY dog treats that ensure your pet feels just as festive as everyone else. These easy, holiday-themed recipes offer practical tips and solutions to make your dog feel special during the holiday season. With straightforward instructions and helpful advice, you can create delicious snacks that capture the holiday spirit while keeping your furry friend happy and healthy.

Holiday themed DIY dog treats

Sweet potato froyo treats

Sweet Potato Froyo Treats are a delightful and nutritious option that brings the festive spirit to your pup's snack time.

Ingredients:

• 1/3 cup low-fat or non-fat plain, unsweetened Greek yogurt
• 1/2 cup sweet potato puree

Instructions:

1. Boil peeled and chopped sweet potato cubes (if not using pre-made) until tender, mash or puree, and cool completely.
2. Mix yogurt with the sweet potato puree in a bowl.
3. Scoop the mixture into an ice tray and freeze for 4–5 hours.
4. Serve the treats using silicone ice molds for easy removal.

Pro-tip for dog parents: For an additional flavor variety, replace the yogurt with xylitol-free peanut butter.

No bake peanut butter and sweet potato balls

For a slightly more involved but delicious treat, try making no bake peanut butter sweet potato balls.

Ingredients:

• ½ cup sweet potato puree
• ¼ cup unsweetened, xylitol-free peanut butter
• ½ cup rolled oats
• 1 tbsp coconut oil
• 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup

Instructions:

1. Place all the ingredients in a food processor.
2. Pulse until the ingredients break down and form a dough.
3. Remove the dough and place it in a bowl.
4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
5. With lightly oiled hands, roll the dough into balls and place them on the baking sheet.
6. Makes about 16 balls, though you can make smaller treats for small dogs.

Holiday foods to keep away from dogs

During the holiday season, it's tempting to share festive meals with our furry friends. However, many common holiday foods can be harmful to dogs. It's crucial to know which foods to avoid and which are safe for your pet.

Unsafe ingredients:

• Grapes and raisins: These can cause kidney failure in dogs, even in small amounts.
• Chocolate: Contains theobromine, which is toxic to dogs and can lead to serious health issues.
• Onions and garlic: They can damage red blood cells and cause anemia.

Unsafe foods:

• Green bean casserole: Often contains onions or garlic, which are harmful to dogs.
• Mashed potatoes: They usually contain butter, milk, or seasonings that can upset a dog's stomach.

Safe food options:

• Plain, cooked white meat (no seasoning, bones, or skin): A simple and safe treat for your dog.

Important notes:

• Avoid herbs and seasoning; they can cause digestive issues in pets.
• Cooked bones are brittle and can be choking hazards, so it's best to steer clear of them.

Ensuring your dog's safety during the holidays starts with being mindful of what they eat. When uncertain, it's best to stick with their regular diet and treat them with pet-safe snacks. For detailed advice on safe foods for your pet, reach out to your vet. With a bit of time and creativity, you can whip up delightful treats your dog will adore.