Look, I get it. You want to spoil your fur baby with treats, but those store-bought options are either ridiculously expensive or packed with ingredients you can’t even pronounce. Been there!
I stumbled into making homemade dog treats last year, and let me tell you—it’s a total game-changer. For less than 50 cents per batch (seriously!), you can whip up healthy, delicious snacks that’ll have your pup doing tricks just to get a taste.
Why Homemade Apple & Carrot Treats Will Make Your Dog’s Tail Wag
I’m not just talking warm fuzzy feelings here (though watching your dog’s excitement is pretty awesome). Homemade treats come with real benefits:
- Way fewer preservatives than store-bought treats (studies show this can reduce allergies in dogs by 15%)
- Complete control over what goes into your pup’s body (important to 86% of pet parents like us)
- Budget-friendly alternatives that won’t break the bank
What’s So Great About Apples for Dogs?
Apples are basically the superfood your dog didn’t know they needed:
- Packed with 4g of fiber per medium apple
- Only 95 calories (perfect for treating without overfeeding)
- Loaded with vitamins that support immune health
Why Carrots Are Your Dog’s New Best Friend
Carrots aren’t just for Bugs Bunny:
- Amazing for eye health (yes, the rumors are true!)
- High in fiber but low in calories (about 41 per medium carrot)
- Natural teeth cleaners as your dog crunches away
Together, these ingredients create a nutrient powerhouse that supports digestion, immunity, and overall health. Plus, most dogs go absolutely nuts for the taste!
Now let’s get to the good stuff—11 simple recipes you can make today with ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen.
Recipe 1: Apple & Carrot Crunchy Bones
These little gems are my go-to when I need to make treats in a hurry. They’re super simple but pack a nutritional punch that’ll make both you and your pup happy.
What you’ll need:
- 2½ cups whole wheat flour
- ½ cup oats
- 1 medium apple, grated (core removed)
- ½ cup grated carrots
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar (optional, but a tiny bit won’t hurt)
Apples bring that vitamin C boost for your dog’s immune system, while carrots deliver beta-carotene for eye health. Just mix everything together, roll out the dough, cut into fun shapes, and bake until crispy.
Store these bad boys in an airtight container for up to a week, or pop them in the fridge to keep them fresh for two weeks. Your dog will sit, stay, and practically sing for these treats!
Recipe 2: Carrot-Apple Delight Biscuits
When my dog gives me those puppy eyes during training, these treats make the perfect little reward. They’re small enough for training sessions but packed with enough flavor to keep your dog motivated.
Grab these ingredients:
- 2 cups whole wheat flour
- 1 cup grated carrots
- 1 cup grated apples
- ½ cup oats
- ¼ cup ground flaxseed
- ¼ cup coconut oil
The flaxseed in these babies adds omega-3 fatty acids, which are fantastic for your dog’s coat. Think of it as beauty treatment and treat all in one!
Quick tip: Always check with your vet before introducing new treats, especially if your dog has food sensitivities. Better safe than sorry!
Recipe 3: Apple Carrot Hard Chew Treats
Got a power chewer? These harder treats are perfect for dogs who demolish softer snacks in seconds. Plus, the longer chew time means more satisfaction for your pup.
You’ll need:
- 1 cup whole wheat flour
- ½ cup oats
- ½ cup grated apple
- ½ cup grated carrot
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon honey
Mix everything together, roll out the dough, cut into shapes, and bake until they’re nice and hard. The longer baking time gives these treats that satisfying crunch that makes your dog feel like they’re getting something substantial.
Recipe 4: Crunchy Apple & Carrot Dog Biscuits
I started making these when my budget was tight, and honestly, they’ve stayed in rotation because they’re just that good. At roughly $2.25 for 28 treats, they’re a fraction of what you’d pay at the pet store.
What makes these special:
- High in fiber and vitamins
- Low in calories and fat
- Made with simple, wholesome ingredients
- Crazy cost-effective (like, seriously cheap)
The texture on these is perfect—not too hard for senior dogs but crunchy enough to satisfy. Win-win!
Recipe 5: Apple Carrot Bark Bites
Need treats in a hurry? These bark bites take just 15 minutes to prep and about 40 minutes to cook. You’ll get 20-24 small biscuits per batch—perfect for training or everyday snacking.
Shopping list:
- 2½ cups whole wheat flour
- ½ cup oats
- 1 apple, cored and grated
- ½ cup grated carrot
- ⅓ cup vegetable oil
- ¼ to ½ cup water (depends on how juicy your apple is)
The low fat content makes these ideal for older dogs or those watching their weight. And they store well—keep them in an airtight container for up to a week, or refrigerate for two weeks of freshness.
Recipe 6: Carrot Apple Bone Chews
If your dog is on a diet (or should be!), these treats are your new best friend. They’re low in calories but high in satisfaction, making them perfect for dogs who need to watch their waistline but still deserve something special.
Ingredients to gather:
- 1 cup whole wheat flour
- ½ cup oats
- 1 grated carrot
- 1 grated apple
- ¼ cup unsweetened applesauce (for extra moisture and flavor)
These treats offer:
- Low calories for weight management
- High fiber to help with digestion
- Rich nutrients, including Vitamins A and C for immune support
My dog practically does backflips for these, and she doesn’t even realize they’re “diet” treats!
Recipe 7: Sweet Apple & Carrot Paw Biscuits
Got a pup with gluten sensitivity? These treats have got you covered! They’re made with gluten-free flour but don’t skimp on flavor or nutrition.
What you’ll need:
- 1.5 cups gluten-free flour
- ½ cup shredded carrots
- ½ cup shredded red apple
- Chicken broth (as needed for moisture)
- A touch of honey
The benefits are pretty awesome:
- High in fiber and vitamins
- Gluten-free for sensitive tummies
- Easy to make and fun shapes keep things interesting
- Healthier than processed store options
This recipe yields about 16 biscuits, making it a cost-effective way to treat your pup without breaking the bank.
Recipe 8: Apple Carrot Crunch Snacks
These are what I call my “weekend special” treats—a bit more involved but totally worth the effort. Your dog will definitely know these aren’t just any ordinary treats!
Ingredient list:
- 3 cups whole wheat flour
- ½ cup old-fashioned oats
- 1 large carrot, peeled and grated
- 1 medium apple, cored and finely diced
Let’s break down what makes these ingredients so great:
- Whole wheat flour: loads of fiber and nutrients
- Oats: amazing texture and digestive benefits
- Carrots: packed with vitamins and minerals for vision and immunity
- Apples: fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants in one crunchy package
At just 39 calories per treat, you can feel good about handing these out without worrying about your pup packing on pounds.
Recipe 9: Carrot Apple Crispy Bones
Need a treat that pulls double duty? These crispy bones aren’t just tasty—they help clean your dog’s teeth while they chew. Talk about multitasking!
The winning combo:
- Apples: natural sweetness plus 7% of the daily value of Vitamin C
- Carrots: fiber-rich and only about 50 calories per medium carrot
- Whole wheat flour and rolled oats: energy-packed carbs your active dog needs
Total prep time is just 15 minutes with 20 minutes of baking, so you can whip these up even on busy days. Store them at room temperature for up to 2 weeks, or freeze for 3 months if you want to make a big batch.
Recipe 10: Apple-Carrot Waggy Treats
These are my go-to training treats. They’re small, tasty, and the perfect size to keep in your pocket for on-the-go rewards.
Quick facts:
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: About 30 treats
Remember to use these (and all treats) in moderation. They should complement a balanced diet, not replace proper meals. But trust me, these training treats will have your pup performing tricks like a circus star in no time!
Recipe 11: Carrot & Apple Munchy Sticks
Last but definitely not least—these munchy sticks are perfect for dogs who love to, well, munch! The stick shape is perfect for holding and makes your dog feel like they’re getting something substantial.
Simple ingredients:
- 2 cups whole wheat flour
- 1 cup oats
- 1 cup grated carrots
- 1 cup grated apples
As with any new food, check with your vet before introducing these treats, especially if your dog has known allergies or sensitivities. But most pups can enjoy these wholesome snacks without any issues.
Time to Get Baking: Your Dog is Waiting!
Making your own apple and carrot dog treats isn’t just economical—it’s an act of love your dog will absolutely appreciate. You control the quality, the ingredients, and the nutrition, all while saving money. Win-win-win!
Store your freshly made treats in the fridge or freezer to keep them at their best, and watch your dog’s excitement when treat time rolls around.
So what are you waiting for? Put on that apron, preheat that oven, and get ready to become your dog’s favorite chef. Your furry friend is going to be begging for seconds! 🐾
Quick FAQs
What makes homemade apple and carrot treats so good for my dog?
They’re packed with natural vitamins, minerals, and fiber without the preservatives and mystery ingredients you’ll find in store-bought options. Apples provide fiber, carrots offer vision-supporting vitamins, and you get the satisfaction of knowing exactly what your pup is eating.
Which recipe should I choose for my specific dog?
It depends! Got a power chewer? Try the Hard Chew Treats. Watching weight? Go for the Bone Chews. Need training treats? The Waggy Treats are perfect. The variety lets you pick what works for your dog’s specific needs and preferences.
How long will these homemade treats last?
Most recipes stay fresh for up to 2 weeks in an airtight container. Some can be refrigerated for extended freshness or frozen for up to 3 months. Just make sure they’re completely cool before storing.
Any ingredients I should avoid?
Always remove apple seeds and cores (they contain trace amounts of cyanide), and check with your vet if your dog has specific allergies or dietary restrictions. Otherwise, these recipes use dog-safe ingredients that most pups tolerate well.
Can I customize these recipes?
Absolutely! Adjust ingredient ratios, try different shapes, or add dog-safe extras your pup loves. Think of these recipes as starting points—feel free to make them your own based on what your dog goes crazy for!