If you’ve got a dog who lives for chewing, you know the struggle—destroyed shoes, shredded toys, and endless trips to buy overpriced chews that vanish in minutes. But what if you could make your own dog chew treats right at home? Not only is it cheaper, but it also lets you control exactly what your pup is munching on.
Today, we’re diving into six easy, healthy, homemade dog chew treats your furry friend will definitely drool over. These recipes are simple, budget-friendly, and full of natural ingredients. Let’s get those tails wagging!
Why Make Your Own Dog Chews?
Healthier Ingredients
Store-bought chews often contain preservatives, fillers, artificial colors, or mysterious “meat by-products.” Homemade chews? Just real, whole ingredients you can actually pronounce.
Better for Sensitive Stomachs
If your dog has allergies or tummy issues, homemade chews let you avoid triggers and stick to safe, gentle ingredients.
Cheaper Than Buying Bags of Treats
One sweet potato at home can make an entire batch of chews for less than a dollar.
Keeps Your Dog Busy
Chewing relieves boredom, burns mental energy, and can even help reduce anxiety.
6 DIY Dog Chew Treats Your Pup Will Drool Over
1. Crunchy Sweet Potato Chews
Sweet potato chews are a classic homemade favorite—easy, chewy, and packed with fiber and vitamins.
Ingredients
-
2 large sweet potatoes
Instructions
-
Slice sweet potatoes into ¼-inch strips.
-
Bake at 250°F (120°C) for 2.5–3 hours, flipping halfway.
-
Let cool and store in an airtight jar.
Why Dogs Love It
They’re sweet, chewy, and satisfy even heavy chewers.
2. Dehydrated Beef Jerky Strips
This simple recipe creates natural jerky with zero additives—way safer than many store-bought versions.
Ingredients
-
1 lb lean beef (flank or round works great)
Instructions
-
Slice thin strips against the grain.
-
Place in a 170°F (75°C) oven or dehydrator.
-
Dry for 4–6 hours until firm.
Why Dogs Love It
It’s pure meat—no dog in the world turns that down.
3. Frozen Peanut Butter Bites
Perfect for teething puppies or hot summer days.
Ingredients
-
½ cup natural peanut butter (xylitol-free!)
-
1 cup plain yogurt or goat’s milk
Instructions
-
Mix ingredients until smooth.
-
Pour into silicone molds.
-
Freeze for 4 hours.
Why Dogs Love It
Cold, creamy, and irresistible.
4. Hard-Baked Banana & Oat Chews
These sturdy chews last surprisingly long and are great for dogs with sensitive stomachs.
Ingredients
-
2 ripe bananas
-
1 ½ cups oats
-
1 tbsp coconut oil
Instructions
-
Mash bananas, add oats and oil, and form thick logs.
-
Bake at 300°F (150°C) for 40–45 minutes.
Why Dogs Love It
Crunchy, slightly sweet, and gentle on digestion.
5. Homemade Rawhide-Free Chicken Twists
A safer alternative to commercial rawhide.
Ingredients
-
2 chicken breasts
-
6 long carrot sticks
Instructions
-
Slice chicken into long, thin strips.
-
Wrap each chicken strip around a carrot stick.
-
Bake at 250°F (120°C) for 2 hours or until fully dried.
Why Dogs Love It
Chewy chicken wrapped around a crunchy center? Pure bliss.
6. Apple & Mint Dental Chew Bars
Fresh-breath treats that also scrape plaque while your dog chews.
Ingredients
-
1 cup oat flour
-
1 apple (shredded)
-
2 tbsp coconut oil
-
Fresh mint leaves, chopped
Instructions
-
Mix all ingredients until dough forms.
-
Shape into bars.
-
Bake at 325°F (165°C) for 25–30 minutes.
Why Dogs Love It
They smell amazing and taste even better—plus fresh breath for kisses!
Tips for Safe Chewing
Always Supervise Chew Time
Even natural chews can break apart.
Start With Small Batches
Make sure your dog tolerates each ingredient well.
Store Properly
Most dried chews last:
-
1 week on the counter
-
3 weeks in the fridge
-
2–3 months in the freezer
Conclusion
Homemade dog chews are a fantastic way to treat your pup while keeping things natural, safe, and budget-friendly. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up long-lasting treats that will keep your dog busy, happy, and healthy.
Whether your dog is a power chewer or a gentle nibbler, these six DIY recipes offer something for every pup. So grab your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready for some heavy drool action!
FAQs
1. Are homemade dog chews safe?
Yes—when made with dog-safe ingredients and supervised during chewing.
2. How long do DIY dog chews last?
Depending on the recipe, they last 1–12 weeks when stored properly.
3. Can I make chews without an oven?
Absolutely! A dehydrator works great for sweet potatoes, meat, and apples.
4. Can puppies eat homemade chews?
Yes, as long as they’re soft enough and made with safe ingredients.
5. Can I add flavors like cinnamon or honey?
Cinnamon is safe in small amounts; avoid honey for young puppies.