Why buy those expensive store bought treats when you can spend less and do it yourself? First of all, you really have no idea what goes into those treats. Second, you will never have to worry about recalls and safety if you make them yourself. I know we’ve talked about this before. What if you’re just not the DIY kinda person? Trust me on this one. These are so easy a 5 year old could make them ( with help to get them in the oven, of course.)

What you need: 

• 2 cups 100% whole wheat flour

• 2 4oz. jars of any dog-approved ( no onions, or grapes) flavor of pureed baby food. You can even use the meaty varieties for an extra special treat  Or Make your own with pureed veggies.

The great thing about this recipe is that if you choose to puree your own fruits and veggies, you can save some serious money by using what you have lying around.  Old brown bananas? Throw them on in!  Squash, Carrots, no-sugar-added applesauce, or canned pumpkin? Yep! These treats are versatile, which allows for greater flexibility for you.

Directions:

Preheat oven to 350.   Mix the flour and baby food or pureed veggies together. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour.  If the dough ends up too stiff, just add a little water.  Roll out floured work station to approx 1/4 inch thickness.  Cut out treats with cookie cutters of your choosing, although this would be a great time to whip out that bone-shaped cookie cutter that you’ve always wanted to use but never had a reason.   Place on cookie sheet and bake for 20-25 min.  Voila.  Cookies your dog will go crazy for. Congrats Chef, you did it!

HINT:  storing in an airtight container will produce a softer treat.  If you prefer them hard, just store in a paper sack.

References:

1. Honestfare 2. Kingarthur 3. Curbly