Homemade Treats

Seems like we generally have more time in the winter to spend with our dogs while the cold weather keeps us indoors more often than not. One way to combat cabin fever and provide your dog with a special treat is to make some cookies to fill the treat jar.

Bullwrinkle has an extensive listing of dog treat recipes like this one for Liver Brownies.
2 lbs chicken livers
2 C corn meal
2 C wheat germ
2 eggs
2 1/2 tsp. poultry seasoning (substituted for garlic in original recipe)
1/2 C dried parsley

Liquefy livers in food processor, pour into mixing bowl and add other ingredients. Mix until smooth like a brownie batter. Spread on a cookie sheet (1/2 sheet cake size) (I use parchment paper to line the pan) until it’s evenly spread about 1/3 inch thick. Bake at 350 F for about 35 minutes. When cool cut into squares, or whatever shapes you prefer. I keep them in a zipper bag in the refrigerator.

The Poop Pantry (Love the name!) offers this reader-submitted recipe for Tempting Training Treats.

1/3. cup flour (all-purpose or whole wheat)
1/4 cup olive oil
1/4 cup applesauce
1/2 cup grated cheese (like parmesan)
1 large egg
1 tsp. ground thyme (substituted for garlic in the original recipe)
1/4 cup non-fat powdered milk

Combine all ingredients in a large bowl; mix well. Roll the dough out to the size of a cookie sheet; Pat the dough onto a lightly greased cookie sheet, bringing it to the edges.
Using a sharp knife or a pizza cutter, cut desired sizes into dough (just score through). If you’re using as training treats, cut them into small pieces;
Sprinkle a little extra cheese on dough for flavor, if desired. Bake in a 350 degree oven about 15 minutes until golden brown. Turn off the oven and let cool for a few hours; They will keep hardening the longer you leave them. Break them apart; store tightly covered or in the freezer.
From Laura Ann DeLongo, Maryland

There are dozens of other sites where you can find free recipes, but no matter which site you choose, be sure to review the recipes for the presence of foods that can be toxic to dogs such as garlic, onions, and chocolate. The recipes may need slight modification, as I have done above, to make sure you are not putting your dog at risk.

Read this article on food safety before you begin making homemade food or treats for your dog. Gourmet Sleuth also has some good articles detailing ingredients which may be toxic. Once you have done your research, be prepared to put on your apron and dig in!