Are you looking for an easy, healthy treat for your dog that they’ll love? This 3 Ingredient Blueberry Dog Treats recipe is not only simple to make but also packed with nutrients that support your dog’s overall health.

With just three ingredients, you can treat your furry friend to something special without worrying about unnecessary additives or preservatives. I’ll be walking you through the recipe, the nutritional benefits, and important considerations to ensure your dog’s health stays top of mind.

Why You Should Make This Recipe for Your Dog

Making homemade dog treats is a great way to ensure the quality and safety of the snacks your dog consumes.

• Store-bought dog treats often contain unknown ingredients, artificial flavorings, and preservatives that may not be the best for your pet’s health.
• By making these simple blueberry dog treats, you’re providing your dog with a tasty snack that’s full of healthy ingredients.
• Additionally, blueberries are known for their high antioxidant content, which can help support your dog’s immune system and promote healthy aging.

Whole wheat flour provides much-needed fiber, aiding digestion, while unsweetened applesauce adds moisture without unnecessary sugars. Together, these three ingredients form a snack that not only tastes great but also nourishes your dog’s body.

Now, let’s get into the recipe and start making these healthy, nutritious treats!

3 Ingredient Blueberry Dog Treats Recipe

Prep & Cook Time

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes

Tools Needed

• Mixing bowl
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Fork or masher

Ingredients Needed

• 1 cup Blueberries (fresh or frozen)
• 1 cup Whole Wheat Flour
• ½ cup Unsweetened Applesauce

How to Make: Step by Step

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures the oven is at the right temperature when your treats are ready to bake.

Step 2: Mash the Blueberries (Optional)

In a mixing bowl, use a fork or potato masher to mash the blueberries. Whether you’re using fresh or frozen blueberries, make sure the berries are mashed into a smooth consistency. This will form the base of your dough and infuse the treats with blueberry flavor.

You Can also put the blueberries balls inside the dough, that is after you must have gotten to that stage with the steps below.

Step 3: Add the Whole Wheat Flour and Applesauce

Once the blueberries are mashed, add whole wheat flour and unsweetened applesauce into the bowl. Use a spoon or your hands to mix everything together until you have a dough-like consistency. The applesauce will help to bind the ingredients and give the treats a soft, chewy texture.

Step 4: Roll Out the Dough

Next, dust a clean surface with a small amount of whole wheat flour and roll out the dough to about ¼ inch thick. If you don’t have a rolling pin, you can use your hands or the back of a spoon to press it down evenly.

Step 5: Cut into Shapes

Use cookie cutters to cut out fun shapes for your dog’s treats. You can use bone-shaped cutters, hearts, or any shape your dog loves. If you don’t have cookie cutters, you can simply cut the dough into squares or use a knife to freehand shapes. Just make sure they’re a size appropriate for your dog.

Step 6: Place on a Baking Sheet

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange the cut-out treats on the sheet. Make sure they’re spaced about half an inch apart to allow room for expansion during baking.

Step 7: Bake

Bake the treats in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes or until the edges begin to turn golden brown. You want them to be firm enough to hold their shape but not overly hard. Baking times may vary slightly depending on your oven, so keep an eye on them.

Step 8: Let Cool

Once the treats are done, remove them from the oven and let them cool completely on a wire rack. This will help them firm up further and make them safe for your dog to eat.

Feeding Size

• Small Dogs: 1 treat per day.
• Larger Dogs: Adjust the serving size based on their size and activity level.

Storage Tips

These blueberry dog treats are easy to store:

• Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
• For longer storage, you can freeze them and pull them out as needed. They’ll stay fresh in the freezer for up to three months.

Nutritional Value Estimated

These treats are not only delicious, but they are also packed with nutrients that benefit your dog. Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional value:

Why This Recipe is Healthy for Your Dog

Let’s take a closer look at why each of the ingredients in this recipe contributes to your dog’s health.

Blueberries

Blueberries are packed with antioxidants that support your dog’s immune system. These antioxidants help to combat free radicals and inflammation in the body. Additionally, the nutrients in blueberries may help improve your dog’s cognitive function, making them a great treat for senior dogs or those needing a mental boost.

Whole Wheat Flour

Whole wheat flour is a high-fiber ingredient, making it excellent for digestive health. Fiber helps maintain healthy bowel movements and can prevent constipation. It’s a more nutritious option compared to refined white flour, which lacks the fiber and essential nutrients found in the whole grain.

Unsweetened Applesauce

Applesauce adds natural moisture to the treats without relying on added sugars. It also provides a gentle form of sweetness that your dog will love. The applesauce contains fiber and vitamin C, which aids digestion and helps boost the immune system. Just make sure to choose unsweetened applesauce to avoid excess sugar.

Safety Precautions for This Recipe

While homemade dog treats can be a healthy addition to your pet’s diet, it’s essential to always take a few safety precautions:

• Check for Allergies: Ensure your dog doesn’t have any food allergies, particularly to ingredients like wheat or apples.
• Moderation is Key: While these treats are healthy, they should be given in moderation. Overfeeding can lead to weight gain.
• Size Appropriateness: If your dog is small, consider cutting the treats into smaller pieces to avoid choking hazards.

Ingredients to Avoid for This Recipe (and Other Dog Treats)

When making homemade treats for your dog, avoid using ingredients that can be harmful to their health. Here are some ingredients to stay away from:

• Chocolate: Contains theobromine, which is toxic to dogs.
• Xylitol: A sugar substitute that can cause dangerous drops in blood sugar.
• Grapes and Raisins: Known to cause kidney failure in dogs.
• Onions and Garlic: Can cause damage to red blood cells, leading to anemia.
• Macadamia Nuts: Can cause lethargy, tremors, and hyperthermia in dogs.
• Dairy: Many dogs are lactose intolerant, so avoid using dairy in treats unless you’re sure your dog can tolerate it.

How Healthy Dog Treats Should Be Made

When preparing homemade dog treats, the following guidelines will help you create a nutritious and safe snack for your dog:

• Use Whole Ingredients: Opt for whole, natural ingredients like fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
• Avoid Processed Foods: Stay away from artificial preservatives, colors, and sweeteners.
• Consider Your Dog’s Size and Activity Level: Adjust the calorie count and size of the treat according to your dog’s specific needs.
• Balanced Nutrients: Make sure your dog’s treats provide a balance of protein, fiber, and healthy fats for overall well-being.

1. Can I use other fruits in this recipe?

Yes, you can experiment with different fruits such as strawberries or bananas. Just make sure they’re safe for dogs and are free of any harmful additives.

2. Can I use regular flour instead of whole wheat flour?

You can substitute all-purpose flour for whole wheat flour, but whole wheat flour is a healthier option due to its higher fiber content.

3. How can I make the treats softer for my senior dog?

If your dog prefers softer treats, you can add a bit more applesauce or even a little water to the dough before baking.

4. How do I store these treats long-term?

For longer storage, keep them in a freezer-safe container in the freezer. They’ll last up to three months.

Final Thoughts

These 3 Ingredient Blueberry Dog Treats are a fantastic way to show your dog just how much you care. With minimal effort and just three simple ingredients, you’re making a treat that’s healthy, tasty, and packed with nutrients.

Don’t hesitate to make a batch and see how your dog reacts! If you’re looking for other healthy dog treats, keep experimenting with wholesome ingredients, and you’ll have a happy, healthy dog for years to come.