Your dog will never forgive you if you don’t whip up these turkey treats I found from Petco.com I’m about to share! I totally get it you want to treat your dog to something healthy, homemade, and full of love, but finding the perfect recipe can feel like a challenge.
Well, this Leftover Turkey Dog Treat recipe is here to change the game. It’s simple, nutritious, and your dog is going to love every bite. Best of all, it’s so easy to make that I’ll guide you step by step through the process with just a few wholesome ingredients.
Ready to give your dog the treats they deserve? Let’s get started!
Why This Specific Recipe is Worth Making
So, why should you make these turkey treats instead of just reaching for the store-bought snacks? Simple because this recipe is not only made with love, but it also takes into account your pet’s health. This treat is jam-packed with nutrients that support muscle growth, digestive health, and a shiny coat.
Turkey, as the star of the show, is a fantastic source of lean protein, essential amino acids, and vital vitamins like B6 and niacin. These are important for your pet’s energy, cell function, and overall vitality.
But here’s the twist: We’ve added ingredients that boost the nutritional value even more! With omega-3s from vegetable oil, fiber from cornmeal and whole wheat flour, and additional vitamins and minerals from turkey broth and eggs, you’re not just baking any old treats – you’re creating a nutrient-rich, wholesome snack that your dog or cat will love.
Plus, these treats are free from preservatives and unknown additives, so you know exactly what your pet is munching on.
Recipe Guide: Leftover Turkey Dog & Cat Treats
Here’s your step-by-step guide to making these delicious, healthy turkey treats for your furry friend. This recipe is courtesy of Petco, with some minor tweaks to ensure optimal nutrition.
Prep Time & Cook Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
- Total Time: 40-45 minutes
Tools Needed
The tools required to make these treats are simple and easy to find:
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper or silicone mat (for easy cleanup)
- Mixing bowl
- Spoon or spatula
- Cookie cutters (optional, but fun for making different shapes)
- Rolling pin (optional, for rolling out the dough)
- Cooling rack (optional, to help cool your treats evenly)
Ingredients Needed
Here are the key ingredients that make these turkey treats as nutritious as they are tasty. You can find most of these in your pantry already!
- 1 cup cooked and chopped turkey (White meat and liver only. No skin, fat, or bones. The lean turkey meat provides a high-protein base for your treats, while the liver is packed with iron and essential vitamins.)
- 1/2 cup turkey broth (Opt for low-sodium, unsalted turkey broth to keep these treats healthy and delicious. The broth adds moisture and boosts the turkey flavor your pets will love.)
- 1 egg, lightly beaten (Eggs are a fantastic source of protein, healthy fats, and amino acids to help support your pet’s muscle development and overall health.)
- 3 tablespoons vegetable oil (This adds healthy fats and omega-3 fatty acids, which are great for your pet’s coat, joints, and brain function.)
- 2 cups whole wheat flour (Whole wheat flour provides fiber to help with digestion, but remember it can be a bit heavy for pets with sensitive stomachs. Use it in moderation or substitute with oat flour if necessary.)
- 1 cup cornmeal (Cornmeal adds texture and flavor, while also providing carbohydrates for energy. It’s also a good source of B vitamins and minerals like iron, magnesium, and phosphorus.)
Allergy Substitutes:
- If your dog or cat is sensitive to wheat, you can swap the whole wheat flour with oat flour or chickpea flour.
- For pets with corn sensitivities, consider using rice flour or a mix of oat and almond flour instead.
Follow This Step Closely to Make This Treat
Let’s break it down step by step! Ready to bake? Here’s how to make these turkey treats:
1. Preheat and Prep
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line your baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking. Set the tray aside while you prepare the dough.
2. Prepare the Turkey
Take your leftover turkey and chop it into small, bite-sized pieces. Make sure you remove all the skin, fat, and bones – you want to give your pet the cleanest, healthiest meat possible. If you’d like, you can also pulse the turkey in a food processor for a finer consistency, which is especially helpful for cats who may prefer smaller pieces.
3. Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the turkey broth, lightly beaten egg, and vegetable oil. These ingredients will help bind the dough together and keep the treats moist.
4. Add the Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, combine the whole wheat flour, cornmeal, and a pinch of salt (if desired). Stir well to ensure the dry ingredients are mixed evenly.
5. Combine the Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the wet ingredients into the dry mixture, stirring constantly until the dough starts to come together. Add the chopped turkey to the mixture and combine it well. The dough should be slightly sticky but firm enough to handle. If the dough feels too dry, add a little extra turkey broth. If it’s too wet, sprinkle in a bit more flour.
6. Shape the Treats
Once the dough is ready, you can roll it out on a floured surface (use a rolling pin) or simply form small dough balls and flatten them with your hands. If you’re feeling extra creative, you can use cookie cutters to make fun shapes like bones, hearts, or stars.
7. Bake
Place the shaped dough on the prepared baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the treats are firm. You want the treats to be crispy, not soft, to ensure they last longer and don’t spoil quickly.
8. Cool and Serve
Allow the treats to cool on a wire rack. Once completely cooled, they are ready for your pet to enjoy!
Feeding Size: How to Serve the Treats
When it comes to serving these turkey treats, size matters! Treats should be given in moderation, especially when introducing new foods to your pet’s diet.
For small dogs and cats (under 20 lbs), start with 1-2 small treats per day. For larger breeds, you can increase the serving size but always remember that treats should never replace balanced meals.
Nutritional Values Estimated
These turkey treats are not only delicious, but they’re packed with essential nutrients. Here’s a breakdown of the approximate nutritional benefits:
- Protein: The turkey and egg provide a solid protein boost that supports muscle growth and overall health.
- Omega-3 fatty acids: The vegetable oil is rich in omega-3s, which are great for joint health, shiny coats, and cognitive function.
- Carbohydrates: The whole wheat flour and cornmeal provide an energy-packed source of carbs that fuel your pet’s playful spirit.
- Minerals and Vitamins: The turkey liver contributes vital minerals like iron, zinc, and B vitamins, while the cornmeal provides magnesium and phosphorus for bone health.
Why These Ingredients Work for Dogs
When it comes to treating your dog to something special, you want to ensure every ingredient is not only delicious but also beneficial. This turkey treat recipe delivers just that! With wholesome ingredients like turkey, eggs, and vegetable oil, each element is carefully chosen to support your dog’s health.
Turkey provides lean protein for muscle strength, while eggs offer a boost of essential amino acids and healthy fats. The vegetable oil adds omega-3 fatty acids, promoting a shiny coat and joint health. All in all, these ingredients work together to create a tasty snack that’s good for your dog inside and out.
Dietary Suitability
This recipe is generally a good fit for most dogs, especially if they enjoy protein-packed snacks. It’s not specifically formulated to be low-fat or grain-free, but if your dog is on a specific diet (like low-fat or hypoallergenic), there are easy swaps you can make.
For example, if your dog has a sensitivity to wheat or corn, you can substitute whole wheat flour with oat flour or chickpea flour, and swap cornmeal for rice flour.
As for the fat content, you can adjust the amount of vegetable oil to reduce the fat intake if your dog is on a low-fat diet.
For dogs with food sensitivities, such as grain allergies, you can make this recipe even more suitable by substituting ingredients with alternatives that match your pet’s needs.
Always remember to check with your vet before trying new recipes, especially if your dog has special dietary needs.
Trouble Shooting: Recipe Didn’t Work?
If your turkey treats didn’t turn out as expected, don’t worry – we’ve got you covered. Here are a few common issues and easy fixes:
- Dough Too Sticky: If the dough is too sticky to work with, simply add a little more flour (either whole wheat or oat) until it reaches a workable consistency.
- Treats Too Soft After Baking: This usually happens when the dough wasn’t firm enough before baking. Try rolling the dough a bit thinner or bake the treats a little longer for a firmer, crunchier result.
- Burnt Treats: The oven temperature might have been too high, or the baking time too long. Every oven is a little different, so try reducing the heat slightly or checking the treats 5 minutes earlier next time.
Remember, every oven and ingredient batch can vary, so don’t be discouraged if the first batch isn’t perfect. Adjust and keep experimenting until you find the ideal result!
Health Concerns You Should Take Note Of
Although turkey is generally safe for dogs, there are a few health concerns to keep in mind, both for this recipe and other pet snacks in general:
- Bones: Never feed your dog cooked turkey bones, as they can splinter and cause choking or digestive issues. Always use boneless meat in this recipe.
- Onions and Garlic: These ingredients can be toxic to dogs. Thankfully, they’re not part of this recipe, but always double-check ingredients in any homemade treat before feeding it to your dog.
- Salt: Too much salt can cause dehydration and kidney problems in dogs. Avoid adding extra salt to the recipe and choose low-sodium broth and ingredients.
- Fat Content: While vegetable oil is generally safe in moderation, too much fat can upset your dog’s digestive system. Stick to the recommended amounts for a healthy balance.
If your dog has known food allergies or sensitivities, consult with your vet before trying this recipe to ensure that all the ingredients are safe for them. Always err on the side of caution!
Cost: How Affordable is This Recipe?
The beauty of making homemade treats is that you get to control the cost, and this turkey treat recipe is relatively affordable!
The main ingredients – cooked turkey, flour, and egg – are easy to find and don’t break the bank. If you’re using leftover turkey from a holiday meal, you’re saving even more!
The turkey broth and vegetable oil are inexpensive pantry staples that can be used for future batches of treats, making this a cost-effective option in the long run.
Overall, you can make a batch of these turkey treats for just a few dollars, depending on where you buy your ingredients and the size of the batch.
Convenience: How Simple is it to Make This Recipe?
This recipe is incredibly easy to make, with minimal prep time and no complicated techniques. Once you’ve gathered your ingredients, all you need to do is mix, shape, and bake.
It’s a straightforward process that anyone can do, whether you’re a seasoned dog treat maker or a first-time baker.
Since this recipe uses simple ingredients and doesn’t require any fancy equipment, it’s a great option for pet parents who are short on time but still want to create healthy homemade snacks for their pets.
Will All Dogs Like This Recipe?
While the ingredients in this recipe are generally loved by most dogs, it’s always a good idea to introduce new treats slowly to see how your dog reacts.
If your dog has a particularly picky palate, they may not immediately take to the turkey treats – but many dogs find turkey to be a highly desirable protein.
Cats, on the other hand, are usually more selective about treats, so this turkey recipe could be a great option for your feline friend if you adjust the portion size and texture to suit their taste. In any case, always start with a small amount to make sure your pet enjoys it!
Cooking Techniques That Will Work For This Recipe
When baking treats that contain flour, like this turkey recipe, the best methods are always baking or dehydrating.
Both methods preserve the nutrients while providing a crunchy texture that your pet can enjoy. Baking at a moderate temperature (350°F/175°C) ensures the treats cook evenly and firm up nicely.
Dehydrating could also work if you want longer-lasting treats, especially if you prefer a chewier texture for your dog.
However, be careful not to overdo it when dehydrating – the treats should still hold their shape and not become too brittle.
Portion Control: How Much Is Too Much?
As tempting as it may be to give your dog or cat a whole bunch of turkey treats, remember that treats should only be an occasional snack, not a replacement for their regular meals. Portion control is important, especially if your pet is on a special diet.
- For Small Dogs: Offer about 1-2 small treats per day.
- For Medium to Large Dogs: 2-3 treats per day should be enough.
- For Cats: Stick to a small amount – around 1 treat per day – given that they typically require fewer calories than dogs.
Remember, the key is moderation. If your pet is having too many treats, it can upset their digestive system or lead to weight gain.
Serving Suggestion
These turkey treats are perfect for training sessions, as rewards, or just as an extra special snack for your furry friend.
Use them during obedience training or when reinforcing good behavior, but always remember that treats should complement your pet’s balanced diet and not replace regular meals.
FAQs
Can I use chicken instead of turkey for these treats?
Absolutely! You can substitute chicken for turkey if you prefer, or if you have leftover chicken from a meal. Just make sure the chicken is boneless, skinless, and properly cooked.
Can I store these turkey treats for later?
Yes! These treats can be stored in an airtight container for up to a week at room temperature. If you want them to last longer, you can store them in the fridge for up to 2 weeks, or even freeze them for up to 3 months.
Are these treats safe for puppies or senior dogs?
Yes, these treats are safe for most dogs, including puppies and seniors. However, if you have a puppy or senior with dietary restrictions or health concerns, it’s always best to consult your vet before introducing any new treat.
Final Thoughts
So there you have it the ultimate turkey treat recipe for your furry friend I found on Petco.com! It doesn’t have to be difficult if you follow these simple steps.
Now, I’d love to hear your thoughts. Have you ever made homemade treats for your dog before? If so, how did it go? Feel free to share your experience in the comments below!
