Your furry friend deserve better than store-bought treats, I get it. That’s Why I will show you a healthier alternatives that won’t expand their waistline
Today, I’ll share 2 awesome but incredible low-calorie dog training treat recipes that are not only nutritious but also perfect for positive reinforcement training.
Benefits of Homemade Low-Calorie Dog Treats
- Complete control over ingredients
- Cost-effective compared to store-bought options
- Fresh and preservative-free
- Perfect for weight management
- Ideal for frequent rewarding during training sessions
Recipe 1: Sweet Potato Training Bites
Prep & Cook Time
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Cook time: 2-3 hours (dehydrating)
Ingredients Needed
- 2 medium sweet potatoes
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
How to Make Step by Step
Start by washing your sweet potatoes thoroughly under cool water. Pat them dry with a paper towel. Using a sharp knife, slice the sweet potatoes into very thin rounds, approximately 1/4 inch thick. For smaller dogs, you can cut these rounds in half or quarters.
In a large bowl, toss the sweet potato slices with melted coconut oil and cinnamon if using. Arrange them in a single layer on your dehydrator trays or a baking sheet if using an oven. If using a dehydrator, set it to 135°F and dry for 2-3 hours until the treats are chewy but not crispy. If using an oven, set it to the lowest temperature and prop the door open slightly with a wooden spoon.
Feeding Size
- Small dogs: 1/4 piece per reward
- Medium dogs: 1/2 piece per reward
- Large dogs: 1 full piece per reward
Storage Tips
Store in an airtight container:
- Room temperature: 1 week
- Refrigerator: 2 weeks
- Freezer: up to 3 months
Nutrition Values (per piece)
| Nutrient | Amount |
| Calories | 12 |
| Protein | 0.2g |
| Fat | 0.1g |
| Carbs | 2.8g |
Recipe 2: Lean Chicken Training Nibbles
Prep & Cook Time
- Prep time: 5 minutes
- Cook time: 25 minutes
Ingredients Needed
- 1 pound lean chicken breast
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon parsley (dried)
How to Make Step by Step
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F. Take your chicken breast and cut it into very small, uniform pieces – about the size of a pea for training purposes. The key here is consistency in size to ensure even cooking.
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and spread the chicken pieces evenly. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle dried parsley over the top. Bake for approximately 25 minutes, or until the chicken is completely cooked through but still tender.
Let the treats cool completely before storing or using. These treats should be slightly chewy but not hard, making them perfect for quick training rewards.
Feeding Size
- Small dogs: 1-2 pieces per reward
- Medium dogs: 2-3 pieces per reward
- Large dogs: 3-4 pieces per reward
Storage Tips
Store in an airtight container:
- Refrigerator: 3-4 days
- Freezer: up to 2 months
Nutrition Values (per piece)
| Nutrient | Amount |
| Calories | 5 |
| Protein | 1g |
| Fat | 0.2g |
| Carbs | 0g |
Common Questions About Homemade Dog Training Treats
How long can I store homemade dog treats?
Storage time varies depending on the ingredients and storage method. Generally, treats containing meat should be refrigerated and used within 3-4 days, while dehydrated treats can last several weeks when stored properly.
Can I freeze these training treats?
Yes! Most homemade dog treats freeze well. Portion them into small training-sized amounts before freezing to make them easier to thaw and use.
Are these treats suitable for puppies?
Most of these treats are suitable for puppies over 12 weeks old. However, always consult with your veterinarian about appropriate treats for your puppy’s age and size.
How many treats can I give during training?
Remember the 10% rule: treats should not make up more than 10% of your dog’s daily caloric intake. These low-calorie options allow for more frequent rewarding during training sessions.
Final Thoughts
Creating your own low-calorie dog training treats puts you in control of your furry friend’s health and training success. These recipes are just the beginning – feel free to experiment with different ingredients while keeping portions small and nutritious.
Ready to start making these healthy treats? Your pup’s tail will be wagging with appreciation! Share your treat-making success stories in the comments below, and don’t forget to for the form above to get more recipes in the future.
