Not knowing what’s in store-bought dog treats can feel a little unsettling—especially when trying to keep things healthy and simple for a furry best friend. That’s where these homemade Beef & Carrot Chews come in.
They’re packed with lean protein, a bit of natural sweetness from carrots, and just the right amount of chewiness to make tails wag every single time. Super easy to make, great to freeze, and even better for dogs who deserve a treat that’s as wholesome as it is tasty.
Perfect for those looking to ditch the mystery ingredients and make something truly nourishing. Bonus: they store beautifully and don’t take a ton of time to whip up.
What You’ll Need
Ingredients:
- 1 cup lean or extra-lean ground beef
- 1 cup finely grated carrot
- ½ cup whole wheat flour
Pro Tips
- Go lean Choose lean or extra-lean beef to cut down on excess fat and keep things easier on digestion.
- Grate those carrots finely Helps the carrot mix in better and gives the chews a more even texture (no stringy bits sneaking through).
- Keep sizes consistent Uniform chew sizes mean even baking and portion sizes that make sense for the dog’s size.
- Let them cool fully Cooling completely not only avoids burnt tongues but also helps the chews firm up properly.
- Freeze extras Great to make a double batch and store in the freezer. Saves time and keeps treats ready for later.
Tools You’ll Need
- Grater
- Large mixing bowl
- Measuring cups
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Oven
Substitutions & Variations
- Different flour options: Oat flour or rice flour work great if whole wheat isn’t a fit.
- Protein swaps: Ground turkey or chicken can be subbed in for variety.
- Add a flavor boost: A tablespoon of natural peanut butter (xylitol-free) adds extra flavor and healthy fats.
- Switch up the veggies: Swap carrots for chopped spinach or pumpkin puree if that’s what’s on hand.
Make-Ahead Tip
Chews can be prepped ahead of time and frozen before baking. Just shape them, freeze them flat on a baking sheet, and store in a freezer bag. When it’s time to bake, add 3–5 minutes to the oven time.
How to Make Beef & Carrot Chews
- Preheat the oven Set to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Mix everything together In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, grated carrots, and whole wheat flour. Stir until fully combined.
- Shape into chews Roll or press into small logs or discs depending on what works best for the dog’s size.
- Bake Place chews on the baking sheet and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until cooked through and firm.
- Cool Let them cool completely before storing or serving.
Nutrition (per chew)
- Calories: 65
- Protein: 4g
- Fat: 3.5g
- Carbs: 4g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 25mg
Leftovers & Storage
Once cooled, store chews in an airtight container in the fridge for 5–7 days. For longer storage, freeze them in a sealed bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.
FAQ
Can cooked beef be used instead of raw? Yes, just make sure it’s plain and drained of excess grease.
Are these safe for puppies? Yes, though it’s always smart to check with a vet when introducing new treats.
Other veggies that work well? Finely chopped spinach, pumpkin, or sweet potato are great options.
How to tell when they’re done baking? They should be firm to the touch and just starting to brown on the edges.
Can these be made softer for older dogs? Yes. Just shave off a few minutes of bake time to keep them on the softer side.
Final Words
Homemade dog treats don’t need to be complicated. These chews come together fast, offer wholesome ingredients, and are sure to make any dog feel extra loved. They’re a great go-to for training, everyday rewards, or just because.
So give them a try and don’t forget to leave a comment with questions or how it went!
