Looking for a simple and affordable dog treat that’s actually good for them? This one’s a winner. Sweet potato dog treats made in the air fryer hit all the right notes—cheap, healthy, and super easy to make with just one ingredient.
Dogs go crazy for the chewy texture, and pet parents love that these treats skip the junk and additives. It’s a great option for anyone wanting to cut down on store-bought snacks without losing quality.
And for families with kids, this is the kind of recipe that’s fun to prep together and gentle on the budget. This guide walks through everything needed to get started, including tips for storing, adjusting texture, and even how to batch-prep for the week ahead.
What You’ll Need
Ingredients
- 2 large sweet potatoes (organic, if possible)
Pro Tips
1. Go for uniform slices Using a mandoline or sharp knife helps get even ¼-inch slices. This keeps the texture consistent and prevents overcooked edges or soft centers.
2. Skip the seasoning It might be tempting to jazz it up, but dogs don’t need salt, oils, or spices. Plain is best—and safest.
3. Spread them out in the basket Crowding leads to uneven cooking. Place slices in a single layer in the air fryer, and work in batches if needed.
4. Watch for doneness, not the clock Every air fryer cooks a little differently. The goal is a slightly dehydrated, chewy texture—not too crispy, not too soft. Keep an eye out starting around the 15-minute mark.
5. Let them cool completely Hot treats = impatient pups. Cool treats = chewy goodness and safer snacking. Always let them cool before handing one over.
Tools Required
- Air fryer
- Sharp knife or mandoline slicer
- Cutting board
- Vegetable brush (for scrubbing the potatoes)
- Optional: parchment paper or silicone liner
Substitutions and Variations
Alternative veggies: Carrot or pumpkin slices can work too. Just adjust cook time and thickness.
Optional flavoring: A sprinkle of cinnamon (just cinnamon—nothing mixed with sugar) is okay, but totally optional. Most dogs love them plain.
No air fryer? A conventional oven at 250°F for 2–2.5 hours will also work, flipping halfway through.
Make Ahead Tips
- Slice up a big batch ahead of time and keep the raw slices in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.
- Freeze cooked treats in small batches and thaw as needed—no daily prep required.
Instructions
- Prep the sweet potatoes Scrub clean under water. Peel if desired, but the skin is packed with fiber and fine to leave on.
- Slice into ¼-inch rounds or strips Aim for uniform thickness for even cooking.
- Preheat the air fryer to 375°F Let it warm up while slicing to save time.
- Arrange slices in a single layer in the basket No stacking. Give each slice room to breathe.
- Air fry for 15–20 minutes Flip halfway through. Cooking time may vary slightly by air fryer. Treats are done when they look dried out and slightly leathery but still have some bend.
- Cool completely Let them sit for 10–15 minutes before storing or serving.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Treat – Approximate)
- Calories: 73
- Carbs: 17g
- Protein: 1g
- Fat: 0g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 4g
- Vitamin A: 12,000+ IU
- Vitamin C: 2mg
- Iron: 1mg
- Calcium: 26mg
Leftovers and Storage
- Store cooled treats in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 7 days.
- Freeze extras in a zip-top bag or airtight container for up to 3 months.
- To thaw, just leave them out at room temperature for 30–60 minutes.
FAQs
Can other potatoes be used? Stick with sweet potatoes. Regular white potatoes aren’t as nutrient-rich and can be harder for some dogs to digest.
How long do these treats last? Up to one week in the fridge, or three months in the freezer. Just make sure they’re stored airtight.
Are these safe for puppies? Yes, but always check with a vet first—especially for younger or sensitive pups.
What if the treats are too hard or too soft? Reduce the cook time for softer treats or increase it slightly for crispier results. Thickness of the slice makes a big difference, so tweak as needed.
Final Words
These Air Fryer Sweet Potato Dog Treats are a game-changer for anyone who wants a healthy, budget-friendly option for their pup. They’re simple to make, full of fiber and vitamins, and a whole lot cheaper than store-bought snacks.
Try the recipe, see how your dog reacts, and if anything stood out—or didn’t quite go as planned—drop a comment below. Questions are welcome too. Always happy to hear what’s working or help troubleshoot what isn’t.
