Finding treats that are both healthy and easy to make can be a bit of a challenge, especially when it comes to pets. But these homemade dog apple chips are such a simple and wholesome snack that dogs absolutely love.
With only one ingredient (yes, just one!) and no added preservatives, this recipe makes it easy to treat furry friends to something special, without wondering what’s really in it.
These apple chips are naturally sweet, crunchy, and perfect for pups of all sizes. And even better? They’re great for humans too, so don’t be surprised if they disappear a little faster than expected. Whether it’s for a mid-day treat, a training reward, or just because, this recipe is a must-try.
So let’s get into it and make some delicious apple chips for those tail-wagging taste-testers.
What You’ll Need
- 2 crisp apples (Fuji, Honeycrisp, or Gala work great)
- Optional: A small sprinkle of Ceylon cinnamon (dog-safe in small amounts)
Pro Tips
1. Stick to safe apple types: Sweet and crunchy apples like Fuji or Honeycrisp are ideal. Always avoid anything sour or overly soft.
2. Use a mandoline slicer if possible: This helps create thin, even slices so the chips bake evenly and come out nice and crisp.
3. Don’t forget to core: Apple seeds are a no-go for dogs. Make sure the seeds and core are completely removed before slicing.
4. Great activity with the kids: Have little ones help with placing slices on the tray or sprinkling cinnamon. It’s a simple and safe way to get them involved.
5. Keep a close eye near the end: Depending on the oven, chips can go from golden to burnt pretty quickly in the last 30–45 minutes.
Tools to Have on Hand
- Apple corer or small knife
- Mandoline slicer or sharp knife
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper (optional, but helps prevent sticking)
- Cooling rack
Substitutions & Variations
- Ceylon cinnamon: A dog-safe option in very small amounts. Avoid cassia cinnamon, which can be harmful in larger doses.
- Other dog-safe fruits: Try thin slices of pears or sweet potatoes for a similar texture and flavor experience.
- No oven? Use a dehydrator: Great for hands-off prep. Just follow the machine’s instructions for apple slices.
Make Ahead Tips
- Make a larger batch and store for the week. These chips can easily be kept on hand for quick treat time or outings.
- Freeze extras for later. Just take out a few at a time and let them thaw for a few minutes before serving.
How to Make Tasty Dog Apple Chips
- Preheat the oven to 225°F (110°C).
- Wash the apples thoroughly and remove the core and seeds.
- Slice thinly into even rounds—about 1/8 inch thick works best for that perfect crunch.
- Place slices in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Optional step: Lightly sprinkle with Ceylon cinnamon.
- Bake for 2 to 3 hours, flipping the slices halfway through.
- Cool completely on a wire rack. Chips will crisp up more as they cool.
- Store in an airtight container for up to 7 days at room temperature.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Slice, Approx.)
- Calories: 8
- Total Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Sodium: 0mg
- Total Carbs: 2g
- Fiber: 0g
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 0g
Note: Nutrition varies depending on the apple type and thickness of the slice.
Leftovers & Storage
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
- If chips lose their crunch, pop them back into the oven at 200°F for 15–20 minutes.
- Freeze in small batches for up to 30 days. Thaw and serve as needed.
FAQs
Can any type of apple be used? Yes, but sweeter varieties like Fuji, Gala, or Honeycrisp work best and tend to be more appealing for dogs.
Is cinnamon safe for dogs? Yes, in small amounts. Just make sure to use Ceylon cinnamon, not cassia.
How thin should the slices be? Around 1/8 inch is ideal. Thin enough to crisp up, but not so thin they break apart.
Can a dehydrator be used instead of an oven? Definitely. Just follow the instructions that come with the dehydrator for fruit chips.
How to tell when they’re done? They should be dry and mostly crisp to the touch. Some might still feel slightly bendy straight out of the oven but will firm up as they cool.
Final Thoughts
These apple chips are a perfect way to show dogs some love—with a treat that’s healthy, homemade, and super simple to make. Whether it’s a batch made for a furry friend or shared with the humans in the house too, this recipe is always a favorite.
Tried these out? Feel free to share your results, questions, or even other flavor combos that worked. It’s always fun hearing how others make it their own!
