There’s something pretty special about baking up treats for a furry little sidekick. These sugar-free cookie dog treats are a quick, wholesome option that doesn’t rely on mystery ingredients or sweeteners dogs don’t need.
They’re simple to make, kid-approved for helping in the kitchen, and safe for pups when made with the right ingredients. This is one of those recipes that makes the tail-wagging come fast—and keeps the treat jar stocked without spending a fortune on store-bought stuff.
What’s great about this recipe is the clean list of ingredients, the minimal prep, and the way it doubles as a fun project that even younger kids can help with. The dough rolls easily, the shapes can be customized, and once baked, the cookies store well too.
What You’ll Need
- 1 cup almond flour
- 1/4 cup coconut flour
- 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 egg
- 1/8 cup almond butter (must be xylitol-free)
- 1/8 cup pure maple syrup
- 1 cup plain kefir (optional for decoration)
- Optional: finely grated carrot or black sesame seeds for decorating
Pro Tips
- Read labels on almond butter carefully Xylitol is toxic to dogs and sometimes sneaks into nut butters. Even organic brands should be checked just in case.
- Turn this into a family activity Rolling, cutting, and decorating the cookies is a perfect way for kids to get involved in the kitchen. No sharp tools or high heat needed during prep.
- Use fun cookie cutters Bone, paw, or heart shapes add a cute twist. Most dog owners already have a few cookie cutters hanging around, but even a simple jar lid will work in a pinch.
- Test baking time with a few first Every oven is different. Start with one tray and watch closely. These only take a few minutes, and overbaking can make them dry and hard.
- Cool completely before serving Pups don’t know to blow on hot food. Let treats cool fully to avoid burned mouths or stomach upset.
Tools Required
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Whisk or fork
- Rolling pin
- Cookie cutters
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Cooling rack
Substitutions and Variations
- Flours: Oat flour or whole wheat flour can be swapped in for almond or coconut flour if grain-free isn’t a priority.
- Sweetener alternatives: Unsweetened applesauce or mashed banana can be used in place of maple syrup.
- Add-ins: Finely chopped parsley (for fresh breath) or pumpkin puree (for digestion) can be mixed into the dough for extra benefits.
- Dairy-free option: Skip the kefir or sub in unsweetened coconut yogurt for decorating.
Make Ahead Tips
Dough can be made in advance and kept in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Once rolled and cut, freeze the shaped cookies on a tray, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake directly from frozen, just add 1 to 2 minutes to the baking time.
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, whisk together almond flour, coconut flour, and baking soda.
- In another bowl, mix egg, almond butter, and maple syrup until smooth.
- Combine wet and dry ingredients until a soft dough forms. If too dry, add a teaspoon of water or kefir.
- Roll dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thick.
- Cut into desired shapes and place on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 6 to 8 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
- Allow to cool fully on a wire rack.
- If decorating, dip cooled treats lightly in kefir and sprinkle with grated carrot or black sesame seeds. Let set before storing.
Nutritional Breakdown (per cookie)
Estimated values, varies by size and brand of ingredients
- Calories: 45–55
- Protein: 2g
- Fat: 3g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Fiber: 1g
- Added Sugars: 0g
Leftovers and Storage
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
- Freezer: Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature or in the fridge before serving.
- Shelf-stable option: Skip the kefir and bake until slightly firmer for treats that last longer in a sealed container at room temperature.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are these treats safe for puppies? Yes, but introduce slowly and check with a vet if the puppy is on a specific diet.
Can regular flour be used instead? It can, but the recipe will no longer be grain-free, and the texture may change slightly.
Is maple syrup necessary? No. Unsweetened applesauce or mashed banana work just as well and may be more appealing to some dogs.
How many treats does this recipe make? About 20 small to medium cookies, depending on the size of the cutter used.
Can these be made crunchy or soft? Bake a few extra minutes for a crunchier cookie, or pull them a little early for a softer bite.
These sugar-free dog cookies are an easy win. Simple ingredients, minimal prep, and a happy pup every time. Great as a regular reward or for special occasions. Try them out, then pop into the comments and share how it went or ask any questions that came up along the way.
