When a dog is basically part of the family, it only makes sense to want to give them the best — and that includes snacks. These homemade chia seed dog treats are packed with simple ingredients that actually support health, not just satisfy cravings. No weird additives, no strange ingredients, and totally doable in a regular kitchen.
What makes these treats special? They’re easy to make, use pantry staples, and include chia seeds, which are rich in fiber and omega-3s. Perfect for pups with sensitive stomachs, and great for showing a little extra love.
Let’s get into the good stuff.
What You’ll Need
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons chia seeds
- ⅔ cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1 tablespoon natural peanut butter (no xylitol)
- ½ cup unsweetened applesauce
- 2 cups oat flour
Tools:
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Mixing bowls
- Rolling pin
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper or silicone baking mat
- Cookie cutters (bone shapes always get bonus points)
Pro Tips (Especially If This Is the First Time)
- Double check the peanut butter Xylitol is a common ingredient in peanut butter and extremely toxic to dogs. Always check the label.
- Pick the right cookie cutter Choose a size that works for the dog’s mouth — smaller treats for smaller dogs, bigger ones for bigger pups.
- Let the kids help out This recipe is a great one for little hands. Let them roll, cut, and even package the treats once they’ve cooled.
- Make extras and freeze them Freeze half the batch so fresh treats are always on hand. They thaw quickly and taste just as good later.
- Test the texture If the dough feels too sticky, add a bit more oat flour. Too dry? A splash of water will help bring it together.
Ingredient Swaps & Fun Variations
- Dairy-free version? Use coconut yogurt instead of Greek yogurt.
- Need a different flour? Brown rice flour or chickpea flour can work for dogs with oats or grain sensitivities.
- Want to mix up the flavor? Try adding a bit of mashed banana or pumpkin purée — both are great for digestion and add natural sweetness.
Make-Ahead Tip
The dough can be made in advance and stored in the fridge for up to two days. Before rolling it out, let it sit at room temp for about 10 minutes to soften up.
How to Make Chia Seed Dog Treats
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment or a silicone mat.
- Mix the chia and yogurt. Let it sit for 5 minutes so the chia seeds can soak up the moisture.
- Stir in the peanut butter and applesauce. Mix until smooth and creamy.
- Combine with the oat flour and stir until a soft dough forms. Adjust texture as needed.
- Roll out the dough to about ½ inch thick and use cookie cutters to make shapes.
- Place on the baking sheet and bake for 15–18 minutes or until golden brown around the edges.
- Let cool completely before giving them to the dog. Store any extras in an airtight container.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Treat – Approximate)
- Calories: 88 kcal
- Protein: 4g
- Fat: 3g
- Carbs: 13g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 1g
Exact values will vary depending on brand and portion size.
Storage + Leftovers
Once cooled, treats should be stored in an airtight container and used within 7 days. For longer storage, freeze in a sealed container or bag for up to 3 months. When ready to serve, let them thaw naturally — no microwave needed.
FAQs
Can the chia seeds be left dry? They can, but soaking them gives a better texture and helps bind the dough.
Is flavored yogurt ok? Stick to plain and unsweetened. Flavors usually mean added sugar, which isn’t great for dogs.
How many can a dog have each day? Treats should only make up about 10% of daily calories. Adjust based on size, weight, and diet.
Can these be made without peanut butter? Yes. Swap with mashed banana or a little pumpkin purée if needed — both are dog-safe and tasty.
Are these treats crunchy or soft? That depends on bake time. A longer bake creates crunchier treats, which are great for dental health. Shorter bake means softer bites, ideal for older dogs.
Final Thoughts
Healthy snacks don’t have to be complicated — and they definitely don’t have to come from a package. These chia seed dog treats are simple, nutritious, and totally pup-approved. Perfect for any time a good dog deserves something extra.
Try them out, and if there are any questions, feel free to ask in the comments. And don’t forget to share how the pups liked them!
