Dogs don’t care about fancy. They don’t need sprinkles, icing, or heart-shaped anything. What they do love? Meat. And this simple liver treat recipe hits the spot like nothing else.
Yes, liver smells… intense. It’s not a recipe to whip up right before guests come over. But when those treats come out of the oven? Total hero status. Tails wag, eyes widen, and dogs magically learn how to sit, stay, and shake with laser focus.
There’s also peace of mind knowing exactly what’s going into those treats. No weird fillers. No mystery meat. Just real, whole ingredients that support a healthy, happy dog.
What You’ll Need
- 1 lb chicken or beef liver (fresh or thawed if frozen)
- 1 cup oat flour (or whole wheat flour)
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional, but adds moisture)
Pro Tips
- Freeze before slicing Liver firms up in the freezer after 20–30 minutes, making it way easier to handle and chop. A solid trick to save time (and mess).
- Use silicone molds Silicone molds pop out the treats easily, bake evenly, and bonus—they make clean-up fast. Dog bone shapes? Cute. But not required.
- Double bake for crunch After the first round in the oven, cut into small bites and pop them back in at a low temp to dehydrate. Crunchy treats store longer and are less messy in pockets or treat bags.
- Keep sizes small Liver is nutrient-dense. These treats are better served in small, bite-sized pieces, especially when used for training.
- Get kids involved Let kids help with the mixing or pressing into molds. It’s a great way to include them in something the family dog will love.
Tools Required
- Food processor or blender
- Mixing bowl
- Silicone baking molds or parchment-lined baking sheet
- Sharp knife or kitchen shears
- Oven
- Airtight container for storage
Substitutions and Variations
- Protein swaps: Lamb, turkey, or fish liver all work well if chicken or beef isn’t an option.
- Flour alternatives: Brown rice flour, coconut flour, or gluten-free blends for pups with sensitivities.
- Flavor boosters: Pureed pumpkin, shredded carrot, or a pinch of parsley can add flavor and nutrition.
- Soft vs. crunchy: Skip the second bake for soft treats, or go all in on crunch with a longer dehydrating step.
Make Ahead Tips
- Dough can be made 1 day in advance and stored in the fridge.
- Finished treats freeze well—make a big batch and store in labeled freezer bags for grab-and-go portions.
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Rinse liver under cold water and pat dry. If frozen, ensure it’s fully thawed.
- Blend liver, egg, and olive oil in a food processor until smooth.
- Transfer to mixing bowl and stir in oat flour until a thick batter forms.
- Spoon into molds or spread in a thin layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until firm to the touch.
- Cool completely before removing from molds or cutting into bite-sized pieces.
- Optional second bake: Place cut treats back in the oven at 200°F (95°C) for 1–2 hours to dehydrate for crunch.
Nutrition Details (Per Treat Estimate)
- Calories: 25
- Protein: 1g
- Fat: 1g
- Carbs: 3g
- Vitamin A: Very high due to liver content
Note: These values can vary depending on liver type and flour used.
Leftovers and Storage
- Fridge: Store in an airtight container up to 5 days.
- Freezer: Freeze in single layers or small bags. Lasts up to 3 months. Thaws quickly.
- Crunchy treats: Store longer at room temperature in a dry, airtight jar.
FAQ
Can a dehydrator be used instead of an oven? Yes. Use according to the machine’s instructions. Great for long shelf life and low-temp drying.
How often should liver treats be given? Treats should make up no more than 10% of a dog’s daily calories. Due to high vitamin A, keep portions small and occasional.
What if the dog has a sensitive stomach? Start with a small piece and monitor. For known dietary sensitivities, consult a vet before introducing new ingredients.
Can these be used for training? Absolutely. Just cut them small. Their strong smell makes them perfect high-reward treats.
Wrap Up
Homemade liver treats are about as close as it gets to dog treat gold. Simple ingredients, easy prep, and guaranteed tail wags every time.
Give this recipe a go, see the reaction, and drop a comment with how it turned out. Any questions or creative twists? Add those, too. This kitchen might not always smell great, but the results speak for themselves.
