When it comes to dog treats, simple is usually best. And these sweet potato chews are about as simple, and satisfying as it gets.
Just one ingredient, no weird preservatives, and a chewy texture pups go crazy for. Perfect for pet parents looking to ditch the store-bought stuff and treat their furry friend to something healthy and homemade.
These chewy bites are easy to make, great for pups of all sizes, and a fantastic option for dogs with food sensitivities or allergies. Plus, they’re budget-friendly and make the house smell amazing while baking.
Let’s get into it.
What You’ll Need
Ingredients:
- 2 large sweet potatoes (organic if possible)
Pro Tips
- Cut them evenly Use a mandoline or a steady hand to slice sweet potatoes to the same thickness. This helps them bake evenly and gives a consistent chew.
- Choose your chew style Thinner slices will bake into crispier chips, while thicker slices stay chewy. Both are great—it just depends on what the pup prefers.
- Skin or no skin Leaving the skin on adds fiber and nutrients. For dogs with sensitive tummies, peeling them first might be a better option.
- Cool completely before storing Once baked, make sure the chews cool down fully before putting them away. This keeps them from turning soggy in storage.
- Test with smaller pieces If trying this for the first time, start with a few smaller slices to make sure the pup handles them well.
Tools You’ll Need
- Sharp knife or mandoline slicer
- Cutting board
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Oven or food dehydrator
- Airtight container for storage
Substitutions and Variations
- A sprinkle of cinnamon: Totally optional, but a tiny dusting of cinnamon (no sugar) can give a hint of flavor. Just make sure the dog tolerates it well.
- Different shapes: Try using cookie cutters for fun, seasonal shapes—great for birthdays or holidays.
- Alternate veggies: Dehydrated pumpkin or zucchini can work too, though sweet potato tends to be the most pup-approved.
Make-Ahead Tips
- Bake a full batch and keep extra in the freezer. Just pull a few out and let them thaw whenever it’s treat time.
- Slices can also be prepped in advance and stored raw in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking.
How to Make Sweet Potato Dog Chews
- Preheat the oven to 250°F (120°C).
- Wash and optionally peel the sweet potatoes.
- Slice into rounds or strips, about ¼ inch thick. The thicker the slice, the chewier the result.
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange slices in a single layer.
- Bake for 2½ to 3 hours, flipping halfway through. They should be slightly dried, chewy, and a little shriveled.
- Let cool completely before storing.
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge or freezer.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Chew)
- Calories: ~10
- Carbs: 2g
- Protein: 0g
- Fat: 0g
- Fiber: 0.5g
- Vitamin A: ~1500 IU
Note: These numbers are estimates and can vary depending on slice size.
Leftovers and Storage
- Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 weeks.
- Freezer: Freeze in small batches for up to 3 months. Thaw before serving.
- Pantry: If the slices are baked until fully crisp, they can be stored in a cool, dry place for up to 1 week.
FAQs
Are these safe for puppies?
Yes, as long as the pieces are small enough and the pup is supervised. Always introduce new treats slowly.
Can a dehydrator be used instead of an oven?
Definitely. Set the dehydrator to 135°F and run it for 6–8 hours, depending on thickness.
How to tell when they’re done baking?
Look for slices that are dry to the touch, slightly shriveled, and firm. They’ll continue to firm up as they cool.
Do they need to be peeled?
Not necessarily. The peel is safe and full of nutrients, but it can be left off if needed for digestion.
Can other seasonings be added?
A very small amount of cinnamon is fine. Avoid anything with sugar, salt, or other additives not safe for dogs.
Wrapping Up
Sweet potato dog chews are one of those treats that just make sense—easy to make, healthy, and loved by pretty much every pup who tries them. Great for training rewards, travel snacks, or just a little something extra during the day.
Give this recipe a try and see how it goes! Feel free to leave a comment with questions or share how it turned out (especially if there was a very happy tail wag involved).
