The littlest love of your life is made of fur and cuddles: your pup! While they might not understand the importance of February 14, you’ll definitely want to include them in cupid’s annual celebration. The way to their heart? Through their tummy, of course. Whip up these Valentine’s Day dog treats that will have their heart racing and tail wagging. From delicious peanut butter nibbles to a snack that’ll freshen their breath, here are top picks for homemade Valentine’s Day sweet treats for the doggos. Bone appétit!
Watermelon Mint Dog Popsicle Recipe
- 2 cups cubed, seedless watermelon or cantaloupe
- ⅔ cup plain yogurt*
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh mint
In a food processor or blender combine watermelon, yogurt, and mint. Cover and process or blend until smooth. Place silicone treat molds or ice cube trays on a baking pan. Fill molds with melon mixture and freeze at least 4 hours or until firm. Let treats stand a few minutes before serving. Transfer popsicles to an airtight container. Store in freezer up to 1 month.
*Do not select items that contain the ingredient xylitol. It is toxic to pets, even in small amounts.
Chicken Bacon Dog Biscuit Recipe
If your dog is a meat connoisseur—look no further. These homemade dog biscuits are made with chicken, bacon, and sweet potatoes—three flavors sure to appease your pup’s palette. Not only do these treats contain tempting flavors any dog is sure to enjoy, but they’re easy to make with only four steps and five ingredients. Sweet potatoes contain different vitamins and minerals, making them beneficial for dogs in small amounts.
- 1 5-ounce can chunk white chicken breast, undrained
- ¼ cup mashed sweet potato
- 1 egg
- 1 ½ cups white whole wheat flour
- 2 to 3 slices bacon, crisp cooked and finely chopped*
Preheat oven to 350ºF. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or silicone baking mat; set aside. In a food processor or blender, combine the chicken, sweet potato, and egg. Cover and process or blend until smooth. Transfer chicken mixture to large bowl. Add flour and bacon; mix well. Turn dough out on a floured surface and knead until it comes together. Roll out to 1/4-inch thick and cut out with a 3-inch dog bone cookie cutter or another cutter of your choice. Re-roll scraps as needed. Using a fork, poke 4 holes in the center of each treat. Place biscuits on the prepared pan and bake for 35 minutes. Turn off oven and let biscuits cool inside for at least 1 hour. Transfer biscuits to a wire rack to cool completely. Transfer completely cooled biscuits to an airtight container or resealable plastic bag. Refrigerate up to 1 week or freeze up to 3 months. Thaw before serving. Tip: *Bacon may induce pancreatitis in predisposed/small dog breeds, so pay attention to portion sizes.
