Creating a homemade dog treat that may help with shedding involves focusing on ingredients that support skin and coat health. Omega-3 fatty acids, for instance, are known for their benefits to skin and coat quality. Here’s a safe and simple recipe you can try, which includes ingredients like fish or flaxseed oil that are rich in Omega-3s:
Omega-3 Rich Dog Treats
Ingredients:
- 2 cups of whole wheat flour (or substitute with oat or coconut flour for dogs with wheat sensitivities)
- 1/2 cup of rolled oats
- 1 tablespoon of flaxseed (ground)
- 1/2 cup of unsalted, natural peanut butter (make sure it’s xylitol-free as xylitol is toxic to dogs)
- 1 tablespoon of fish oil or flaxseed oil
- 1/2 cup of low-sodium chicken broth or water
- 1 egg
Instructions:
Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix together the whole wheat flour, rolled oats, and ground flaxseed.
Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the peanut butter, fish or flaxseed oil, chicken broth, and egg.
Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients, stirring until a dough forms. If the dough is too dry, add a bit more broth or water.
Roll and Cut: On a floured surface, roll the dough to about 1/4 inch thick. Use a cookie cutter to cut into shapes.
Bake: Place the treats on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cool: Allow the treats to cool completely before serving to your dog.
Storage: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Notes:
- Always Consult a Vet: Before introducing any new food into your dog’s diet, especially if your dog has specific health issues, consult with your veterinarian.
- Moderation is Key: Treats should only make up a small portion of your dog’s diet. Too many treats can lead to obesity and other health problems.
- Ingredient Safety: Ensure all ingredients are safe for dogs. Some human foods are toxic to dogs, such as chocolate, grapes, onions, and xylitol (often found in sugar-free peanut butter).
This recipe is a simple way to offer your dog a treat that not only tastes good but also contains ingredients that may support healthier skin and coat. Remember, though, that excessive shedding can sometimes be a sign of an underlying health issue, so it’s always a good idea to discuss this with your vet.
