If your dog struggles with a sensitive stomach, finding treats that are both gentle on their digestive system and tasty can be a challenge. The good news is, you can easily make homemade dog treats that are specifically designed to soothe sensitive stomachs while still giving your furry friend something delicious to enjoy. This recipe for dog treats for sensitive stomachs is simple, wholesome, and packed with ingredients that promote digestive health.
Why Choose Homemade Dog Treats for Sensitive Stomachs?
Store-bought treats can often contain ingredients that irritate a dog’s sensitive stomach, such as artificial flavors, preservatives, and high-fat or hard-to-digest components. Homemade dog treats allow you to choose natural, easily digestible ingredients that won’t upset your dog’s tummy.
Key Ingredients for Dogs with Sensitive Stomachs
When selecting ingredients for treats for a dog with a sensitive stomach, it’s important to focus on those that are easy to digest and gentle on the digestive tract. Here are some key ingredients commonly used for dogs with sensitive stomachs:
- Pumpkin: This superfood is high in fiber, which helps regulate your dog’s digestive system. It can help with both constipation and diarrhea and is gentle on the stomach.
- Oats: Oats are a gentle, whole grain that’s easy on the stomach and packed with fiber. They can help keep your dog feeling full and aid in digestion.
- Chicken or Turkey: Lean meats like chicken or turkey are often easier to digest than fattier meats. They provide a great source of protein without putting strain on your dog’s stomach.
- Sweet Potato: Sweet potatoes are rich in fiber and vitamins, and they’re known for being gentle on the stomach while providing essential nutrients.
The Benefits of Homemade Dog Treats for Sensitive Stomachs
- Fewer Irritants: When you make treats at home, you can eliminate any ingredients that might trigger your dog’s digestive issues, like grains, artificial colors, or additives.
- Customizable to Your Dog’s Needs: You can easily adjust ingredients to suit your dog’s unique dietary restrictions. For example, if your dog is sensitive to grains, you can swap the oats for a grain-free alternative like rice flour or coconut flour.
- Safe and Fresh: Homemade treats are free from preservatives and chemicals, so you can be sure your dog is eating something fresh and safe.
Recipe for Dog Treats for Sensitive Stomachs
Ingredients:
- 1 cup of pumpkin puree (pure pumpkin, not the spiced pie mix)
- 1/2 cup of rolled oats (you can use gluten-free oats if your dog is sensitive to gluten)
- 1/2 cup of cooked, shredded chicken (or turkey, if preferred)
- 1 tablespoon of coconut oil (great for digestion and skin health)
- 1 egg
- 1/4 cup of oat flour (or rice flour for a grain-free option)
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to make cleanup easier and prevent the treats from sticking.
- Prepare the Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, shredded chicken, egg, and coconut oil. Mix well until the ingredients are fully incorporated.
- Add the Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the rolled oats and oat flour to the wet mixture. Stir until a dough forms. If the dough feels too sticky, you can add a little more oat flour to thicken it up. If it feels too dry, add a small splash of water or chicken broth.
- Shape the Treats: Roll the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and use a rolling pin to flatten it. Then, use cookie cutters to cut the dough into fun shapes, or simply cut it into squares or strips with a knife.
- Bake: Place the shaped treats on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the treats turn golden brown and feel firm to the touch.
- Cool and Serve: Once baked, let the treats cool completely on a wire rack. The treats will harden as they cool, giving them a nice crunch that your dog will love.
- Storage: Store the treats in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, you can freeze the treats and thaw them as needed.
Why Your Dog Will Love These Treats
These homemade dog treats are not only easy on your pup’s stomach, but they’re also incredibly tasty. The combination of pumpkin and chicken gives the treats a savory flavor that dogs can’t resist. Plus, the texture is just right – firm enough to satisfy your dog’s chewing instincts but soft enough to be gentle on sensitive tummies.
Tips for Customizing Your Sensitive Stomach Dog Treats
- Use Lean Proteins: If your dog is sensitive to fatty meats, opt for lean protein sources like chicken breast or turkey. Avoid adding any seasoning or spices, as these can upset your dog’s stomach.
- Grain-Free Option: If your dog is sensitive to grains, substitute the oats and oat flour with rice flour or coconut flour for a grain-free treat.
- Pumpkin Variations: If you can’t find pumpkin puree, you can use sweet potato puree as an alternative. Sweet potatoes are just as gentle on the digestive system and are high in fiber.
- Small Batches: If you’re unsure about how your dog will react to a new ingredient, it’s always a good idea to make a small batch first to see how they do.
How Often Should You Give These Treats?
These homemade dog treats for sensitive stomachs are meant to be an occasional snack, not a meal replacement. It’s best to feed them in moderation, taking into account your dog’s size and overall diet. A couple of treats per day is usually a good amount, but if your dog has specific dietary needs, you might want to consult with your vet before introducing any new treats.
Final Thoughts
Making homemade dog treats is a thoughtful and practical way to care for your dog’s health. When your dog has a sensitive stomach, it can be tricky to find snacks that are both tasty and easy on their digestive system. With this simple recipe for dog treats for sensitive stomachs, you can ensure that your furry friend gets a treat that not only tastes good but also promotes a healthy, happy tummy.
By using wholesome ingredients like pumpkin, oats, and lean chicken, you’re providing your dog with a safe, nourishing snack that they’ll love. Plus, the peace of mind that comes with knowing exactly what’s in your dog’s food is priceless.
