You know one Valentine who will always be by your side, your true blue, one valentine who will never let you down? Your dog! Indulge your Best Friend with these simple, healthy Valentine’s Day dog treats. Following are some V. Day treat recipes that will knock your dog’s socks off. You know it doesn’t take much!
Valentine’s Day Dog Treats: Dog Friendly “Chocolate” Strawberry Truffles
Healthy Ingredients
Coconut Oil: This is a beneficial canine superfood. Coconut oil fights inflammation, supports skin and coat health, and can even help with dog odor. This is the base of your chocolate mixture.
Carob: Unlike cocoa powder, carob actually does have some benefits for dogs. First, carob is naturally sweet, which dogs dig. Additionally, it contains healthy amounts of vitamins A, B1, B2, B3, B6, D(which many dogs are deficient in!), calcium, iron, magnesium, manganese, potassium, AND protein! Carob is a wonderful dog-safe alternative to chocolate!
Strawberries (preferably organic): Strawberries are chock-full of fiber, vitamin C, and even an enzyme that can help whiten your dog’s teeth. Organic strawberries aren’t sprayed with harmful chemicals, making them a good choice.
These Valentine’s Day dog treats DO contain sugar; naturally from the strawberries and carob. Make sure to feed them in moderation, and no more than 10% of your dog’s daily caloric intake.
Valentine’s Day Truffles on Best Friends’ Dog Kitchen YouTube
Instructions
- 2 TBSP Coconut Oil
- 2TBSP Carob Powder
- 2-3 Cups fresh or frozen strawberries
- Gently warm 2TBSP of coconut oil over low heat until liquified.
- Add 2TBSP carob powder and mix until combined. It will look like chocolate sauce.
- Pour carob sauce into molds or an ice cube tray. Gently swirl around until sides are coated.
- Pop into the freezer for 20-30 minutes
- While that’s freezing; blend or food process about 2 cups of frozen or fresh strawberries.
- Drop about a tablespoon of the strawberries onto the hardened carob inyour molds.
- Freeze for an additional 1-2 hours.
- Share in moderation.
- Store in the freezer.
Note: I tried these myself; very tasty!
Valentine’s Day Dog Treats: Apple-Beet Training Treats
Healthy Ingredients
Oat Flour: Oats have anti-inflammatory properties and can help calm your dog’s nervous system. Oats are what’s considered a “warming grain”. Warming and cooling foods have different properties according to holistic medicine. Warming foods are said to support the spleen, immune system, pancreas, immune system and heart. Opt for organic oats, as conventional oats are sprayed with glysophate, which is harmful to your pup.
Applesauce (unsweetened): Apples and applesauce are full of gut-protecting fiber. This helps with your dog’s digestion and can ease symptoms of diarrhea and constipation. They’re also full of vitamin C for bone and muscle help, along with vitamin A to support vibrant skin and coat health.
Egg: Perhaps Mother Nature’s perfect protein. Eggs boast nearly 100% bioavialable protein, meaning your dog’s body uses almost the entire egg in these Valentine’s Day dog treats. They also boast an impressive amount of fatty acids and vitamins.
Beet Powder: This is an optional ingredient (for the pink color), but we think you should include it for the health benefits! Beetroot powder is full of necessary micronutrients like manganese, folate, and potassium. These support skin, coat, and immune health. You can find quality beetroot powder at natural food stores, and even use it for yourself!
Instructions
• 2 1/4 cups oat flour
• 4 oz cup unsweetened apple sauce
• 1 egg
• 4 tabs of beet powder (optional-for pink color)
- Mix all ingredients and knead out dough, dusting with flour if too sticky.
- Roll dough flat.
- Cut into cute shapes. (Hearts for Valentine’s Day!)
- Place on parchment covered cookie sheet and bake at 300 for 30 minutes.
*For crunchy treats, dehydrate at 150 degrees F for 1 hour, or leave in oven overnight to cool. Store in airtight container at room temp, share in moderation.
When you make your dog’s food or treats, your dog knows it. No doubt, they feel a little more loved, a little more special. Your dog knows what you’re up to in the kitchen. These amazing Valentine’s Day dog treats are sure to make your Best Friend’s day. Valentine’s Day and everyday.