At Dan’s Pet Care, we think every pet deserves treats. This fall, we’re looking forward to caramel apples, apple cider, and apple picking. Long Island is home to some of the best apple orchards around, and nothing tastes quite as good as an apple you picked yourself. While you’re harvesting apples this fall, don’t forget to pick some to share with your dog! Apples can be a healthy part of your diet, and your dog’s diet too.

Since apples are high in sugar, it’s important not to overdo it. Ask your vet about finding the right portion sizes to suit your dog’s needs. In the right amounts, apples can add fiber and vitamins to your dog’s diet. So, how do you introduce apples into your dog’s menu? You could buy expensive pre-made treats, but they might come with preservatives and other ingredients you don’t recognize. They might also come with a hefty price tag. Why buy pre-made treats when you can make your own at home? In this article, we’ll share a few of our favorite recipe ideas for tasty treats made with apple that your dog is sure to love.

The benefits of making your own dog treats with apple

Are apples and applesauce actually good for dogs? In moderation, yes! The dietary fiber found in apples can help keep your dog’s digestive system running smoothly. In addition, apples contain vitamin C which can help keep your dog healthy. Apples are naturally sweet, so they’re a great alternative to sugary people foods that your dog shouldn’t be eating.

When you make your own treats at home, you know exactly what’s in them. You can tailor the recipe to your dog’s tastes or nutritional needs, and you’ll never need to worry about accidentally feeding your dog a harmful ingredient. Just be sure to check all ingredient labels carefully before making your homemade treats!

Apple and Oatmeal Biscuits

If you love oatmeal raisin cookies, you might wish you could share them with your dog. Unfortunately, raisins and grapes are highly toxic to dogs, so this will never be an option. But why not make your dog their very own oatmeal cookies that taste great and offer great nutrition too? This recipe is a great way to use up leftover apples you picked at an orchard or bought at a farmer’s market.

Dog Treat Ingredients:

• 1 cup rolled oats

• 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce (be sure to check the ingredient list to ensure it’s dog friendly)

• 1 egg

• 1/2 cup diced apples with the seeds and core removed

Cooking Steps:

• Preheat your oven to 350 degrees and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

• In a large bowl, mix all ingredients together, adding the diced apples last.

• Drop the treats onto the baking sheet and bake for around 20 minutes or until golden brown.

Apple and Peanut Butter Frozen Treats

A good frozen treat can offer your dog a fun eating experience. These treats are perfect for the transitional weather between summer and fall. It’s best to serve these to your dog outdoors, since they can make a mess on your floor very quickly!

Dog Treat Ingredients:

• 2 cups plain Greek yogurt (check the ingredient list to ensure it’s dog friendly)

• 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce

• 1/4 cup peanut butter (check the ingredient list to ensure it’s dog friendly)

• 1 ripe banana

Cooking Steps:

• Blend all the ingredients in a blender until smooth.

• Pour the mixture into ice cube trays or silicone molds.

• Freeze for a few hours until solid.

Your dog will enjoy licking and playing with the treats as they melt!

Apple and Pumpkin Doggie Donuts

Real donuts are full of sugar, fat, and other ingredients that your dog shouldn’t consume. But don’t worry—your dog can have their very own donuts full of traditional fall flavors. Like apples, pumpkin is full of healthy ingredients like vitamins and fiber that your dog needs to stay healthy.

Dog Treat Ingredients:

• 1 cup whole wheat flour

• 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce

• 1/4 cup pumpkin puree (check the ingredient list to ensure there are no ingredients besides pumpkin)

• 1/4 cup water

• 1 egg

Cooking Steps:

• Preheat your oven to 350 degrees and grease a mini donut pan.

• Mix all ingredients in a bowl.

• Spoon the batter into a mini donut pan, filling each portion about halfway.

• Bake for 15 to 20 minutes.

Dan’s Pet Care: keeping dogs happy and healthy is our business!

Do you need a helping hand to give your dog the best care available on Long Island? Dan’s Pet Care is equipped to handle all of your pet care needs. Ready to work with our fully licensed and trained professionals? Contact us today to get started!