Did you know that December 4th is National Cookie Day? Many of our canine patients absolutely love cookies … or treats, or biscuits, as you may call them. Of course, Fido’s cookies are—and should be—quite a bit different than our own. If you like baking, read on! Here, a Marietta, GA vet lists a few simple recipes you can make your furry bff.
Base
You’ll want to start with some form of base. Some things you can use include bananas, pureed pumpkin, sodium-free broth, egg, plain yogurt, whole-wheat flour, wheat germ oil, liver powder, and minced or chopped meat. Peanut butter is fine, too, as long as you use a brand that doesn’t contain xylitol. You can also use baby food. Just check the ingredients first, and make sure everything is safe for your canine buddy.
Custom Topping
Once you have your base sorted out, you can customize Fido’s snacks to suit his individual tastes. Some of the things you can add include bacon bits, shredded or chopped meat or cheese, peas, carrots, and bits of kibble.
Presentation
You don’t have to get a cute bone-shaped cookie cutter for Fido’s treats. However, it’s not a bad idea. While your furry pal probably isn’t going to be very concerned with food presentation, this can help keep his snacks separate from yours. Plus, this is a cute touch if you want to make treats for your friends’ and family members’ dogs. Put them in a mason jar, and tie a pretty ribbon around them. These make great stocking stuffers!
Cooking
Cook times will vary a bit from recipe to recipe. However, if you’re experimenting, you can start with about 15 minutes at 350. You can always add more time if they’re not done yet! Be sure to let Fido’s cookies cool down before you give him any.
Tips
These are just a few options. You can find many more online! Just stick with things that are safe for Man’s Best Friend, such as the ingredients we’ve listed above. Some things to avoid include garlic and onions; grapes and raisins; chocolate; alcohol; macadamia nuts; caffeine; and xylitol. If you know or suspect that Fido has allergies and/or a sensitive stomach, you’ll want to take that into consideration as well. Ask your vet for more information.
Season’s Greetings! Please reach out to us, your local Marietta, GA animal clinic, anytime!
