Healthy Holiday Dog Treats
The holiday season is filled with cookies, sweets, and treats — and while our dogs may give us their best puppy eyes, not all festive foods are safe for them. Instead of sharing sugary human desserts, you can make delicious holiday dog treats that are healthy, safe, and easy to bake at home.
Here are three vet-approved recipes your dog (and every dog at your holiday party) will love!
🥜 1. Peanut Butter Gingerbread Dog Cookies
A dog-friendly spin on classic gingerbread cookies.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups whole wheat flour
- 1 tbsp ground ginger
- ½ tsp cinnamon
- ½ cup natural peanut butter (NO xylitol)
- ¼ cup warm water
- 2 tbsp honey
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 325°F.
- Mix dry ingredients.
- Add peanut butter, honey, and water.
- Roll out dough and cut into fun shapes.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes until firm.
These smell amazing — but remember, they’re only for the pups!
🍎 2. Apple Cinnamon Holiday Bites
A festive winter treat that's gentle on the stomach.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 1 egg
- 1 ¾ cups oat flour
- ½ tsp cinnamon
Instructions:
- Mix all ingredients.
- Roll into small balls.
- Bake at 350°F for 15 minutes.
These are perfect for senior dogs or pups with sensitive teeth.
🎄 3. Frozen Cranberry & Yogurt Snowflakes
A refreshing, low-calorie treat that looks beautiful in holiday molds.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
- ¼ cup blended cranberries
- 1 tbsp honey
Instructions:
- Mix everything together.
- Pour into silicone molds.
- Freeze for 3–4 hours.
Cranberries are full of antioxidants — great for winter immune support.
🎁 Safe Ingredients to Avoid
Keep these holiday foods away from dogs:
- Chocolate
- Raisins & grapes
- Nutmeg
- Macadamia nuts
- Artificial sweeteners (especially xylitol)
- Alcohol
❤️ Wrap-Up
Making festive treats at home is a fun way to bond with your dog while keeping them safe. Share these goodies at holiday parties, use them as stocking stuffers, or treat your pup while you bake your human cookies.
Happy holiday baking!