5 Easy Dehydrated Dog Treats to Make at Home

What Are Dehydrated Dog Treats?

Dehydrated dog treats are snacks made by slowly removing moisture from fresh ingredients such as meat, vegetables, and fruits. This drying process preserves the food naturally without chemicals or artificial preservatives.

They’re popular among dog owners who want healthier, more natural, and budget-friendly treat options.

How Dehydrated Dog Treats Are Made

Dehydration uses low heat over many hours to dry food slowly. You can do this using:

• A food dehydrator

• A regular oven on low heat

• An air fryer with dehydrator mode (newer models)

This method keeps nutrients intact while extending shelf life.

Are Dehydrated Treats Safe for All Dogs?

Yes—when made with dog-safe ingredients. They’re especially helpful for dogs with:

• Food allergies

• Sensitive stomachs

• Weight issues

• Training routines

Just avoid toxic foods like onions, grapes, chocolate, and certain spices.

Why Pet Owners Prefer Homemade Treats

Homemade dehydrated treats allow you to:

• Control every ingredient

• Avoid fillers and additives

• Customize textures

• Save money

• Offer fresher, higher-quality snacks

Dehydrated vs. Freeze-Dried vs. Baked Treats

Freeze-dried treats use cold processing and are more expensive.
Baked treats are easier but lose more nutrients.
Dehydrated treats strike the best balance—affordable, healthy, and long-lasting.

---

Benefits of Homemade Dehydrated Dog Treats

Longer Shelf Life Without Preservatives

Removing moisture helps prevent bacteria growth, letting treats last weeks to months if stored properly.

High Nutritional Value

Dehydration keeps more nutrients intact compared to baking or frying.

Budget-Friendly Alternative

Store-bought dehydrated treats are expensive. Homemade versions cost a fraction of the price.

Great for Dogs With Allergies

You can customize recipes using limited, hypoallergenic ingredients.

Better Ingredient Control

You choose the meat, fruits, seasoning, and quality—something commercial brands cannot guarantee.

---

Things You Need Before Making Dehydrated Dog Treats

Best Food Dehydrators for Dog Treats

A dehydrator offers the most consistent results. Popular options:

• Nesco Snackmaster Pro – budget friendly

• COSORI Dehydrator – most recommended for beginners

• Excalibur 9-Tray – professional level

Using an Oven Instead of a Dehydrator

Turn the temperature to 140–170°F (60–75°C) and keep the door slightly open for airflow.

Safe Ingredients for Dehydrating

Dog-safe foods include:

• Chicken, beef, turkey, liver

• Sweet potatoes, carrots, pumpkin

• Apples, bananas, blueberries

Foods to Avoid

Avoid anything harmful to dogs:

• Grapes, raisins

• Garlic, onions

• Chocolate

• Nutmeg

• Seasonings high in salt

For more ingredient safety details, see the ASPCA Poison Control website.

---

5 Easy Dehydrated Dog Treat Recipes to Make at Home

Here are five simple, healthy recipes dogs absolutely love.

---

1. Dehydrated Sweet Potato Chews

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Drying Time: 6–10 hours
Difficulty: Easy

Sweet potatoes are rich in fiber, vitamin A, and antioxidants—perfect for sensitive stomachs.

How to Make:

1. Wash and peel sweet potatoes.

2. Slice into ¼-inch thick strips or rounds.

3. Place slices on dehydrator trays.

4. Dehydrate at 135°F (57°C) until chewy or crisp.

Storage:

Keeps for 3–4 weeks in an airtight jar.

---

2. Dehydrated Chicken Jerky Strips

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Drying Time: 5–12 hours
Difficulty: Medium

Chicken jerky is high in protein and ideal for training rewards.

How to Make:

1. Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts.

2. Slice thinly (⅛–¼ inch).

3. Place evenly in the dehydrator without overlap.

4. Dehydrate at 160°F (71°C) for safe internal temperature.

Safety Tip:

Always heat poultry to 165°F to avoid bacterial risks. PetMD strongly recommends proper internal temperatures for homemade meat treats.

---

3. Dehydrated Apple Slices

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Drying Time: 4–6 hours

Apples offer fiber and vitamins, making them a light, crunchy treat.

How to Make:

1. Wash apples; remove seeds and core.

2. Slice into thin pieces.

3. Optional: sprinkle a tiny amount of dog-safe cinnamon.

4. Dehydrate at 135°F.

---

4. Dehydrated Banana Bites

Prep Time: 2 minutes
Drying Time: 6 hours

Bananas are great for dogs that love naturally sweet snacks.

How to Make:

1. Slice bananas into coins.

2. Optional: dip in lemon-water to reduce browning.

3. Dehydrate at 135°F.

---

5. Dehydrated Beef or Liver Treats

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Drying Time: 6–10 hours

These nutrient-dense treats are ideal for training, but should be fed in moderation.

How to Make:

1. Slice beef or liver very thin while slightly frozen.

2. Spread evenly in your dehydrator.

3. Dry at 160°F until completely firm.

Safety Tip:

Liver is rich—feed sparingly to avoid vitamin A overload.

---

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Make Dehydrated Dog Treats at Home

Step 1 — Wash and Prepare Ingredients

Remove seeds, fat, and unsafe parts.

Step 2 — Slice Ingredients Evenly

Uniform slices ensure everything dries at the same rate.

Step 3 — Set Correct Temperature

Use 135°F–160°F depending on the ingredient.

Step 4 — Dry Until Completely Done

Chewy or crunchy—choose based on your dog’s preference.

Step 5 — Store Properly

Use airtight jars, vacuum bags, or freezer-safe containers.

---

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Uneven Slices

Thick sections stay moist and can mold.

Incorrect Temperatures

Meat must hit a safe internal temperature.

Storing Before Fully Dry

If still moist, treats will spoil quickly.

Using Unsafe Ingredients

Always verify ingredient safety before use.

---

Expert Tips for Better Homemade Treats

Enhance Flavor Naturally

Add dog-safe herbs like:

• Parsley

• Basil

• Rosemary

Avoid salt, sugar, or seasoning blends.

Choose the Right Texture

Chewy treats last longer; crispy treats crumble easily.

Add Nutritional Boosts

Mix-ins like turmeric or flaxseed add omega-3s and anti-inflammatory benefits.

Portion Sizes

Small dogs = thinner, smaller pieces
Large dogs = thicker or bigger treats

---

Best Tools & Products for DIY Dehydrated Dog Treats

Recommended Dehydrators

Useful Tools

---

Storage & Shelf Life

How Long Do They Last?

Most dehydrated treats last:

• 2–4 weeks in airtight storage

• Up to 3 months in the fridge

• Up to 6 months in the freezer

Signs Treats Have Gone Bad

• Soft spots

• Mold

• Strange smell

Best Storage Options

Keep away from heat and humidity.

---

FAQs About Dehydrated Dog Treats

1. How long should dog treats stay in a dehydrator?

Between 4 to 12 hours, depending on the type and thickness.

2. Are dehydrated treats healthier than store-bought?

Yes. Homemade treats have no preservatives, fillers, or artificial flavors.

3. Can puppies eat dehydrated treats?

Yes—choose softer options like sweet potatoes and cut into small pieces.

4. What meats are safest for dehydrating?

Chicken, turkey, lean beef, and liver are common choices.

5. Do dehydrated treats help with training?

Absolutely. They’re high-value, flavorful, and easy to portion.

Conclusion

Dehydrated dog treats are one of the easiest, healthiest, and most budget-friendly snacks you can make at home. They’re customizable, preservative-free, and perfect for training rewards or daily snacking.

With just a few ingredients and simple tools, you can create nutritious treats your dog will love.

Ready to try more homemade recipes?
Explore additional guides and healthy dog treat ideas on PetWiseTips.com!