Carrot Spinach Dog Treats are a healthy, oven-baked snack made with simple, dog-safe ingredients like fresh carrots, spinach, pumpkin, and peanut butter. They’re easy to prepare at home and free from artificial preservatives often found in store-bought treats in the USA.
If you want a natural reward for training or daily snacking, this recipe is a safe and budget-friendly option for most healthy adult dogs.
Why These Homemade Dog Treats Are a Smart Choice
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Made with real vegetables – No artificial colors or fillers.
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Rich in fiber – Supports healthy digestion.
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Baked, not fried – Lower in unnecessary fats.
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Simple ingredients – Easy to find in U.S. grocery stores.
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Great for training – Can be cut into small, bite-sized pieces.
Carrot Spinach Dog Treats Recipe
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Carrots, finely shredded | 2 medium |
| Fresh baby spinach, finely chopped | 1 cup |
| Whole wheat flour | 2 ½ cups |
| Peanut butter (unsalted, xylitol-free) | ¼ cup |
| Pumpkin puree (unsweetened) | ⅔ cup |
| Water (as needed) | 2–4 tablespoons |
Always check peanut butter labels. It must be xylitol-free, as xylitol is toxic to dogs.
Substitutes
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Flour: Use oat flour or a gluten-free flour blend if your dog is sensitive to wheat.
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Peanut butter: Substitute with sunflower seed butter (xylitol-free).
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Pumpkin puree: Replace with mashed sweet potato or butternut squash.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables
Finely shred the carrots using a grater. Chop the spinach into very small pieces so it blends evenly into the dough.
Set aside.
Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine peanut butter and pumpkin puree. Stir until smooth. If peanut butter is thick, warm it slightly for easier mixing.
Step 4: Add the Flour Gradually
Add whole wheat flour in small portions. Stir after each addition. The dough will begin to thicken.
Step 5: Add the Vegetables
Fold in shredded carrots and chopped spinach. Mix thoroughly so vegetables are evenly distributed.
Step 6: Adjust Dough Texture
If the dough feels dry, add water 1 tablespoon at a time. If sticky, add a small amount of flour. The dough should feel firm but workable.
Step 7: Roll and Cut
Lightly flour a clean surface. Roll dough to about ¼-inch thickness. Use cookie cutters to shape treats, or slice into small squares with a knife.
Step 8: Bake
Place treats on the baking sheet. Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until edges are lightly golden and treats feel firm.
For crunchier treats, bake an additional 3–5 minutes.
Step 9: Cool Completely
Let treats cool on a wire rack before serving. This helps them firm up and prevents burns.
Feeding Guidelines for Dogs
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Small dogs: 1 small treat per day
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Medium dogs: 1–2 treats per day
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Large dogs: 2–3 small treats per day
Treats should not exceed 10% of your dog’s daily calorie intake.
Storage & Shelf Life
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Room temperature: Store in airtight container for up to 7 days.
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Refrigerator: Keeps fresh for up to 3 weeks.
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Freezer: Store up to 3 months in sealed container.
Always discard if mold or unusual odor develops.
Benefits of the Ingredients
Carrots – High in beta-carotene and fiber for digestive and eye health.
Spinach – Contains iron, antioxidants, and vitamins A & C.
Whole Wheat Flour – Provides structure and fiber.
Peanut Butter – Source of healthy fats and protein (xylitol-free only).
Pumpkin Puree – Supports healthy digestion and stool consistency.
FAQs
Can I use frozen spinach?
Yes. Thaw and drain excess moisture before adding to the dough.
Are these treats safe for puppies?
Puppies have different nutritional needs. Ask your veterinarian before feeding homemade treats regularly.
How do I know when the treats are done?
They should feel firm and lightly golden on the edges. If soft in the center, bake a few more minutes.
Conclusion
This Carrot Spinach Dog Treats Healthy Recipe is a simple and nutritious way to reward your dog with real ingredients. It’s easy to make, freezer-friendly, and free from unnecessary additives.
Homemade treats give you control over quality and freshness. Just remember — treats are a supplement, not a replacement for a balanced dog diet.
