Apple & Carrot Hard Bones for Dogs

Introduction

I recently made these Apple & Carrot Hard Bones for my dog, and let me tell you, he absolutely loved them! Not only are these treats a great way to keep him occupied and happy, but they’re also made with natural, healthy ingredients that I feel good about giving him. The combination of apples and carrots provides a perfect balance of natural sweetness and crunch, while the oat flour makes them easy on his digestion. Plus, the added benefit of promoting dental health with every chew is a huge win. If you’re a dog parent looking to treat your pup to something both tasty and nutritious, this recipe is a must-try!

Why You’ll Love This Apple & Carrot Hard Bones Recipe

These Apple & Carrot Hard Bones are the ultimate healthy dog treat. Not only are they delicious, but they’re also packed with nutritious ingredients that benefit your dog’s health. The crunchiness helps with dental hygiene, naturally scraping away plaque as your dog chews. Plus, the addition of carrots and apples provides vital vitamins and fiber, while oat flour is gentle on sensitive stomachs. These treats are customizable, simple to make, and a great way to reward your dog with something homemade and wholesome. Your pup will love them, and you’ll love knowing exactly what’s in their treat!

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup finely grated carrot
• 1/2 cup finely chopped apple (peeled, core removed)
• 1 large egg
• 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce
• 1 tablespoon olive oil or coconut oil (optional, for added moisture)
• 1 cup oat flour (or whole wheat flour)
• 1/4 cup rolled oats (optional, for texture)

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven:
   Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Dough:
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the grated carrot, chopped apple, egg, applesauce, and olive oil (if using). Stir until the ingredients are well mixed.
3. Add the Dry Ingredients:
   Gradually add the oat flour to the wet mixture and stir to combine. If you’re using rolled oats for extra texture, add them in at this point. Continue mixing until a thick, stiff dough forms. If the dough feels too sticky, you can add more flour, one tablespoon at a time, until it becomes workable.
4. Shape the Bones:
   Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4 inch thick. Use a bone-shaped cookie cutter to cut out treats. If you don’t have a bone cutter, you can easily shape the dough into small sticks or bars with your hands.
5. Bake:
   Place the shaped dough on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the treats are golden brown and hard. If you want extra crunch, after baking, turn off the oven and leave the door slightly ajar. Let the bones cool inside the oven to help them crisp up.
6. Cool Completely:
   Allow the hard bones to cool completely on a wire rack before offering them to your dog. This will ensure they are properly hardened and safe to chew.

Nutrition Facts (Servings and Calories per Serving)

• Serving Size: 1 bone
• Calories per Serving: 50 kcal
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 1mg
• Fat: 2g
• Saturated Fat: 0g
• Unsaturated Fat: 2g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 8g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 2g
• Cholesterol: 25mg

Preparation Time

• Active Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Baking Time: 30-35 minutes
• Total Time: 45-50 minutes

How to Serve

• As a Treat: Offer one or two bones per day as a treat or reward after a walk or playtime.
• For Training: Break the bones into smaller pieces for training purposes, providing your dog with positive reinforcement.
• As a Snack: Give your dog a bone to keep them entertained when you’re away or need them to calm down.
• With Meals: You can also add a bone as a side to your dog’s regular meal for an extra boost of nutrition.
• For Chewing: These bones are great for dogs who love to chew, as they help clean teeth and gums naturally.

Additional Tips

1. Use fresh ingredients: Fresh carrots and apples provide the best flavor and nutrition for your dog. Avoid using apples that are too ripe or have seeds.
2. Store properly: Store the bones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. For longer shelf life, freeze them and thaw before serving.
3. Check for allergies: Always make sure your dog doesn’t have any allergies to ingredients like apples or carrots before making these treats.
4. Customize the flavors: You can experiment with adding small amounts of dog-safe herbs like parsley or turmeric to the dough for added benefits.
5. Watch the baking time: Be sure to keep an eye on the baking time to avoid over-baking. The bones should be golden brown and hard, but not too dark.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use other types of flour instead of oat flour?
   Yes, you can use whole wheat flour or any dog-friendly flour, but oat flour is gentle on digestion and ideal for dogs with sensitivities.
2. Can I use sweetened applesauce?
   It’s best to use unsweetened applesauce to avoid adding unnecessary sugar to the treats.
3. Can I substitute coconut oil for olive oil?
   Yes, coconut oil is a great alternative and offers additional health benefits like supporting your dog’s coat and skin.
4. How do I know when the treats are done?
   The bones should be golden brown and hard. You can test them by pressing gently—if they are firm and don’t leave an indent, they are ready.
5. Can I make these treats without an oven?
   If you don’t have an oven, you could try dehydrating the treats, but baking them is the most effective method to get a crispy texture.
6. What if my dog doesn’t like carrots?
   You can try substituting the carrots with another dog-safe veggie, like sweet potatoes or pumpkin, for a similar texture.
7. Can I make these treats in a different shape?
   Absolutely! You can use any cookie cutter you like, or simply shape them into squares or circles.
8. Can I add more flavor?
   You can experiment with adding dog-safe spices like cinnamon or turmeric to add more flavor to the treats.
9. How long can I store these treats?
   These treats will stay fresh for up to 1 week at room temperature or up to 1 month in the freezer.
10. Can I give these treats to puppies?
    Yes, these treats are safe for puppies as long as they have teeth strong enough to chew the bones. Make sure to monitor them while they chew.

Conclusion

These Apple & Carrot Hard Bones for Dogs are not only delicious but packed with nutrients that benefit your dog’s health. With simple ingredients like carrots, apples, and oat flour, they are easy to make and serve as a crunchy, fun, and healthy snack. Whether you’re looking to improve your dog’s dental health, provide a tasty treat, or keep them entertained, these hard bones will surely become a favorite in your household. Your dog will love the taste, and you’ll love how easy and healthy they are to make. Give your pup something special and homemade today!

Print