Whether training a young puppy or working with an older dog, finding a treat that is motivating but small enough that you can dole out plenty can be a challenge.
The price of store-bought treats can add up quickly. These Doggie Dots are a cheaper and healthier alternative to many of the training treats on the market, and your pup is sure to go wild for their naturally sweetened flavor.
Ingredients:
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 350F.
- In a blender combine the banana, sweet potato, and applesauce. Blend until smooth and creamy, about 30 seconds. Be sure there are no chunks or the mixture won’t pipe well.
- In a large bowl, combine
wet mixture, oat flour, and the egg. Mix until smooth and no streaks or lumps of flour remain. - Prepare a piping bag. I like using a reusable bag with the Wilton #6 tip, but if you don’t have one on hand a Ziploc bag with one of the corners cut off, leaving a hole about the size of a Q-tip, will work.
- Add mixture to piping bag. I use a cup to fold the top edge over so it doesn’t get messy.
- Prepare a baking sheet with parchment or a silicone mat. Pipe rows of dots, or whatever shapes you would
like, until there is no mixture left. You may need two trays depending on the size of your dots. - Bake in
oven for 13-15 minutes. The time you leave you dots in the oven is dependent on the texture of treat you want. Less time will give you a chewier treat, but it also means your treats may not last as long because they have more moisture. I like to bake mine for 15 minutes, turn off the oven, and leave them in for an extra 15 minutes. This maximizes shelf life. To test if treats are done just give one a squeeze. If it is firm and doesn’t squish it is ready. If it easily squishes you will have a softer, moister treat. - When treats are completely cooled, store in an airtight container on the counter for 1-2 weeks, or in the fridge for up to a month. Extra treats can also be stored in the freezer for 2-3 months.
