My Furry Valentine: 8 Homemade Dog Treat Recipes for Valentine's Day (2024)

Valentine’s Day isn’t just for humans, you know. It’s a perfect time for us to show extra love to our dogs. So let’s whip up some drool-worthy Valentine’s Day dog treat recipes for them.

My dog’s healthis always a top priority, so choosing simple ingredients for my homemade dog treat recipes is essential.

Homemade doesn’t have to mean complicated. These easy DIY dog treat recipes require just a few ingredients and can be as simple as mixing and freezing. Plus, you will have the peace of mind of knowing that what your dog eats is fresh and without those hard-to-pronounce chemicals found in store-bought snacks.

As with any treat, these are meant to be consumed in moderation. Do not overfeed your dog treats as it could cause an upset tummy.

Here are the Valentine’s Day dog treats we will be making today:

1. Strawberry Heart Dog Treat Recipe
2. Valentine’s Day Pupcake Recipe
3. Healthy Cranberry Dog Treat Recipe
4. Frozen Strawberry Yogurt Dog Treat Recipe
5. Beet Red Love Bites Dog Cookie Recipe
6. Dog-friendly Frosting Recipe
7. Pink Pup Ice Cream Recipe
8. Valentine Frozen Kong Recipe

If you prefer to download all these recipes in our full-color “Valentine’s Day Bundle – Dog Treat Recipes & Printables“, you can find it in our shop.

Strawberry Heart Dog Treats

I’ve got a super easy recipe for all you pet parents wanting to treat your dog this Valentine’s Day. Let’s whip up some strawberry heart dog treats they’ll surely love. You’ll only need a few simpleingredients, including whole wheat flour, oats, flax seeds, strawberries, and coconutoil.

Remember, introducing new foods to your dog should be done cautiously and always keep an eye on your dog’s health when serving homemade treats.

That’s it! Simple ingredients, a dash of love, and these strawberry heart dog treats are ready to make this Valentine’s Day extra special.

Ingredients

• 1-3/4 cups whole wheat flour
• 1 cup old-fashioned oats or oat flour
• 1 tbsp. ground flax seed
• 2 tbsp. coconut oil, melted and cooled
• 1/2 cup strawberries
• 1/2 cup water

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F
2. In a food processor, grind oats to a flour consistency.
3. Combine oat flour, whole wheat flour, and flax seed in a bowl. Mix for 30 seconds or so.
4. Add the melted coconut oil, strawberries, and water. Mix until combined to create a dough consistency.
5. Form dough into a ball shape.
6. Flour the counter and rolling pin and roll out the dough until it is 1/8″ to 1/4″ thick.
7. Use a heart-shaped cookie cutter or knife to create bite-sized treats.
8. Place on a cookie sheet and bake for 20 to 25 minutes.

Tips

• If using frozen strawberries, defrost them before using.
• Use parchment paper on your cookie sheet for easy cleaning.
• Cook time depends on your oven and the thickness of your dough.
• Store treats in the refrigerator for up to 14 days or freeze treats for up to 6 months (if they last that long).

Valentine’s Day Pupcakes

Most cupcake recipes for dogs make a dozen which is way too many for one dog to consume. That’s why I adjusted this pupcake recipe to make only four regular-sized cupcakes.

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon peanut butter
• 1 tablespoon coconut oil
• 1 tablespoon pureed beets
• 1 tablespoon beet juice
• 1/2 banana mashed
• 1 tablespoon raw honey
• 1/4 cup whole wheat flour
• 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/8 teaspoon baking powder

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F
2. Place liners in your muffin pan or spray with cooking spray.
3. Blend the wet ingredients first, the peanut butter, coconut oil, banana, and honey.
4. Then add the whole wheat flour, baking soda, and baking powder.
5. Pour the mixture into your muffin pan.
6. Bake for 15 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
7. If desired, frost the cupcakes once completely cooled.

Tips

• If you’ve got a smaller breed or just want to manage portion sizes use a mini muffin tin.
• Store pupcakes in the refrigerator for up to 7 days or freeze for up to 6 months (if they last that long).

Healthy Cranberry Homemade Dog Treats

What’s not to love about these healthy ingredients: eggs, almond flour, coconut oil, cranberries, and honey?

Most dried cranberries have a lot of added sugar, so I recommend fresh or frozen cranberries.

Ingredients

• 2 eggs
• 1-3/4 cups almond flour
• 1 tablespoon coconut oil
• 1/2 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
• 1 tablespoon raw honey

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F
2. Blend or chop cranberries into 1/4” or smaller pieces.
3. Combine eggs, coconut oil, honey, and cranberries in a bowl, mix well.
4. Slowly add almond flour and mix.
5. Roll out the dough to about 1/4” thick.
6. Use a cookie cutter or knife to create bite-sized treats.
7. Place on a cookie sheet.
8. Bake in the oven for 20 minutes or until crisp.

Tips

• If usingfrozencranberries, defrost them before using.
• If usingdriedcranberries, make sure they do not contain added sugars.
• Use parchment paper on your cookie sheet for easy cleaning.
• Cook time depends on your oven and the thickness of your dough.
• Store treats in the refrigerator for up to 14 days or freeze treats for up to 6 months (if they last that long).

Frozen Strawberry Yogurt Dog Treats

These frozen strawberry and yogurt dog treat hearts are a super simple way to show some extra love on Valentine’s Day.

For this recipe, the only things you need are some fresh or frozen strawberries, plain Greek yogurt, a silicone mold with hearts, and a blender.

Ingredients

• Strawberries, how many depends on how many treats you want to make.
• Plain Greek Yogurt
• Other options to keep with the red theme are: beet juice or cranberries.

Instructions

1. Puree the strawberries.
2. For a layered look, pour and freeze one ingredient at a time, starting with yogurt, and then strawberries.
3. Freeze for 4-6 hours, or until completely frozen. Time will vary depending on the size of your ice cube mold.

Tips

• Frozen strawberries work just as well as fresh. However, allowing them to defrost for a bit makes them easier to blend.
• Adding a little water when blending the strawberries helps create a smoother texture that is easier to pour into your mold.
• Do not fill the mold to the top, leave room for expansion when freezing.
• Store treats in the freezer for up to 6 months (if they last that long).

Beet Red Love Bites Dog Cookies

These homemade dog cookies are as vibrant as they are tasty AND healthy. These Beet Red Love Dog Treats will have your pup’s tail wagging with joy, and they’re super easy to make, too. Beets will add a natural red color, but it’s also a healthy choice for your pup.

Ingredients

• 1 can of sliced beets
• 2 cups whole wheat flour
• 2 tablespoons coconut oil
• 2 tablespoons peanut butter

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F
2. Separate the juice from the beets.
3. Puree the beets, peanut butter, and coconut oil together.
4. Slowly mix in the flour until you get a dough consistency.
5. Roll out the dough until it is about 1/4″ thick.
6. Use a heart-shaped cookie cutter or knife to create bite-sized treats.
7. Place on a cookie sheet.
8. Bake in the oven for 25 minutes or until crisp.

Tips

• When using canned beets, make sure there are no added sugars. Separate the juice from the beets, and save the juice for added moisture if needed and coloring for frosting.
• Use parchment paper on your cookie sheet for easy cleaning.
• Cook time depends on your oven and the thickness of your dough.
• Store treats in the refrigerator for up to 14 days or freeze treats for up to 6 months (if they last that long).

Dog-friendly and Healthy Frosting Recipe

If you want to make your Valentine’s Day dog treats even more special, you can frost them with this healthy icing.

Note: I share how to make the frosting in each of the dog treat videos.

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 2 tablespoons melted coconut oil
• 1 tablespoon honey

Instructions

1. In a bowl, combine the plain Greek yogurt, melted coconut oil, and honey.
2. Mix the ingredients thoroughly until the mixture is smooth.
3. Spread on to the cooled treats or pupcakes.

Tips

• Make the frosting ahead of time and refrigerate until ready to use. This allows it to thicken.
• Let the treat or pupcake completely cool before adding the frosting.
• Frosted treats and pupcakes MUST be refrigerated due to the yogurt. We don’t want any sick puppies on Valentine’s Day!

Greek yogurt and coconut oil can provide some health benefits for dogs, including promoting a healthy coat and supporting their immune system.

Pink Pup Ice Cream

This is the best ice cream recipe that is safe and healthy for dogs. With just four simple ingredients, including the vibrant hues of strawberries, cranberries, or beets, this frozen treat is bound to become your pup’s favorite. The combination of plain Greek yogurt, ripe banana, and a touch of peanut butter creates a creamy and irresistible texture that will have tails wagging in anticipation.

Ingredients

• 16oz.of plain Greek yogurt
• 1/2 cup of strawberries, cranberries or beets
• 1ripe banana
• 1/4 cupof peanut butter

Instructions

1. Puree all of the ingredients until smooth.
2. Pour into a silicon bowl or ice cube tray and freeze for about 30 minutes. Time will vary depending on the size of your mold.

Tips

• Beets will produce a brighter pink color than strawberries or cranberries. Canned beets, or juice both work. Just make sure there are no sugar or additives added.
• Frozen strawberries and cranberries work just as well as fresh. However, allowing them to defrost for a bit makes them easier to puree.
• For a purple color, try blueberries or blackberries.
• Adding a little water when blending the fruit helps create a smoother texture that is easier to pour into your mold.
• If the ice cream freezes solid, allow it to soften a little before serving to your dog. No brain freezes, please!
• Store ice cream in the freezer for up to 3 months (if it lasts that long).

Valentine Pup Frozen Kong

A frozen Kong makes a perfect Valentine’s Day treat. The classic Kong is red, check. Fill with healthy red or purple ingredients, check. Provide mental stimulation and keep them entertained, check.

Here’s a simple step-by-step guide on how to fill a Kong:

Ingredients

1. Kong toy – Kongs come in various sizes and materials, so pick one that suits your dog.
2. Pick a variety of dog-friendly foods, some ideas are:
   • Apple
   • Banana
   • Blueberries
   • Greek yogurt
   • Kibble
   • Peanut butter
   • Pumpkin
   • Strawberries
   • Raw or fresh dog food
   • Red cabbage

Instructions

1. Gather your dog’s favorite foods.
2. Plug the whole of the Kong with a solid or thicker food, such as peanut butter or pumpkin to prevent the wet foods from falling out too easily.
3. Fill the Kong with a mix of dry and wet ingredients until it’s nearly full. Make sure to pack the ingredients tightly to create a challenge for your dog.
4. For an added challenge and to make the activity last longer, you can freeze the stuffed Kong.
5. Once the Kong is filled, give it to your dog and let them enjoy the challenge of getting the treats out.

Always supervise your dog while they are playing with a stuffed Kong. Adjust the filling based on your dog’s preferences and dietary needs.

The Health Benefits of HomemadeDogTreats and Fresh Ingredients

I love making treats for my dog, especially on special occasions like Valentine’s Day. One of the best things about making homemadedogtreats is that I get to choose exactly what goes into them. This means I can steer clear of any added preservatives or ingredients that might not be the best for my dog’s health. Instead, I can pack these treats with wholesome goodness like fresh fruit, vegetables, peanutbutter, and coconutoil.

Here is a quick overview of all the beneficial ingredients we used in our Valentine’s Day homemade dog treats:

It’s important to note that while some ofthese foods can be included in a dog’s diet in MODERATION, a balanced and complete dog food formulated for their specific nutritional needs is recommended. Always consult with your veterinarian before introducing new foods to your dog’s diet. Here are some potential benefits of the mentioned foods for dogs:

• Almond flour:A gluten-free alternative with protein, healthy fats, and vitamins.
• Bananas:High in potassium, vitamins, and fiber; serves as a healthy and tasty treat.
• Beets:Provide antioxidants, fiber, and essential nutrients; can be cooked and added in small amounts to a dog’s diet.
• Coconut oil:Contains medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs) that may have potential health benefits, including supporting coat health and digestion. It should be used in moderation due to its high fat content.
• Cranberries:Rich in antioxidants and can promote urinary tract health; can be given in small amounts.
• Eggs:Excellent source of protein, vitamins, and minerals.
• Fresh parsley:Contains antioxidants and may help freshen breath.
• Greek yogurt:A source of probiotics, calcium, and protein; choose plain, unsweetened yogurt without artificial additives.
• Ground flax seed:Provides omega-3 fatty acids and fiber.
• Old-fashioned oats:A good source of fiber. Use organic oats to avoid traces of glyphosate.
• Peanut butter:Contains protein and healthy fats; choose organic peanut butter without additives.
• Raw honey:Naturally rich in minerals and antibacterial properties. Always choose raw, unpasteurized honey.
• Strawberry:High in vitamins, antioxidants, and fiber; it can be offered as a tasty and nutritious treat in moderation. Organic is best.

Remember that individual dogs may have different tolerances and preferences, so it’s crucial to monitor their reactions. Additionally, some foods, even those on this list,may be harmful to dogs inlarge quantities, so always exercise caution and seek professional guidance.

Opt for organic produce when possible, especially oats and peanut butter. All of our ingredients are healthy for most dogs, but if your dog has a health condition, sensitive stomach, or allergies, make sure totalk to your veterinarian before feeding them any new foods.If your dog needs to be on a special diet, an animal nutritionist can offer the best advice to ensure your dog feels great and lives a better life.

Moderation is key when it comes to dog treats and anything in life really!

Showering Your Dog with Love

My dogs and I had the best time whipping up these homemade treats. Your pup might not know it’s Valentine’s Day, but they sure can feel the love with every bite! From the strawberry heart treats to the beet red love bites, every recipe is made with lots of love.

I picked ingredients like strawberries, beets, cranberries, yogurt, and coconut oil, not just for their wag-worthy taste, but because they’re good for my dog.

Trust me, your furry Valentine will thank you every day, with every wag and lick of affection. And if you’re ever unsure whether a new food’s the right choice for your dog’s health, reach out to an animalnutritionist—they’rethebestguides.

So here’s to more easy DIY dog treat recipes and endless love for our loyal pups—not just on Valentine’s Day, but every single day. They’re more than pets; they’re our family, our loyal companions, and sprinkling a little extra love into their day is what it’s all about. Here’s to the joy of DIY dog treats and the happy, healthy dogs who love them!

Let me know below in the comments which Valentine’s Day dog treats you make for your dog.