We all know the struggle of balancing treats with a dog’s health. Sure, those high-calorie goodies are tempting, but what about those pups that need a little something lighter? 🍃
Enter green beans. Yes, really—these low-cal snacks have become my dog’s secret obsession. The crunch, the flavor, the freshness—they’re just the right snack to keep him happy without the guilt.
And it’s not just about me and my dog. You’re here because you know your pup deserves healthier options too.
Let’s skip the extra calories and make snack time healthier—because every dog deserves a treat that’s both tasty and kind to their waistline.
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#1. Green Bean and Chicken Crunchies for Dogs: A Low-Calorie, Health-Boosting Treat Recipe
As pet parents, we always want the best for our furry friends, and that includes keeping them healthy and happy with the right treats. That’s why I’m excited to share a simple, nutritious, and low-calorie dog treat recipe that both you and your dog will love. This Green Bean and Chicken Crunchy recipe is not only packed with protein and fiber, but it’s also designed to support your dog’s overall health and dental hygiene with a deliciously crunchy texture. We know how important it is to find treats that fit into a balanced diet without compromising on taste, and this recipe does just that. Plus, it’s a great way to make sure your dog is getting all the nutrients they need in a fun, tasty form!
Making homemade dog treats means you have control over what goes into them. This particular recipe focuses on using healthy, dog-safe ingredients like lean chicken, green beans, and oat flour, so you know exactly what your dog is getting. Whether you’re looking for a low-calorie snack for your pet or something to help with training, these treats are the perfect choice. I can promise you, once your dog gets a taste of these crunchy bites, they’ll be wagging their tail for more.
Recipe Overview
Green Bean and Chicken Crunchies are a great addition to your dog’s diet because they are not only healthy but also incredibly easy to prepare. With simple ingredients, this recipe requires minimal effort and cooking time, making it ideal for busy pet parents. These treats are perfect for training sessions, as their crunchy texture is sure to keep your dog’s attention. Plus, they support dental health by promoting natural chewing and helping to reduce plaque buildup.
The treats have a satisfying crunch that most dogs love, and their wholesome ingredients provide essential nutrients like lean protein and fiber. This recipe is adaptable to a variety of dog sizes and can be adjusted in portion size, so it’s suitable for dogs of all breeds and ages. Whether you’re preparing them for everyday use, as a special treat for a good behavior, or as a birthday gift for your pet, these treats will surely become a staple in your homemade dog treat repertoire.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe (Pet Parent Perspective)
There are so many reasons why this Green Bean and Chicken Crunchy recipe will make both you and your dog happy. As a pet parent, you’ll appreciate the following benefits:
- Cost-Effectiveness: This recipe allows you to make healthy, homemade treats at a fraction of the price of store-bought alternatives.
- Ingredient Control and Quality: You can control the quality of each ingredient, ensuring that your dog gets only the best.
- Storage Convenience: These treats can be stored in an airtight container, so they’re easy to keep on hand for training or as a quick snack.
- Training Effectiveness: These treats are small, low-calorie, and high in flavor, making them the perfect tool for rewarding good behavior during training.
- Portion Control Benefits: You’ll have better control over the size and number of treats your dog consumes, helping with portion control and maintaining a balanced diet.
- Multi-Dog Household Considerations: The simple nature of this recipe makes it easy to prepare in large batches, perfect for multi-dog households.
- Time-Saving Aspects: These treats are easy to whip up in under an hour, making them a great choice for busy pet parents.
Essential Information Block
Before you get started with this recipe, here’s everything you need to know:
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 30 treats (adjust based on size)
- Shelf Life: 1 week at room temperature; 2 weeks in the fridge
- Storage Requirements: Store in an airtight container at room temperature, or refrigerate for longer shelf life
- Equipment Needed: Mixing bowl, baking sheet, parchment paper (alternative: silicone baking mat)
Ingredients
Main Components:
- 1 cup cooked, shredded chicken (boneless and skinless)
- 1 cup finely chopped green beans (lightly steamed or blanched)
- 1 ½ cups oat flour
- 2 eggs
- ½ cup chicken broth (low-sodium)
- 2 tablespoons coconut oil or olive oil
These ingredients are not only simple but also provide multiple benefits for your dog. Chicken is a great source of lean protein, which supports muscle growth and maintenance. Green beans are rich in fiber, which aids digestion and helps your dog feel fuller for longer. Oat flour is a gluten-free alternative that’s gentle on sensitive stomachs, and the coconut oil adds healthy fats that support your dog’s coat and skin health. Make sure to use a low-sodium chicken broth to avoid unnecessary salt intake.
If your dog has specific dietary needs, you can easily swap out ingredients. For instance, if your dog is sensitive to chicken, try lean turkey or beef. Green beans can be replaced with other dog-safe vegetables like carrots or spinach, and oat flour can be substituted with rice flour for dogs with grain sensitivities.
Expert Tips (Before Instructions)
Here are a few tips to ensure your treats turn out perfectly every time:
- Check Treat Consistency: If the dough seems too dry, add a little extra chicken broth to achieve a dough-like consistency. If it’s too wet, sprinkle in some extra oat flour.
- Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on the treats during the last few minutes of baking. Overbaking can make them too hard for your dog to enjoy, so you want them to be firm but not rock-hard.
- Size Matters: Tailor the size of the treats based on your dog’s size. If you have a small breed, try making smaller, bite-sized treats. For large breeds, slightly bigger treats may be necessary.
- Flavor Boosters: Consider adding a sprinkle of parsley for fresh breath or some ground flaxseed for added omega-3 fatty acids.
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s properly heated.
- Prepare Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the chicken, green beans, oat flour, eggs, chicken broth, and coconut oil. Stir until everything is well incorporated, and a dough forms.
- Form Treats: Roll the dough into small balls and flatten them onto the prepared baking sheet. If you prefer, you can use cookie cutters to create fun shapes for special occasions.
- Bake: Place the treats in the oven and bake for 30 minutes, or until the treats are firm and lightly browned on the edges.
- Cool: Let the treats cool completely on the baking sheet before transferring them to an airtight container for storage.
Variations and Substitutions
This recipe is highly adaptable, so you can make it work for different dietary needs. If you have a dog with grain sensitivities, simply swap the oat flour for rice flour or another gluten-free flour. For protein alternatives, turkey or beef can be used instead of chicken. You can even make the treats softer by adding a bit more broth and reducing the baking time slightly, which works great for senior dogs or puppies with sensitive teeth.
Serving Guidelines
To ensure your dog enjoys these treats safely, it’s important to follow portion guidelines. For small dogs, break the treats into smaller pieces to avoid choking hazards. Larger dogs can enjoy the treats in full or in larger pieces. As with any treat, moderation is key. Limit these to 1-2 treats per day to avoid overfeeding.
For training purposes, these treats work great in small quantities, as their size makes them ideal for rewarding good behavior without spoiling your dog’s dinner. You can also use them as part of a special occasion treat, such as a birthday or a “good dog” celebration.
Common Questions
- Are these treats safe for puppies?
Yes, they are! Just ensure the treats are sized appropriately for your puppy’s smaller mouth. - Can I store these treats in the fridge?
Absolutely! Refrigerating them will extend their shelf life to about two weeks. - Can I make these treats softer?
Yes, adding more chicken broth will make the treats softer, which is ideal for dogs with dental issues or senior dogs. - How do I prevent the treats from crumbling?
Ensure that the dough is mixed well and not too dry before baking. If you notice crumbling, slightly increase the liquid content next time.
#2. Green Bean and Sweet Potato Bites: The Ultimate Low-Calorie Dog Treat Recipe
As a pet parent, I always want to provide healthy, delicious treats for my dog that won’t sabotage his diet. We all know how important it is to give our dogs nutritious snacks that support their health, and that’s exactly why I created this Green Bean and Sweet Potato Bite recipe. Packed with fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants, these treats are the perfect low-calorie snack that won’t pack on the pounds. Plus, the natural sweetness of the sweet potato pairs perfectly with the savory crunch of the green beans, creating a flavor combination your dog will absolutely love!
I came up with this recipe after realizing that many store-bought dog treats are loaded with artificial additives, preservatives, and excess calories. I wanted a treat that would satisfy my dog’s snack cravings while supporting his overall health. With just a few simple, wholesome ingredients, these Green Bean and Sweet Potato Bites are the perfect option for any dog looking for a nutritious snack. Whether you’re using them for training or as an everyday treat, these bites are sure to become a go-to snack in your household.
Recipe Overview
Green Bean and Sweet Potato Bites are a healthy and low-calorie snack that’s as nutritious as it is delicious. These treats are easy to make and feature two star ingredients: green beans, which are high in fiber and great for digestion, and sweet potatoes, which are packed with vitamins like A and C. The combo of these ingredients creates a satisfying treat that your dog will love. Their soft and chewy texture makes them perfect for dogs who prefer something a little gentler on their teeth, and they’re great for both small and large dogs alike.
This recipe is a great option for pet parents who want to make their own dog treats without spending hours in the kitchen. The ingredients are simple and the preparation time is minimal, meaning you can have fresh, homemade treats ready in no time. And with the added bonus of being low-calorie, these treats are great for training or as an everyday snack without worrying about overfeeding.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe (Pet Parent Perspective)
There are so many reasons why this Green Bean and Sweet Potato Bites recipe will quickly become your favorite go-to dog treat:
- Cost-Effective: Homemade dog treats like these are much more affordable than store-bought ones, especially when you consider the quality of the ingredients.
- Ingredient Control and Quality: When you make treats at home, you know exactly what’s going into them—no hidden chemicals or preservatives.
- Training-Friendly: These treats are soft and chewy, making them ideal for training sessions. Plus, they’re low-calorie, so you don’t have to worry about your dog getting too many treats.
- Perfect for Sensitive Dogs: The recipe is grain-free and made with natural ingredients, making it a safe and healthy option for dogs with food sensitivities or allergies.
- Simple and Quick to Make: You can prepare these treats in under an hour, which is perfect for busy pet parents looking for a fast treat solution.
Essential Information Block
Here’s all the important information you need to make these Green Bean and Sweet Potato Bites:
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
- Total Time: 45-50 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 20-25 treats (adjust based on treat size)
- Shelf Life: Up to 1 week at room temperature, 2 weeks if refrigerated
- Storage Requirements: Store in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate for longer shelf life
- Equipment Needed: Mixing bowl, baking sheet, parchment paper or silicone baking mat
Ingredients
Main Components:
- 1 cup steamed green beans, chopped
- 1 cup mashed sweet potato (cooked and cooled)
- 1 ½ cups oat flour
- 1 egg
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or coconut oil
- ¼ cup low-sodium chicken broth or water
These ingredients are all-natural and offer a variety of health benefits for your dog. Green beans are a great source of fiber, which supports digestion, while sweet potatoes are rich in antioxidants and vitamins that help boost immunity and promote healthy skin. Oat flour is a gentle, gluten-free flour alternative that is safe for dogs with grain sensitivities. The egg adds protein and binds everything together, and the oil provides healthy fats for coat and skin health. Chicken broth or water helps to bring the dough together, making it easier to work with.
Expert Tips (Before Instructions)
Before diving into the recipe, here are a few expert tips to make sure your treats turn out perfectly:
- Check the Consistency: If the dough seems too dry or crumbly, add a little extra chicken broth or water until you reach the right consistency. You want the dough to hold together without being too sticky.
- Smooth Texture for Smaller Dogs: If your dog prefers smoother textures, you can blend the green beans and sweet potato together before adding them to the dough. This will create a more uniform texture, which is especially great for puppies or dogs with dental issues.
- Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on your treats while they bake. Overbaking can make them too hard, and while crunchy treats are great for some dogs, others may prefer them softer.
- Adapt for Larger Dogs: If you have a larger dog, feel free to make the treats a little bigger. Larger-sized treats can still be low-calorie if given in moderation.
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to get it ready for baking.
- Prepare Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped green beans, mashed sweet potato, oat flour, egg, oil, and chicken broth. Stir until everything is well mixed and a dough-like consistency forms.
- Form Treats: Roll the dough into small balls, or for a more uniform shape, flatten the dough into a sheet and cut it with cookie cutters. You can make the treats as small or as large as you like, depending on your dog’s size.
- Bake: Place the treats on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until they are firm and slightly golden. If you prefer softer treats, reduce the baking time by a few minutes.
- Cool: Let the treats cool completely before storing them in an airtight container.
Variations and Substitutions
This recipe is easily adaptable, so feel free to make changes to suit your dog’s preferences or dietary needs. For dogs with grain sensitivities, you can replace the oat flour with rice flour or chickpea flour. You can also add a sprinkle of parsley for fresh breath or a pinch of cinnamon for a sweet, aromatic flavor.
For added protein, you can incorporate cooked chicken, turkey, or beef into the recipe. If your dog prefers a different vegetable, try swapping out the green beans for peas, carrots, or spinach—just make sure the vegetables are safe and suitable for your dog’s diet.
Serving Guidelines
These Green Bean and Sweet Potato Bites are the perfect size for a training treat or an everyday snack. As a general guideline, small dogs should get 1-2 treats per day, while larger dogs can enjoy up to 3-4. Always remember to monitor your dog’s calorie intake, as too many treats can lead to overfeeding.
If you’re using these treats for training, break them into even smaller pieces to keep the portions manageable and prevent overfeeding. For special occasions like birthdays, you can make larger batches and even customize the shapes to fit the celebration theme.
Common Questions
- Can I freeze these treats?
Yes, you can freeze these treats for up to 3 months. Just make sure they’re stored in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. - How do I know when the treats are done?
The treats should be firm to the touch and slightly golden around the edges. If they seem soft in the middle, continue baking for a few more minutes. - Can I make these treats softer for older dogs?
Yes! Simply reduce the baking time and add a bit more chicken broth to the dough to keep the treats moist. - How do I store these treats for the longest shelf life?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. For longer shelf life, refrigerate them for up to 2 weeks.
#3. Green Bean, Apple, and Carrot Chews: A Wholesome Low-Calorie Dog Treat Recipe
If you’re like me, you want to make sure your dog is eating healthy snacks, but it can be tricky to find treats that are both low-calorie and packed with nutrients. I decided to develop this Green Bean, Apple, and Carrot Chew recipe to solve that problem. It’s packed with vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants that support your dog’s health while giving them a tasty treat they’ll love. Plus, it’s easy to make and doesn’t require a ton of time—perfect for busy pet parents!
The combination of green beans, apples, and carrots provides a balance of nutrients that dogs crave, along with a sweet and savory flavor that makes this treat irresistible. My dog can’t get enough of them! Not only are they low-calorie, but these chews also promote digestive health, help keep your dog’s teeth clean, and make for a satisfying snack between meals. Whether you’re using them for training, a special occasion, or just as an everyday snack, these chews are the perfect option to support your dog’s health without the guilt.
Recipe Overview
Green Bean, Apple, and Carrot Chews are the perfect low-calorie snack that packs a punch when it comes to flavor and nutrition. These treats are made with three wholesome ingredients that are not only tasty but also provide plenty of health benefits. Green beans help with digestion and are a low-calorie vegetable option, while apples provide a boost of vitamins and antioxidants. Carrots add a crunchy texture and are great for your dog’s eye health and immune system.
These chews are soft enough for smaller dogs or those with sensitive teeth, yet still have a satisfying texture that larger dogs will enjoy. They’re also easy to make and don’t require any fancy equipment. Whether you need a snack for training or just a healthy option to keep on hand, this recipe is versatile and great for all dogs, no matter their size or age.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe (Pet Parent Perspective)
As a pet parent, I love this recipe for several reasons, and I’m sure you will too:
- Affordable & Homemade: Making these treats at home is not only more cost-effective but also allows you to choose the highest quality ingredients. No more worrying about the unknown additives in store-bought treats!
- Healthy & Nutritious: The green beans, apples, and carrots offer a variety of health benefits, from supporting digestive health to promoting a strong immune system.
- Training-Friendly: These chews are soft enough to break into smaller pieces, making them an excellent choice for training rewards. You can keep them handy without worrying about overfeeding your dog.
- Easy Prep & Storage: The ingredients are simple, and the preparation takes no time at all. Plus, they store well in an airtight container, so you can make a large batch and have treats on hand for the week.
- Great for All Dogs: Whether you have a tiny puppy or an older senior dog, these treats are gentle on their stomachs and perfect for any age.
Essential Information Block
Here’s everything you need to know about making these Green Bean, Apple, and Carrot Chews:
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
- Total Time: 40-45 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 25-30 treats (depends on size)
- Shelf Life: 1 week at room temperature, 2 weeks if refrigerated
- Storage Requirements: Store in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate for longer freshness
- Equipment Needed: Mixing bowl, baking sheet, parchment paper or silicone mat
Ingredients
Main Components:
- 1 cup steamed green beans, chopped
- 1 medium apple, cored and grated
- 1 large carrot, grated
- 1 ½ cups oat flour (or rice flour for a grain-free option)
- 1 egg
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil or olive oil
- ¼ cup low-sodium chicken broth or water
These simple ingredients are all packed with health benefits. Green beans provide fiber for digestive health and help maintain a healthy weight, while apples add vitamin C and antioxidants for a healthy immune system. Carrots are rich in beta-carotene and promote healthy vision. The oat flour is a great gluten-free option that’s easy on your dog’s digestive system, while the egg helps bind the ingredients together and adds a boost of protein.
Expert Tips (Before Instructions)
Here are some helpful tips before you start making these treats:
- Grate Your Veggies & Apple Well: Ensure the apple and carrot are grated finely to create a smooth dough that is easy to work with. If your dog is picky about textures, blending the mixture may be a good option.
- Adjust Consistency with Broth or Water: If your dough is too dry, add a little more chicken broth or water to get the right consistency. You want it firm enough to shape, but not too dry that it crumbles.
- Batch Preparation: This recipe makes a large batch, which is great for pet parents with multiple dogs or who like to plan ahead. These chews can be stored in an airtight container for up to a week at room temperature or up to two weeks if refrigerated.
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) for optimal baking.
- Prepare the Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or use a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the steamed green beans, grated apple, grated carrot, oat flour, egg, and coconut oil. Stir until the mixture is well-combined and forms a dough. If the mixture is too dry, gradually add the chicken broth or water.
- Form Treats: Roll the dough into small balls, or for more uniform treats, flatten the dough into a sheet and use cookie cutters to create shapes. These treats can be made smaller for training purposes or larger for a hearty snack.
- Bake: Place the treats on the baking sheet and bake for 30-35 minutes or until they are firm to the touch and golden around the edges. If you prefer softer treats, bake for 5-10 minutes less.
- Cool & Store: Allow the treats to cool completely on a wire rack before storing them in an airtight container.
Variations and Substitutions
If you want to get creative with these treats, you can make some simple substitutions. For a protein boost, you can add some cooked chicken or turkey to the dough. If your dog has food sensitivities or allergies, feel free to swap the oat flour with a grain-free flour like coconut flour or chickpea flour.
You can also add other dog-safe ingredients, like parsley (for fresh breath), turmeric (for anti-inflammatory benefits), or flaxseed (for healthy omega-3 fatty acids). Just make sure any additions are safe for your dog and in moderation.
Serving Guidelines
When serving these chews, portion them based on your dog’s size and daily calorie requirements. Smaller dogs will benefit from 1-2 treats per day, while larger dogs can safely enjoy 3-4 treats. If you’re using these for training, break them into even smaller pieces to make them last longer.
Remember, moderation is key! While these treats are low-calorie and healthy, be mindful of your dog’s overall calorie intake, especially if they’re on a special diet or have weight management needs.
Common Questions
- Can I freeze these treats for later?
Yes, these chews freeze wonderfully! Store them in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 3 months. Simply thaw before serving. - Can I use a different oil?
Absolutely! If you don’t have coconut oil, you can use olive oil, which also provides healthy fats for your dog’s skin and coat. - Are these treats safe for puppies?
Yes, these treats are gentle on puppies’ tummies, but make sure to cut them into small pieces to avoid any choking hazards. - Can I use a dehydrator instead of baking?
Yes, you can dehydrate these chews for a longer-lasting treat. Simply follow the dehydrator’s instructions for vegetable treats, which usually takes about 6-8 hours.