Does your dog turn his nose up at vegetables? It’s time to get creative – why not hide them in some homemade dog treats? Genius!
There will be no upturned snouts when you give your pupper this Spinach and Zucchini dog treat. On top of being delicious, these veggies are packed with goodness. Zucchini is full of antioxidants, which are plant compounds that help protect from free radicals (these can damage your dog’s cells and DNA and speed up the aging process). And spinach boosts the immune system, increases energy levels, and prevents some types of cancer - not bad for a leafy green! Plus, this dog treat recipe includes pureed pumpkin and carrot, to give your cookies a little more bang for their buck.
Ingredients:
1 zucchini, peeled and shredded
1 cup spinach, chopped
1 carrot, peeled and shredded
1 cup pumpkin puree
1/4 cup peanut butter
2 large eggs
1/2 cup rolled oats
3 cups whole wheat flour
Directions
1. Preheat oven to 350° F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, add pumpkin puree, peanut butter, and eggs. Use an electric mixer on medium-high until well combined, about 1-2 minutes.
3. Gradually add oats and 2 1/2 cups flour at low speed, beating until incorporated. Add an additional 1/4 cup flour at a time just until the dough is no longer sticky.
4. Add carrot, zucchini, and spinach, beating just until incorporated.
5. Roll out dough on a lightly floured surface. Knead the dough until it comes together. Using a rolling pin, roll the dough to 1/4-inch thickness. Using cookie cutters, cut out shapes and place onto prepared baking sheet.
6. Place in oven and bake until the edges are golden brown, about 20-25 minutes.
7. Place treats on cooling racks for 2-3 hours.
8. Place in airtight container and store in fridge or freezer.
