Homemade Pet Treats: Easy Dog & Cat Snack Ideas

Photo of Susan Gast
Susan Gast, Author and Food Preservation Enthusiast
Susan has been dehydrating and preserving foods for over a decade, sharing practical, tested methods that help readers make healthy, long-lasting meals at home.

If you love spoiling your furry friends with safe, healthy snacks, you’ll love how easy it is to make homemade pet treats right in your dehydrator or oven. 

✅ Quick Answer: How Do You Make Homemade Pet Treats?
Use pet-safe meats, fruits, or veggies - never onion, garlic, or added salt. Slice thin, dry at 140°F until crisp, and store airtight. Choose lean proteins like chicken or beef, and let your pets’ preferences guide your next batch!

Woman showing homemade pet treats on a tray while a dog and cat wait beside her in the kitchenHealthy homemade treats for dogs and cats 🐾

From crunchy chicken bites for pups to savory tuna nibbles for cats, these DIY pet snacks keep things simple - no preservatives, no mystery ingredients, just wholesome food your pets will adore.

These same steps work for both dogs and cats - just adjust portion size and ingredients for each.

Easy Dehydrated Dog Treats

Woman making homemade dog treats in her kitchen while a small dog watches eagerly.

Dog Treats: Dogs love chewy, meaty snacks made from chicken, beef, or liver. Try simple dehydrated jerky strips or tiny training bites that keep fresh for weeks.

Read: How to Make Dog Treats That Dogs Devour

Cat Treats Even Fussy Felines Adore

A happy cat enjoying a bowl of homemade pet treats on a colorful kitchen table.

Cat Treats: Cats go wild for tiny bits of chicken or fish dried to crispy perfection. Keep portions small, avoid oily meats, and offer these crunchy snacks as special rewards.

See: How to Make Cat Treats That Even Fussy Felines Adore

Dehydrated Pet Food Meals

Dehydrated liver dog treats on a cutting board, ready for storage or snacking.

Dried Pet Treats: Want to make full dehydrated meals?

Combine cooked meat, veggies, and a bit of rice or oats before drying. It’s ideal for travel or emergency food storage.

Explore: How to Dehydrate Pet Food
and Liver Dog Treats

What NOT to Feed Your Pets

Even the healthiest homemade treats can turn dangerous if the wrong ingredients sneak in. Some foods that are perfectly fine for humans can make pets sick — or worse.

Common Foods to Avoid:

🛑 Onion, garlic, chives, and leeks - cause digestive and blood issues in dogs and cats.
🛑 Chocolate, coffee, and caffeine - contain theobromine, toxic to pets. (See the AKC’s list of foods dogs can and can’t eat for more details.)
🛑 Grapes and raisins - may trigger sudden kidney failure in dogs.
🛑 Xylitol (in some peanut butters and sugar-free foods) - extremely toxic, even in tiny amounts.
🛑 Alcohol and raw dough - both can lead to poisoning or bloat.

When in doubt, skip it. Stick to lean meats, plain veggies, and pet-safe fruits like apple (no seeds) or banana.

👉 Quick Tip: Always check with your vet before trying new ingredients - especially for puppies, kittens, or senior pets.

For a full list of foods that can harm pets, see the ASPCA’s guide to people foods to avoid.

Guest Pet Treat Recipes + Pet Food Safety Articles

DIY Pet Snacks: See what other pet lovers are creating! These guest posts feature creative twists on pet treats, from jerky cubes to dehydrated veggie crunchies — all pet-approved and simple to try at home.

Dog Treats by Donna: Easy One-Ingredient Chicken Jerky
Liver Dog Treats: Healthy Homemade Snacks for Dogs
Dehydrated Sweet Potato Treats: Human and Dog Approved
Dehydrated Dog Food: Is It a Good Option for Your Pet?
Is Dehydrated Dog Food Safe for Puppies and Senior Dogs?
Dog-Safe Kitchen Decor: Keep Your Best Friend Safe at Home

Make Your Own Dog Food

When you’re ready to go beyond treats, learn to create complete meals your pup will love. Get the step-by-step guide here:
➡️ How to Make Dog Food at Home: Chicken & Beef Chow Recipes

Make Nutritious Dog Food at Home

Make Your Own Dog Food eBook showing different reading devices

Learn how to make wholesome, balanced meals your dog will love - from fresh chicken and beef chow recipes and safe storage tips.

You’ll also see just how easy it is to dehydrate your homemade meals for travel or long-term storage, all with easy-to-follow steps.

Read how to make NUTRITIOUS dog food here.

...or buy the book right here!

Before you start your first batch, here are some common questions pet owners ask.

FAQs About Making Healthy Pet Treats at Home

What ingredients are unsafe for dogs and cats?

Avoid onion, garlic, xylitol, grapes, raisins, and chocolate. Always check labels for added sweeteners or salts.

Can I use peanut butter in homemade dog treats?

Yes - only use natural, xylitol-free peanut butter. It’s safe in small amounts and adds protein and flavor. 

How long do homemade pet treats last?

If fully dried and stored airtight, treats usually last 4–6 weeks. Freeze for longer shelf life.

Should I use an oven or a dehydrator to make pet treats?

Both work. A dehydrator offers steady low heat; an oven on its lowest setting is fine - rotate trays and monitor closely.

How many treats can I give my pet each day?

Treats should make up no more than 10% of daily calories. Adjust for size, activity level, and health.

Making homemade pet treats isn’t just fun - it’s a smart, cost-saving way to know exactly what your furry family members are eating. With a few simple ingredients and your dehydrator, you’ll whip up fresh, preservative-free snacks that stay shelf-stable for months.

Your pets will thank you with every happy crunch!

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