Homemade Sweet Potato Chews for Dogs
These homemade sweet potato chews for dogs are a simple recipe and made a great treat for your dog. Slices of sweet potato are sliced and baked until crispy. Dog treat recipes don’t get easier than this!
The great thing about these treats is that they are natural with no additives or any flavorings that could inflame allergies, unless your dog is allergic to sweet potato. My boisterous pack enjoyed these treats and are on the list to make when I find orange sweet potatoes in the stores.
Are Sweet Potatoes Safe for Dogs?
Sweet potatoes can be safe for dogs when prepared properly and given in moderation. They are a good source of fiber, vitamins, and minerals for dogs.
Sweet potatoes should be cooked before being given to dogs. Raw sweet potatoes can be difficult for dogs to digest and may cause gastrointestinal upset.
Remember to go slowly when introducing new foods. And we recommend checking with your veterinarian first if your dog has any digestive issues or other health concerns.
Ingredients
All you need to make these treats are sweet potatoes. Select a sweet potato that is an appropriate size for your dog. For smaller breeds, you may want to choose smaller sweet potatoes to make it easier for them to eat.
Choose sweet potatoes that are firm to the touch. Avoid ones that are soft or squishy, as this may indicate they are overripe or starting to spoil. Look for sweet potatoes with smooth, unblemished skin. Avoid those with cuts, bruises, or other damage.
How to Make Sweet Potato Chews for Dogs
Thinly slice the sweet potato.
Place slices on a baking tray and cook on a low heat.
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Should the Sweet Potatoes be Peeled?
Peel the sweet potatoes if desired, although leaving the skin on can provide additional fiber and nutrients for your dog.
Storage
Store the sweet potato chews in an airtight container to keep them fresh. A resealable plastic bag or airtight plastic or glass container works well. Make sure the container is clean and dry before adding the chews.
While not always necessary, storing sweet potato chews in the refrigerator can help extend their shelf life, especially if you’ve made a large batch. Refrigeration slows down the growth of bacteria and mold.
Freezing
If you’ve made a large batch of sweet potato chews or want to store them for an extended period, you can freeze them. Place the cooled chews in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container, removing as much air as possible before sealing. Frozen sweet potato chews can last for several months in the freezer.
When you’re ready to give the sweet potato chews to your dog, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature for a few hours. Avoid microwaving them, as this can cause uneven heating and potentially make the chews too hot for your dog.
Making the dog chews in a dehydrator
We bake these chews but you can also make them in a dehydrator. Arrange the sweet potato slices in a single layer on the trays of your dehydrator, making sure they are not overlapping. Dehydrate the sweet potato slices for 6 to 12 hours, or until they are dry and leathery. The exact drying time will depend on the thickness of the slices and the moisture content of the sweet potatoes.
More Homemade Sweet Potato Dog Treats
Homemade Sweet Potato Chews for Dogs
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Ingredients
- 1 large Sweet potato
Instructions
- Wash the sweet potatoes thoroughly to remove any dirt or debris.
- Slice the sweet potatoes into uniform rounds or strips, about 1/4 to 1/2 inch thick. Thicker slices will result in chewier treats, while thinner slices will be crispier.
Bake
- Preheat the oven to 120C/250F degrees and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Place the sweet potato slices on a baking tray and bake for 2 1/2 to 3 hours, turning over half way for even cooking. The chews are done when they are dry and slightly crisp.
Dehydrate
- Set the dehydrator to the appropriate temperature for drying sweet potatoes. This is typically around 125°F to 135°F (50°C to 57°C) for dog treats. Refer to your dehydrator's manual for specific instructions.
- Arrange the sweet potato slices in a single layer on the trays of your dehydrator, making sure they are not overlapping.
- Dehydrate the sweet potato slices for 6 to 12 hours, or until they are dry and leathery. The exact drying time will depend on the thickness of the slices and the moisture content of the sweet potatoes.
- Check the sweet potato chews periodically during the drying process to ensure they are drying evenly and not becoming too crispy.
- Once the sweet potato chews are cooked, allow them to cool before giving out as a treat.
Video
Notes
Nutrition
The information shown is an estimate provided by an online nutrition calculator.
I have been making these for years. My dogs love them ! I drizzle a little honey/water & cinnamon or ginger, toss, drain off excess liquid them bake or dehydrate.
I love the addition of flavors and must try that next! Thanks!