Did you know your pup can struggle with the same health issues a human can? Diabetes is an unfortunate health issue that can impact our furbabies, with Type 1 being the most closely related to dogs. An insulin deficiency, like those caused in pup-diabetes, can be life-threatening and show through varicose symptoms. Excessive thirst and frequent urination paired with an increased appetite without significant weight gain are a few telltale signs that your pup might be struggling with diabetes.
Managing these issues with a trusted veterinarian is the first step in improving your dog’s quality of life. However, there are a few lifestyle changes that can help sort this process. Manage exercise and diet well, but also be sure these habits carry over into all aspects of your pet’s life. Today, we’ll take a look at a few of the top treats for dogs with diabetes and how to make a few of your own. Let’s jump in and discover the best ways to support Fido’s health!
Diabetes-Friendly Dog Treats
Thousands of dog food brands market themselves as health-conscious, but that’s not always the case. Check out these treats that are safe for your pup struggling with diabetes.
Old Dog Cookie Company: This all-natural treat is formulated for blood and sugar regulation. The limited ingredients allow your pup to enjoy an enrichment treat after a successful training session without risk of harm or pain.
Ella’s Diabetic Dog Treats: These organic treats are made from chia seeds, rolled oats, coconut oil, and chicken broth. Five flavor options, including chicken, chicken sweet potato pumpkin, pumpkin, sweet potato, and sweet potato chicken, mean treats that any pup can enjoy! DogaBetix was started in 2012 after Ellaspet’s parents discovered she had dog diabetes. Ella’s Diabetic Dog Treats are made by loving pet parents who wish to improve the health of your furry friend.
Blue Buffalo Health Bars: Health-conscious dog treats are perfect for late-night snacking, made from safe, preservative-free ingredients enriched with vitamins. Your dog’s tummy will be happy and healthy!. Flavors include apple, apple yogurt, bacon, egg, and cheese, banana yogurt, beef, and pumpkin cinnamon!
Homemade Treat Options for Diabetic Dogs
Oat Carrot Cake Dog Treats – Kim from Three Olives Branches
Don’t let the name fool you! These diabetic-friendly treats mimic the flavors of carrot cake without the health risks!
Ingredients
- 2 cups of oats divided
- 1 1/2 cups shredded carrots
- 1 egg
- 2 Tablespoons flaxseed (optional)
- 2 Tablespoons coconut oil
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt (or more as needed)
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 350°F.
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Place 1 cup of the oats in a food processor and grind until it has a flour-like consistency. Place the ground oats in a large mixing bowl.
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Add the remaining ingredients, including the whole oats, to the bowl. Stir to combine. Add more yogurt if needed until the dough just sticks together. If too sticky, add more oats, oat flour, or all-purpose/wheat flour (if desired).
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If the mixture is sticky, lightly dust the surface with flour or additional ground oats. Roll out the dough to approximately 1/4″ thick. Using your desired cookie cutter, cut out the treat shapes and place them on a silicone baking mat or parchment paper-lined baking sheet.
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Bake treats at 350°F for 20 minutes. Turn off the oven, leaving the cookies inside, and let them sit for two hours. This will make the cookies crunchier. For soft cookies, remove them after 15-20 minutes to cool at room temperature.
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Store soft treats in an airtight container, kept in the refrigerator, for up to 2 weeks. Hard treats can be kept at room temperature up to 3 weeks.
Beef Liver Diabetic Dog Treats – Barb Maxwell
Liver is a fantastic lean option for a pup struggling with diabetes related issues. Grab your food processor and give this treat a try!
Ingredients
- 1 ½ pounds beef liver, cut into pieces
- ½ cup whole wheat flour
- 2 eggs
- parchment paper
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Line a 10×15-inch jellyroll pan with parchment paper.
- Place liver into a food processor; pulse until finely chopped. If you have room, add flour and eggs, and process until smooth. Otherwise, transfer to a bowl, and stir in flour and eggs using a wooden spoon. Spread evenly in the prepared pan.
- Bake in the preheated oven until the center is firm, about 15 minutes. Cool in the pan, then cut into squares using a pizza cutter. The treats will have a consistency similar to a sponge. Store in a sealed container in the refrigerator.
Bone Broth Frozen Dog Treats – The Honest Kitchen
Frozen treats are a great way to cool down your pup and keep them occupied, but did you know they’re also health-friendly? Check out this perfect summertime treat!
Ingredients
- 2 tsp Beef Bone Broth powder
- 1 cup warm water
- 1 cup peanut butter
Instructions
- In a small bowl, combine water and Instant Bone Broth. Stir until the powder is dissolved.
- Add peanut butter and bone broth to the blender. Blend for about 1 minute.
- Pour mixture into silicone molds.
- Place into the freezer and freeze until hard (overnight).
Whether you want to make a treat for your pup or prefer store-bought treats, any of these options can be a healthy, tasty option for dogs struggling with diabetes and its symptoms. Please note that these treats should not be used as a treatment for diabetes or as meal replacements; they are alternative treats that can help reduce the risk of eating regular treats. With plenty of delicious flavors available, your pooch will be happy and healthy!