Homemade Christmas Treats For Horses & Dogs

By Siun Griffin, Equine Physiotherapist and LCAO Community Manager 

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The holidays often come with spending time with loved ones and baking Christmas cookies. If you’re an animal lover like us, you won’t want to leave your fur babies out of the fun. Here are some recipes for both horses and dogs that are easy and tasty..

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One thing to note when choosing the ingredients for your four legged friends’ treats is to make sure they do not contain ingredients that are toxic to them, such as xylitol which can be found in some peppermints and even some peanut butters! So while horses and dogs love these treats, ensure they are safe.

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Homemade Horse Treats

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1. Apple Carrot Oat Cookies

   - Ingredients:

• 2 cups grated carrots
• 1 apple, finely chopped
• 1 cup oats
• 1/4 cup molasses

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   - Instructions:

     1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).

     2. Mix all ingredients in a bowl until well combined.

     3. Drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto a greased baking sheet.

     4. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the edges are golden brown.

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2. Peppermint Horse Treats

   - Ingredients:

• 1 cup unsweetened applesauce
• 1 cup oat bran
• 1/2 cup molasses
• 10-15 crushed horse safe peppermint candies

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   - Instructions:

     1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).

     2. Mix all ingredients together.

     3. Drop spoonfuls onto a baking sheet.

     4. Bake for 12-15 minutes.

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Homemade Dog Treats

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1. Peanut Butter Banana Biscuits

   - Ingredients:

• 1 ripe banana, mashed
• 1/2 cup dog safe peanut butter
• 1 egg
• 1 3/4 cups whole wheat flour

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   - Instructions:

     1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).

     2. In a bowl, mix mashed banana, peanut butter, and egg.

     3. Gradually add in the flour until the dough is no longer sticky.

     4. Roll out the dough and cut into shapes.

     5. Bake for 10-12 minutes.

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2. Sweet Potato Dog Chews

   - Ingredients:

• Sweet potatoes

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   - Instructions:

     1. Preheat oven to 250°F (120°C).

     2. Wash and slice sweet potatoes into thin strips.

     3. Place the strips on a baking sheet.

     4. Bake for 3-4 hours until they become chewy.

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Remember to check with your veterinarian before introducing new treats into your pet's diet, especially if they have any dietary restrictions or health concerns. Additionally, always be mindful of any allergies your pets may have to certain ingredients.

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Enjoy the festive season!