13 Adorable Mini Dog Burger Recipes for Summer BBQs

1. The Classic Beef & Carrot Slider

You can’t go wrong with a classic! This recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser (the canine crowd, that is). Lean beef provides a fantastic source of protein, while finely grated carrots add a touch of natural sweetness, fiber, and a healthy dose of vitamin A.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb lean ground beef (90/10 or leaner)
• 1 large carrot, finely grated
• 1/2 cup rolled oats (uncooked)
• 1 large egg

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, grated carrot, rolled oats, and egg.
3. Use your hands to gently mix all the ingredients until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the burgers tough.
4. Form the mixture into small, slider-sized patties, about 1.5 to 2 inches in diameter.
5. Place the patties on the prepared baking sheet.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until cooked through and no longer pink in the center.
7. Let the sliders cool completely before serving to your eager pup.

Verdict:

This is the perfect starter recipe for any pet parent new to homemade dog treats. It’s simple, nutritious, and a surefire hit for most dogs without beef sensitivities.

2. Turkey & Sweet Potato Patties

A leaner alternative to beef, these turkey burgers are gentle on the tummy and great for weight management. Sweet potato is a superfood for dogs, offering fiber for digestive health and a wealth of vitamins.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground turkey
• 1/2 cup cooked and mashed sweet potato, cooled
• 1/4 cup finely chopped parsley
• 1 egg

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking sheet.
2. In a medium bowl, mix the ground turkey, mashed sweet potato, parsley, and egg.
3. Combine gently until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
4. Form into small patties and place them on the baking sheet.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the patties are fully cooked.
6. Ensure they are completely cool before treating your dog.

Verdict:

Ideal for dogs on a lower-fat diet or those with sensitive stomachs. The added parsley is a fantastic bonus for freshening up that infamous doggy breath!

3. Salmon & Zucchini Burgers

Want to give your dog’s coat a beautiful, healthy shine? This is the burger for them. Salmon is loaded with Omega-3 fatty acids, which are superstars for skin and coat health, while zucchini adds moisture and essential nutrients.

Ingredients:

• 1 can (15 oz) of wild-caught salmon, drained (no salt added)
• 1 small zucchini, grated and moisture squeezed out
• 1 egg
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (plain, no seasonings) or oat flour

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, flake the canned salmon with a fork.
2. Add the squeezed zucchini, egg, and breadcrumbs/oat flour.
3. Mix until the mixture holds together. If it’s too wet, add a bit more binder.
4. Form into small patties. This mixture will be softer than meat-based ones.
5. Heat a skillet over medium heat with a tiny bit of coconut or olive oil.
6. Pan-fry the patties for 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through.
7. Let cool on a paper towel to absorb any excess oil before serving.

Verdict:

The ultimate beauty burger! Perfect for dogs needing a little extra support for healthy skin and a glossy coat, or for those who need to avoid common meat proteins.

4. Chicken & Apple Minis

A delightful combination of savory and sweet! Ground chicken is a lean, easily digestible protein, and small pieces of apple provide a satisfying crunch and a boost of fiber and vitamins C and A.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground chicken
• 1/2 apple, cored and finely diced (ensure no seeds!)
• 1/4 cup rolled oats
• 1 egg

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, combine the ground chicken, diced apple, oats, and egg.
3. Mix gently to combine.
4. Form the mixture into mini patties and arrange them on the baking sheet.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes, until the chicken is fully cooked and the juices run clear.
6. Cool completely before serving these sweet and savory treats.

Verdict:

A fantastic choice for a light, healthy treat. The touch of sweetness from the apple makes it unique and is often a big hit with dogs who enjoy fruit.

5. Lamb & Mint Burgers

Feeling a bit gourmet? This recipe is for the pup with a sophisticated palate. Lamb is a novel protein for many dogs, making it a great option for those with allergies, and a tiny bit of fresh mint can help with digestion and breath.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground lamb
• 1 tablespoon fresh mint, finely chopped
• 1 egg
• 1/4 cup plain breadcrumbs or almond flour

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the ground lamb, chopped mint, egg, and breadcrumbs.
3. Mix gently with your hands until just incorporated.
4. Shape into small, thick patties. Lamb has a higher fat content, so they will shrink a bit.
5. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 18-22 minutes, until cooked through.
7. Drain on a paper towel to remove excess fat and cool completely.

Verdict:

A special occasion treat for the discerning dog. It’s a fantastic choice for dogs with chicken or beef allergies who deserve something a little fancy.

6. Peanut Butter & Oat Veggie Burgers

Who says burgers have to have meat? This plant-based patty is perfect for dogs with multiple meat protein sensitivities or as a fun, occasional alternative. It’s packed with fiber and protein from oats and lentils.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup cooked lentils, mashed
• 1/2 cup rolled oats
• 1/4 cup dog-safe peanut butter (xylitol-free!)
• 1/4 cup grated carrots

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a bowl, combine the mashed lentils, rolled oats, peanut butter, and grated carrots.
3. The mixture should be thick and easy to shape. If it’s too sticky, add a few more oats.
4. Form into small patties and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping once, until they are firm and slightly browned.
6. Cool completely. These will be denser than meat burgers.

Verdict:

The go-to recipe for the vegetarian-leaning pooch or for owners looking to incorporate more plant-based foods into their dog’s treat rotation. Always check the peanut butter label for xylitol!

7. Pumpkin & Turkey Burgers

This recipe is a digestive health dream team. Turkey is a lean protein, and pure pumpkin puree is famously good for regulating a dog’s digestive system, whether they’re dealing with constipation or diarrhea.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground turkey
• 1/2 cup 100% pure pumpkin puree (not pie filling)
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional, Ceylon is best)
• 1 egg

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey, pumpkin puree, cinnamon (if using), and egg.
3. The mixture will be quite moist. Use a spoon to help form small patties on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
4. Bake for 20-25 minutes until the burgers are firm and cooked through.
5. Let them cool down completely before serving.

Verdict:

A must-try for any dog with a sensitive tummy. These burgers are gentle, nutritious, and have the added benefit of promoting excellent digestive regularity.

8. Blueberry & Beef Antioxidant Burgers

Give your pup a healthy boost with these antioxidant-rich burgers. Blueberries are a safe and healthy fruit for dogs, packed with vitamins and antioxidants that support the immune system, combined with protein-rich beef.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb lean ground beef
• 1/4 cup fresh or frozen blueberries
• 1/4 cup rolled oats
• 1 egg

Instructions:

1. If using frozen blueberries, let them thaw slightly.
2. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
3. In a bowl, combine the ground beef, oats, and egg. Gently fold in the blueberries last to avoid smashing them completely.
4. Form into patties. You’ll see little purple specks throughout the mixture.
5. Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes.
6. Cool completely before serving this superfood treat.

Verdict:

Perfect for the health-conscious pet owner looking to sneak some extra nutrients into their dog’s diet. It’s a tasty way to support their overall well-being.

9. Cheesy Chicken Patties

What dog can resist cheese? In moderation, low-fat cheese like cheddar or mozzarella can be a high-value treat. These cheesy chicken patties are sure to be a top-tier reward for your very good boy or girl.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground chicken
• 1/2 cup shredded low-fat cheddar or mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup finely chopped spinach
• 1 egg

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix the ground chicken, shredded cheese, chopped spinach, and egg until well combined.
3. Form into small, bite-sized patties.
4. Bake on a parchment-lined sheet for 15-20 minutes, until the chicken is cooked and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
5. Let cool completely—melted cheese is very hot!

Verdict:

The ultimate high-value treat. These are perfect for special occasions or for picky eaters who turn their noses up at everything else. Not suitable for lactose-intolerant dogs.

10. Sardine & Oatmeal Sliders

Get ready for a smell your dog will go crazy for! Canned sardines are an omega-3 powerhouse, promoting brain health, reducing inflammation, and supporting a healthy coat. Oatmeal acts as a great binder and provides soluble fiber.

Ingredients:

• 1 can (3.75 oz) sardines packed in water, no salt added, drained
• 1 cup rolled oats
• 1 egg
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a food processor, pulse the oats until they have a coarse, flour-like consistency.
3. In a bowl, mash the drained sardines with a fork.
4. Add the ground oats, egg, and parsley to the sardines and mix well to form a thick dough.
5. Roll the mixture into small balls and flatten them into slider shapes.
6. Bake on a parchment-lined sheet for 15 minutes, until firm and dry to the touch.
7. Cool before serving the fishy feast.

Verdict:

The brain-booster burger! An excellent, affordable choice for senior dogs to support cognitive function and joint health, or for any dog needing a major omega-3 boost.

11. Duck & Pear Burgers

Another fantastic option for dogs with food sensitivities. Duck is a less common protein, often called a ‘novel protein,’ which means your dog is less likely to have been exposed to it and developed an allergy. Pear adds a hint of sweetness and fiber.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground duck
• 1/2 pear, cored and finely diced (no seeds)
• 1 egg
• 1/4 cup coconut flour (as a binder)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, combine the ground duck, diced pear, egg, and coconut flour.
3. Duck is a fatty protein, so the mixture will be slick. The coconut flour helps absorb some moisture.
4. Form into small patties and place on a baking sheet with a wire rack on top to allow fat to drip away.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes until fully cooked.
6. Drain on paper towels and cool completely before serving.

Verdict:

The allergy-friendly gourmet choice. If your dog struggles with common proteins like chicken or beef, these duck burgers offer a delicious and safe alternative.

12. Bison & Cranberry Bites

Bison is a wonderfully lean, nutrient-dense red meat alternative that’s lower in fat and calories than beef. Dried cranberries (unsweetened!) add a tart flavor and are known to support urinary tract health.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground bison
• 1/4 cup unsweetened dried cranberries, chopped
• 1 egg
• 1/4 cup almond flour

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, gently mix the ground bison, chopped cranberries, egg, and almond flour.
3. Form into small, bite-sized patties.
4. Bake on a parchment-lined baking sheet for 12-15 minutes. Bison is very lean and can dry out if overcooked.
5. Let cool completely.

Verdict:

A lean, mean, fighting-machine burger! This is a fantastic, low-fat treat for active dogs or those prone to urinary tract issues. A true superfood patty.

13. Egg & Spinach Breakfast Burgers

Why not start the BBQ early with a breakfast burger? This meat-free patty is built around the power of eggs, providing high-quality protein and amino acids. Spinach adds a nice dose of iron and vitamins.

Ingredients:

• 4 large eggs
• 1 cup finely chopped fresh spinach
• 1/2 cup rolled oats
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a mini muffin tin.
2. In a bowl, whisk the eggs.
3. Stir in the chopped spinach, rolled oats, and Parmesan cheese (if using).
4. Let the mixture sit for 5 minutes for the oats to absorb some liquid.
5. Spoon the mixture into the mini muffin tin, filling each cup about 3/4 full.
6. Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the ‘burgers’ are set and lightly golden on top.
7. Let cool in the tin for a few minutes before removing. Cool completely before serving.

Verdict:

The perfect ‘brunch’ burger for a lazy weekend BBQ. It’s a light, protein-packed, and meat-free option that feels like a special treat any time of day.

A Pup-Parent’s Guide to Crafting the Perfect Dog Burger

Making burgers for your dog is a blast, but it’s important to keep their health and safety top of mind. Unlike humans, dogs have sensitive systems and can’t handle all the delicious things we put in our own food. Here’s what to look for when you’re playing chef for your canine companion.

Choosing the Right Protein

The foundation of any good burger! Stick to lean options.

• Beef: Choose 90/10 lean ground beef or leaner to keep fat content down.
• Poultry: Ground chicken and turkey are fantastic, low-fat choices.
• Fish: Salmon and sardines are wonderful for their omega-3 fatty acids, but be sure to use products with no salt added and check for bones.
• Novel Proteins: For dogs with allergies, consider lamb, duck, or bison.

Dog-Safe Binders and Fillers

You need something to hold the patty together. Instead of breadcrumbs full of salt and seasonings, opt for these:

• Eggs: A fantastic binder that adds extra protein.
• Rolled Oats: A great source of soluble fiber.
• Flours: Small amounts of coconut, almond, or oat flour work well.

Veggies & Fruits for a Nutrient Boost

Adding finely chopped or grated produce is a great way to pack in vitamins. Good choices include carrots, sweet potatoes, pumpkin, zucchini, spinach, blueberries, apples (no seeds!), and pears (no seeds!).

CRITICAL: Absolutely NO onions, garlic, chives, grapes, or raisins. These are toxic to dogs and should never be included in their food.

The ‘Bun’ Situation

Human burger buns are not ideal for dogs. They are often full of sugar, salt, and preservatives. If you want to serve your dog’s burger on a ‘bun,’ consider using two round, thick slices of sweet potato or apple as a fun, healthy, and grain-free alternative.

Cooking Methods

Baking is often the easiest and healthiest method. It allows you to cook the burgers without added fats or oils. If you choose to pan-fry, use only a tiny amount of coconut or olive oil. If grilling, place the patties on a piece of foil to prevent them from falling through the grates and to avoid excessive char, which can be hard on a dog’s stomach.

Frequently Asked Questions About Homemade Dog Burgers

1. Can I use regular burger buns for my dog?

It’s best to avoid them. Human bread and buns often contain sugar, salt, preservatives, and sometimes even xylitol, which is extremely toxic to dogs. They offer little nutritional value. Stick to serving the patty by itself or use a slice of a dog-safe veggie like sweet potato as a ‘bun’.

2. How should I store leftover dog burgers?

Once completely cooled, you can store the burgers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them! Place them on a baking sheet in a single layer to freeze individually, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Just thaw in the fridge before serving.

3. Can I add cheese to my dog’s burger?

In small amounts, yes, provided your dog is not lactose intolerant. Stick to low-fat cheeses like cheddar, mozzarella, or Swiss. Cheese is high in fat, so it should be considered a special, high-value treat and not a daily ingredient. Avoid blue cheeses, which can be harmful to dogs.

4. Are there any ingredients I should absolutely avoid?

Yes! This is crucial for your dog’s safety. Never, ever include: onions, garlic, chives, leeks, scallions, avocado, grapes, raisins, chocolate, macadamia nuts, or the artificial sweetener xylitol. Also, avoid adding salt, pepper, ketchup, mustard, or any other human condiments.