13 Crispy Dog Friendly Latkes Recipes for a Paw-some Hanukkah

You can’t go wrong with a classic! Sweet potatoes are a fantastic, nutrient-rich base for dog-friendly latkes. They’re packed with vitamins A and C, fiber, and antioxidants, making this a treat you can feel great about.

Ingredients:

• 1 large sweet potato, peeled and grated
• 1 egg, beaten
• 2 tablespoons of oat flour (or whole wheat, if not sensitive)
• 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh parsley (optional, for fresh breath)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. For a crispier texture, you can pan-fry.
2. Squeeze the grated sweet potato in a clean kitchen towel or paper towels to remove as much moisture as possible. This is the key to crispy latkes!
3. In a medium bowl, combine the dried sweet potato shreds, beaten egg, oat flour, and parsley. Mix until everything is well combined.
4. Form small, flat patties with your hands and place them on the baking sheet.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy on the edges. If pan-frying, heat a small amount of coconut or olive oil over medium heat and cook for 3-4 minutes per side.
6. Let them cool completely before serving to your eager pup.

Pros & Cons

Verdict:

This recipe is a perfect starting point for any pet parent. It’s simple, healthy, and a guaranteed tail-wagger for dogs who enjoy a slightly sweet, savory treat.

Sneak some extra veggies into your dog’s diet with these colorful and delicious latkes. Zucchini is hydrating and low in calories, while carrots are famous for their beta-carotene content, which is great for your pup’s vision.

Ingredients:

• 1 medium zucchini, grated
• 1 medium carrot, peeled and grated
• 1 egg, beaten
• 3 tablespoons of chickpea flour

Instructions:

1. Just like with the sweet potato, grating and then squeezing all the excess water out of the zucchini and carrot is crucial. Zucchini holds a lot of water!
2. In a bowl, mix the squeezed zucchini and carrot shreds with the beaten egg and chickpea flour. The batter should hold together when you form a patty.
3. Form small, bite-sized patties.
4. Heat a teaspoon of olive oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat.
5. Cook the latkes for 3-5 minutes on each side, until they are golden and cooked through.
6. Place on a paper towel to absorb any excess oil and let them cool completely before serving.

Pros & Cons

Verdict:

Ideal for dogs on a weight management plan or for pet parents who want to boost their pup’s vegetable intake. They’re light, healthy, and surprisingly tasty.

Who says latkes have to be savory? This sweeter version uses applesauce and a dash of cinnamon for a festive treat that tastes like a holiday dessert. Apples are a good source of fiber and vitamins A and C.

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
• 1 egg
• 1/4 cup whole wheat flour
• 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon (ensure it’s Ceylon cinnamon, which is safer for dogs)

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, whisk together the applesauce and egg until smooth.
2. Gradually stir in the whole wheat flour and cinnamon until you have a pancake-like batter.
3. Lightly grease a non-stick pan with coconut oil and heat over medium-low heat.
4. Drop spoonfuls of the batter onto the pan to form small, pancake-like latkes.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until golden brown.
6. Let them cool before treating your pup. A tiny dollop of plain yogurt on top is a great addition!

Pros & Cons

Verdict:

A fantastic choice for a special holiday dessert or for dogs who prefer sweeter flavors. These are quick to whip up and are a surefire hit.

Tap into the festive spirit with these pumpkin spice latkes! Pumpkin is a superfood for dogs, well-known for aiding in digestive health. A hint of dog-safe spices makes this a warm and comforting treat.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup grated pumpkin (or 1/2 cup 100% pure pumpkin purée)
• 1 egg
• 2 tablespoons coconut flour
• 1/2 teaspoon of ginger
• 1/4 teaspoon of cinnamon

Instructions:

1. If using fresh pumpkin, grate it and squeeze out excess moisture. If using purée, you can skip this step.
2. In a bowl, combine the pumpkin, egg, coconut flour, ginger, and cinnamon. Mix well. The coconut flour will absorb a lot of moisture.
3. Let the mixture sit for 5 minutes to thicken.
4. Form into small patties. If the mixture is too sticky, wet your hands slightly.
5. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping once, or pan-fry in a little coconut oil for 4-5 minutes per side.
6. Cool completely. These have a softer texture that’s great for senior dogs.

Pros & Cons

Verdict:

Perfect for dogs with sensitive stomachs or for adding a bit of healthy fiber to their diet. The festive spices make it a special treat for the holiday season.

This savory combination is a classic for a reason! Finely chopped broccoli provides vitamins and fiber, while a small amount of cheddar cheese adds a flavor boost that dogs find irresistible. Cheese is high in fat, so serve these in moderation.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup finely chopped broccoli florets (steamed and cooled)
• 1/4 cup shredded low-fat cheddar cheese
• 1 egg
• 3 tablespoons of almond flour

Instructions:

1. Ensure the steamed broccoli is chopped very finely to incorporate well into the patties.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the chopped broccoli, shredded cheddar, egg, and almond flour.
3. Stir until a thick, cohesive mixture forms.
4. Shape into small, quarter-sized patties.
5. In a lightly oiled skillet over medium heat, cook the bites for about 3-4 minutes per side, until the cheese is melted and the edges are golden.
6. Let cool on a wire rack before serving. The cheesy aroma will drive your dog wild!

Pros & Cons

Verdict:

A high-value, savory treat that’s perfect for a special Hanukkah celebration. Best for dogs who can tolerate dairy and absolutely love cheese.

Gentle on the tummy and naturally sweet, these oat and banana fritters are a wonderful option. Oats provide soluble fiber, and bananas are a great source of potassium and vitamin B6. They bind together beautifully without much fuss.

Ingredients:

• 1 ripe banana, mashed
• 1/2 cup rolled oats, blended into a flour
• 1 egg
• A pinch of cinnamon

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, mix the mashed banana and egg together.
2. Stir in the oat flour and cinnamon until you have a thick batter.
3. Heat a non-stick pan over medium heat with a tiny bit of coconut oil.
4. Spoon small amounts of batter onto the pan, flattening them slightly with the back of the spoon.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until they are golden and cooked through.
6. Cool completely. The texture will be soft and chewy.

Pros & Cons

Verdict:

An excellent choice for dogs with sensitive stomachs, senior dogs with dental issues, or puppies. They are simple, gentle, and deliciously sweet.

For a low-carb, grain-free option, cauliflower is your new best friend. These patties are light, packed with nutrients like vitamin C and K, and are a great alternative to traditional starchy potatoes.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cauliflower florets, riced
• 1 egg
• 2 tablespoons of coconut flour
• 1 tablespoon of chopped dill (optional)

Instructions:

1. To rice the cauliflower, you can pulse it in a food processor or use a box grater.
2. Steam or microwave the cauliflower rice for 3-4 minutes until tender. Let it cool slightly.
3. This is the most important step: place the cooled cauliflower rice in a cheesecloth or clean dish towel and squeeze out as much liquid as humanly possible. You’ll be surprised how much water comes out!
4. In a bowl, combine the dry cauliflower rice with the egg, coconut flour, and dill.
5. Form into small patties and bake at 400°F (200°C) on a parchment-lined sheet for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and firm.

Pros & Cons

Verdict:

The perfect recipe for pet parents looking for a grain-free or low-calorie holiday treat. These are surprisingly delicious and hold their shape well when properly dried.

Boost your dog’s coat health with these omega-3-packed salmon latkes. Using canned salmon makes this recipe convenient, while the potato provides that classic latke structure. This is a treat with major health benefits!

Ingredients:

• 1 can (6 oz) of salmon, packed in water, drained well
• 1/2 cup cooked and mashed potato (or sweet potato)
• 1 egg
• 2 tablespoons of oat flour

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, flake the drained salmon with a fork.
2. Add the mashed potato, egg, and oat flour. Mix until everything is thoroughly combined.
3. The mixture will be soft. Form small patties with your hands.
4. Heat a thin layer of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
5. Carefully place the salmon patties in the pan and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy. They are delicate, so flip them gently.
6. Let them cool completely before serving. The fishy smell will be a huge draw for your pup!

Pros & Cons

Verdict:

An amazing choice for promoting a healthy, shiny coat. The powerful aroma and flavor make it a fantastic option for picky dogs who turn their noses up at other treats.

Capture the entire holiday season in one bite! These latkes combine lean ground turkey with the tartness of cranberries for a festive flavor profile. It’s like a mini holiday dinner for your dog.

Ingredients:

• 1/2 lb lean ground turkey
• 1/4 cup finely chopped, unsweetened dried cranberries
• 1 egg
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (or oat flour for a healthier option)
• 1 tablespoon chopped parsley

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, use your hands to gently mix the ground turkey, cranberries, egg, breadcrumbs/oat flour, and parsley. Do not overmix.
2. Form the mixture into small, flat patties.
3. Cook the patties in a skillet over medium heat for 5-7 minutes per side, until the turkey is fully cooked through (no longer pink in the middle).
4. Drain on paper towels and let cool completely.

Pros & Cons

Verdict:

Perfect for a special occasion treat that feels more like a meal. Great for active dogs who need a little extra protein. This is a true holiday feast in latke form.

For the dog who loves a rich, meaty flavor, these beef and parsley patties are a guaranteed winner. Lean ground beef provides iron and protein, while parsley works double duty by adding vitamins and helping to combat doggy breath.

Ingredients:

• 1/2 lb lean ground beef (90/10 or leaner)
• 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh parsley
• 1 egg
• 1 grated carrot for extra veggies

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, combine the ground beef, parsley, egg, and grated carrot. Mix gently with your hands until just combined.
2. Form into small, thin patties. Thinner patties will cook faster and get crispier.
3. Cook in a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat for 4-5 minutes per side, or until browned and cooked through. No extra oil is needed as the beef will release its own fat.
4. Place the cooked patties on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess fat.
5. Cool completely before serving.

Pros & Cons

Verdict:

A fantastic choice for a hearty, savory treat. The added benefit of breath-freshening parsley makes it a win-win for both you and your pup!

Quinoa is a complete protein, making it an excellent, nutrient-dense ingredient for dog treats. Combined with finely diced veggies, these fritters are a powerhouse of nutrition and offer a unique, slightly nutty flavor.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup cooked and cooled quinoa
• 1/2 cup finely diced mixed veggies (carrots, peas, bell peppers)
• 1 egg, beaten
• 2 tablespoons of whole wheat flour (or a grain-free alternative)

Instructions:

1. In a medium bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, diced veggies, egg, and flour.
2. Stir until the mixture comes together. It should be thick enough to hold its shape.
3. Heat a little olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
4. Spoon mounds of the quinoa mixture into the pan and flatten them gently.
5. Cook for about 4-5 minutes per side, until they are golden brown and firm.
6. Let them cool on a wire rack. They have a wonderfully crispy exterior and a soft interior.

Pros & Cons

Verdict:

An excellent, well-rounded vegetarian option for any dog. It’s perfect for pet parents who want to provide a treat that’s packed with protein, fiber, and vitamins all in one.

Give your pup an antioxidant boost with these delightful blueberry latkes. Blueberries are considered a superfood for both humans and dogs, and their sweet-tart flavor pairs beautifully with wholesome oats.

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup rolled oats
• 1/4 cup fresh or frozen blueberries
• 1 egg
• 2 tablespoons of water or plain yogurt

Instructions:

1. In a blender, combine the rolled oats, blueberries, egg, and water/yogurt.
2. Blend until you have a smooth, purple-hued batter.
3. Lightly grease a pan with coconut oil and heat over medium-low heat.
4. Pour small, silver-dollar-sized circles of batter onto the pan.
5. Cook for 2 minutes per side, or until they bubble slightly and are cooked through.
6. Let these mini latkes cool completely before serving.

Pros & Cons

Verdict:

A fun, fruity, and incredibly healthy treat. These are perfect for health-conscious pet owners and dogs who enjoy the taste of berries. Serve them on a dark rug, just in case!

We’re finishing the list with a flavor combination that few dogs can resist: peanut butter and carrot. This recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, combining the sweetness of carrots with the savory richness of peanut butter.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup grated carrot, squeezed dry
• 1/4 cup xylitol-free, unsalted peanut butter
• 1 egg
• 2 tablespoons oat flour

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, mix the grated and dried carrot, peanut butter, and egg until well combined. The mixture will be thick and sticky.
2. Stir in the oat flour to help bind it all together.
3. With slightly damp hands, form the mixture into small, thin patties.
4. Bake at 375°F (190°C) on a parchment-lined baking sheet for 15-18 minutes, flipping once. They should be firm and golden on the outside. Baking is recommended to avoid burning the peanut butter.
5. Cool completely on a wire rack.

Pros & Cons

Verdict:

When in doubt, this is the recipe to try. It’s the perfect combination of healthy and indulgent, making it an ideal choice for even the fussiest of canine connoisseurs.

Cooking for your dog is a joy, but safety is always the top priority. Traditional latkes contain several ingredients that are toxic to dogs. When making your own festive treats, keep this guide in mind.

What to AVOID at All Costs

• Onions, Garlic, Chives: These are part of the allium family and are toxic to dogs. They can cause damage to red blood cells, leading to anemia. This includes onion and garlic powder.
• Xylitol: This artificial sweetener is extremely toxic to dogs and can cause a rapid drop in blood sugar and liver failure. It’s often found in sugar-free products like some peanut butters. Always check the label!
• Excessive Salt & Sugar: Your dog’s system isn’t designed to handle high levels of salt or sugar. Stick to the natural flavors of the ingredients.
• Unhealthy Fats & Oils: Deep-frying in vegetable or canola oil can lead to gastrointestinal upset (like pancreatitis). Stick to baking or pan-frying with a minimal amount of dog-safe oil.
• Certain Spices: Nutmeg and macadamia nuts are toxic. Stick to known dog-safe spices like cinnamon, ginger, parsley, and dill in moderation.

Dog-Approved Ingredients & Swaps

• Healthy Flours: Instead of white flour, opt for whole wheat (if no allergies), oat flour, chickpea flour, or coconut flour as binders.
• Good Binders: An egg is a great binder. For an egg-free version, you can use a ‘flax egg’ (1 tbsp ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tbsp water).
• Safe Cooking Oils: When you need a little oil for pan-frying, a teaspoon of coconut oil or olive oil is a great choice.
• Flavorful Toppings: Instead of sour cream or applesauce (which can be high in sugar), top the cooled latkes with a dollop of plain, unsweetened Greek yogurt or 100% pure pumpkin purée.

Can my dog eat just one of my human latkes?

It’s best to avoid it completely. The biggest danger is onion and garlic, which are present in almost every traditional latke recipe. Even a small amount can be harmful, and it’s not worth the risk to your pet’s health. Stick to a recipe made just for them!

How many of these latkes can my dog have?

Treats, even healthy homemade ones, should follow the 10% rule: they should not make up more than 10% of your dog’s daily caloric intake. For most of these recipes, one or two small latkes is a perfect serving size for a medium-sized dog. Adjust accordingly for smaller or larger breeds.

How should I store leftover dog latkes?

You can store the cooled latkes 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. You can reheat them in the oven for a few minutes to get them crispy again.

What are some safe toppings for my dog’s latkes?

While we enjoy sour cream and applesauce, there are better options for our pups. A small spoonful of plain, unsweetened Greek yogurt is a great probiotic-rich choice. You can also use a dollop of 100% pure canned pumpkin or unsweetened applesauce (check the ingredients to ensure no added sugar or xylitol).