13 Soft Homemade Dog Pretzels Without Salt

1. Classic Peanut Butter & Oat Pretzels

Let’s start with a flavor combination that dogs universally go wild for: peanut butter! This recipe combines creamy, dog-safe peanut butter with hearty oats for a chewy texture and a boost of protein and fiber. It’s a simple, no-fuss recipe perfect for first-time dog bakers.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups whole wheat flour (or oat flour for a wheat-free option)
• 1 cup rolled oats
• 1/2 cup natural, unsalted, xylitol-free peanut butter
• 1 cup warm water
• 1 large egg

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, mix the whole wheat flour and rolled oats together.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the peanut butter, warm water, and egg until smooth.
4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until a stiff dough forms. Knead it on a floured surface for a minute or two until it comes together.
5. Take small pieces of dough, roll them into thin ropes (about 6-8 inches long), and twist them into a classic pretzel shape.
6. Place the pretzels on the prepared baking sheet.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and firm. Let them cool completely before treating your pup.

Pros & Cons

Verdict:

This is the perfect starter recipe. It’s reliable, easy to make, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for nearly any dog. A fantastic choice for a weekend baking project!

2. Pumpkin Spice Delight Pretzels

Pumpkin is a superfood for dogs! It’s great for digestive health and packed with vitamins. This recipe adds a dash of dog-safe cinnamon for a warm, autumnal treat that smells as good as it tastes. Perfect for sensitive tummies.

Ingredients:

• 2 1/2 cups whole wheat flour
• 1/2 cup pumpkin purée (100% pure pumpkin, not pie filling)
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
• 2 tablespoons of water, if needed

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine the flour, pumpkin purée, eggs, and cinnamon.
3. Mix until the ingredients are well combined and form a workable dough. If it’s too dry, add a tablespoon of water at a time.
4. On a lightly floured surface, knead the dough for a few minutes.
5. Roll small pieces of dough into ropes and shape them into pretzels.
6. Place them on the baking sheet and bake for 25-30 minutes until they are firm and dry to the touch.
7. Cool completely before serving.

Pros & Cons

Verdict:

An excellent choice for dogs with sensitive stomachs or for owners looking to add some digestive support to their pup’s diet. The warm aroma makes them a seasonal favorite, but they’re great year-round.

3. Apple & Cinnamon Twists

Give your dog a taste of the orchard with these delightful apple and cinnamon pretzels. Unsweetened applesauce provides natural sweetness and moisture, making these treats soft and chewy. It’s like a little slice of apple pie, just for your pup!

Ingredients:

• 2 cups whole wheat flour
• 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
• 1 egg
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/4 cup water

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine all ingredients. Stir until a soft dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 3-4 minutes until it’s smooth.
4. Roll out the dough into ropes and twist into pretzel shapes. For a simpler version, you can just make simple ‘twists’.
5. Bake for 20 minutes, then flip them over and bake for another 10-15 minutes until lightly browned.
6. Let them cool down entirely. They will be soft on the inside!

Pros & Cons

Verdict:

Perfect for dogs who enjoy sweeter flavors. The soft texture makes them an excellent option for older dogs with sensitive teeth or for puppies who are still teething.

4. Cheesy Cheddar Bites

For the pup who prefers savory over sweet, these cheesy cheddar pretzels are a guaranteed hit. The sharp aroma of cheddar will have your dog’s nose twitching from the moment you start baking. They’re quick to make and disappear even quicker!

Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose or whole wheat flour
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1/3 cup olive oil or melted coconut oil
• 1 egg
• 1/3 cup water or milk

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, mix the flour and shredded cheese.
3. Add the oil, egg, and water/milk. Stir until a cohesive dough forms. It should be easy to handle.
4. Roll out small portions into thin ropes on a lightly floured surface and form your pretzel shapes.
5. Place on the baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes, until the edges are golden brown.
6. Cool on a wire rack before the taste test begins.

Pros & Cons

Verdict:

These are the ultimate high-value treat for training or special occasions. If your dog is a cheese fanatic, this recipe will make you their hero.

5. Sweet Potato & Parsley Knots

Sweet potatoes are another canine superfood, rich in beta-carotene and vitamins. We’ve paired them with parsley, which is known to help freshen your dog’s breath. These vibrant orange pretzels are as healthy as they are tasty!

Ingredients:

• 1 medium sweet potato, cooked and mashed (about 1 cup)
• 2 1/2 cups whole wheat flour
• 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh parsley
• 1 egg

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, mix the mashed sweet potato, flour, parsley, and egg until a firm dough forms.
3. Knead briefly on a floured surface. The dough should be smooth and orange.
4. Roll the dough into ropes. Instead of a full pretzel, try tying them into simple knots for a rustic look.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes until firm.
6. Cool completely. These will have a wonderfully soft and chewy texture.

Pros & Cons

Verdict:

A fantastic, nutrient-dense treat for health-conscious pet owners. The breath-freshening quality is a wonderful bonus that both you and your pup will appreciate!

6. Banana & Honey Puffs

This recipe is for the dogs with a serious sweet tooth! Using the natural sweetness of ripe bananas and a touch of honey, these pretzel puffs are soft, cake-like, and utterly delicious. Honey also has natural antibacterial properties.

Ingredients:

• 1 ripe banana, mashed
• 1 3/4 cups whole wheat flour
• 1 egg
• 1 tablespoon of honey
• 1/4 cup water

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a bowl, mash the banana well. Whisk in the egg, honey, and water.
3. Gradually add the flour and mix to form a very soft, slightly sticky dough.
4. This dough is too soft to roll. Instead, you can pipe it into pretzel shapes using a piping bag with a large round tip, or drop small spoonfuls onto a parchment-lined baking sheet.
5. Bake for about 15 minutes until they are puffed up and lightly golden.
6. Cool completely. They will have a very soft, bread-like texture.

Pros & Cons

Verdict:

Ideal for senior dogs, puppies, or any pup who prefers a very soft, cakey treat. The sweetness makes them feel extra special.

7. Grain-Free Coconut Flour Pretzels

For our furry friends with grain sensitivities or allergies, this recipe is a game-changer. Coconut flour is highly absorbent and high in fiber, creating a unique and delicious grain-free treat your dog will love.

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup coconut flour
• 1/4 cup natural, unsalted peanut butter
• 2 eggs
• 1/4 cup mashed banana or pumpkin purée
• 2-3 tablespoons of coconut oil, melted

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet.
2. In a bowl, whisk together the coconut flour, peanut butter, eggs, mashed banana/pumpkin, and melted coconut oil.
3. Coconut flour is very thirsty, so the dough will be thick. Let it sit for 5 minutes to absorb all the moisture.
4. This dough doesn’t roll like traditional flour. The best way to shape it is to roll it between your palms into ropes and gently form the pretzel shape on the baking sheet.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes until firm and lightly browned.
6. Cool completely. The texture will be dense and chewy.

Pros & Cons

Verdict:

This is the go-to recipe for any dog on a grain-free diet. It allows them to enjoy the fun of a pretzel treat without any of the ingredients that might upset their system.

8. Blueberry & Yogurt Swirls

Packed with antioxidants from blueberries and probiotics from yogurt, these pretzels are a powerhouse of goodness. The yogurt gives them a slight tang that many dogs find intriguing and delicious.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups whole wheat flour
• 1/2 cup fresh or frozen blueberries, mashed slightly
• 1/2 cup plain, unsweetened yogurt
• 1 egg

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, mix the flour, yogurt, and egg.
3. Gently fold in the mashed blueberries. Be careful not to overmix, or your dough will turn completely purple (unless you want that!). You’re aiming for swirls of color.
4. Knead the dough on a floured surface. It will be a beautiful speckled dough.
5. Roll into ropes, shape into pretzels, and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes.
7. Cool fully before serving.

Pros & Cons

Verdict:

A wonderfully healthy and unique treat. It’s perfect for owners who want to incorporate more fruits and probiotics into their dog’s diet in a fun way.

9. Carrot & Ginger Bones (Pretzel Shaped!)

Carrots provide beta-carotene, and ginger is known for its anti-inflammatory properties and ability to soothe an upset stomach. This recipe combines earthy sweetness with a tiny bit of spice for a unique flavor profile.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups whole wheat flour
• 1 cup finely grated carrot
• 1 egg
• 1/3 cup water
• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a bowl, combine the flour, grated carrot, egg, water, and ginger.
3. Mix until a stiff dough forms. Knead on a floured surface for a couple of minutes.
4. Roll into ropes and shape into pretzels or, for a fun twist, bone shapes!
5. Bake on a parchment-lined sheet for 25 minutes until hard on the outside but still soft inside.
6. Cool completely.

Pros & Cons

Verdict:

A great, low-calorie option for dogs who are watching their weight. The added digestive benefits of ginger make it a smart and tasty choice.

10. Beef Broth & Whole Wheat Savory Pretzels

For the dog that craves meaty flavors, these savory pretzels are the ultimate reward. Using unsalted beef broth instead of water infuses every bite with a rich, savory taste that will have your pup begging for more.

Ingredients:

• 2 1/2 cups whole wheat flour
• 1/2 cup rolled oats
• 1 egg
• 1 cup warm, low-sodium or salt-free beef broth
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour and oats.
3. In a separate bowl, beat the egg, then mix in the warm beef broth and olive oil.
4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry and mix until a dough forms.
5. Knead on a floured surface for 3-5 minutes.
6. Roll and shape into pretzels.
7. Bake for 30 minutes, until the pretzels are hard and dry. They will soften slightly as they cool.

Pros & Cons

Verdict:

The perfect recipe for picky eaters or dogs who turn their noses up at fruity or sweet treats. This is a hearty, meaty snack that feels like a real meal.

11. Salmon & Dill Delights

Want to give your dog’s coat a beautiful shine? This recipe is for you. Canned salmon is packed with Omega-3 fatty acids, which are fantastic for skin and coat health. Dill adds a fresh, herby note that pairs surprisingly well with fish.

Ingredients:

• 1 can (6 oz) of salmon, packed in water, drained
• 2 cups oat flour (or whole wheat)
• 1 egg
• 1 tablespoon fresh chopped dill (or 1 teaspoon dried)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a food processor, combine the drained salmon, oat flour, egg, and dill. Pulse until a thick dough forms. You can also do this by hand by flaking the salmon well first.
3. The dough will be oily and a bit sticky from the salmon. Flour your hands and surface well.
4. Roll into small ropes and shape into pretzels.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes.
6. Cool completely. The fishy aroma will drive your dog wild!

Pros & Cons

Verdict:

The ultimate treat for a healthy, glossy coat. It’s a fantastic alternative for dogs with common protein allergies and offers significant health benefits beyond just being a tasty snack.

12. Spinach & Kale Greenies

Sneak some healthy greens into your dog’s diet with these vibrant pretzel treats. Spinach and kale are loaded with vitamins and minerals. Blending them into the dough creates a fun green color and a health boost your dog won’t even notice.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup fresh spinach and kale, packed
• 1/2 cup water
• 2 1/2 cups whole wheat flour
• 1 egg
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions:

1. In a blender, combine the spinach, kale, and water. Blend until you have a smooth, bright green liquid.
2. In a large bowl, combine the flour, egg, and olive oil.
3. Pour in the green liquid and mix until you have a vibrant green dough.
4. Knead on a floured surface for a few minutes.
5. Roll and shape into pretzels.
6. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes.
7. Let cool completely.

Pros & Cons

Verdict:

A super-healthy, low-calorie treat for the health-conscious pet parent. If you’re looking to boost your dog’s vitamin intake, this is a fun and delicious way to do it.

13. Three-Ingredient Wonder Pretzels

No time? No problem! This recipe is the definition of simple. Using your dog’s favorite meat-flavored baby food, you can whip up a batch of soft, savory pretzels in a flash. It’s a brilliant hack for busy pet parents.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups whole wheat flour
• 2 jars (4 oz each) of meat-flavored baby food (like beef, chicken, or turkey – check for no onion or garlic powder)
• 1 egg (optional, for binding)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a bowl, combine the flour and the baby food. Add the egg if you’re using it.
3. Mix until a dough forms. It should come together quite easily.
4. If it’s too sticky, add a bit more flour. If too dry, a splash of water.
5. Roll into ropes, shape into pretzels, and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
6. Bake for 20-22 minutes.
7. Cool completely before serving.

Pros & Cons

Verdict:

The ultimate recipe for busy dog owners who still want to give their pets a homemade treat. It’s foolproof, quick, and uses a base flavor you already know your dog will probably like.

Your Guide to Baking the Perfect Dog Pretzels

Feeling inspired? That’s fantastic! Before you tie on your apron, let’s go over a few key things to ensure your baking adventure is a safe and successful one for both you and your pup.

Choosing the Right Flour

While many of our recipes use whole wheat flour, not all dogs can tolerate it. If your dog has a grain sensitivity, you have options! Oat flour (simply rolled oats blended into a fine powder), coconut flour, or chickpea flour are all excellent grain-free alternatives. Just remember that alternative flours absorb liquid differently, so you may need to adjust the wet ingredients in a recipe.

Safe & Unsafe Ingredients

The golden rule of dog baking is to know what’s safe. Always avoid these toxic ingredients:

• Xylitol: An artificial sweetener found in some peanut butters and yogurts. It is extremely toxic to dogs.
• Onions & Garlic: Both in fresh and powdered form, these are toxic.
• Chocolate & Grapes/Raisins: Never include these in your dog’s treats.
• Excess Salt & Sugar: A dog’s diet should be very low in sodium, and added sugars are unnecessary.

Stick to dog-safe ingredients like pure pumpkin, unsweetened applesauce, natural peanut butter (xylitol-free!), lean meats, and dog-friendly fruits and veggies.

Storage Tips for Homemade Treats

Because these soft pretzels are homemade and contain no preservatives, they won’t last as long as store-bought treats. Here’s how to keep them fresh:

• Countertop: In an airtight container, they’ll last for 3-5 days.
• Refrigerator: To extend their life, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 weeks. This is the best option for treats with meat, fish, or yogurt.
• Freezer: For long-term storage, you can freeze the pretzels for up to 3 months. Just thaw them out before serving!

Frequently Asked Questions

Have a few more questions? We’ve got answers to some of the most common queries about baking for our four-legged friends.

Q: Can I use all-purpose white flour instead of whole wheat?

A: Yes, you can. All-purpose flour is safe for dogs in moderation, but it lacks the nutritional benefits of whole wheat flour, like higher fiber and protein content. If you have whole wheat, it’s the healthier choice, but white flour will work in a pinch.

Q: My dough is too sticky or too dry. What should I do?

A: Dough consistency can vary based on humidity, flour type, and even the size of your eggs! If your dough is too sticky, add flour one tablespoon at a time until it’s manageable. If it’s too dry and crumbly, add water or broth one tablespoon at a time until it comes together.

Q: How many of these treats can I give my dog per day?

A: Remember that treats should only make up about 10% of your dog’s daily caloric intake. These are healthy, but they are still treats! For most dogs, one or two pretzels a day is a perfectly reasonable amount, depending on their size and activity level. Always consult with your vet if you have concerns about your dog’s diet.

Q: Can I add an egg wash to make them shiny?

A: Absolutely! Whisking an egg and brushing it lightly over the pretzels before baking will give them a lovely golden-brown, shiny finish, just like human pretzels. It’s perfectly safe for your pup and adds a little extra protein.