13 Stinky Homemade Sardine Dog Treats Your Dog Will Go Crazy For

This is the quintessential sardine treat. It’s simple, crunchy, and relies on pantry staples you probably already have. The oats provide healthy fiber, making it a well-rounded and satisfying snack for your pup.

Ingredients:

• 1 can (3.75 oz) sardines in water, undrained
• 1 cup whole wheat flour (or oat flour for a gluten-free option)
• 1/2 cup rolled oats
• 1 egg
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (for fresh breath!)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, mash the sardines with their water using a fork until they are broken up.
3. Add the flour, oats, egg, and parsley to the bowl. Mix until a sticky dough forms.
4. Lightly flour your work surface and roll out the dough to about 1/4-inch thickness.
5. Use a small cookie cutter (fish shapes are always a hit!) to cut out the treats and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and firm.
7. Let cool completely on a wire rack before serving.

Pros & Cons

Verdict:

Perfect for the first-time sardine treat baker. These are a crowd-pleaser and a great all-around crunchy biscuit for most dogs.

Don’t want to turn on the oven? No problem! These no-bake bites are incredibly easy to whip up and are fantastic for dogs with sensitive stomachs, thanks to the soothing properties of pumpkin.

Ingredients:

• 1 can (3.75 oz) sardines in water, drained
• 1/2 cup plain pumpkin puree (not pie filling)
• 1/4 cup coconut flour
• 2 tablespoons ground flaxseed

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, mash the drained sardines thoroughly.
2. Add the pumpkin puree, coconut flour, and ground flaxseed. Mix well until everything is combined into a thick, moldable paste.
3. Roll the mixture into small, bite-sized balls (about 1/2-inch in diameter).
4. Place the balls on a parchment-lined plate or tray.
5. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour to firm up.

Pros & Cons

Verdict:

An excellent choice for dogs with tummy troubles or for pet parents who want a super-fast, healthy treat without the fishy baking smell.

For our furry friends with grain allergies or sensitivities, this recipe is a game-changer. Coconut flour is a fantastic grain-free alternative that’s high in fiber and protein, and it pairs surprisingly well with the savory flavor of sardines.

Ingredients:

• 1 can (3.75 oz) sardines in water, undrained
• 1/2 cup coconut flour
• 2 eggs
• 1 tablespoon coconut oil, melted

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a food processor, blend the sardines (with water), eggs, and melted coconut oil until smooth.
3. Add the coconut flour and pulse until a thick dough forms. Coconut flour is very absorbent, so the dough will be dense.
4. Roll the dough between two pieces of parchment paper to about 1/4-inch thickness.
5. Cut into desired shapes and place on the baking sheet.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes, until the edges are nicely browned.
7. Let cool completely. They will get crunchier as they cool.

Pros & Cons

Verdict:

The ultimate treat for dogs on a grain-free diet. These are packed with healthy fats and are sure to be a hit.

Fish and cheese? It might sound odd to us, but for a dog’s palate, it’s a match made in heaven. A little bit of parmesan cheese adds a salty, savory kick that makes these crackers utterly irresistible.

Ingredients:

• 1 can (3.75 oz) sardines in water, drained
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup shredded parmesan cheese
• 1 egg
• 2-3 tablespoons of water, as needed

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a food processor, combine the drained sardines, flour, parmesan, and egg. Pulse until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Slowly add water, one tablespoon at a time, and pulse until a dough ball forms.
4. Roll the dough out very thin (about 1/8-inch) on a floured surface.
5. Use a pizza cutter or knife to score the dough into small, cracker-sized squares. You can poke each square with a fork for a classic cracker look.
6. Transfer the dough to a parchment-lined baking sheet.
7. Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until crispy and golden.
8. Break apart the crackers once cooled.

Pros & Cons

Verdict:

For the dog with a gourmet palate! These are fantastic high-value rewards or can be crumbled over food to entice picky eaters.

Beat the heat with these refreshing frozen treats! The combination of fishy sardines and sweet, earthy sweet potato creates a unique and delicious pupsicle that’s perfect for a hot summer day.

Ingredients:

• 1 can (3.75 oz) sardines in water, undrained
• 1/2 cup cooked and mashed sweet potato
• 1/4 cup plain yogurt or kefir
• A splash of water, if needed to blend

Instructions:

1. Combine the sardines (with water), mashed sweet potato, and yogurt in a blender.
2. Blend until completely smooth. If the mixture is too thick, add a small amount of water to help it blend.
3. Pour the mixture into silicone molds or an ice cube tray. You can stick a dog-safe chew (like a carrot stick or dental stick) in the middle to act as a handle.
4. Freeze for at least 4 hours, or until solid.

Pros & Cons

Verdict:

The perfect treat for a day at the park or after a long walk in the sun. A healthy, hydrating, and delicious way to help your dog cool off.

If your dog loves chewy treats, this homemade jerky is a must-try. It’s incredibly simple and results in a tough, chewy strip that’s great for their teeth and provides long-lasting enjoyment.

Ingredients:

• 2 cans (3.75 oz each) sardines in water, drained
• 1 egg
• 1/2 cup oat flour

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to its lowest possible setting, usually around 170-200°F (75-95°C).
2. In a blender, combine the drained sardines, egg, and oat flour. Blend into a thick, smooth paste.
3. Spread the paste thinly and evenly onto a silicone baking mat or a parchment-lined baking sheet. Aim for a layer about 1/8-inch thick.
4. Bake for 2-3 hours, or until the jerky is dry and leathery. You can flip it halfway through for more even drying. The time will vary greatly depending on your oven’s temperature and the thickness of the paste.
5. Let it cool completely, then cut or break it into strips.

Pros & Cons

Verdict:

Ideal for power chewers and dogs who appreciate a good, long-lasting snack. A great project for a lazy weekend afternoon.

Who says muffins are just for humans? These savory pup-muffins are packed with superfoods. Kale provides vitamins K and C, while blueberries offer a boost of antioxidants, balancing the rich fishiness of the sardines.

Ingredients:

• 1 can (3.75 oz) sardines in water, undrained
• 1 cup whole wheat flour
• 1/2 cup finely chopped kale
• 1/4 cup fresh or frozen blueberries
• 1 egg
• 1/4 cup plain yogurt
• 1 teaspoon baking powder

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a mini muffin tin.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour and baking powder.
3. In a separate bowl, mash the sardines with their water. Whisk in the egg and yogurt.
4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until just combined.
5. Gently fold in the chopped kale and blueberries.
6. Spoon the batter into the mini muffin tin, filling each cup about 3/4 full.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Let cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Pros & Cons

Verdict:

A ‘superfood’ treat for the health-conscious pet owner. These soft muffins are especially good for older dogs or those with dental issues.

Don’t throw away those eggshells! When cleaned and ground into a fine powder, they are an excellent source of calcium. This recipe combines that calcium boost with the Omega-3s from sardines for a bone-supporting super treat.

Ingredients:

• 1 can (3.75 oz) sardines in water, undrained
• 1 1/2 cups oat flour
• 1 egg
• 1 teaspoon ground eggshell powder (from 2-3 clean, dry eggshells)

Instructions:

1. To make eggshell powder: Thoroughly wash and dry eggshells. Bake them at 250°F (120°C) for 10 minutes to kill any bacteria. Let cool, then grind into a very fine powder using a coffee grinder or blender.
2. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
3. In a bowl, mash the sardines and their water. Mix in the egg, oat flour, and ground eggshell powder until a dough forms.
4. Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to 1/4-inch thickness.
5. Cut into shapes and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes until firm and lightly browned.
7. Cool completely.

Pros & Cons

Verdict:

A fantastic, eco-friendly treat for large breeds, growing puppies, or any dog that could use an extra boost of calcium for strong bones and teeth.

When you’re in a training session, you need a treat that’s small, soft, and super high-value. These little bites fit the bill perfectly. They’re easy to chew quickly, so you can keep the training momentum going, and the addition of carrot adds a touch of natural sweetness and Vitamin A.

Ingredients:

• 1 can (3.75 oz) sardines in water, drained
• 1/2 cup finely grated carrot
• 1 egg
• 1 cup brown rice flour

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a bowl, mash the drained sardines. Stir in the grated carrot and egg until well combined.
3. Gradually add the brown rice flour and mix to form a soft, slightly sticky dough.
4. Spread the dough into a thin layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
5. Bake for 15 minutes.
6. Remove from the oven and, while still warm, use a pizza cutter to score the dough into tiny, training-sized squares.
7. Return to the oven for another 5-10 minutes, or until cooked through but still soft.
8. Let cool completely and then break apart the squares.

Pros & Cons

Verdict:

The ultimate reward for your next training session. Their potent smell will keep your dog’s attention focused squarely on you!

If you have a dehydrator, this is one of the simplest and most potent treats you can make. It’s essentially pure sardine goodness, with a little parsley to help keep that fishy breath in check. The dehydrating process preserves the nutrients while creating a chewy, irresistible snack.

Ingredients:

• 2 cans (3.75 oz each) sardines in water, drained
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped

Instructions:

1. In a small food processor, blend the drained sardines and parsley into a thick paste.
2. Spread the paste onto dehydrator trays lined with fruit leather sheets or parchment paper. Aim for a thin, even layer.
3. Dehydrate at 145°F (63°C) for 4-6 hours, or until the strips are dry and leathery. They should be pliable but not sticky.
4. Let cool completely before cutting into strips with scissors or a pizza cutter.

Pros & Cons

Verdict:

For the serious DIY pet parent with a dehydrator. These are pure, high-value treats that are perfect for packing on hikes or long trips.

Looking for a novel protein and an ancient grain? Quinoa is a complete protein and naturally gluten-free, making these puffs a unique and nutritious option. They bake up light and have a satisfyingly crisp texture.

Ingredients:

• 1 can (3.75 oz) sardines in water, undrained
• 1 cup cooked quinoa, cooled
• 1 egg
• 1/2 cup tapioca flour

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a food processor, combine the sardines, cooked quinoa, and egg. Blend until mostly smooth.
3. Add the tapioca flour and pulse until a sticky dough forms.
4. Drop small spoonfuls of the dough onto a parchment-lined baking sheet.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes, until the puffs are firm and lightly golden on the bottom.
6. Turn off the oven and let the puffs cool inside the oven with the door ajar to make them extra crispy.

Pros & Cons

Verdict:

A great, modern twist on the classic dog biscuit for dogs with common grain sensitivities or for owners looking to add dietary variety.

Chickpea (or garbanzo bean) flour is another fantastic gluten-free option that’s high in protein and fiber. It lends a subtle, nutty flavor that complements the sardines well, creating a sturdy and satisfying biscuit.

Ingredients:

• 1 can (3.75 oz) sardines in water, undrained
• 1 1/4 cups chickpea flour
• 1 tablespoon ground flaxseed
• 3-4 tablespoons water

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a bowl, mash the sardines with their water.
3. Stir in the chickpea flour and ground flaxseed. The mixture will be crumbly.
4. Add water, one tablespoon at a time, until a workable dough forms.
5. Roll out the dough to 1/4-inch thickness on a surface dusted with a little extra chickpea flour.
6. Cut out shapes and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes, until the treats are hard and dry.
8. Cool completely.

Pros & Cons

Verdict:

A robust, protein-packed, gluten-free biscuit for active dogs who need a substantial snack to fuel their adventures.

Give your dog’s joints some love with this powerful treat. Turmeric is a natural anti-inflammatory, and when combined with the Omega-3s from sardines, it creates a treat that’s not only delicious but also beneficial for active or aging dogs.

Ingredients:

• 1 can (3.75 oz) sardines in water, undrained
• 1 1/2 cups whole wheat flour
• 1 egg
• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
• A pinch of black pepper (helps with turmeric absorption)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a bowl, mash the sardines and their water.
3. Mix in the egg, turmeric, and black pepper.
4. Gradually stir in the flour to form a stiff dough.
5. Roll out the dough to 1/4-inch thickness and cut into bone shapes.
6. Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes.
7. Let cool completely for a crunchy finish.

Pros & Cons

Verdict:

A ‘treat with a purpose’ for dogs who could benefit from joint support, such as seniors, large breeds, or canine athletes.

When you’re at the grocery store, you’ll see a lot of different sardine options. Not all of them are created equal when it comes to your dog’s health. Here’s a quick guide to help you pick the perfect can for your homemade treats.

Look for Sardines Packed in Water

This is the most important rule. Always choose sardines that are packed in water. Varieties packed in oil (even olive oil) add a lot of unnecessary fat and calories to your dog’s diet. Even worse are those packed in mustard, tomato, or other sauces, which can contain ingredients like onions, garlic, and high levels of salt or sugar that are harmful to dogs.

Check the Sodium Content

Go for the ‘No Salt Added’ or ‘Low Sodium’ options whenever possible. While a little salt is okay, dogs don’t need the high levels found in many canned foods. Too much sodium can lead to health issues over time. If you can only find regular sardines, giving the fish a quick rinse under cool water before using them can help remove some of the excess surface salt.

Bones-In is a Bonus!

Don’t be afraid of the tiny bones in sardines! They are soft, fully cooked, and completely digestible. In fact, they are a fantastic natural source of calcium, which is essential for your dog’s bone health. So, sardines packed with skin and bones are actually more nutritious than their boneless, skinless counterparts.

How often can I give my dog sardine treats?

Sardine treats are rich and nutrient-dense, so they should be given in moderation. Think of them as a special, high-value reward rather than a daily staple. For most dogs, a few treats 2-3 times a week is a great supplemental amount that provides health benefits without overdoing it on the calories or fat.

How should I store these homemade treats?

Storage depends on the recipe. Crunchy, well-baked treats (like the Classic Cookies or Jerky) can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for about a week. Softer treats or those with higher moisture content (like the No-Bake Bites or Muffins) should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-5 days. For longer storage, almost all of these treats freeze beautifully for up to 3 months.

Can puppies eat sardine treats?

Yes, puppies can absolutely enjoy the benefits of sardines! The Omega-3 fatty acids are especially good for their developing brains and bodies. Just be sure to introduce any new food slowly and in small amounts to make sure it agrees with their delicate digestive systems. Break larger treats into puppy-sized pieces to prevent any choking hazards.

My dog is a picky eater. Will they like these?

There’s a very high chance they will! The strong, fishy aroma of sardines is incredibly enticing to most dogs, even picky ones. It taps into their natural instincts. We recommend starting with a recipe that includes another ingredient you know your dog loves, like the Cheesy Sardine Crackers or the Sardine & Sweet Potato Pupsicles.