13 Soft Homemade Pup-Peroni Style Sticks (No Preservatives)

You can’t go wrong with a classic! This recipe is the quintessential homemade Pup-Peroni. It combines savory ground beef with hearty oats for a texture that’s perfectly soft and chewy. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser and a fantastic starting point for your treat-making journey.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb lean ground beef
• 1 cup oat flour (or rolled oats blended into a powder)
• 1 large egg
• 1 tablespoon molasses (unsulphured)
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (ensure it’s garlic powder, not salt, and used in moderation)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, oat flour, egg, molasses, and garlic powder. Mix thoroughly with your hands until it forms a consistent, sticky dough.
3. You can either roll the dough out between two sheets of parchment paper to about 1/4-inch thickness and cut it into strips, or use a jerky gun/piping bag to form long sticks directly onto the baking sheet.
4. Bake for 30-40 minutes. For a chewier texture, turn off the oven and let them sit inside with the door cracked for another hour to dehydrate slightly.
5. Let cool completely before serving. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Pros & Cons

Verdict:

This is the perfect recipe for first-time treat makers. It’s straightforward, uses common pantry staples, and results in a treat that will make your dog your biggest fan.

Gentle on the tummy and packed with vitamins, this chicken and sweet potato recipe is both delicious and nutritious. The natural sweetness of the potato pairs wonderfully with the savory chicken, creating a vibrant orange-hued treat that’s as pleasing to the eye as it is to your pup’s palate.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground chicken
• 1 cup cooked and mashed sweet potato
• 1/2 cup whole wheat flour (or coconut flour for a grain-free option)
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, mashed sweet potato, flour, and parsley. Mix until well incorporated. The mixture will be soft.
3. Transfer the mixture to a piping bag with a wide tip or a sturdy zip-top bag with a corner snipped off.
4. Pipe 4-5 inch long sticks onto the prepared baking sheet.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the sticks are firm to the touch.
6. Allow them to cool completely. They will firm up more as they cool. Store in the fridge.

Pros & Cons

Verdict:

An excellent choice for pet parents looking for a healthier, lower-fat treat, especially for dogs who may have digestive sensitivities. The added parsley helps freshen that doggy breath, too!

Bring the festive flavors of Thanksgiving to your dog’s treat jar! This recipe combines lean ground turkey with the tartness of cranberries, creating a holiday-inspired snack that’s great year-round. Cranberries are also known for supporting urinary tract health, which is a fantastic bonus.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground turkey
• 1/2 cup dried cranberries, finely chopped
• 1 cup almond flour
• 1 egg
• 1 teaspoon dried sage

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. In a bowl, mix all ingredients together until a firm dough forms. If it’s too sticky, add a little more almond flour.
3. Roll the dough out to 1/4-inch thickness and cut into sticks.
4. Place the sticks on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
5. Bake for 35-45 minutes, until cooked through and slightly browned.
6. Cool completely before storing in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Pros & Cons

Verdict:

Perfect for the discerning pup with a sophisticated palate. It’s a great grain-free option that provides a unique flavor profile and added health perks.

Want to give your dog’s coat an extra dose of shine? This recipe is your answer. Packed with Omega-3 fatty acids from salmon, these treats are fantastic for skin and coat health. The dill adds a fresh, aromatic touch that helps balance the fishy flavor.

Ingredients:

• 1 (15 oz) can of salmon, drained (boneless and skinless)
• 1 1/2 cups oat flour
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a food processor, combine the drained salmon, oat flour, eggs, and dill. Pulse until a thick, uniform dough forms.
3. Roll the dough between parchment paper and cut into thin strips, or use a jerky gun.
4. Arrange on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes.
5. Let them cool. Your house might smell a bit fishy, but your dog will thank you! Store in the fridge.

Pros & Cons

Verdict:

Ideal for dogs who need a little boost for their skin and coat health, especially breeds prone to dryness like German Shepherds or Bulldogs. It’s a functional treat that tastes great (to them!).

A classic pairing that’s not just for humans! Lamb is a novel protein for many dogs, making it a great choice for those with allergies to more common meats like chicken or beef. The fresh mint adds a delightful aroma and can help with digestion and breath.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground lamb
• 1 cup brown rice flour
• 1 egg
• 2 tablespoons fresh mint, finely chopped

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. Combine all ingredients in a bowl and mix until a cohesive dough is formed.
3. Roll out the dough to your desired thickness (about 1/4 inch is good) and slice into sticks.
4. Bake on a parchment-lined sheet for 30-35 minutes.
5. Cool completely before treating your pup. Keep refrigerated.

Pros & Cons

Verdict:

This is a fantastic gourmet option for dogs with food sensitivities or for owners who simply want to spoil their furry friend with something a little different and special.

Who says a Pup-Peroni style treat has to have meat? This vegetarian version is rich, chewy, and packed with a flavor that drives most dogs absolutely bonkers: peanut butter! It’s a wonderful option for dogs with meat protein allergies or for when you’re out of ground meat.

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 cups whole wheat flour
• 1/2 cup rolled oats
• 1/2 cup natural peanut butter (xylitol-free!)
• 1/4 cup water or more as needed
• 2 tablespoons molasses

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a bowl, mix the flour and oats. In a separate bowl, whisk together the peanut butter, water, and molasses until smooth.
3. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix to form a stiff dough. Add more water, one teaspoon at a time, if it’s too crumbly.
4. Roll the dough into thin ropes and cut them into stick lengths.
5. Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes. They will be firm on the outside but still soft inside.
6. Cool completely. These are a bit drier, so they last well.

Pros & Cons

Verdict:

A must-try for peanut butter-loving pooches and a lifesaver for owners of dogs with multiple meat sensitivities. It’s a simple, safe, and satisfying snack.

Ready for a truly fancy treat? Duck is another excellent novel protein, rich in flavor and iron. The subtle hint of orange zest (not the juice, which can be too acidic) cuts through the richness of the duck and adds a surprising, delightful aroma.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground duck
• 1 cup buckwheat flour
• 1 egg
• 1 teaspoon orange zest

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine the ground duck, buckwheat flour, egg, and orange zest. Mix well.
3. The dough will be pliable. Roll it out and cut it into sticks, or press it into silicone molds shaped like sticks.
4. Bake for 30-40 minutes on a parchment-lined sheet.
5. Let cool fully. Store these rich treats in the refrigerator.

Pros & Cons

Verdict:

For the pet parent who loves to cook and wants to provide their dog with a truly gourmet, restaurant-worthy treat. It’s especially good for dogs on elimination diets needing a novel protein.

This recipe is a powerhouse of lean protein and antioxidants. Venison is an incredibly lean, novel protein, making it ideal for active dogs or those needing to watch their weight. Blueberries are a well-known superfood, adding a touch of sweetness and a burst of vitamins.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground venison
• 1/2 cup coconut flour
• 1/2 cup fresh or frozen blueberries, lightly mashed
• 1 egg

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. Gently fold together the ground venison, coconut flour, mashed blueberries, and egg. Be careful not to overmix.
3. Coconut flour is very absorbent, so the dough should be easy to handle. Roll it out and slice into sticks.
4. Bake on a parchment-lined sheet for 40-50 minutes, until firm and cooked through.
5. Cool completely. Due to the fruit, refrigeration is a must.

Pros & Cons

Verdict:

The perfect treat for the athletic, health-conscious canine. It’s grain-free, low-fat, and packed with superfoods, making it a guilt-free indulgence for your active companion.

The classic combination of pork and apple is a sweet and savory delight that dogs find irresistible. Using unsweetened applesauce makes this recipe incredibly simple and adds moisture and fiber. It’s a hearty, comforting treat perfect for a lazy afternoon.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground pork
• 1 cup whole wheat flour
• 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Mix all ingredients in a bowl until thoroughly combined.
3. The dough will be soft. Use a piping bag or a spoon to form stick shapes on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
4. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the outsides are golden and firm.
5. Cool completely and store in the fridge.

Pros & Cons

Verdict:

A wonderful comfort-food treat for dogs who love a hint of sweetness with their savory snack. The applesauce makes for an extra soft, chewy texture that senior dogs will appreciate.

For the dog who loves intense, savory flavors, these beef liver treats are the ultimate high-value reward. Liver is incredibly nutrient-dense, packed with vitamins A, D, and B. A small amount of garlic powder adds a pungent kick that dogs love. (Note: In very large quantities, garlic can be toxic to dogs, but the tiny, controlled amount in a recipe like this is widely considered safe and even beneficial.)

Ingredients:

• 1 lb beef liver, pureed
• 1 1/2 cups oat flour
• 1 egg
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. If you didn’t buy it pureed, puree the beef liver in a food processor until smooth.
3. In a bowl, combine the pureed liver, oat flour, egg, and garlic powder. Mix until a very thick, paste-like dough forms.
4. Spread the mixture evenly onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, about 1/4-inch thick.
5. Bake for 15 minutes, then remove from the oven and use a pizza cutter to score the dough into stick shapes.
6. Return to the oven and bake for another 20-25 minutes, until firm.
7. Break apart the sticks once cooled. Store in the fridge or freezer.

Pros & Cons

Verdict:

These are the jackpot of training treats. Their strong smell and rich flavor can capture the attention of even the most distracted dog, making them perfect for working on new skills or recall.

Get ready for another Omega-3 super-treat! Canned sardines are an inexpensive and incredibly healthy source of fatty acids, which are great for joints, brain function, and coat health. Ground flaxseed adds even more Omega-3s and fiber to the mix.

Ingredients:

• 2 (4 oz) cans of sardines packed in water, undrained
• 1 cup whole wheat flour
• 1/2 cup ground flaxseed
• 1 egg

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a food processor or with a fork, mash the sardines (with their water) until they form a paste.
3. Add the flour, ground flaxseed, and egg, and mix until a sticky dough comes together.
4. Roll out and cut into sticks, or pipe onto a parchment-lined baking sheet.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes until firm and dry to the touch.
6. Cool completely. Yes, your kitchen will smell fishy again! Store in the fridge.

Pros & Cons

Verdict:

An amazing functional treat for senior dogs who need joint support or for any dog whose owner wants to boost their brain and body health. It’s a stinky but incredibly beneficial snack.

This meat-free recipe is a go-to for tummy troubles. Pumpkin is famous for its ability to aid digestion (for both constipation and diarrhea!), and ginger is a natural anti-nausea remedy. It’s a soothing, gentle treat that’s still deliciously chewy.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup pumpkin puree (100% pure pumpkin, not pie filling)
• 1 3/4 cups whole wheat flour
• 1 egg
• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a bowl, mix the pumpkin puree, egg, and ginger. Gradually add the flour until a stiff dough forms.
3. Roll the dough out on a lightly floured surface to 1/4-inch thickness and cut into sticks.
4. Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 30-35 minutes.
5. Cool completely. These store very well due to the low fat content.

Pros & Cons

Verdict:

A fantastic treat to have on hand for dogs with sensitive stomachs or occasional digestive upset. It’s a healthy, functional snack that also tastes great.

We’re finishing the list with pure indulgence! While not the absolute healthiest, this recipe is a guaranteed hit for a special occasion. The combination of real bacon and sharp cheddar cheese creates a savory, smoky, and utterly irresistible treat. Everything in moderation, right?

Ingredients:

• 1 lb lean ground beef or turkey
• 4 strips of bacon, cooked and crumbled
• 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 cup oat flour
• 1 egg

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine the ground meat, crumbled bacon, cheese, oat flour, and egg. Use your hands to mix everything together thoroughly.
3. Roll the mixture out and cut into sticks. This dough is very easy to work with.
4. Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
5. Bake for 35-45 minutes. The smell will be incredible!
6. Let cool completely and store in the fridge. These are very rich, so serve as a special treat.

Pros & Cons

Verdict:

This is the ultimate ‘special occasion’ treat. When you want to see your dog’s eyes light up with pure joy, this is the recipe to make. Perfect for celebrating a gotcha-day, a birthday, or just being an extra good boy or girl.

Making your own Pup-Peroni style treats is fun and rewarding, but it helps to know the basics. Think of this as your cheat sheet for creating the perfect, healthy snacks for your furry best friend.

Choosing Your Protein

The base of most of these treats is a ground meat. You can use almost anything your dog enjoys and tolerates well. Lean beef, chicken, and turkey are common choices. For dogs with allergies, consider novel proteins like lamb, duck, or venison. For a health boost, fatty fish like salmon or sardines are fantastic.

Picking a Binder (Flour)

You need something to hold the meat together and create that chewy texture. There are many options:

• Whole Wheat Flour: A common, inexpensive choice. Avoid if your dog has a wheat allergy.
• Oat Flour: Easily made by blending rolled oats, it’s a gentle, high-fiber option.
• Grain-Free Flours: For sensitive dogs, try coconut flour, almond flour, or buckwheat flour. Note that these have different absorbency levels, so you may need to adjust liquid amounts.

Adding Safe & Healthy Flavors

This is where you can get creative! Many human foods are safe and beneficial for dogs:

• Fruits & Veggies: Pumpkin puree, mashed sweet potato, blueberries, and chopped cranberries add vitamins and fiber.
• Herbs: Parsley and mint are great for breath, while sage and dill add interesting flavors.
• Spices: Cinnamon and ginger are great in moderation and offer health benefits.
• A Note on Garlic: While large amounts of garlic are toxic, a very small amount of garlic powder (NOT garlic salt) is considered safe by many holistic vets and adds a flavor dogs love. When in doubt, leave it out or consult your vet.

Storage is Key

Because these treats contain no preservatives, they must be stored properly. Let them cool completely before putting them away to prevent condensation. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. For longer storage, they freeze beautifully! Just lay them flat on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer them to a freezer bag. They’ll last for several months in the freezer.

How long do these homemade treats last?

Since they don’t have any chemical preservatives, their shelf life is shorter than store-bought treats. In an airtight container in the refrigerator, they should last for about 5-7 days. For longer storage, freezing is the best option. They can last for 2-3 months in the freezer without losing their flavor or texture.

Can I substitute different flours in the recipes?

Absolutely! If your dog has a grain allergy, you can easily swap whole wheat or oat flour for a grain-free alternative like coconut, almond, or chickpea flour. However, be aware that grain-free flours absorb liquid differently. You may need to adjust the amount of flour or add a little extra moisture (like water or an extra egg) to get the right dough consistency. Start with a little less flour than the recipe calls for and add more as needed.

Are these soft treats safe for puppies or senior dogs?

Yes, one of the best things about these homemade treats is their soft, chewy texture, which makes them perfect for dogs at both ends of the age spectrum. Puppies who are teething and senior dogs with sensitive teeth or missing teeth can easily enjoy these sticks without any trouble. Just be sure to introduce any new ingredients slowly to a puppy’s diet, and choose recipes with easily digestible ingredients (like chicken and sweet potato) for seniors.

My dog has allergies. Which recipe is best?

The beauty of homemade is that you have full control! If your dog is allergic to common proteins like chicken or beef, try one of the ‘novel protein’ recipes like the Lamb & Mint, Duck & Orange, or Venison & Blueberry sticks. If your dog has multiple meat allergies or is on a vegetarian diet, the Peanut Butter & Molasses or Pumpkin & Ginger recipes are fantastic meat-free options.