13 Savory Arugula and Cheddar Dog Biscuits

This is the foundational recipe, the one that started it all. It’s a no-fuss, straightforward approach to creating delicious, crunchy biscuits that are packed with flavor. Using whole wheat flour as a base, it provides a hearty crunch that helps clean teeth. It’s the perfect recipe to try if you’re new to the world of homemade dog treats.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups whole wheat flour
• 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese (low-sodium)
• 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh arugula
• 1 egg
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1/3 to 1/2 cup water

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the whole wheat flour, shredded cheddar, and chopped arugula.
3. In a separate, smaller bowl, beat the egg and then mix in the olive oil.
4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Mix until a crumbly dough forms.
5. Slowly add water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough comes together and you can form a ball.
6. On a lightly floured surface, roll the dough out to about 1/4-inch thickness.
7. Use your favorite cookie cutters (bone shapes are always a hit!) to cut out the biscuits and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown. For a crunchier treat, turn off the oven and let the biscuits cool inside.

Pros & Cons

Verdict:

This is the go-to recipe for any pet parent wanting to dip their toes into homemade treat-making. It’s simple, reliable, and dog-approved!

For our furry friends with sensitive tummies or grain allergies, this recipe is a lifesaver. By swapping out traditional flour for a blend of coconut and almond flour, we create a treat that’s gentle on the digestive system without sacrificing any of that cheesy, peppery flavor. These biscuits have a slightly softer, denser texture that many dogs love.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup almond flour
• 1/2 cup coconut flour
• 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup finely chopped arugula
• 2 eggs
• 3 tablespoons coconut oil, melted
• 2-3 tablespoons water, as needed

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine the almond flour, coconut flour, cheese, and arugula.
3. In another bowl, whisk the eggs and melted coconut oil together.
4. Add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients and stir until combined. The dough will be thick.
5. Add water, one tablespoon at a time, until the dough is workable but not sticky.
6. Roll the dough between two sheets of parchment paper to 1/4-inch thickness.
7. Cut into desired shapes and place on the baking sheet.
8. Bake for 15-20 minutes, until firm and lightly browned on the bottom.

Pros & Cons

Verdict:

An excellent choice for health-conscious pet owners or those whose dogs need a grain-free diet. A guilt-free treat you can feel great about giving.

Want to sneak some extra fiber and vitamins into your pup’s diet? This recipe is the answer! Rolled oats provide slow-release energy and fiber, while a bit of unsweetened applesauce adds natural sweetness and moisture. The combination of apple, cheddar, and arugula is surprisingly delicious and creates a wonderfully textured, hearty biscuit.

Ingredients:

• 1.5 cups rolled oats, blended into a flour
• 1 cup whole wheat flour
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped arugula
• 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
• 1 egg
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. If you don’t have oat flour, simply blend 1.5 cups of old-fashioned rolled oats in a blender until fine.
3. In a large bowl, mix the oat flour, whole wheat flour, cheese, and arugula.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the applesauce, egg, and olive oil.
5. Combine the wet and dry ingredients, mixing until a stiff dough forms.
6. Roll out on a floured surface to 1/4-inch thickness, cut into shapes, and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes, until hard and golden.

Pros & Cons

Verdict:

Ideal for active dogs who need sustained energy or any pup who could benefit from a little extra fiber in their diet. A wholesome, rustic treat.

Pumpkin is a superfood for dogs, known for its ability to aid digestion and soothe upset stomachs. This recipe combines the earthy flavor of pumpkin puree with our signature arugula and cheddar. The result is a slightly softer, vibrant orange-hued biscuit that’s as healthy as it is tasty. These are perfect for fall or any time your pup’s tummy needs a little extra TLC.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups whole wheat flour
• 1/2 cup pumpkin puree (100% pure pumpkin, not pie filling)
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped arugula
• 1 egg
• 1 tablespoon molasses (optional, for color and flavor)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine the flour, cheese, and arugula.
3. In a medium bowl, whisk the pumpkin puree and egg (and molasses, if using).
4. Pour the pumpkin mixture into the flour mixture and stir until a dough forms. If it’s too dry, add a tablespoon of water.
5. Roll out the dough on a floured surface and cut with a paw-print cookie cutter.
6. Bake on a parchment-lined sheet for 20-25 minutes.

Pros & Cons

Verdict:

A fantastic choice for dogs with sensitive stomachs or for pet parents who want to give their dog a digestive boost in a delicious package.

Don’t have the time or patience for rolling pins and cookie cutters? No problem! This recipe is for the busy pet parent. We adjust the moisture content to create a dough that can be simply dropped by the spoonful onto a baking sheet. They bake up into rustic, delicious little mounds of cheesy goodness, ready in under 30 minutes from start to finish.

Ingredients:

• 1.5 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup cornmeal (for texture)
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped arugula
• 1 egg
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil
• 1/2 cup milk or water

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, mix flour, cornmeal, cheese, and arugula.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk the egg, oil, and milk/water.
4. Combine wet and dry ingredients and stir until just moistened (like muffin batter).
5. Drop rounded teaspoonfuls of the batter onto a greased or parchment-lined baking sheet.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes until golden brown.

Pros & Cons

Verdict:

The perfect recipe for busy pet owners who want to provide a homemade treat without the fuss. Maximum flavor for minimum effort!

When you’re in the middle of a training session, you need small, high-value rewards that won’t fill your dog up too quickly. This recipe is designed specifically for that. We use a flavorful base and roll the dough extra thin to create tiny, crunchy morsels that are perfect for rewarding good behavior. The potent aroma of cheddar and arugula keeps your pup focused and eager to please.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup whole wheat flour
• 1/2 cup finely grated parmesan cheese (for extra flavor punch)
• 1/4 cup shredded cheddar
• 3 tablespoons finely minced arugula
• 1 egg
• 3-4 tablespoons water

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Combine all dry ingredients in a bowl. The parmesan adds a strong scent that dogs love.
3. Mix in the egg and then add water slowly until a stiff dough forms.
4. Roll the dough as thinly as possible (about 1/8-inch thick).
5. Use a pizza cutter or knife to score the dough into small, 1/2-inch squares. You don’t need to separate them.
6. Transfer the entire sheet of scored dough to a parchment-lined baking sheet.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes. Once cooled, the squares will easily break apart.

Pros & Cons

Verdict:

An absolute must-have for anyone actively training a puppy or adult dog. These little bites make learning fun and rewarding.

Let’s be honest: what dog doesn’t go crazy for bacon? By adding a few crumbled slices of well-cooked bacon and a touch of the bacon grease, we elevate the arugula and cheddar biscuit to a whole new level of drool-worthiness. This is the ultimate special occasion treat, perfect for birthdays, ‘gotcha’ days, or just because you want to be the best pet parent ever.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 3 slices of bacon, cooked crispy and crumbled
• 1 tablespoon of reserved bacon grease
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped arugula
• 1 egg
• 1/3 cup water

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook bacon until very crispy, then set aside on a paper towel to drain. Reserve 1 tablespoon of the grease.
2. Once cool, crumble the bacon into small pieces.
3. In a large bowl, mix the flour, crumbled bacon, cheese, and arugula.
4. In a small bowl, whisk the egg, bacon grease, and water.
5. Combine wet and dry ingredients and mix to form a dough.
6. Roll out to 1/4-inch thickness, cut into shapes, and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
7. Bake for 18-22 minutes until golden.

Pros & Cons

Verdict:

For the dog that deserves an extra-special indulgence. These are not an everyday treat, but they are guaranteed to be a hit for special moments.

This recipe is as beautiful as it is delicious. We create two separate doughs—one with arugula and cheddar, and another with mashed sweet potato—and then roll them together to create a stunning pinwheel effect. Sweet potato adds beta-carotene, fiber, and a natural sweetness that complements the savory cheese and peppery greens perfectly.

Ingredients:

• Cheese Dough: 1 cup flour, 1/4 cup cheddar, 2 tbsp arugula, 1 egg, 2 tbsp water
• Sweet Potato Dough: 1 cup flour, 1/4 cup mashed cooked sweet potato, 2 tbsp oil, 2 tbsp water

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Prepare each dough in a separate bowl by mixing its respective ingredients until a ball forms.
3. Roll the cheese dough into a rectangle on parchment paper.
4. Roll the sweet potato dough into a rectangle of the same size on another piece of parchment.
5. Carefully place one rectangle of dough on top of the other. Gently press them together with a rolling pin.
6. Starting from one of the long sides, tightly roll the doughs together into a log.
7. Use a sharp knife to slice the log into 1/4-inch thick pinwheels.
8. Place the pinwheels on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes.

Pros & Cons

Verdict:

For the creative baker who loves to make treats that look as good as they taste. A showstopper treat that’s surprisingly healthy.

Doggy breath—we all know it! This recipe tackles that problem head-on by adding fresh parsley and a hint of mint to the arugula and cheddar base. Both parsley and mint are natural breath fresheners for dogs, and their flavors blend surprisingly well with the other savory ingredients. It’s a treat with a purpose!

Ingredients:

• 2 cups oat flour
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar
• 1/4 cup chopped arugula
• 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh parsley
• 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh mint
• 1 egg
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1/3 cup water

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine the oat flour, cheese, arugula, parsley, and mint.
3. In a small bowl, whisk the egg and olive oil.
4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry and mix. Slowly add water until a cohesive dough forms.
5. Roll out the dough to 1/4-inch thickness and cut into leaf shapes with a cookie cutter.
6. Bake on a parchment-lined sheet for 20 minutes until firm.

Pros & Cons

Verdict:

A brilliant two-in-one treat for any pet parent who loves getting puppy kisses but could do without the smelly breath. Functional and delicious!

For the certified cheese connoisseur (of the canine variety), this recipe is a dream come true. We use a trifecta of dog-safe cheeses—cheddar, parmesan, and a touch of mozzarella—to create an intensely savory and chewy treat. The mozzarella gives these biscuits a slightly soft, ‘puffy’ texture that’s utterly unique. This is cheesy paradise for your pup.

Ingredients:

• 1.5 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup shredded sharp cheddar
• 1/4 cup grated parmesan
• 1/4 cup shredded low-moisture mozzarella
• 1/4 cup chopped arugula
• 1 egg
• 1/2 cup milk

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Whisk together the flour, all three cheeses, and the arugula.
3. In a separate bowl, beat the egg and milk together.
4. Pour the wet mixture into the dry and stir until you have a thick, sticky batter.
5. Drop small spoonfuls onto a parchment-lined baking sheet.
6. Bake for 15-18 minutes, until the puffs are firm and the cheese is melted and golden.

Pros & Cons

Verdict:

The ultimate reward for the cheese-loving dog. Its soft texture also makes it a wonderful option for senior dogs or those with dental issues.

Boost your dog’s treat time with a serious dose of protein and Omega-3 fatty acids! This recipe incorporates a can of sardines (packed in water, no salt added) into the arugula and cheddar mix. The fishy aroma is absolutely irresistible to most dogs, and the added nutrients are fantastic for their coat, skin, and joint health. Prepare for some serious begging!

Ingredients:

• 2 cups whole wheat flour
• 1 can (3.75 oz) sardines in water, no salt added, mashed
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar
• 1/4 cup chopped arugula
• 1 egg
• 2-3 tablespoons of water from the sardine can

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine the flour, cheese, and arugula.
3. Add the mashed sardines (including the oil/water they are packed in) and the egg. Mix well.
4. The mixture will be crumbly. Add a few tablespoons of the reserved sardine water until the dough comes together.
5. Roll out the dough and cut into fish shapes.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes until dry and crisp.

Pros & Cons

Verdict:

Perfect for active dogs, dogs with dry skin, or any pup that needs a high-protein, nutrient-dense snack. A stinky but incredibly healthy option.

Can dogs enjoy our signature flavor combo without the dairy? Absolutely! This clever recipe uses nutritional yeast to replicate that savory, cheesy flavor, making it perfect for dogs with lactose intolerance or for vegan pet-owning households. We also swap the egg for a ‘flax egg’ to make it completely plant-based. The result is a light, crispy treat that’s surprisingly delicious.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups rye flour
• 1/2 cup nutritional yeast
• 1/4 cup chopped arugula
• 1 ‘flax egg’ (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 3 tbsp water, let sit for 5 mins)
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1/3 cup water

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare your flax egg and set it aside to thicken.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the rye flour, nutritional yeast, and arugula.
3. In a separate bowl, mix the thickened flax egg, olive oil, and water.
4. Combine the wet and dry ingredients to form a dough.
5. Roll the dough very thin on a lightly floured surface.
6. Cut into squares or other desired shapes.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes, until the crisps are hard and dry.

Pros & Cons

Verdict:

A fantastic, inclusive option for dogs with dairy allergies or for families who maintain a vegan lifestyle. A healthy, ‘cheesy’ alternative everyone can feel good about.

Inspired by one of our favorite human treats, this recipe adds a savory topping that takes these biscuits over the top. A simple egg wash is brushed on top before baking, and then they’re sprinkled with dog-safe ‘everything’ toppings like sesame seeds, poppy seeds, and dried parsley. It adds texture, flavor, and a gourmet touch to your homemade treats.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar
• 1/4 cup chopped arugula
• 2 eggs (1 for dough, 1 for egg wash)
• 1/4 cup oil
• 1/3 cup water
• Topping: Sesame seeds, poppy seeds, dried parsley (DO NOT use onion or garlic powder)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Mix flour, cheese, and arugula. In a separate bowl, whisk 1 egg, oil, and water. Combine to form a dough.
3. Roll out dough and cut into circles or donut shapes.
4. Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
5. In a small bowl, beat the remaining egg to create an egg wash. Brush it lightly over the top of each biscuit.
6. Sprinkle with sesame seeds, poppy seeds, and dried parsley.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden and hard.

Pros & Cons

Verdict:

For the pet parent who wants to create a truly gourmet, artisanal treat for their pup. It’s a fun, creative recipe that’s sure to impress both humans and canines!

Baking for your dog is fun, but it’s also a big responsibility. Using the right ingredients is key to making sure your treats are safe and healthy. Here’s what to look for when you’re stocking your pantry for these arugula and cheddar biscuits.

Flour Power

Not all flours are created equal. While all-purpose white flour is generally safe, it doesn’t offer much nutritional value. Consider these healthier alternatives:

• Whole Wheat Flour: A great source of fiber, but avoid it if your dog has a known wheat allergy or sensitivity.
• Oat Flour: Easily made by grinding rolled oats, this is a good gluten-free option that’s gentle on the stomach.
• Grain-Free Flours: Flours like coconut, almond, or chickpea flour are excellent choices for dogs on a grain-free diet. They can alter the texture and moisture needs of a recipe, so be prepared to adjust.

The Cheese Factor

Dogs love cheese, but it should be given in moderation. When choosing a cheese for your dog biscuits, look for:

• Low Sodium: Dogs don’t need the extra salt. Opt for sharp cheddar, as its strong flavor means you can use less of it.
• Low Fat: While some fat is fine, high-fat cheeses can lead to weight gain or pancreatitis. Mozzarella and Swiss are generally lower in fat.
• Avoid Mold: Never give your dog blue cheese or other moldy cheeses, as the mold can be toxic to them.

Going Green with Arugula

Arugula is a fantastic, nutrient-dense green for dogs. It’s packed with vitamins A, C, and K, as well as calcium and folate. When preparing it, make sure to wash it thoroughly and chop it finely. This ensures it gets distributed evenly throughout the dough and makes it easier for your dog to digest.

Is arugula actually safe for dogs?

Yes, in moderation, arugula is perfectly safe and even healthy for dogs. It’s a low-calorie leafy green that provides a good source of vitamins and minerals. Like any new food, introduce it slowly to make sure it agrees with your dog’s digestive system.

How should I store these homemade biscuits?

Because they don’t contain preservatives, homemade biscuits have a shorter shelf life than store-bought ones. For maximum crunchiness, let them cool completely before storing. They can be kept in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, you can refrigerate them for up to three weeks or freeze them for up to three months.

Can I substitute the cheddar cheese?

Absolutely! You can use other dog-safe cheeses like Swiss, mozzarella, or parmesan. Just be mindful of the salt and fat content. If your dog is lactose intolerant, you can use a dairy-free cheese alternative or try our Vegan ‘Cheesy’ Crisps recipe which uses nutritional yeast for that savory flavor.

My dough is too sticky or too dry. What did I do wrong?

Don’t worry, this is a common baking issue! The humidity in your kitchen and the specific brand of flour can affect dough consistency. If your dough is too sticky, add a little more flour, one tablespoon at a time. If it’s too dry and crumbly, add more liquid (like water or oil), one teaspoon at a time, until it comes together.