13 Colorful Easter Dog Treats Using Natural Vegetable Dyes

1. Radiant Red Beet Bunny Bites

Let’s kick things off with a stunning, vibrant red that’s perfect for the Easter theme. Beets are not only fantastic for creating a deep pink or red hue, but they’re also packed with fiber, vitamins, and minerals like folate and manganese. These bunny-shaped bites will be the star of your dog’s Easter basket!

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 cups whole wheat flour (or oat flour for a gluten-free option)
• 1/2 cup old-fashioned oats
• 1 small raw beet, peeled and finely grated (about 1/2 cup)
• 1 egg
• 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce
• 2-4 tablespoons of water, as needed

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 flour and oats.
3. In a separate bowl, mix the grated beet, egg, and applesauce until well combined. The mixture will be a beautiful, bright pink!
4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until a stiff dough forms. If the dough is too crumbly, add water one tablespoon at a time until it comes together.
5. Lightly flour your work surface and roll out the dough to about 1/4-inch thickness.
6. Use a bunny-shaped cookie cutter (or any other Easter shape) to cut out the treats. Place them on the prepared baking sheet.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the treats are firm.
8. Let them cool completely on a wire rack before treating your pup.

Pros & Cons

Verdict:

Perfect for pet parents who want a visually stunning treat without any artificial ingredients. The earthy flavor is usually a hit, but it might be best to make a small test batch if your dog is particularly picky.

2. Sunny Yellow Turmeric Eggs

Nothing says ‘spring’ quite like a cheerful, sunny yellow. Turmeric is a powerhouse spice known for its anti-inflammatory properties, thanks to its active compound, curcumin. It creates a brilliant yellow dye that will make these egg-shaped treats look like little drops of sunshine.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups oat flour (simply blend old-fashioned oats in a blender)
• 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
• 1/2 cup plain, unsweetened yogurt or pumpkin puree
• 1 egg
• 1/4 cup water or bone broth

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, combine the oat flour and turmeric.
3. Add the yogurt (or pumpkin), egg, and water. Mix until a cohesive dough forms. The dough should be soft and easy to handle.
4. On a floured surface, roll the dough to 1/4-inch thickness.
5. Use an egg-shaped cookie cutter to cut out the treats. You can use a fork to gently press a criss-cross pattern on top for decoration.
6. Place the treats on the baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes until firm.
7. Cool completely before serving.

Pros & Cons

Verdict:

An excellent choice for senior dogs or pups who could benefit from a little anti-inflammatory boost. The color is fantastic, and the recipe is simple and gluten-free.

3. Vibrant Orange Carrot & Paprika Paws

Create a beautiful, warm orange treat using the classic dog-favorite, carrots, with a little boost from paprika. Carrots are loaded with beta-carotene, which is great for your dog’s vision, while paprika (the sweet, not spicy kind!) deepens the orange color beautifully. Paw-print shapes are always a cute choice!

Ingredients:

• 1 cup finely grated carrot (about 2 medium carrots)
• 1 1/2 cups whole wheat flour
• 1 egg
• 1 teaspoon sweet paprika
• 2 tablespoons coconut oil, melted
• 1/4 cup water

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and prepare a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, mix the grated carrot, flour, and paprika.
3. In a smaller bowl, whisk the egg, melted coconut oil, and water.
4. Combine the wet and dry ingredients, stirring until a dough forms. Knead it a few times on a floured surface until smooth.
5. Roll the dough to 1/4-inch thickness and use a paw-print cookie cutter to make your shapes.
6. Bake for 18-22 minutes, until the edges are nicely browned.
7. Let the treats cool down completely before your pup enjoys them.

Pros & Cons

Verdict:

A real crowd-pleaser! The familiar and sweet taste of carrot makes this a go-to recipe for almost any dog. It’s a great way to sneak in some extra veggies.

4. Earthy Green Spinach & Herb Flowers

Go green this Easter with the power of spinach! This leafy green is rich in iron and vitamins and blends into dough to create a lovely, earthy green color. We’ll add a little parsley for an extra fresh kick that also helps freshen your dog’s breath.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup fresh spinach, packed
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley
• 1 egg
• 1/4 cup water
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (or a 50/50 mix with whole wheat)

Instructions:

1. In a blender or food processor, combine the spinach, parsley, egg, water, and olive oil. Blend until completely smooth and liquid. It should look like a green smoothie.
2. In a large bowl, place the flour. Pour the green liquid mixture into the flour and stir until it forms a thick, green dough.
3. Knead on a floured surface for a minute or two.
4. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
5. Roll the dough to 1/4-inch thickness and use a flower-shaped cookie cutter.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes. The treats will be a slightly darker green when done.
7. Cool completely before serving.

Pros & Cons

Verdict:

Ideal for pet parents looking for a treat with functional benefits, like breath freshening. The vibrant green dough is fun to work with, and the resulting treats are both pretty and healthy.

5. Deep Purple Blueberry Bones

Blueberries are a superfood for dogs, packed with antioxidants that support the immune system. When blended, they create a gorgeous deep purple or blueish dye that makes for some very distinguished-looking treats. Classic bone shapes work great here!

Ingredients:

• 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries
• 1 egg
• 2 tablespoons honey (optional, for a touch of sweetness)
• 1/4 cup water
• 2 cups whole wheat flour
• 1 cup rolled oats

Instructions:

1. If using frozen blueberries, allow them to thaw.
2. In a blender, puree the blueberries, egg, honey (if using), and water until smooth.
3. In a large bowl, combine the flour and oats.
4. Pour the blueberry puree into the dry ingredients and mix to form a sticky dough.
5. Turn the dough out onto a well-floured surface and knead, adding a bit more flour if it’s too sticky, until it’s manageable.
6. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet.
7. Roll the dough to 1/4-inch thickness and cut out bone shapes.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes, until the treats are hard and dry.
9. Cool completely. The color will deepen as they cool.

Pros & Cons

Verdict:

A fantastic, healthy option for any dog. The antioxidant benefits are a huge plus, and the rich color makes these treats feel extra special for a holiday.

6. Pastel Green Parsley & Mint Chicks

For a lighter, more pastel green, we’re turning to fresh herbs. This combination of parsley and mint not only gives a delicate green tint but also does wonders for your dog’s breath. These are perfect for cutting into cute little chick shapes for Easter.

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh mint, chopped
• 1 1/2 cups oat flour
• 1/2 cup rice flour
• 1 egg
• 3-5 tablespoons of chicken or vegetable broth

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. In a food processor, pulse the parsley, mint, oat flour, and rice flour until the herbs are finely incorporated.
3. Add the egg and 3 tablespoons of broth. Pulse until a dough ball forms. If it’s too dry, add more broth, one tablespoon at a time.
4. Roll the light green dough out on a lightly floured surface to 1/4-inch thickness.
5. Use a chick-shaped cookie cutter and place the treats on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes. Because of the lower temperature, these will be lighter and crunchier.
7. Cool completely.

Pros & Cons

Verdict:

The perfect treat for a post-dinner snuggle session! If your pup’s breath could use a little help, these minty-fresh bites are a delicious and effective solution.

7. Sunset Orange Pumpkin & Sweet Potato Treats

Combine two of dogs’ favorite fall flavors for a treat that’s perfect any time of year. Both pumpkin and sweet potato are fantastic for digestive health and create a beautiful, rich orange color reminiscent of a sunset.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup plain pumpkin puree (not pie filling)
• 1/2 cup cooked and mashed sweet potato
• 1 egg
• 2 1/2 to 3 cups whole wheat flour
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, mix the pumpkin puree, mashed sweet potato, and egg until smooth.
3. Stir in the cinnamon.
4. Gradually add 2 1/2 cups of flour, mixing until a stiff dough forms. If the dough is still very sticky, add the remaining 1/2 cup of flour.
5. Roll out on a floured surface to 1/4-inch thickness. Cut into any shape you like – carrots or ovals work well for Easter.
6. Bake on a parchment-lined sheet for 30-35 minutes, until hard and crunchy.
7. Cool completely. These will be very hard, which is great for teeth!

Pros & Cons

Verdict:

A top-tier choice for dogs with sensitive stomachs. The high fiber content from both pumpkin and sweet potato can aid in digestion, and the crunchy texture is a bonus for dental health.

8. Lovely Lavender Blackberry Dots

While blueberries give a deep purple, their cousin the blackberry can produce a softer, more lavender or magenta hue. They are also full of vitamins and fiber. These small, dot-like treats are perfect for training or for smaller dogs.

Ingredients:

• 3/4 cup fresh or frozen blackberries, pureed and strained to remove seeds
• 1 1/4 cups almond flour
• 1/4 cup coconut flour
• 1 egg

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, combine the strained blackberry puree and the egg.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the almond flour and coconut flour.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry and mix until a dough forms. It will be slightly crumbly.
5. Roll the dough into small, marble-sized balls and place them on the baking sheet. Gently flatten each ball with a fork.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes. They will not spread much.
7. Let them cool completely.

Pros & Cons

Verdict:

Perfect for the grain-free pup! These little bites are packed with flavor and nutrients, and their small size makes them an ideal reward during Easter games or training sessions.

9. Ocean Green Spirulina Squares

Want a truly vibrant, almost electric green? Spirulina is your secret weapon! This blue-green algae is a nutrient-dense supplement that is safe for dogs in small quantities. A little goes a long way to create an amazing, deep sea-green color.

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 cups barley flour
• 1/2 cup ground flaxseed
• 1 teaspoon spirulina powder
• 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
• 1/4 cup water or more as needed

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a bowl, whisk together the barley flour, ground flaxseed, and spirulina powder. The dry mix will be a potent green.
3. Add the applesauce and water, mixing until you have a workable dough. Add more water if necessary.
4. Roll the dough between two sheets of parchment paper to about 1/4-inch thickness.
5. Remove the top sheet of parchment and use a pizza cutter or knife to score the dough into small, 1-inch squares.
6. Slide the parchment with the scored dough onto a baking sheet.
7. Bake for 15-18 minutes.
8. Once cooled, break the treats apart along the score lines.

Pros & Cons

Verdict:

For the adventurous baker who wants a show-stopping color and a nutrient boost. These are great for dogs with skin and coat issues, as flaxseed and spirulina are both beneficial for skin health.

10. Pale Yellow Squash Stars

For a delicate, buttery yellow, look no further than the humble yellow summer squash. It provides a much softer color than turmeric, perfect for a pastel Easter palette. It’s also low-calorie and high in water content, making it a light and healthy option.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup cooked and pureed yellow squash
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 egg
• 1 tablespoon nutritional yeast (for a cheesy flavor dogs love)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. To prepare the squash, steam or boil it until very tender, then puree it until smooth. Let it cool.
3. In a bowl, combine the squash puree, flour, egg, and nutritional yeast. Mix well to form a soft dough.
4. Roll out on a floured surface to 1/4-inch thickness and cut into star shapes.
5. Bake on a parchment-lined sheet for 20-25 minutes.
6. Cool completely.

Pros & Cons

Verdict:

An excellent choice for pups watching their waistlines. These treats are light, savory, and have a lovely, delicate color perfect for a soft Easter theme.

11. ‘Chocolatey’ Brown Carob Bunnies

We all know chocolate is a huge danger to dogs, but that doesn’t mean they have to miss out on the look of a chocolatey Easter bunny! Carob powder is a dog-safe substitute that looks like cocoa powder and has a slightly sweet, earthy taste dogs enjoy. It’s high in fiber and caffeine-free.

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 cups whole wheat flour
• 1/2 cup carob powder
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 cup water
• 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce
• 1 egg

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, carob powder, and baking powder.
3. In a separate bowl, mix the water, applesauce, and egg.
4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry and stir until a rich, brown dough forms.
5. Roll out to 1/4-inch thickness on a floured surface. The dough will be dark and look just like brownie batter.
6. Cut into bunny shapes and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes.
8. Let cool completely.

Pros & Cons

Verdict:

The perfect recipe for creating those classic ‘chocolate’ bunny treats safely. It allows your dog to participate in a beloved Easter tradition without any of the risks.

12. Speckled Pink Strawberry Hearts

Instead of a solid color, let’s make a treat with beautiful, natural speckles! Mashing fresh strawberries instead of fully pureeing them leaves little red bits in the dough, creating a lovely speckled effect. It’s a simple way to get a pretty, rustic-looking treat.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and mashed with a fork
• 2 cups oat flour
• 1 egg
• 2 tablespoons coconut oil, melted

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a bowl, combine the mashed strawberries, oat flour, egg, and melted coconut oil. The key is to mash, not blend, the strawberries to keep some texture.
3. Mix until a sticky dough forms.
4. Drop spoonfuls of the dough onto a parchment-lined baking sheet and flatten slightly into rustic circles, or roll out carefully (the dough will be textured) and cut into hearts.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes until the edges are golden.
6. Cool completely.

Pros & Cons

Verdict:

For those who appreciate a more rustic, homemade look. The little pops of red from the strawberry pieces are charming, and the flavor is a guaranteed winner with most dogs.

13. Marbled Masterpiece Easter Eggs

Feeling ambitious? Let’s combine two different colored doughs to create a stunning marbled effect, just like a decorated Easter egg! This technique is a bit more advanced, but the results are absolutely worth it. We’ll use the beet dough and the spinach dough for a classic red-and-green combo.

Ingredients:

• 1/2 batch of the Radiant Red Beet Bunny Bites dough (Recipe #1)
• 1/2 batch of the Earthy Green Spinach & Herb Flowers dough (Recipe #4)

Instructions:

1. Prepare both doughs according to their respective recipes, keeping them separate.
2. Take a small piece from each colored dough and gently press them together.
3. Roll the combined dough piece into a rope or log shape.
4. Twist the rope gently a few times. Don’t overdo it, or the colors will blend into a muddy brown.
5. Fold the twisted rope in half and press it down.
6. Now, gently roll out the dough with a rolling pin. You’ll see a beautiful marbled pattern emerge.
7. Roll to 1/4-inch thickness and cut out with an egg-shaped cookie cutter.
8. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
9. Bake for 20-25 minutes on a parchment-lined sheet.
10. Cool completely to let the stunning patterns shine.

Pros & Cons

Verdict:

This is the showstopper recipe for the dedicated pet parent who loves a baking challenge. The marbled eggs are perfect for photos and make an extra-special gift for your pup’s furry friends.

Your Guide to Making the Best Natural Dog Treats

Baking for your pup is a rewarding experience, but it’s important to keep a few things in mind to ensure your treats are both delicious and safe. Here’s what you need to know before you get started.

Choosing Dog-Safe Flours

While many recipes call for whole wheat flour, some dogs have sensitivities. Luckily, there are many great alternatives:

• Oat Flour: A great gluten-free option that’s high in fiber. You can easily make it by blending rolled oats in a blender.
• Rice Flour: Another good gluten-free choice, it creates a lighter, crunchier treat.
• Chickpea Flour: High in protein and fiber, it has a distinct flavor dogs often enjoy.
• Coconut Flour: Grain-free and highly absorbent, you’ll need to use less of it and often more liquid.
• Almond Flour: A low-carb, grain-free option, but it’s higher in fat and calories.

Working with Natural Dyes

Natural dyes are fantastic, but they behave differently than artificial ones. The color can change slightly during baking—greens may become less vibrant, while reds and yellows tend to hold up well. For the most intense colors, using a concentrated puree or powder (like turmeric or spirulina) is more effective than just chopped vegetables. And remember, these are natural pigments, so be prepared for some potential staining on your hands and countertops!

Safe and Unsafe Ingredients

Always double-check your ingredients. Many human foods are toxic to dogs. Never use:

• Xylitol (an artificial sweetener)
• Chocolate or cocoa powder
• Onions or garlic
• Grapes or raisins
• Macadamia nuts

Stick to dog-safe fruits, vegetables, and flours. When in doubt, a quick search on the ASPCA’s website or a call to your vet can provide peace of mind.

Storage Tips

Because these homemade treats don’t contain preservatives, they won’t last as long as store-bought ones. For crunchy treats, make sure they are fully cooled and dehydrated before storing. Store them in an airtight container on the counter for up to a week. For longer storage, you can refrigerate them for 2-3 weeks or freeze them for up to 3 months.

Frequently Asked Questions About Homemade Dog Treats

Have a few more questions? You’re not alone! Here are answers to some common queries about baking for your furry best friend.

Q: How long will these homemade treats last?

A: The lifespan of your treats depends on their moisture content. The crunchier and drier you bake them, the longer they will last. As a general rule, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for about 5-7 days. For longer-term storage, they can be kept in the refrigerator for 2-3 weeks or in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Q: Can I substitute different flours in these recipes?

A: Yes, but it may require some adjustments. You can usually swap whole wheat flour for all-purpose or barley flour at a 1:1 ratio. However, gluten-free flours like coconut or almond flour are very different. Coconut flour is extremely absorbent and you’ll need much less of it, while almond flour has a higher fat content. If you’re experimenting, start by substituting a portion of the original flour and be prepared to adjust the amount of liquid in the recipe.

Q: My dog is a picky eater. How can I make these treats more appealing?

A: You can easily boost the flavor! Try swapping the water in a recipe for low-sodium chicken, beef, or vegetable broth. Adding a tablespoon of nutritional yeast for a ‘cheesy’ flavor or a scoop of dog-safe peanut butter (check for no xylitol!) can also make the treats irresistible to even the fussiest of pups.

Q: Are all fruits and vegetables safe to use for color?

A: Absolutely not! This is very important. While the ingredients in these recipes are safe, many common foods are not. For example, the skin and pit of an avocado, grapes, and onions are toxic to dogs. Always research a specific fruit or vegetable to confirm it’s safe for canine consumption before adding it to a treat recipe.