13 Crunchy Spelt Flour Dog Treats to Bake This Weekend

You can’t go wrong with a classic! Peanut butter is a canine favorite, and these simple, crunchy bones are the perfect place to start your baking adventure. They’re incredibly easy to whip up and the familiar aroma will have your pup supervising your every move in the kitchen.

Ingredients

• 2 cups whole spelt flour
• 1/2 cup creamy, all-natural peanut butter (ensure it’s XYLITOL-FREE)
• 1 large egg
• 1/4 cup water, plus more if needed
• 1 tablespoon honey (optional)

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 spelt flour.
3. In a separate bowl, mix the peanut butter, egg, and water until well combined. If using honey, mix it in here.
4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until a stiff dough forms. If it’s too crumbly, add water one teaspoon at a time.
5. On a lightly floured surface, roll the dough out to about 1/4-inch thickness.
6. Use a bone-shaped cookie cutter to cut out the treats and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and firm. For an extra crunchy treat, turn off the oven and let them cool inside with the door ajar.
8. Let cool completely before serving to your eager pup.

Why Your Dog Will Love It

The rich, nutty flavor of peanut butter is irresistible to most dogs. Combined with the satisfying crunch from the spelt flour, these treats are a simple pleasure that hits all the right notes for a happy canine.

Bring the cozy scents of autumn into your home any time of year with these delightful Apple & Cinnamon Paws. Apples provide a touch of natural sweetness and fiber, while cinnamon adds warmth and can help with inflammation. They smell so good, you might be tempted to try one yourself!

Ingredients

• 2 1/2 cups whole spelt flour
• 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 2-3 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, combine the spelt flour and cinnamon.
3. Add the unsweetened applesauce and the egg. Mix until the dough starts to come together.
4. Add water, one tablespoon at a time, until the dough is cohesive and not too sticky.
5. Roll the dough out on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4-inch thickness.
6. Use a paw-print cookie cutter (or any shape you like!) to cut out the treats.
7. Place them on the baking sheet and bake for 25-30 minutes, until the edges are golden and the treats are hard to the touch.
8. Allow to cool completely before storing.

Baker’s Tip

For an extra apple kick, you can add 1/4 cup of finely grated fresh apple to the dough. Just be sure to squeeze out any excess moisture before adding it to the mix!

For the pup with a savory palate, these cheesy bites are a guaranteed hit. Sharp cheddar provides a flavor punch, while fresh parsley helps freshen your dog’s breath. They’re small, crunchy, and perfect for training or just a cheesy ‘I love you’ snack.

Ingredients

• 2 cups whole spelt flour
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh parsley
• 1 large egg
• 1/3 cup milk or water

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a mixing bowl, stir together the spelt flour, shredded cheddar, and chopped parsley.
3. In a small bowl, whisk the egg and milk (or water) together.
4. Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir until a firm dough forms.
5. Knead the dough briefly on a floured surface, then roll it out to about 1/4-inch thickness.
6. Use a small cookie cutter or a pizza cutter to cut the dough into small, bite-sized squares.
7. Arrange the bites on the baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes, until golden and crisp.
8. Let them cool completely. Your pup will find the cheesy aroma intoxicating!

Why Your Dog Will Love It

Cheese is a high-value treat for many dogs, and the combination with savory, breath-freshening parsley makes this a uniquely delicious and functional snack.

It doesn’t have to be fall to enjoy the amazing benefits of pumpkin! This superfood is fantastic for a dog’s digestion. Paired with a hint of dog-safe ‘pumpkin spice,’ these cookies are both healthy and delicious. A perfect treat for a sensitive tummy.

Ingredients

• 2 1/2 cups whole spelt flour
• 1/2 cup pure pumpkin purée (NOT pumpkin pie filling)
• 1 large egg
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger

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 spelt flour, cinnamon, and ginger.
3. Add the pumpkin purée and egg. Mix until a thick, rollable dough forms. If it’s too dry, add a tablespoon of water.
4. On a floured surface, roll the dough to 1/4-inch thickness.
5. Cut into desired shapes (pumpkin or leaf shapes are fun!) and place on the baking sheet.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes, until hard and dry. The longer baking time helps remove moisture, making them last longer.
7. Cool completely on a wire rack.

Baker’s Tip

Ensure you’re using 100% pure pumpkin purée. Pumpkin pie filling contains sugar and spices like nutmeg, which can be harmful to dogs in large quantities.

This is one of the easiest recipes on the list! There’s no rolling or cutting required. Just mix, drop, and bake. Bananas provide potassium and natural sweetness, while oats add soluble fiber. These are soft on the inside and slightly crisp on the outside.

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups whole spelt flour
• 1 cup rolled oats
• 1 large ripe banana, mashed
• 1 large egg
• 1/4 cup water

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, combine the spelt flour and rolled oats.
3. In a separate bowl, mash the banana well, then whisk in the egg and water.
4. Pour the banana mixture into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. The dough will be sticky.
5. Drop teaspoon-sized spoonfuls of the dough onto the prepared baking sheet, about an inch apart.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes, until the bottoms are golden brown.
7. Let cool completely.

Why Your Dog Will Love It

The combination of sweet banana and hearty oats is a comforting flavor profile that dogs enjoy. Their softer texture makes them a good option for senior dogs or those with sensitive teeth.

Show your pup some love with these antioxidant-packed heart-shaped treats. Blueberries are a wonderful, healthy fruit for dogs, and a touch of honey adds a natural sweetness that makes these little hearts simply irresistible.

Ingredients

• 2 cups whole spelt flour
• 1/2 cup fresh or frozen blueberries
• 1 large egg
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 2 tablespoons coconut oil, melted
• 1/4 cup water or milk

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. If using fresh blueberries, gently mash them in a small bowl. If using frozen, let them thaw slightly.
3. In a large bowl, combine the spelt flour. Add the mashed blueberries, egg, honey, melted coconut oil, and water.
4. Mix until a sticky dough forms. Add a little more flour if it’s too wet to handle.
5. Roll out on a well-floured surface to 1/4-inch thickness. The blueberry bits will make it a bit lumpy!
6. Use a heart-shaped cookie cutter and place the treats on your baking sheet.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes. The purple hue of the blueberries will deepen as they bake.
8. Cool completely before sharing the love with your dog.

Baker’s Tip

The dough can be quite sticky due to the berries. Don’t be afraid to use extra flour on your work surface and rolling pin to make it manageable.

These crunchy sticks are like a health boost in a treat. Carrots are rich in Vitamin A, and ginger is well-known for its ability to soothe upset stomachs. The stick shape is great for a satisfying chew and can help with dental cleaning.

Ingredients

• 2 cups whole spelt flour
• 1 cup finely grated carrots (about 2 medium carrots)
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
• 3-4 tablespoons of water

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Squeeze the grated carrots in a paper towel to remove excess moisture. This is a key step to prevent soggy treats!
3. In a large bowl, combine the spelt flour, grated carrots, and grated ginger.
4. Add the egg and 3 tablespoons of water. Mix to form a stiff dough, adding the last tablespoon of water only if necessary.
5. Roll the dough out to about 1/4-inch thickness.
6. Using a pizza cutter or knife, cut the dough into long, thin sticks, about 3-4 inches long and 1/2-inch wide.
7. Place the sticks on the baking sheet and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until they are hard and lightly browned.
8. Cool completely on a wire rack for maximum crunch.

Why Your Dog Will Love It

The natural sweetness from the carrots paired with the zesty kick of ginger creates a unique and appealing flavor, while the crunchy stick shape provides a satisfying chewing experience.

Here’s a vibrant, anti-inflammatory treat that’s as beautiful as it is healthy. Sweet potato provides vitamins and fiber, while turmeric is a powerhouse spice known for its joint-supporting properties. The twist shape is fun and adds a little extra chewiness.

Ingredients

• 2 1/2 cups whole spelt flour
• 1 cup cooked and mashed sweet potato
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
• A pinch of black pepper (helps with turmeric absorption)

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment.
2. In a bowl, combine the spelt flour, turmeric, and black pepper.
3. Add the mashed sweet potato and egg. Mix thoroughly until a dough ball forms. The dough should be pliable and bright orange.
4. Take a small piece of dough and roll it into a thin rope, about 6 inches long.
5. Fold the rope in half and twist the two strands together. Pinch the end to seal.
6. Place the twists on the baking sheet.
7. Bake for 30-35 minutes, until the twists are firm and dry to the touch.
8. Let them cool completely.

Baker’s Tip

Turmeric can stain! Be mindful when working with this dough, as it can leave a yellow tint on your hands, clothes, and porous surfaces like wooden cutting boards.

Time for a fishy delight! Canned salmon is an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, which are fantastic for your dog’s skin and coat. The fresh dill complements the salmon perfectly, creating a sophisticated cracker your pup will adore.

Ingredients

• 2 cups whole spelt flour
• 1 (5 oz) can of salmon in water, drained well
• 1 large egg
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill
• 1/4 cup water

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, flake the drained salmon with a fork, making sure to crush any small bones (they are soft and edible).
3. Add the spelt flour, egg, and fresh dill to the salmon. Mix well.
4. Slowly add the water and mix until a firm dough forms.
5. Roll the dough out very thin on a floured surface, about 1/8-inch thick for a crispy cracker.
6. Use a knife or pizza cutter to score the dough into small squares. You can prick each cracker with a fork for a classic look.
7. Bake for 18-22 minutes, until the crackers are crisp and lightly browned at the edges.
8. Let cool completely for maximum crunch.

Why Your Dog Will Love It

The strong, savory scent of salmon is a huge draw for dogs. These crackers offer a powerful flavor and a light, crispy texture that’s different from denser dog biscuits.

Biscotti for dogs? Absolutely! This recipe requires a double bake, which results in an extra-hard, crunchy treat that’s excellent for dental health. The combination of tart cranberry and bright orange zest is both unique and delicious.

Ingredients

• 2 1/2 cups whole spelt flour
• 1/2 cup dried cranberries, chopped
• 1 teaspoon orange zest
• 2 large eggs
• 1/4 cup water
• 1 tablespoon coconut oil, melted

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, mix the spelt flour, chopped cranberries, and orange zest.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs, water, and melted coconut oil.
4. Combine the wet and dry ingredients to form a sticky dough.
5. On a floured surface, shape the dough into a flattened log, about 10 inches long and 3 inches wide.
6. Transfer the log to the baking sheet and bake for 25 minutes.
7. Remove from the oven and let it cool for 10 minutes, until you can handle it. Reduce oven temperature to 300°F (150°C).
8. Using a serrated knife, slice the log into 1/2-inch thick slices.
9. Place the slices cut-side down on the baking sheet and bake for another 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are dry and hard.
10. Turn off the oven and let the biscotti cool inside to get even crunchier.

Baker’s Tip

Make sure to use unsweetened dried cranberries. The double-baking process is essential for achieving the classic hard texture of biscotti.

These savory swirls look impressive but are surprisingly simple to make. The combination of nutrient-rich spinach and the irresistible flavor of bacon makes for a high-value treat that will get any dog’s attention.

Ingredients

• 2 cups whole spelt flour
• 1/2 cup water
• 1 large egg
• 1 cup fresh spinach, packed
• 2 strips of bacon, cooked and crumbled

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. First, make the spinach paste. In a small food processor or blender, combine the spinach and water. Blend until smooth.
3. In a large bowl, combine the spelt flour and the crumbled bacon.
4. Add the egg and the spinach-water mixture to the flour. Mix until a green, pliable dough forms.
5. Roll the dough out on a floured surface into a large rectangle, about 1/4-inch thick.
6. Tightly roll the rectangle up into a log.
7. Slice the log into 1/2-inch thick pinwheels and place them flat on the baking sheet.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes, until firm and the edges are slightly browned.
9. Cool completely on a wire rack.

Why Your Dog Will Love It

Bacon! Need we say more? The smoky, savory flavor combined with the earthy spinach in a fun swirl shape makes this a visually appealing and incredibly tasty reward.

Got a case of puppy breath? These treats can help! Mint and parsley are natural breath fresheners, while plain yogurt adds a creamy tang and beneficial probiotics for gut health. A truly functional and tasty treat.

Ingredients

• 2 cups whole spelt flour
• 1/2 cup plain, unsweetened yogurt (ensure no artificial sweeteners)
• 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh mint
• 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh parsley
• 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, combine the spelt flour, chopped mint, and chopped parsley.
3. Add the plain yogurt and the egg. Stir until everything is well combined and a soft dough forms.
4. Roll the dough out on a floured surface to 1/4-inch thickness.
5. Use a small, round cookie cutter to cut out the treats.
6. Place them on the baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes, until firm and lightly golden on the bottom.
7. Let cool completely before serving as a breath-freshening snack.

Baker’s Tip

This dough can be a bit soft. Chilling it in the refrigerator for 20-30 minutes before rolling can make it much easier to work with.

These savory pretzels have a deep, meaty flavor from the beef broth and an aromatic touch from the rosemary. The fun pretzel shape makes them a special treat that feels like it came from a gourmet dog bakery.

Ingredients

• 2 1/2 cups whole spelt flour
• 1/2 cup low-sodium beef broth
• 1 large egg
• 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh rosemary
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the spelt flour and chopped rosemary.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk the beef broth, egg, and olive oil.
4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry and mix to form a stiff, workable dough.
5. Take a tablespoon of dough and roll it into a long, thin rope (about 8-10 inches).
6. Carefully twist the rope into a pretzel shape and place it on the baking sheet. Repeat with the remaining dough.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes, until the pretzels are hard and golden brown.
8. Cool completely on a wire rack.

Why Your Dog Will Love It

The rich, umami flavor of beef broth is a huge winner with dogs. The aromatic rosemary and fun pretzel shape make this treat an exciting sensory experience.

Baking for your dog is a rewarding experience, and using spelt flour is a great choice. Here are a few things to keep in mind to ensure your baking adventures are a success.

What is Spelt and Why is it Good for Dogs?

Spelt is an ancient whole grain, a distinct type of wheat that hasn’t been modified as much as modern wheat. It has a slightly sweet, nutty flavor. For some dogs, particularly those with mild wheat sensitivities, spelt can be easier to digest due to its different gluten structure. It’s also a good source of fiber, protein, and essential nutrients like manganese and niacin.

Choosing Dog-Safe Ingredients

Your dog’s safety is priority number one. Always double-check your ingredients.

• Peanut Butter: ONLY use natural peanut butter that does NOT contain xylitol (also called birch sugar). Xylitol is extremely toxic to dogs.
• Fruits & Veggies: The fruits and vegetables in these recipes are safe, but always be aware of toxic foods like grapes, raisins, onions, and garlic.
• Spices: Spices like cinnamon, ginger, and turmeric are safe in small quantities. Avoid nutmeg, which can be toxic.
• Sweeteners: Stick to small amounts of natural sweeteners like honey or molasses. Never use artificial sweeteners.

Tips for Working with Spelt Dough

Spelt flour absorbs liquid differently than all-purpose flour. The dough can sometimes be stickier. Don’t hesitate to use a bit of extra flour on your hands and work surface. If a dough feels too dry and crumbly, add water or broth one teaspoon at a time until it comes together.

Proper Storage for Homemade Treats

Since these treats have no preservatives, they won’t last as long as store-bought ones.

• For Crunchy Treats: Once completely cool, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For a longer shelf life, make sure they are very dry and hard (you can bake them a little longer at a low temperature).
• For Softer Treats: Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 5-7 days.
• Freezing: All of these treats freeze beautifully! Store them in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months. It’s a great way to have a variety of treats on hand.

Is spelt flour really better than wheat for all dogs?

Not necessarily ‘better,’ but ‘different.’ For dogs with no wheat allergies, regular whole wheat flour is perfectly fine. However, spelt’s gluten is more water-soluble and fragile, which can make it easier to digest for some dogs with mild sensitivities. If your dog has a diagnosed wheat allergy, it’s best to opt for a completely gluten-free flour like oat, chickpea, or brown rice flour, as spelt still contains gluten.

How do I know when the treats are done baking?

The key to crunchy, long-lasting treats is to bake out as much moisture as possible. They should feel hard and firm to the touch, not soft or spongy. The bottoms and edges should be a light golden brown. A great trick is to turn off the oven when they’re done and leave the treats inside with the door cracked open to cool. This helps them dry out even more.

Can I substitute other flours for spelt in these recipes?

Yes, but with some adjustments. You can typically substitute whole wheat flour on a 1:1 basis. If you use gluten-free flours like coconut or almond flour, they behave very differently. Coconut flour is extremely absorbent and you’ll need to add much more liquid. Almond flour has no gluten to bind it. It’s best to find recipes specifically developed for those flours or be prepared for some experimentation!

My dog has specific allergies. Can I adapt these recipes?

Absolutely! That’s the beauty of homemade. If your dog is allergic to eggs, you can often substitute with a ‘flax egg’ (1 tbsp ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tbsp water, let sit for 5 minutes) or a bit of unsweetened applesauce. If your dog can’t have a certain protein, swap it for one they can. Always introduce new ingredients slowly and watch for any adverse reactions.