Pet parents love to include their dogs in holiday celebrations, which includes special treats. Traditional Easter treats for humans can be deadly for dogs, but we can whip up safe treats in our kitchen. They also make fantastic gifts and fundraisers!
The following Easter recipes are safe for healthy dogs, but you should always consult your veterinarian before introducing any new foods to your furry friend. If your dog has weight issues, compensate for the treats by reducing other foods or treats that day.
Dog-Friendly Easter Eggs
If you’re planning a good old-fashioned Easter egg hunt in your home and garden this year and want to get your puppies involved, we’ve come up with this quick and easy Easter egg recipe for dogs!
Ingredients
140g peanut butter without xylitol
140g coconut oil
Optional Extras for Crunch: Good Dog Treats, Apple Chunks, Carrot Chunks
Equipment
Egg mold or small ice cube tray
Method
1. Add the xylitol-free peanut butter and coconut oil to a microwave-safe bowl.
2. Then microwave for 45 seconds or until completely melted.
3. Stir the mixture to remove any lumps, then pour it into the egg mold or ice cube tray until almost full.
4. Add any optional extras to the molds now to create a crunchy surprise for your pooch!
5. Put the molds or trays in the refrigerator for 2 hours or until the eggs have hardened.
6. Once your eggs have solidified, take one out and offer it to your dog as a treat…or have him his own Easter egg hunt!
Sean’s Puppy Friendly Cross Hot Buns
Everyone loves hot buns, but they’re not for dogs! The recipes contain raisins, sultanas, citrus peel and nutmeg – all toxic to our canine companions. Brushing them with butter won’t do your pup’s size any favors either. Here’s a delicious dog-friendly recipe the whole family can share this Easter.
Ingredients
350g strong white bread flour (or rice flour if wheat intolerant), plus some for dusting
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
20g without xylitol Peanut Butter
1 tablespoon honey, plus optional extra for glaze
2 teaspoons fast acting dry yeast
1 egg
150ml lactose free milk
1 small carrot, washed and grated
80g dried cranberries
Olive oil, for greasing
50g plain flour (or rice flour)
Method
1. Sift the bread flour and cinnamon into a bowl. Add the peanut butter and rub in with your fingertips to create a crumb-like mixture. Make a well in the center of your breadcrumb mixture and add the honey and yeast.
2. In another bowl, beat egg and milk together for about 1 minute. Pour the egg and milk mixture into the well, fold and mix until the dough is formed (this can also be done in a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook).
3. On a lightly floured surface, knead the dough until smooth and stretchy, then stir in the grated carrot and cranberries. Shape the dough into a ball and place it in a bowl. Cover the bowl with a tea towel and let rise in a warm place for an hour.
4. Remove the dough from the bowl and knead it on a floured surface, before shaping it into a ball again. Return to bowl and let rise another 30 minutes.
5. Meanwhile, preheat the oven to 400°F.
6. Divide the dough into 12 equal pieces. Shape the pieces into balls, then flatten them into a bun shape and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
7. Mix plain flour with 11⁄2 to 2 tablespoons of water, adding it slowly and stirring until it forms a light batter.
8. Roll small pieces of dough into ribbons and create traditional crosses on buns. Or try rolling dots and decorating buns with paw prints!
9. Once your masterpieces are ready, place them in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes until golden brown.
10. An optional extra touch is to lightly glaze the surface of the buns with a little honey before they cool.
Store rolls in an airtight container for up to 5 days or freeze them for up to 3 months.
ADVICE: Serve these hot buns to the whole family so your dog doesn’t feel left out this Easter.
The above recipes are published with permission from Tails.com.
These dog-friendly Easter treat recipes are sure to bring more joy to your family celebration! How to celebrate Easter with your dog? Please share comments below.