Frequently Asked Questions
What are Savory Peanut Butter & Bacon Dog Treats?
They are healthy, homemade dog cookies made from a blend of nutritious grains, creamy peanut butter, and real bacon bits designed to be a protein-rich snack.
How many treats does one batch of this recipe yield?
Each batch makes approximately 60 delectable cookies, perfectly sized for training rewards or small bites.
Are these dog treats corn-free?
Yes, these treats are corn-free and specifically use corn-free baking powder.
Do these treats contain refined sugar?
No, these treats are refined-sugar-free, using a small amount of honey as a natural sweetener.
What type of peanut butter should I use?
You should use unsweetened peanut butter that does not contain xylitol, which is toxic to dogs.
How long should I soften the rolled oats?
The rolled oats should be combined with boiling water and allowed to sit for 10 minutes to soften.
What temperature should the oven be set to?
Preheat your oven to 325 degrees Fahrenheit (165 degrees Celsius).
How long do the treats need to bake?
The treats should bake for 45 minutes or until they become golden brown.
Why does the dough need to be refrigerated?
The dough is refrigerated for 1 hour to make it firmer and easier to roll out without being too sticky.
How thick should the dough be when rolled out?
Roll the chilled dough to a thickness of approximately 1/2-inch.
What kind of bacon should I use?
Use real cooked bacon bits without added preservatives for the healthiest option for your pet.
Which flours are included in this recipe?
The recipe uses a variety of flours including rye, barley, quinoa, sunflower seed, soy, and teff flour.
Is chicken stock safe for dogs?
Yes, chicken stock is safe. It is recommended to use a low-sodium version for a healthier treat.
Why are ground flax seeds included?
Ground flax seeds are rich in omega-3 fatty acids which help support your dog's skin and coat health.
What is the purpose of the guar gum?
Guar gum acts as a thickening agent to help bind the various grain flours together in the dough.
Can I use different shapes for the treats?
Yes, you can use any cookie cutter to create desired shapes like rectangles, circles, or bones.
Does this recipe contain wheat?
Yes, the recipe contains wheat germ, though it is often considered a high-nutrient additive.
Are these treats high in protein?
Yes, ingredients like peanut butter, egg, soy flour, and bacon bits provide a high protein content.
What is the role of olive oil in the recipe?
Olive oil provides healthy fats and helps the texture and flavor of the treats.
What is teff flour?
Teff is a tiny, highly nutritious grain flour that adds essential minerals to the dog treats.
How should I prepare the baking sheets?
Line two baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent the treats from sticking.
Why are whole flax seeds added in addition to ground flax?
Whole flax seeds are added to provide extra crunch and texture to the cookies.
Is soy flour safe for my dog?
Yes, soy flour is a safe, high-protein flour alternative used in many pet food recipes.
What is dry quick tapioca used for?
Minute or quick tapioca is used to help bind the ingredients and add a unique texture.
Can these be used for training rewards?
Yes, since they are bite-sized and flavorful, they are excellent for use as training rewards.
How do I ensure the dough isn't too sticky?
Knead the dough on a floured surface until it becomes smooth and follow the refrigeration step.
Do I need to space the cookies on the baking sheet?
Yes, space the cut cookies about 1 inch apart on the prepared baking sheets.
How should the treats cool?
Allow the cookies to cool completely on a wire rack to ensure they reach the proper consistency.
Is sunflower seed flour necessary?
It is part of the nutrient-dense flour blend that supports skin and coat health, but it could be substituted if necessary.
What makes these treats 'guilt-free'?
They are made from wholesome, natural ingredients without fillers, corn, or refined sugars.