Recipes

National Pet Day: Carrot and Ginger Dog Treats (Human-Friendly Too!)

Posted by Niel Neethling on April 02, 2025

Welcome to a delightful culinary journey tailored not just for our beloved canine companions but for us humans too! With National Pet Day 2025 just around the corner, it’s the perfect opportunity to celebrate with a batch of homemade carrot and ginger dog treats. These treats are not only scrumptious for dogs but are also safe for humans to nibble on.

So, if you’re an aspiring chef or a passionate home cook looking to expand your repertoire with innovative treats, you’re in the right place. Let’s dive into the world of doggie treat recipes that are as fun to make as they are to share.

A Symphony of Ingredients: Carrot and Ginger

The magic of this recipe lies in the perfect marriage of ingredients. Carrots bring a natural sweetness and a vibrant colour to the treats, making them not only appealing but also nutritious. Rich in beta-carotene and fibre, carrots are known to support vision and digestive health, both for dogs and humans.

Ginger, on the other hand, adds a zingy touch that’s both aromatic and flavourful. Known for its anti-inflammatory properties, ginger can aid digestion and boost overall health. When combined, carrots and ginger create a harmonious blend that’s both tasty and health-boosting.

The Science Behind the Ingredients

Understanding the science behind these ingredients can help you appreciate their interactions in the recipe. Carrots, with their high water content, contribute moisture to the treats, making them soft and chewy—perfect for those looking for homemade soft dog treats. Meanwhile, ginger’s natural oils infuse the treats with a gentle spice, enhancing the flavour without overwhelming the senses.

Crafting Your Treats: Step-by-Step Recipe

Let’s get into the nuts and bolts of creating these delectable treats. Not only are they amongst the healthiest dog treats you can make at home, but they also require minimal ingredients and effort. Here’s what you’ll need:

1 cup of finely grated carrots
1 tablespoon of freshly grated ginger
1 cup of whole wheat flour
1/2 cup of rolled oats
1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce
1 egg

Instructions:

Prepare the Dough: Preheat your oven to 175°C (350°F). In a large bowl, combine the grated carrots and ginger. Add in the whole wheat flour and rolled oats, mixing until well combined.
Binding the Ingredients: Add the applesauce and egg to the dry ingredients. Mix until a sticky dough forms. If the dough is too dry, add a bit more applesauce.
Shape the Treats: Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 6mm thickness. Use a biscuit cutter or a knife to cut the dough into your desired shape. For a bit of fun, you can use bone-shaped cutters!
Bake to Perfection: Place the treats on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until they are golden brown and firm to the touch.
Cool and Store: Allow the treats to cool completely before serving them to your pup—or indulging yourself! Store them in an airtight dog treat container to maintain freshness.

Tips for Success

Adjustments for Dietary Needs: If your pup has specific dietary restrictions, such as diabetes, consider creating diabetic dog treats by substituting the flour with a lower glycaemic option like almond flour. Always consult with your vet before making dietary changes for your pet.

Make It a Training Treat: These chewy dog treats can easily be adapted into homemade dog training treats by cutting the dough into smaller, bite-sized pieces. This makes them perfect for rewarding your pup during obedience training sessions without overloading them with calories.

Celebrate National Pet Day with Style

On National Pet Day, why not get creative with a dog treat bag filled with these homemade delights? Not only does this make for a thoughtful gift for fellow pet parents, but it also highlights your culinary skills and love for pets.

Share the Joy

Remember, these treats are designed to be shared. Invite friends over with their furry companions for a National Pet Day celebration. Prepare a batch of these carrot and ginger treats and watch as tails wag with joy and humans smile in satisfaction.