11 Vet-Approved Human Foods That Make Pawsome Dog Treats

Treating your four-legged friend doesn’t always require a trip to the pet store. Many healthy, delicious options are already in your kitchen! Veterinarians have identified several human foods that are not only safe for dogs but can be nutritious additions to their diet.

These wholesome alternatives save money while providing tasty rewards your pup will love.

1. Crunchy Carrot Nibbles

Dogs go wild for the satisfying crunch of fresh carrots! These vibrant orange veggies are packed with beta-carotene and fiber while being naturally low in calories. Raw carrots can help clean your dog’s teeth as they chew, acting as nature’s toothbrush.

For smaller dogs or seniors, try grating carrots over their regular food or steaming them slightly for easier munching. Store carrot sticks in water in the refrigerator to keep them fresh and crisp. Many pet parents find that frozen carrot chunks make excellent teething aids for puppies who need something cool to soothe their gums.

2. Protein-Packed Peanut Butter

Nothing makes a dog’s tail wag faster than licking peanut butter off a spoon! This protein-rich treat doubles as the perfect disguise for medications when necessary.

Always check labels carefully—only choose versions without xylitol, an artificial sweetener toxic to dogs. Unsalted varieties are best to avoid unnecessary sodium. A tablespoon occasionally is plenty for most pups.

Freeze peanut butter inside a hollow toy for a longer-lasting challenge that keeps dogs mentally stimulated. For an extra special treat, spread a thin layer on a banana slice or stuff inside a celery stick for a crunchy-creamy combination.

3. Tiny Blueberry Poppers

These little blue powerhouses pack serious nutrition into bite-sized morsels your dog will adore. Bursting with antioxidants that support immune health, blueberries make perfect training treats—small, soft, and incredibly healthy.

The natural sweetness appeals to canine taste buds while the soft texture makes them easy to eat. Fresh or frozen both work wonderfully, though frozen berries offer a refreshing summer treat on hot days.

Try rolling blueberries across the floor for an entertaining game that combines treat time with exercise. Their naturally dark color means they won’t stain light-colored carpets if accidentally squished, unlike many commercial treats with artificial dyes.

4. Soothing Pumpkin Puree

Plain pumpkin works wonders for canine digestive systems while delighting their taste buds. This fiber-rich orange goodness helps regulate everything from diarrhea to constipation, making it a staple in many pet parents’ pantries.

Always choose plain canned pumpkin (not pie filling with spices and sugar) or cook and puree fresh pumpkin yourself. A tablespoon or two mixed into regular food provides the perfect amount for most medium-sized dogs.

Freeze pumpkin puree in ice cube trays for portion-controlled summer treats that help cool overheated pups. Some owners report that regular small amounts have improved their dog’s coat condition thanks to the rich vitamin content.

5. Refreshing Apple Slices

The crisp, juicy crunch of apple slices brings joy to dogs while cleaning their teeth naturally. Packed with vitamins A and C plus fiber, these sweet treats support overall health while freshening breath.

Remember to remove all seeds and the core before serving, as apple seeds contain traces of cyanide. Most dogs prefer red varieties like Gala or Fuji for their natural sweetness over tarter green apples.

Refrigerate apple slices in water with a splash of lemon juice to prevent browning if preparing in advance. For senior dogs or those with dental issues, gently microwave slices for 10 seconds to soften them slightly while maintaining nutritional value.

6. Lean Chicken Bites

Few things drive dogs wild like the aroma of plain cooked chicken! This lean protein source makes an excellent high-value reward for training sessions or special occasions.

Always serve boneless, skinless chicken without seasonings, salt, or oils. Boiling or baking are the healthiest preparation methods. Shred or dice the meat into appropriate sizes based on your dog’s size to prevent choking.

Store cooked chicken treats in the refrigerator for up to three days or freeze for convenient training rewards that last months. The natural moisture in chicken makes it especially appealing for older dogs or those with decreased appetite, while the high protein content supports muscle maintenance.

7. Crunchy Green Bean Snaps

Green beans offer the perfect combination of satisfying crunch and minimal calories. These fiber-filled veggies help dogs feel full while adding negligible calories to their diet—perfect for pups watching their waistlines!

Fresh, frozen, or canned varieties all work well, though choose no-salt-added versions if using canned. Steaming fresh beans for 2-3 minutes softens them slightly while maintaining nutritional value for dogs with sensitive teeth.

The long shape makes green beans excellent for interactive feeding, as dogs must manipulate them to eat comfortably. Many veterinarians recommend substituting green beans for up to 10% of a dog’s regular food during weight management programs, allowing them to feel satisfied while reducing caloric intake.

8. Roasted Sweet Potato Cubes

Sweet potatoes transform into canine candy when roasted, bringing out natural sugars while providing excellent nutrition. These orange tubers deliver beta-carotene, fiber, and vitamins that support digestive and immune health.

Cut sweet potatoes into appropriately sized pieces and roast without oils or seasonings until soft. Allow them to cool completely before serving. The natural sweetness makes these treats irresistible to most dogs.

Dehydrated sweet potato chews provide longer-lasting enjoyment and help clean teeth through extended chewing. Simply slice thinly and bake at a very low temperature until chewy but not brittle. Many dogs who resist vegetables in their regular meals will happily devour sweet potatoes as treats.

9. Creamy Plain Yogurt Dollops

Plain yogurt delivers probiotics and calcium while cooling hot dogs on summer days. The tangy flavor and creamy texture make it an exciting change from typical crunchy treats.

Always choose plain, unsweetened varieties without artificial sweeteners, especially xylitol. Greek yogurt provides extra protein with less lactose, making it easier for sensitive stomachs to digest.

Start with small amounts to ensure your dog tolerates dairy well. Freeze yogurt in silicone molds or ice cube trays for refreshing pupsicles during hot weather. Adding a few blueberries or small pieces of banana before freezing creates visually appealing treats with additional nutritional benefits.

The cooling sensation helps regulate body temperature while providing enrichment.

10. Hearty Oatmeal Scoops

Cooked oatmeal provides wonderful texture and soluble fiber that supports digestive health. This wholesome grain serves as an excellent alternative for dogs with wheat sensitivities. Always serve plain oatmeal cooked with water, never with milk or sugar. Let it cool completely before offering it to your eager pup.

The sticky texture makes oatmeal easy to form into balls for training treats. Mixing a spoonful of pumpkin or mashed banana into cooled oatmeal creates flavor variations your dog will appreciate.

For dogs needing weight management, oatmeal provides satisfying volume without excessive calories, helping them feel full while maintaining a healthy diet.

11. Sliced Banana Medallions

Bananas offer natural sweetness along with potassium and vitamin B6 in a soft, easy-to-eat package. Their creamy texture makes them especially appealing to puppies and senior dogs with dental concerns.

Slice bananas into appropriate thickness based on your dog’s size to prevent choking. Slightly underripe bananas contain less sugar while maintaining nutritional benefits. For a special treat, freeze banana slices for a refreshing summer snack.

The high potassium content makes bananas particularly beneficial after intense exercise or play sessions. Many dogs who turn their noses up at medications will happily take pills hidden in a small piece of banana. The natural wrapper makes bananas convenient treats for walks or travel.