Most dogs go absolutely wild for sardines. If yours is one of them, this is a must-make recipe. These homemade sardine dog treats are packed with bold fishy flavor, made with just four simple ingredients, and baked into crunchy biscuits your pup will love. So if you’re looking for a special snack with serious scent power to spoil your dog with, you’ve found it!
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Why You Will Love This Recipe
There’s something special about baking homemade treats for your dog. You know you enjoy watching them sitting nearby, nose in the air, waiting for a taste. These sardine treats for dogs are going to earn you some serious bonus points. Here’s why:
Wholesome Ingredients – Just four real ingredients, no preservatives or artificial stuff like in many store-bought treats.
Easy to Make – Everything goes into the food processor, then roll, cut, and bake. Simple as that.
Irresistible Fish Flavor – Sardines give these treats a strong scent and flavor dogs love, making them perfect as high-value training treats.
Economical – These fishy treats cost way less than most store-bought options.
Ingredients and What They Bring to the Treats
These sardine dog biscuits are made with simple, nutritious ingredients, and each one brings something to the mix:
- Canned Sardines – A great source of omega-3s, protein, and flavor that dogs go crazy for.
- Pumpkin Purée – Adds moisture, fiber, and a subtle sweetness to balance the fishy flavor.
- Egg – Binds the dough and adds a little extra protein.
- Oat Flour – A gluten-free flour that’s easy for dogs to digest.
Ingredient Notes and Substitutions
When making these treats, there are some things to keep in mind and simple swaps you can make:
- You can use sardines in oil or water. Just make sure they’re plain and not flavored or seasoned.
- To make oat flour, blend old-fashioned rolled oats in a blender or food processor until they reach a flour-like texture. One cup of oats makes about ¾ cup of flour.
- You can substitute oat flour with rice flour, all-purpose flour, or a mix of all-purpose and whole wheat flour. Avoid using only whole wheat flour because it’s too dense.
- Do not use coconut flour. It absorbs too much moisture and will make the dough too dry.
Equipment Needed
You’ll need a food processor to make the dough smooth and uniform. To shape the treats, use your favorite cookie cutter. I love using paw-shaped cutters for a cute touch!
How to Make Sardine Dog Treats
These dog treats with sardines are quick and easy to prepare, and bake in no time. Here’s what to do:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
- Drain the sardines and place them in a food processor.
- Add the oat flour, pumpkin purée, and egg. Blend until a dough forms.
- Place the dough on parchment paper. Roll it out and cut into shapes using cookie cutters. Re-roll scraps and repeat.
- Place the cutouts on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 12–15 minutes.
- Let the treats cool completely before serving.
Tip: Want to make training treats? Instead of using cookie cutters, use a knife or pizza wheel to cut the dough into small squares before baking.
How to Store the Treats and How Long They Last
Store the treats in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to 3 months in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag.
Can people eat these treats?
Yes, they’re safe for humans to eat. If you’re a sardine fan, feel free to give one a try, though your dog might not want to share.
More Recipes for Dog Treats
Do you want to make some other fishy or meaty treats to spoil your dog with? Try these recipes:
- Duck Dog Treats
- Ground Turkey Dog Treats
- Mackerel Dog Treats
- Rabbit Dog Treats
- Salmon Dog Treats
- Sushi for Dogs
- Tuna Dog Treats
Find lots of easy recipes for dog treats with meat and fish right here on Spoiled Hounds!
Sardine Dog Treats
Ingredients
- 1 3.75-ounce can sardines
- 2 cups oat flour
- 1/2 cup pumpkin puree
- 1 egg
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
- Drain the sardines and place them in a food processor. Add the remaining ingredients and process until a dough forms.
- Place the dough on parchment paper. Roll out the dough and cut out shapes with your favorite cookie cutter. Gather scraps and re-roll and cut.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes. Allow to cool completely before serving.
- Store the treats in an airtight container in the fridge.
Nutrition
Serving Amount
Treats should make up no more than 10% of your dog’s daily calories. If you’re unsure how many to give your pup, check with your vet.
If your dog hasn’t had any of the ingredients before, start with a small amount to make sure they don’t have any sensitivities or allergies.
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