Love is in the air! While many of us are busy planning a sweet gesture for our human sweethearts, let’s not forget about our four-legged companions. They shower us with unconditional love every day and deserve a special treat that says, “You’re my Valentine too!” Enter: A gelatin treat that’s not only easy to make but also easy on the gums (perfect for dogs of all ages, including seniors with dental issues). This homemade Valentine’s Day dog treat recipe will make tails wag and hearts melt, ensuring your pup feels the love on this special day!
Watch the recipe video above for a step-by-step guide to making these wiggly, jiggly treats.
A Look at the Ingredients
- Turkey: When shopping for this recipe, opt for the leanest ground turkey you can find. I use 99% lean. This yummy protein is rich in protein and amino acids, helping to support healthy muscles, skin, coat, and overall health.
- Fresh Beet: I don’t use artificial coloring in my homemade dog treats. However, I do love playing around with fresh ingredients to give my doggy snacks a fun, holiday-worthy hue. This Valentine’s Day dog treat gets its gorgeous red coloring from a fresh, boiled beet. Along with making the treats Instagram-worthy, beets are packed with essential nutrients like fiber, folate, and vitamin C. Plus, they’re a natural source of antioxidants, promoting a strong immune system. *If your dog is prone to bladder stones then consult with your veterinarian before feeding beets, as they contain oxalates.
- Plain, Unflavored Gelatin Powder: High in amino acids (the building blocks of protein), gelatin is a form of hydrolyzed collagen (AKA broken-down collagen) that’s taken from animal parts. I’m not talking about a plain chicken breast, though. Instead, gelatin is from areas like an animal’s skin, bone marrow, tissues, and tendons. It’s virtually colorless and tasteless. A high-quality gelatin powder offers many benefits to our four-legged Valentine’s. It supports joint health, gut health, skin, and coat!
- It’s important to note: Not all gelatin powder is created equal. If you’re looking for convenience, Knox is a popular brand that you can probably find at your local grocery store. As long as you get a box that says “Plain” and/or “Unflavored” then it’s fine to use. But, if you’re looking to reap the biggest health reward out of your gelatin powder, then look into brands like Great Lakes. I personally use Great Lakes Unflavored Beef Gelatin Powder to create all of my gelatin treats.
Tools
- Food Scale
- Measuring Spoons
- Saucepan
- Blender/Food Processor
- Mixing Bowl
- Food-Grade Silicone Mold
- Baking Sheet
Valentine’s Day Dog Treat Recipe
Ingredients
Method
- Add turkey and beet to a medium-size saucepan and fill with water (covering about 2").
- Bring to a boil and cook for about 15 minutes, or until beet is soft and turkey is fully cooked.
- Transfer cooked ingredients and 1/2 cup of bright red beet-infused water to a food processor. Pulse until smooth.
- Transfer to a mixing bowl and add gelatin powder. Stir well, ensuring all gelatin powder has dissolved and is evenly incorporated.
- Place a heart-shaped silicone mold (or another silicone mold of your choice) onto a baking sheet (or another hard surface) for support. Then, spoon the treat mixture into your mold.
- Set in fridge for about 1-2 hours, or until fully set.
Notes
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
