If you’re looking for a high-value training treat that will quickly grab your pup’s attention and make their tail wag then you’ve gotta make these baked beef liver bites!
In all honestly, these aren’t the prettiest treats in the world. In fact, they’re downright ugly. But, these dark tar-looking bites are a doggy delicacy. They offer an aroma and taste our canine companions go absolutely NUTS for. Plus, they’re healthy and a cinch to make (only 1 ingredient).
About Beef Liver
Organ meats, like liver, are extremely rich in key nutrients. It’s high in protein, copper, iron, and zinc. It’s a good source of vitamin A and various B vitamins.
Since liver is very rich and offers up way more nutrients than muscle meat (like chicken breast, for example), a little goes a long way. According to the experts at Dogs Naturally Magazine: “If your pet tolerates liver without developing loose stools, you should consider feeding up to 1 oz. of liver per day for a medium to large dog, and up to 0.5 oz. per day for small dogs. Feeding double that amount of liver only 2-3 times a week is another good strategy.”
Be careful not to overfeed liver or there is a risk of vitamin A overdose.
Since moderation is key, when I cook up liver treats, I don’t make a lot at once.
Where To Find Beef Liver
Liver is readily available in most grocery stores. I get my beef liver frozen — it comes in a bag with 4 individually wrapped pre-cut slices. If you have a hard time finding it, ask your butcher!
Another benefit? Beef liver is really affordable!
Baked Beef Liver Dog Treats Recipe
Baked Beef Liver Dog Treats
Ingredients
- Frozen beef liver
Instructions
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Set aside for later.
- While beef liver is still frozen, place on a cutting board and use a sharp knife to cut into strips. Then, cut strips into bite-size squares.
- Let the frozen beef liver defrost on the cutting board. In the meantime, pre-heat oven to 350ºF.
- Once beef liver is defrosted, blot with a paper towel. I like to wear kitchen gloves for this part because defrosted beef liver is pretty bloody. Then, transfer to parchment paper-lined baking sheet.
- Bake for 30 minutes.
- Let cool on the baking sheet before transferring to an airtight container for storage. These keep for about 1 week in the refrigerator or one month in the freezer.
