Nobody likes bad breath, especially when it’s your German Shepherdâs! In this post, weâll share six simple, homemade treats that will freshen your dogâs breath naturally. Not only will these treats help combat odor, but theyâre also made with healthy, dog-friendly ingredients.
Fresh breath is just one of the many benefits of these treats. Theyâll also help keep your German Shepherdâs teeth and gums in top condition, so everyone can enjoy a little extra time together without the worry of stinky breath!
1. Minty Oatmeal Bones
These Minty Oatmeal Bones are a yummy way to ensure your dog’s breath stays fresh. They merge the refreshing flavor of mint with the wholesome goodness of oatmeal, ensuring a great taste and the appeal of a classic bone-shaped treat.
Begin by gathering the essential ingredients: oat flour, fresh mint leaves, fresh parsley, an egg, and some water. Both mint and parsley help eliminate bad breath and promote better oral health due to their natural antibacterial properties.
To make the treat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a large mixing bowl, combine two cups of oat flour, a handful of finely chopped mint leaves and parsley, and beat in one egg slowly with a small amount of water until the dough comes together. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to your desired thickness and cut out bone shapes with a cookie cutter.
Bake the bones for around 20-25 minutes until they are golden brown, then let them cool on a wire rack. Store in an airtight container for freshness, and watch as your German Shepherd eagerly devours these minty morsels, showcasing their affection with fresh-smelling licks.
2. Parsley and Peanut Butter Bites
For a treat that combines breath-freshening herbs with the irresistible charm of peanut butter, these Parsley and Peanut Butter Bites fit the bill perfectly. They’re simple to make and packed with flavors that dogs love.
Start by ensuring you have fresh parsley, natural peanut butter (ensure it’s xylitol-free, as this sweetener is toxic to dogs), oat flour, and water. Parsley acts as a natural breath deodorizer, while peanut butter provides a protein-rich, savory taste that is hard to resist.
In a mixing bowl, combine one cup of oat flour, one and a half cups of chopped parsley, and half a cup of peanut butter. Slowly add water and stir until the mixture holds its shape but is still moldable into bite-sized balls.
Form the dough into small balls appropriate for your dog’s size, and place them on a baking sheet. Flatten slightly before baking them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes. Once cooled, these delightful bites can be stored in the fridge and used as a training reward or just a simple way to brighten your dogâs day with a minty-peanut butter kick.
3. Coconut Oil Peppermint Drops
Coconut oil not only supports shiny coats and healthy skin, but it also aids in fresher breath. Add in the natural cooling effect of peppermint and you’ve got a recipe for oral hygiene success that matches their exuberance for a treat.
To whip up these Coconut Oil Peppermint Drops, you’ll need coconut oil, fresh peppermint leaves (or organic peppermint oil in moderation), and a silicone mold for easy portioning. Peppermint is celebrated for its freshening qualities and digestive benefits.
Begin by melting half a cup of coconut oil over low heat. While it’s melting, finely chop a bunch of fresh peppermint leaves or add a few drops of peppermint oil. Mix the peppermint into the melted coconut oil and pour the mixture evenly into the silicone mold.
Pop the mold into the fridge and allow the coconut oil to harden. Once set, remove the drops from the mold and store them in the refrigerator to prevent them from melting. Hand these out sparingly, mindful of the coconut oilâs high natural fat content, and watch your German Shepherdâs eyes light up with every refreshing burst of peppermint goodness.
4. Breath Mint Apple Biscuits
For an enticing combination of fruit and mint, try Breath Mint Apple Biscuits. These crunchy treats not only help freshen your dog’s breath but also provide a satisfying crunch that is crucial for dental health.
Gather applesauce, oat flour, fresh mint leaves, fresh parsley, and an egg for this recipe. Apples are an excellent source of fiber and vitamins, adding a touch of sweetness that’s antedated by nature’s greens to maintain oral freshness.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and process about two cups of oat flour, half a cup of unsweetened applesauce, a handful of chopped mint, a bit of parsley, and one egg in a mixing bowl until you form a dense dough.
Roll out the dough on a well-floured surface, cut out desired shapes with a cookie cutter, and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake these biscuits for 25-30 minutes, until they turn golden and crisp. Cool completely before serving, and store them in an airtight container for up to two weeks of wagging tails and minty puffs.
5. Yogurt and Carrot Breath Cools
Smooth, creamy, and low in fat, yogurt is a surprising ally in combating canine bad breath when paired aptly. Coupled with beta-carotene-rich carrots, these Yogurt and Carrot Breath Cools are both refreshing and savory treats your dog wonât resist.
Begin with plain, unsweetened yogurt, as flavored yogurts may contain sugars and additives unsuitable for dogs. You’ll also need grated carrots and, for extra freshening power, some minced mint. Carrots provide a crunch and are easy on a dog’s digestive system, while yogurt adds probiotics beneficial for gut health and freshness.
To prepare, mix one cup of yogurt with one-quarter cup of finely grated carrots and a tablespoon of chopped mint. Spoon the mixture into small, treat-sized molds or simple ice cube trays, and freeze until solid.
These chilled delights are perfect for warm days or after energetic play sessions, helping keep Fido’s breath fresh while providing a cooling treat. Remember to regulate intake though, as these treats add additional calories to their diet.
6. Cheesy Herb Chews
If your German Shepherd is a cheese lover, they’ll fall head over paws for these Cheesy Herb Chews. Combining savory cheese with freshly harvested herbs, these chews tantalize the taste buds while freshening breath naturally.
You’ll need cheddar cheese, whole wheat flour, fresh parsley, fresh thyme, and some water. Parsley is renowned for its freshening effect, and the aromatic thyme adds an extra burst of flavor while helping neutralize bad breath bacteria.
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grating about half a cup of cheddar cheese. In a bowl, mix the cheese with one and a half cups of whole wheat flour, a tablespoon each of parsley and thyme, and enough water to form a firm dough.
Shape the dough into sticks or rounds, place them on a baking sheet, and bake for 15-20 minutes. Let these chews cool before serving, ensuring they are hard enough to provide a satisfying crunch. Your shepherd will delight in the cheesy goodness and vibrant burst of fresh herbs, leaving everyone happy they now smell as inviting as they look!
Take Home Message
Creating homemade breath-freshening treats for your German Shepherd not only helps keep oral hygiene in check but also strengthens the bond between you and your furry friend. These recipes provide an array of flavors and textures that cater to their palate while ensuring every breath they take is fresh. Remember to always use dog-safe ingredients and introduce new treats gradually to avoid any digestive upset. Your proactive approach to canine care promises fresher breath, healthier gums, and a happier dog always ready for cuddles and play!
