Canine Nutritionist Kristina Johansen shares her recipe for healthy homemade treats for older dogs, rich in vitamin D, lycopene, fibre and protein.
Perfect for older dogs, these treats are soft on older teeth and gums – and will give your pet a nutritional boost, too.
Sardines are one of the best sources of omega 3 fatty acids and one of the few foods naturally high in vitamin D, while tomatoes are rich in lycopene, a powerful antioxidant. Broccoli is brimming with compounds that help protect your dog’s cells against damage, while egg is the highest-quality protein, great for senior dogs, who need more protein than younger dogs.
Finally, oats are an excellent source of fibre that aids in digestion, helps control hunger and provides energy that is absorbed slowly by the body.
Ingredients
- 1 x 400g tin of pilchards or sardines in tomato sauce
- 100g oat flour
- 80g finely chopped broccoli
- 1 egg
Healthy homemade treats for older dogs – How to
- Preheat the oven to 180°C.
- In a bowl, beat the egg just until the egg whites and yolks are mixed.
- Add the sardines, oat flour and broccoli and mix until well combined.
- Spread the wet mixture onto a lined baking tray to approximately 0.5cm thickness.
- Bake for 35-45 minutes.
- Remove from the oven and let cool before cutting into bite-sized treats.
Recipe provides approximately 1,139 calories, 50g fat, 96g protein and 72g carbohydrates.
Win Healthspan treats for older dogs
Win Healthspan’s pet care bundle for your ageing pooch, including Flexi-Joint Treats, nutritious and delicious dog treats containing salmon oil and green lipped mussel, calcium for bone health and an antioxidant herb mix; Pet Pro Digest to help promote the healthy balance of live ‘friendly’ bacteria in your pet’s digestive system, also designed for dental health; and MultiVitality Senior, a multivitamin with 15 essential nutrients, co-enzyme Q10 and B vitamins.
