7 DIY Dog Chew Treats Dogs Love

I’m just going to say it: most store-bought dog chews disappoint me. I’ve wasted money on treats that smell weird, crumble instantly, or bore dogs in under five minutes. That frustration pushed me into making my own, and honestly, I wish I had started sooner.

Homemade dog chew treats feel more personal, more fun, and way more rewarding. You control the ingredients, the texture, and the toughness, which means happier dogs and fewer side-eyes from the treat aisle.

Let me walk you through the chew treats I keep coming back to, because dogs lose their minds over these.

1. Sweet Potato Chew Strips

I’ll start with a strong opinion right away: sweet potato chews beat most commercial chews by a mile. Dogs love the chewy texture, and I love how cheap and simple they feel. Every time I pull these out, dogs act like I just handed them a steak.

Sweet potato chews work because they hit that perfect balance between tough and satisfying. Dogs get a solid chew session without inhaling the treat in ten seconds. The natural sweetness also keeps their attention way longer than bland biscuits.

Description

Dogs get bored with flimsy chews fast, and that boredom usually ends with couch corners looking suspicious. Sweet potato strips solve that problem by giving dogs something that lasts. The texture stays chewy instead of crunchy, which keeps jaws busy and tails wagging.

I also like how clean these chews feel compared to greasy store options. They don’t leave mystery residue on your floor, which feels like a small miracle.

Why It Works

Sweet potatoes dry into a firm, leathery texture that dogs naturally enjoy chewing. That resistance helps satisfy chewing instincts without splintering or crumbling. The fiber content also supports digestion, which makes these chews feel like a win-win.

IMO, this chew works so well because it feels natural to dogs. They recognize the smell and flavor right away, and they commit to it.

How to Make It

• Wash and scrub the sweet potatoes thoroughly.
• Slice them lengthwise into strips about a quarter-inch thick.
• Lay the strips flat on a baking rack or lined tray.
• Bake at low heat until the strips feel dry and bendy, not brittle.

Low and slow matters here because rushing ruins the texture. Patience pays off every single time.

Tips & Variations

Quick Tip: Slice evenly so all pieces dry at the same rate. Uneven slices create some sad, floppy chews.
Optional Variation: Sprinkle a tiny bit of cinnamon for dogs who enjoy a warmer aroma.

2. Braided Bully-Style Chews (Homemade Version)

I avoided these for a long time because bully sticks scared my wallet. One day, I decided to try a DIY approach, and dogs reacted like I unlocked a secret level. The homemade version gives similar satisfaction without the shock at checkout.

These chews look impressive, which makes them feel extra special. Dogs don’t care about presentation, but we definitely do.

Description

Some dogs want a chew they can really work on. Braided chews give that challenge without needing fancy equipment or scary ingredients. The braided shape slows dogs down and keeps them focused longer.

I noticed dogs settle into a calm, focused chew mode with these. That quiet moment alone makes the effort worth it.

Why It Works

The braid adds resistance, which extends chew time naturally. Dogs enjoy figuring out how to grip and rotate the chew. That mental engagement matters just as much as the physical chewing.

These chews also feel rewarding because dogs feel like they accomplished something. That sense of effort keeps them satisfied afterward.

How to Make It

• Use dog-safe meat strips or fish skins.
• Soak strips briefly to increase flexibility.
• Braid three strips tightly together.
• Dehydrate or bake at low heat until fully dried.

Tight braiding matters here because loose braids fall apart fast. A firm braid creates longer-lasting enjoyment.

Tips & Variations

Quick Tip: Always supervise the first chew session to gauge durability.
Optional Variation: Try fish skins for dogs who love bold smells and flavors.

3. Frozen Carrot Chew Logs

I laughed the first time someone suggested frozen carrots as chews. Then I tried it, and dogs proved me very wrong. Sometimes the simplest ideas work absurdly well.

Frozen carrot logs feel especially clutch during teething phases. Dogs chew, gnaw, and chill out at the same time.

Description

Teething dogs need relief, and furniture usually pays the price. Frozen carrot logs redirect that urge instantly. The cold soothes gums while the crunch keeps dogs engaged.

I also appreciate how zero-effort this chew feels. You literally freeze vegetables and call it a day.

Why It Works

The cold temperature reduces gum discomfort, which encourages steady chewing. Carrots also offer a satisfying crunch that slowly softens as dogs chew. That gradual texture change keeps interest high.

Dogs also love the natural sweetness of carrots. That subtle flavor makes a plain veggie feel exciting.

How to Make It

• Wash and peel large carrots.
• Cut them into thick, chewable lengths.
• Freeze overnight until fully solid.
• Serve straight from the freezer.

Thickness matters because thin carrots snap too fast. Aim for something that lasts more than a minute.

Tips & Variations

Quick Tip: Use whole carrots for larger dogs to extend chew time.
Optional Variation: Dip carrots lightly in bone broth before freezing for added flavor.

4. Oat and Banana Chew Bars

I started making these when I wanted something softer but still chew-worthy. Dogs that hate rock-hard treats absolutely adore these bars. The smell alone pulls them into the kitchen.

These chews feel comforting, almost like a snack version of a hug. That vibe definitely translates to how dogs react.

Description

Some dogs prefer gentle chewing over aggressive gnawing. Oat and banana bars offer that middle ground. The texture stays firm enough to chew without feeling intimidating.

I like these for older dogs or pups with sensitive teeth. They enjoy chewing without frustration.

Why It Works

Oats create structure while bananas add natural binding and sweetness. That combo produces a chewy, flexible texture dogs enjoy. The mild flavor also suits picky eaters.

These bars also break cleanly, which makes portion control easy. That flexibility helps a lot.

How to Make It

• Mash ripe bananas until smooth.
• Mix with rolled oats to form a thick dough.
• Press into a flat baking dish evenly.
• Bake until set and slightly firm.

Let the bars cool fully before slicing. Warm bars crumble more than they should.

Tips & Variations

Quick Tip: Use parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Optional Variation: Add a spoon of peanut butter for extra aroma and richness.

5. Rawhide-Free Rice and Chicken Chews

Rawhide always made me nervous, so I searched for alternatives. These rice and chicken chews quickly became my go-to replacement. Dogs chew happily, and I relax instead of worrying.

The texture surprises most dogs in a good way. They expect something boring and get something addictive.

Description

Dogs love rawhide because it lasts, not because it tastes amazing. These chews recreate that durability using safer ingredients. The result feels satisfying without the stress.

I noticed dogs chew these more slowly than expected. That slower pace makes them feel substantial.

Why It Works

Rice flour forms a tough, flexible base when baked properly. Chicken adds aroma and motivation without overpowering the chew. That balance keeps dogs engaged longer.

The chew softens gradually instead of breaking apart. That change keeps dogs interested.

How to Make It

• Mix rice flour with finely shredded chicken.
• Add water gradually to form a dense dough.
• Shape into sticks or flat strips.
• Bake low and slow until firm.

Consistency matters here because wet dough ruins structure. Aim for stiff but workable.

Tips & Variations

Quick Tip: Roll dough evenly for consistent chew time.
Optional Variation: Swap chicken for turkey to change flavor without changing texture.

6. Pumpkin and Coconut Chew Cubes

I didn’t expect dogs to love this combo, but they proved me wrong fast. Pumpkin brings warmth, while coconut adds chewiness. Together, they create something oddly irresistible.

These cubes also smell amazing while baking. That alone boosts their appeal.

Description

Digestive issues frustrate dogs and owners alike. Pumpkin-based chews support digestion while offering chewing satisfaction. Coconut adds texture without overpowering flavor.

I like how balanced these feel. Dogs chew happily, and I feel good about the ingredients.

Why It Works

Pumpkin adds moisture and fiber, which supports gut health. Coconut flour thickens the mix and creates a chewy structure. That combo produces a firm but forgiving chew.

Dogs also enjoy the mild sweetness. That subtle flavor keeps things interesting.

How to Make It

• Mix pumpkin puree with coconut flour.
• Stir until a thick dough forms.
• Press into a shallow pan evenly.
• Bake until firm and slice into cubes.

Cool completely before serving. Warm cubes feel too soft.

Tips & Variations

Quick Tip: Use pure pumpkin, not pie filling.
Optional Variation: Add turmeric for a gentle wellness boost.

7. Dehydrated Apple Rings for Gentle Chewers

I made these on a whim and ended up making them weekly. Dogs crunch, chew, and savor every bite. Sometimes simple fruit steals the show.

These chews feel light yet satisfying. Dogs enjoy them without feeling overwhelmed.

Description

Not every dog wants a heavy-duty chew. Apple rings give a lighter option that still satisfies chewing instincts. The natural sweetness hooks dogs instantly.

I love how clean these chews feel. No mess, no grease, no stress.

Why It Works

Apples dehydrate into a firm but flexible texture. That structure encourages steady chewing without strain. The mild sweetness also appeals to most dogs.

These rings also smell fresh instead of meaty. That variety helps prevent boredom.

How to Make It

• Core apples and slice into rings.
• Lay slices flat on a drying rack.
• Dehydrate or bake at low heat.
• Cool fully before storing.

Thickness controls chew time. Thicker rings last longer.

Tips & Variations

Quick Tip: Remove all seeds before slicing.
Optional Variation: Mix apple rings with carrot slices for variety packs.

Final Thoughts

Making DIY dog chew treats changed how I feel about treat time. I enjoy the process, dogs enjoy the results, and nobody stares at chewed furniture anymore. That feels like a solid upgrade all around.

If you try even one of these chews, you’ll see the difference fast. Start simple, watch your dog’s reaction, and adjust as you go, because homemade always hits different.