Sweet Potato, Coconut & Oat Recipe – 3 Ingredient Dog Chews

Last updated on January 31st, 2026 at 07:15 am

I’ll admit, I’ve been guilty of spoiling my dog way too much with store-bought treats. But after reading about all the weird stuff in them, I knew I had to start making some healthier alternatives at home.

Enter these 3-ingredient dog chews—simple, healthy, and ridiculously easy to make.

Trust me, once you see your dog’s reaction, you’ll be making a batch every week.

What Makes This Recipe Shine

If your dog has a soft spot for chewy treats, this one’s a no-brainer. The combo of sweet potato, coconut, and oats doesn’t just sound healthy; it actually is.

Plus, it’s an absolute breeze to whip up. I’m talking about something you can make with ingredients you probably already have in your pantry. No complicated measurements or crazy techniques here—just good, wholesome ingredients your dog will adore.

What I love most about this recipe is the balance. Sweet potato is packed with vitamins and fiber, while coconut adds healthy fats. Oats tie everything together, providing a nice, chewy texture.

So, not only are you treating your pup, but you’re doing it in a way that actually benefits their health.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 medium-sized sweet potato (peeled and cooked)
• 1/4 cup shredded unsweetened coconut
• 1 cup rolled oats

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Sweet Potato

Peel your sweet potato and cut it into chunks. Toss it in a pot of boiling water and cook it until it’s soft and easily mashable. I know, it’s the kind of task that makes you question why we don’t just buy sweet potato fries instead. But trust me, your dog will thank you for this.

2. Mash the Sweet Potato

Once your sweet potato is soft, drain it and mash it up. It should be a nice smooth consistency with a few lumps here and there. If you’re feeling fancy, use a fork or a potato masher to give it that extra homemade vibe.

3. Mix in the Oats & Coconut

Now for the fun part: combine the mashed sweet potato, shredded coconut, and oats in a large mixing bowl. Stir until everything is fully incorporated, and you have a doughy mixture that holds its shape. You might be thinking, “Is this going to hold together?” Don’t worry, the oats will work their magic.

4. Shape the Dough

Take spoonfuls of your dough and roll them into small balls, or shape them into long logs depending on what your pup prefers. No need for perfection here! Just make sure the shapes are small enough for your dog to chew on without struggling.

5. Bake the Chews

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place your formed chews on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for about 25–30 minutes or until they’re golden brown and firm to the touch. Keep an eye on them, and don’t be afraid to break one open to check for a perfect chewiness level.

6. Cool & Serve

Let your homemade chews cool down before giving them to your dog. Trust me, they’ll probably start drooling as soon as they smell them baking. But it’s worth the wait. Once they’re cool, you’re good to go!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Not mashing the sweet potato well enough: You want a smooth, cohesive dough, not lumps that are impossible to mix in.
• Overbaking: If you leave these in too long, they’ll become super hard, and your dog might just end up chewing them like a chew toy instead of enjoying them.
• Not letting them cool: It’s tempting to serve them hot, but letting them cool first keeps them firm and chewy, just the way your pup likes them.

Alternatives & Substitutions

• Sweet Potato Swap: If you’re not feeling sweet potato, you could try pumpkin instead. It’s equally healthy and has the same texture when baked.
• Coconut Swap: You could also go for a different type of shredded dried fruit, like unsweetened apple or banana flakes.
• Oats Swap: If your dog is sensitive to oats, you can use quinoa flakes or rice flour as a substitute to keep that chewy texture.

FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

How long do these chews last?

These chews should stay fresh for up to a week when stored in an airtight container at room temperature. You can also freeze them to make them last longer!

Can I make these chews for puppies?

Absolutely! These chews are gentle on your dog’s teeth, so they’re safe for puppies who are teething. Just make sure the pieces are small enough to avoid choking hazards.

Do I need to add any extra sugar or salt?

No need to add sugar or salt! The natural sweetness of the sweet potato and the rich flavor from the coconut is enough. Your dog won’t miss it.

Can I add other flavors to the chews?

For sure! You can mix in some dog-safe peanut butter for extra flavor, or even a bit of cinnamon for a fall-inspired twist.

How do I know if the chews are done?

Your chews should be golden brown and firm to the touch. They’ll also hold their shape when they cool.

Can I make these chews with a food processor?

Definitely! If you have a food processor, you can blend everything together quickly. Just be careful not to overprocess, as you want a doughy texture, not a mush.

Are these chews good for sensitive stomachs?

Yes! The ingredients in these chews are simple and gentle, which makes them great for dogs with sensitive tummies. Just make sure your dog isn’t allergic to any of the ingredients.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a simple, healthy, and cost-effective way to spoil your dog, this sweet potato, coconut, and oat chew recipe is the answer. No more worrying about artificial additives or weird ingredients in store-bought treats.

Plus, your pup will absolutely love them! Make a batch, and enjoy seeing your dog’s eyes light up. The best part? You can feel good knowing exactly what’s in their treat. Happy baking!