If you’ve ever watched your dog demolish a treat in three seconds flat, you know the struggle. You hand them a biscuit, blink once, and poof—gone.
That’s why I started experimenting with long-lasting dog treats—homemade ones that actually keep my pup busy and healthy.
Because let’s be honest, those store-bought chews can get pricey (and sketchy ingredient-wise).
So, if you’re like me—someone who wants to spoil their dog without emptying their wallet or worrying about what’s in those shiny packets—this post is for you.
Today, we’re talking 10 long-lasting dog treats you can make at home that’ll keep your furry best friend happily chewing, licking, and wagging away.
Ready to upgrade treat time? Let’s roll.
Table of Contents
1. Baked Sweet Potato Chews
You can’t go wrong with this classic. Sweet potatoes are nature’s candy for dogs—sweet, chewy, and packed with fiber and beta-carotene.
How to make them:
- Slice one large sweet potato lengthwise into ¼-inch thick strips.
- Bake at 250°F (120°C) for about 2.5–3 hours, flipping halfway through.
- Let them cool until leathery but firm.
Pro tip: For even chewier texture, leave the slices thicker and bake at a slightly lower temp for longer.
Why it’s long-lasting:
These take time to chew, especially for smaller dogs. Plus, you can store them in an airtight jar for up to 3 weeks.
Personal take: My dog, Max, will literally sit for these on command. Honestly, I think he’d do my taxes if I asked.
2. Frozen Peanut Butter Banana Bites
When it’s hot out, frozen treats are gold. They’re healthy, easy, and keep your dog occupied longer than you’d expect.
Ingredients:
- 1 ripe banana
- 2 tbsp unsalted peanut butter
- ½ cup plain Greek yogurt
Instructions:
- Blend everything until smooth.
- Pour into silicone molds or ice cube trays.
- Freeze for at least 4 hours.
Why it’s long-lasting:
Frozen texture = slower licking. Perfect for dogs that inhale their treats in seconds.
Storage: Keep them frozen for up to 2 months.
Pro tip: Want it to last even longer? Spread the mix onto a lick mat and freeze it flat—your dog will stay busy for ages.
3. Homemade Jerky Strips (Chicken or Beef)
Ever bought jerky treats and wondered, “Why does this cost more than my lunch?” Yeah, me too. Making them yourself saves money and ensures quality.
You’ll need:
- Boneless chicken breast or lean beef
- Optional: turmeric or parsley for flavor and nutrients
Steps:
- Slice thin strips of meat (¼ inch or less).
- Bake at 200°F (93°C) for 2–3 hours, flipping halfway.
- Let them dry completely before storing.
Why it’s long-lasting:
They’re chewy and dense—great for gnawing. Store-bought versions often add glycerin or sugar, but these don’t need that junk.
IMO: If your dog loves meat (and let’s face it, they all do), these are chef’s kiss.
4. Oat and Pumpkin Dog Biscuits
Pumpkin is basically a superfood for dogs. It helps digestion and keeps their coat shiny.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup pumpkin purée
- 2 ½ cups whole oats (blended into flour)
- 1 egg
Instructions:
- Mix the pumpkin, egg, and oat flour into a dough.
- Roll out and cut into bone shapes.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30–35 minutes.
Why it’s long-lasting:
These biscuits harden as they cool, giving that satisfying crunch.
Storage: Store in an airtight container for up to a month.
Personal note: My kitchen smells like fall every time I bake these—and Max drools before they even hit the oven.
5. Frozen Broth Cubes with Hidden Treats
Ever seen your dog excited and confused at the same time? Wait till they find a treat inside an ice cube.
What you’ll need:
- Low-sodium chicken or beef broth
- Small dog treats or bits of cooked chicken
Directions:
- Pour broth into ice cube trays halfway.
- Add a treat or small piece of meat.
- Fill the rest with broth and freeze overnight.
Why it’s long-lasting:
Dogs lick their way through frozen layers—total enrichment activity!
Storage: Up to 2 months in the freezer.
Bonus tip: Try making them in large silicone molds for extra long chewing sessions.
6. Dehydrated Apple Rings with Cinnamon
Yep, dogs can eat apples (minus the seeds). These are great crunchy snacks with a hint of natural sweetness.
Ingredients:
- 2 apples, cored and sliced thin
- A sprinkle of cinnamon (optional but dog-safe in small amounts)
Instructions:
- Lay slices on a baking sheet.
- Bake at 200°F (93°C) for 2–3 hours until dry.
Why it’s long-lasting:
Dehydration concentrates the flavor and makes the texture chewy—dogs love the crunch.
Storage: Keep in airtight jars for up to 3 weeks.
FYI: Don’t overdo the cinnamon—it’s great in moderation but too much can upset their stomach.
7. Dental Chew Sticks with Parsley and Mint
Bad dog breath? Yeah, we’ve all been there. These DIY dental chews help freshen things up while keeping your pup busy.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups whole wheat flour
- ½ cup rolled oats
- 1 tbsp dried parsley
- 1 tbsp dried mint
- 1 egg
- ¾ cup water
Directions:
- Mix everything into a firm dough.
- Shape into small sticks or twists.
- Bake at 325°F (160°C) for 35–40 minutes.
Why it’s long-lasting:
Crunchy texture + chewy center = a satisfying gnaw every time.
Storage: Airtight container, up to 4 weeks.
Personal note: My wife calls these “dog breath mints.” They work—trust me.
8. Peanut Butter and Oat Chew Bars
This one’s for the peanut butter addicts (both human and canine). These bars are chewy, filling, and packed with protein.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups rolled oats
- ½ cup unsalted peanut butter
- ¼ cup honey
- 1 ripe banana (mashed)
Instructions:
- Mix all ingredients in a bowl.
- Spread the dough onto a lined baking tray.
- Bake at 300°F (150°C) for 30–35 minutes.
- Let cool and cut into bars.
Why it’s long-lasting:
They’re firm and chewy, not crumbly, so your dog works for every bite.
Storage: Refrigerate for up to 3 weeks.
Pro tip: For extra chewiness, bake for 10 minutes less and store in the fridge.
9. Frozen Lick Mat Recipes
Lick mats are the ultimate boredom busters. The best part? You can customize them endlessly.
Mix-and-match base ideas:
- Plain Greek yogurt
- Pumpkin purée
- Mashed banana
- Peanut butter (unsalted)
Add-ins for variety:
- Blueberries
- Carrot shreds
- Tiny kibble bits
Instructions:
- Spread your base evenly on a lick mat.
- Sprinkle toppings and freeze overnight.
Why it’s long-lasting:
Dogs have to lick every nook and cranny—so it takes forever.
Pro tip: Alternate flavors in each square to keep it interesting.
Personal experience: When I give Max a frozen lick mat, I get a solid 30 minutes of peace. Honestly, that’s worth gold.
10. Homemade Bone Broth Popsicles
If your dog loves savory flavors, this one’s a winner. It’s simple, hydrating, and great for joints.
You’ll need:
- 2 cups low-sodium bone broth
- Optional: small veggies or bits of cooked meat
Directions:
- Pour into molds or small cups.
- Freeze overnight.
- Pop them out and watch your dog go nuts.
Why it’s long-lasting:
Frozen texture + rich flavor = happy, occupied dog.
Storage: Up to 2 months frozen.
Extra tip: Pour leftover broth into a Kong and freeze for a next-level chew experience.
Bonus Tips for Making Long-Lasting Dog Treats
- Go thick: Thicker slices or dough create tougher, chewier textures.
- Low and slow: Baking or dehydrating at low temperatures preserves nutrients while creating that jerky-like bite.
- Avoid sugar and salt: They shorten shelf life and aren’t good for dogs.
- Freeze or dehydrate: Both methods naturally extend freshness without preservatives.
Conclusion
So there you have it—10 long-lasting dog treats you can make right in your kitchen. They’re healthier, cheaper, and honestly, way more fun to make than buying overpriced store snacks. Plus, your pup gets the satisfaction of a good, long chew—and you get some well-deserved quiet time (you’re welcome).
Making these treats doesn’t require fancy equipment or chef-level skills. It’s just a bit of time, love, and patience—kind of like raising a dog itself.
So next time you’re meal-prepping, why not whip up a batch for your four-legged best friend too? Trust me, those tail wags will make it totally worth it.
I’m Pallab Kishore, the owner of Little Pets Realm — an animal lover and pet care enthusiast sharing easy tips, healthy recipes, and honest advice to help every small pet live a happy, healthy, tail-wagging life.