9 Sourdough Dog Treats From Discard for Easy Baking

If you keep a sourdough starter, you know the routine: every feeding leaves you with a jar of discard that often goes to waste. Instead of tossing it, why not turn that discard into something special for your dog?

These 9 sourdough dog treat recipes are budget-friendly, using ingredients you likely already have, and they're a wonderful way to show your pup some love. From crunchy biscuits to soft chews, there's a treat here for every dog's taste.

Plus, baking for your dog means you control exactly what goes into their snacks—no mystery additives, just wholesome goodness.

1. Classic Sourdough Dog Biscuits

These crunchy biscuits are a wonderful way to use up sourdough discard while giving your pup a tasty, budget-friendly snack. With just a few pantry staples, you can whip up a batch that costs pennies compared to store-bought treats. The tangy sourdough pairs perfectly with a hint of peanut butter, creating a flavor dogs go wild for.

Plus, they're so simple to make that you'll want to keep a jar of these on hand for everyday rewards.

Ingredients

• 1 cup sourdough discard
• 1 ½ cups whole wheat flour (plus extra for rolling)
• ½ cup natural peanut butter (xylitol-free)
• ?? cup water (or as needed)
• 1 tablespoon coconut oil (melted)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, mix the sourdough discard, peanut butter, melted coconut oil, and water until smooth.
3. Gradually add the whole wheat flour, stirring until a stiff dough forms. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour; if too dry, add a splash of water.
4. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and roll to about ¼-inch thickness.
5. Use a bone-shaped cookie cutter (or any shape you like) to cut out biscuits and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
6. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until golden brown and firm. For extra crunch, turn off the oven and let the biscuits cool inside for another 30 minutes.
7. Let cool completely before serving to your dog.

Serving Tip

Store these biscuits in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks, or freeze for up to three months. For smaller dogs, break into smaller pieces to avoid overfeeding. These make great training treats—just adjust portion sizes based on your dog's daily calorie needs.

2. Peanut Butter & Pumpkin Sourdough Treats

Pumpkin and peanut butter are a classic combo that many dogs adore, and when you add a bit of sourdough discard, you get a soft, chewy treat that's perfect for sensitive stomachs. Pumpkin is gentle on digestion and packed with fiber, while peanut butter adds a savory richness that makes these treats irresistible. Best of all, they come together with pantry staples and are a great way to use up that extra starter without spending much—just what budget-friendly baking is all about.

Ingredients

• 1 cup sourdough discard (unfed, straight from the fridge)
• 1/2 cup plain canned pumpkin (not pumpkin pie filling)
• 1/4 cup natural peanut butter (unsalted, no added sugar or xylitol)
• 1 large egg
• 1 1/2 cups whole wheat flour (or oat flour for a gluten-free option)
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional, for aroma)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, mix the sourdough discard, pumpkin, peanut butter, and egg until smooth and well combined.
3. Gradually add the flour and cinnamon, stirring until a soft dough forms. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour, a tablespoon at a time.
4. Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and roll it to about 1/4-inch thickness.
5. Cut into fun shapes using cookie cutters, or simply slice into small squares with a knife.
6. Place the treats on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 20–25 minutes, until the edges are lightly golden and the centers are firm.
7. Let them cool completely on a wire rack before serving.

Serving Tip

These treats are soft and chewy, making them ideal for older dogs or those with dental issues. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week, or freeze for up to three months. For extra-small pups, cut them into bite-sized pieces—they're easy to break apart if needed.

3. Sweet Potato Sourdough Chews

These chews are a fantastic way to use up sourdough discard while giving your pup a treat that’s both tasty and good for them. The sweet potato adds natural sweetness and fiber, while the sourdough gives a subtle tang that dogs seem to love. Best of all, they’re simple to make and easy on your wallet, using ingredients you likely already have on hand.

Ingredients

• 1 cup sourdough discard
• 1 cup mashed sweet potato (about 1 medium sweet potato, cooked and mashed)
• 1/2 cup oat flour (or more as needed)
• 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce (for moisture and natural sweetness)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, mix together the sourdough discard, mashed sweet potato, and applesauce until well combined.
3. Gradually add the oat flour, stirring until a soft dough forms. You may need a little extra flour if the dough is too sticky.
4. Roll the dough out on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4-inch thickness. Use a cookie cutter or a knife to cut into desired shapes.
5. Place the treats on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until firm and lightly golden. For chewier treats, bake for less time; for crunchier treats, bake longer.
6. Let the treats cool completely before serving. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week, or freeze for longer storage.

Serving Tip

• These chews are perfect for training or as a rewarding snack. Because they have a chewy texture, they’re great for dogs who enjoy working their jaws. Start with one small treat to see how your dog handles it, and adjust the baking time to get the texture your pup prefers.
• Keep them in the fridge to maintain freshness, and always provide fresh water.

4. Apple Cinnamon Sourdough Bites

These crunchy bites bring together the natural sweetness of grated apple with a pinch of cinnamon, all wrapped in the tangy goodness of sourdough discard. They're a budget-friendly way to use up your starter while giving your dog a snack that smells like a cozy fall day. The apples add fiber and a little moisture, while the sourdough gives the treats a satisfying crunch that dogs love to chew.

Ingredients

• 1 cup sourdough discard
• 1 cup grated apple (about 1 medium apple, peeled and cored)
• 1/2 cup oat flour (or whole wheat flour)
• 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 tablespoon coconut oil, melted

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, mix the sourdough discard, grated apple, applesauce, and melted coconut oil until well combined.
3. Add the oat flour and cinnamon, stirring until a soft dough forms. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour.
4. Roll the dough out on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4-inch thickness, then cut into small bone-shaped or round treats.
5. Place the treats on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until golden and firm to the touch.
6. Let them cool completely on a wire rack before serving—this helps them get extra crunchy.

Serving Tip

Store these bites in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days, or pop them in the fridge for up to 2 weeks. For a longer shelf life, freeze them in a zip-top bag for up to 3 months—just thaw a few at a time. Because they're crunchy, they make a great training reward, but remember to break them into smaller pieces for smaller dogs.

5. Bacon & Cheese Sourdough Crackers

If your dog is anything like mine, the smell of bacon makes their ears perk up instantly. These crackers turn that irresistible aroma into a crunchy, savory treat that’s perfect for training sessions or just because. Using sourdough discard keeps the cost down—you’re repurposing something you’d otherwise toss—and the real bacon bits and cheddar add a flavor punch that store-bought treats rarely match.

They’re simple to mix, roll, and bake, and they’ll keep your pup coming back for more. Best of all, you control the ingredients, so there’s no mystery fillers or preservatives.

Ingredients

• 1 cup sourdough discard
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup cooked bacon bits (ensure no added sugar or onion)
• 1/2 cup whole wheat flour (or oat flour for sensitive tummies)
• 1/4 cup water (or as needed)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, mix the sourdough discard, cheddar, and bacon bits until well combined.
3. Gradually add the flour, stirring until a soft dough forms. If it’s too sticky, add a little more flour; if too dry, add water a teaspoon at a time.
4. Roll the dough out on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4-inch thickness.
5. Cut into small squares or use a cookie cutter for fun shapes. Place them on the prepared baking sheet.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes, until golden and crisp. Let cool completely before serving.

Serving Tip

These crackers are crunchy and satisfying, so they’re great for training—break them into smaller pieces if your dog is small. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week, or freeze for up to three months. Always give treats in moderation and adjust your dog’s daily meals to account for the extra calories.

6. Oatmeal & Banana Sourdough Cookies

These soft cookies bring together the natural sweetness of ripe bananas and the hearty texture of oats, making them a gentle, fiber-rich treat for your pup. They're a great way to use up sourdough discard without adding extra sugar or salt, keeping things simple and budget-friendly. Your dog will love the chewy, comforting texture, and you'll love how easy they are to whip up with pantry staples.

Ingredients

• 1 cup rolled oats (plus extra for rolling)
• 1 ripe banana, mashed
• 1/2 cup sourdough discard
• 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce
• 1 tablespoon coconut oil, melted
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, mix the mashed banana, sourdough discard, applesauce, and coconut oil until well combined.
3. Stir in the rolled oats and cinnamon (if using) until a thick, sticky dough forms.
4. Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough, roll them in extra oats, and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
5. Flatten each cookie slightly with a fork, then bake for 15–18 minutes until golden brown and set.
6. Let cool completely before serving to your dog.

Serving Tip

Store these cookies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week, or freeze for up to three months. For smaller dogs, break into bite-sized pieces, and always supervise your dog when giving treats.

7. Carrot & Pea Sourdough Biscuits

These veggie-packed biscuits are a simple way to sneak some extra nutrients into your dog's snack time. The shredded carrot adds natural sweetness and a bit of crunch, while the peas bring a pop of green and a boost of fiber. They're budget-friendly too, since they use up sourdough discard and pantry staples you likely already have.

Your pup will love the hearty texture and the subtle tang of the sourdough, making these a great everyday treat.

Ingredients

• 1 cup sourdough discard
• 1 cup shredded carrot (about 1 medium carrot)
• 1/2 cup frozen peas, thawed and lightly mashed
• 1/2 cup rolled oats
• 1/4 cup water (or as needed)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, mix together the sourdough discard, shredded carrot, mashed peas, and rolled oats until well combined. Add water a tablespoon at a time until a dough forms that holds together but isn't sticky.
3. Roll the dough out on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4-inch thickness. Use dog-shaped cookie cutters or simply cut into squares with a knife.
4. Place the biscuits on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 25-30 minutes, until golden and firm to the touch. Let cool completely before serving.

Serving Tip

These biscuits are crunchy and perfect for training or as a mid-day snack. Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week, or freeze for up to three months. For smaller dogs, break them into bite-sized pieces to avoid overfeeding.

8. Minty Sourdough Breath Fresheners

Fresh breath is a big deal when your dog loves to give kisses. These crunchy little treats combine the tang of sourdough discard with the natural freshness of mint and parsley. They're a budget-friendly way to keep your pup's breath smelling better without buying pricey commercial chews.

Plus, they're simple to make with ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen.

Ingredients

• 1 cup sourdough discard
• 1/2 cup fresh mint leaves, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
• 1 cup whole wheat flour (or oat flour for a lighter texture)
• 1/4 cup water (or as needed)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, mix the sourdough discard, mint, parsley, olive oil, and water until well combined.
3. Gradually add the flour, stirring until a soft dough forms. If it's too sticky, add a little more flour; if too dry, add a splash of water.
4. Roll the dough out on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4-inch thickness.
5. Cut into small bone-shaped or round treats, and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the treats are golden and crisp. Let them cool completely before serving.

Serving Tip

• These breath fresheners are best stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, keep them in the fridge for up to two weeks or freeze for up to three months. Give your dog one or two treats a day as a snack, and always provide fresh water.
• The mint and parsley work together to naturally combat odor, but remember to brush your dog's teeth regularly for best results.

9. Frozen Sourdough Yogurt Drops

When the summer heat has your pup panting, these frozen yogurt drops are a lifesaver. They're a no-bake treat that comes together in minutes, using up that extra sourdough discard in a way that feels fresh and cooling. The tangy sourdough pairs beautifully with plain yogurt, creating a creamy, probiotic-rich snack that dogs go wild for.

Best of all, they're budget-friendly since you likely already have the ingredients on hand.

Ingredients

• 1 cup plain, unsweetened yogurt (no xylitol)
• 1/2 cup sourdough discard (unfed, straight from the fridge)
• 1 tablespoon peanut butter (unsalted, no xylitol) or mashed banana

Instructions

1. In a small bowl, stir together the yogurt, sourdough discard, and peanut butter or banana until smooth and well combined.
2. Drop small spoonfuls (about 1 teaspoon each) onto a parchment-lined baking sheet or into silicone molds.
3. Freeze for 2–3 hours, or until solid. Pop the drops off the sheet and store in an airtight container in the freezer.

Serving Tip

Give your dog one or two frozen drops as a refreshing snack on hot days. They can be served straight from the freezer, but for smaller dogs or sensitive teeth, let them soften for a few minutes at room temperature first. Store leftovers in a zip-top bag in the freezer for up to 3 months.

FAQ

Can I use sourdough discard straight from the fridge?

Yes, cold discard works fine. Just let it come to room temperature for easier mixing, or use it straight if your recipe allows.

Are these treats safe for dogs with allergies?

Many recipes can be adapted. For grain-sensitive dogs, substitute oat flour or use a gluten-free flour blend. Always check with your vet if unsure.

How should I store homemade sourdough dog treats?

Store crunchy treats in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. Soft treats can be refrigerated for a week or frozen for longer storage.

Can I add supplements or medications to these treats?

Yes, you can mix in powdered supplements or medications, but ensure they are dog-safe and consult your vet for proper dosing.

How many treats can I give my dog per day?

Treats should make up no more than 10% of your dog's daily caloric intake. Adjust based on your dog's size, activity, and dietary needs.

Conclusion

Baking sourdough dog treats from discard is a win-win: you reduce kitchen waste and give your dog a batch of wholesome, homemade snacks. These recipes are budget-friendly, easy to customize, and made with love.

Your dog will appreciate the effort, and you'll enjoy the peace of mind knowing exactly what's in their treats. So next time you feed your starter, save that discard and whip up a batch of something special for your furry friend.