If you love spoiling your pup with something homemade, these Chicken Liver and Quinoa Dog Treat Squares are a great place to start. Forget the store bought treats packed with preservatives.
These little squares are packed with flavor and nutrition your dog will love. Plus, they are easy to make and even easier to store for busy dog owners.
Ingredients
You will need the following ingredients for this recipe:
- 1 cup chicken liver, rinsed and roughly chopped
- 1/2 cup cooked quinoa (cooled)
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup plain rolled oats (not instant)
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil or olive oil
- 1/4 cup water or low sodium chicken broth (no onion or garlic)
Make sure your chicken broth is plain and free of onion or garlic powder, which are toxic to dogs.
Instructions
Follow these steps to make your treat squares:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- In a small saucepan, add the chopped chicken liver and just enough water to cover it. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat and cook for about 5 minutes until the liver is firm and cooked through. Drain and let cool.
- In a food processor or blender, combine the cooked liver, cooked quinoa, egg, oats, oil, and water (or broth).
Blend until you have a thick, smooth batter. Scrape down the sides as needed.
- Pour the batter into your prepared baking pan and spread it evenly with a spatula. It will be thick.
- Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, until the edges are golden brown and the center feels firm to the touch.
- Let the treat squares cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
Once cool, cut into small, bite sized squares. Store as directed below.
Keeping It Fresh
These treats are moist, so proper storage is important. Place the squares in an airtight container in the fridge.
They will stay fresh for up to one week. For longer storage, freeze them on a baking sheet in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer bag. Frozen treats will keep well for up to three months.
Just thaw a few squares in the fridge overnight or pop them directly into your dog’s bowl.
Benefits of This Recipe
Chicken liver is a natural source of high quality protein, iron, and vitamin A, which supports your dog’s immune system and vision.
Quinoa adds fiber and essential amino acids that aid digestion and muscle maintenance. The egg provides extra protein and helps bind the treats without needing flour or artificial binders.
Together, these ingredients create a balanced, nutrient dense snack that can also be used as a healthy meal topper.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid overcooking the liver, which can make it dry and less appealing. Do not add any salt, pepper, garlic powder, or onion powder. These ingredients are toxic to dogs.
Another common mistake is making the squares too large. These treats are rich, so cut them into small pieces roughly the size of your dog’s usual training treat.
Also, do not use instant oats, which can turn gummy. Stick with plain rolled oats for the best texture.
Variations You Can Try
You can easily swap chicken liver for beef liver or turkey liver if your dog prefers a different flavor.
For a grain free option, replace the quinoa with cooked sweet potato or pumpkin puree, but reduce the water slightly.
If your dog has a sensitive stomach, you can replace the oats with a little more cooked quinoa or some finely chopped green beans.
For extra crunch, bake the treats for 5 to 10 minutes longer, but watch them closely so they do not burn.
FAQs
How should I serve these treats to my dog?
Break each square into smaller pieces depending on your dog’s size. A few small squares per day is plenty. Use them as training rewards or as a topper for your dog’s regular kibble.
Can I use raw chicken liver instead of cooked?
It is safer to gently cook the liver first. Cooking ensures the liver is fully firm and reduces any risk of bacterial contamination. The texture also blends better when cooked.
How many treats should I feed my dog per day?
Treats should make up no more than 10% of your dog’s daily calorie intake. For a medium sized dog, 2 to 3 small squares per day is a good guideline. Adjust based on your dog’s size and activity level.
Can I use chicken liver that has been frozen?
Yes, frozen chicken liver works just fine. Thaw it completely in the fridge before cooking. Pat it dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
Is quinoa safe for dogs?
Yes, quinoa is perfectly safe for dogs when cooked plain. It is a gluten free grain that is easy to digest and provides protein and fiber. Just make sure it is fully cooked before using.
