Christmas is all about celebrating with the ones you love, and your dog is a very special part of your family. When you make DIY Christmas dog treats, you are not just giving snacks, but also making memories through the joy, love, and excitement your pup feels while seeing you prepare something just for them.
This holiday season, you can surprise your furry friend with homemade holiday treats for dogs that are healthy and full of flavour. Before you start baking, let us help you understand how to make Christmas celebrations happy and tummy-friendly for your pup.
What Can You Make At Home For Your Dog?
You can prepare many simple homemade things for your dog that add comfort, enrichment, and festive joy. Here are easy ideas you can create at home.
- Treats that use safe Christmas ingredients for dogs
- Toys you create for light play and bonding
- Enrichment items that support sniffing, exploring, and calm activities
- Comfort items that add warmth and relaxation
- Accessories that bring seasonal charm or everyday usefulness
What are the best DIY Christmas dog treat recipes?
Homemade treats are safe for dogs when you pick ingredients that support their digestion and avoid foods that are harmful. Dogs do not process food the way humans do, so some festive foods on the table may not suit their stomachs at all.
Here are 5 simple holiday dog food recipes you can make with love this Christmas. Each recipe uses dog-friendly ingredients and easy methods.
- Peanut Butter and Pumpkin Christmas Cookies
This crunchy treat gives the classic peanut butter dog biscuits recipe a fun holiday twist.
Ingredients
- 1 cup pumpkin puree (plain)
-  ½ cup natural peanut butterĀ
- 2 cups rice flour
- 1 egg
Recipe
Preheat your oven to 170°C. Mix the pumpkin puree and peanut butter together until smooth, and then add the egg and flour slowly to form a soft dough. Roll the dough out and cut it into Christmas shapes like stars or bells. Place the treats on a lined tray and bake for 20 to 25 minutes until crisp and golden.
Note: Pumpkin contains soluble fibre that can help with digestion and stool quality in dogs. Ensure the peanut butter is free of xylitol, a sweetener that is toxic to dogs.
- Frozen Yoghurt Snow Bites
These frosty snacks make safe Christmas ingredients for dogs fun and refreshing during Indiaās warmer winter days.
Ingredients
- ½ cup plain unsweetened yoghurt
- ¼ cup mashed bananas
- 1 or 2 strawberries (optional)
Recipe
Blend the yoghurt with the mashed banana until creamy and pour into snowflake-shaped moulds. Freeze for at least 3 hours until firm. Offer one or two at a time to keep the serving size appropriate.
Note: Yoghurt contains probiotics that may aid digestion in dogs that tolerate dairy. Try a very small amount at first to check comfort.
- Chicken and Carrot Holiday Bites
This savoury treat is ideal if your pet prefers meatier festive pet snacks with a smooth, soft texture.
Ingredients
- 1 cup cooked shredded chicken
- ½ cup grated carrot
- 1 egg
- 1 tablespoon oat flour
Recipe
Mix the shredded chicken, grated carrot, egg, and a little oat flour until everything is well combined. Shape small bite-sized balls and place them on a parchment-lined tray. Bake at 175 degrees Celsius for about 15 minutes and allow them to cool before serving.
Note: The chicken in this grain-free dog treat DIY offers high-quality protein, while carrots provide beta carotene that supports eye health.
What Christmas Gifts Can You Make at Home?
Along with DIY Christmas dog treats, you can create personalised Christmas gifts for your dog that provide comfort, fun, and enrichment. These ideas ensure your dog feels included in the festive excitement.
- Fleece Tug Toy
Materials Needed
- Fleece fabric strips
- Scissors
How to Make
Cut three equal strips of fleece. Knot one end tightly, braid the strips firmly to the bottom, then secure the other end with a strong knot. Trim the ends neatly and check that the knots are tight before play.
- Snuffle Mat
Materials Needed
- Rubber sink mat with holesĀ
- Fleece strips
How to Make
Cut fleece into short strips. Tie each strip through the holes in the sink mat until the top is thick and fluffy. Let your dog sniff and search through the fabric for small toys or safe scents for enrichment.
- Dog Bandana
Materials Needed
- Soft cotton fabric
- Scissors
- Needle and thread or fabric glue
How to Make
Cut a triangle shape to fit comfortably around your dogās neck. Fold and hem the edges so the bandana sits softly and securely when tied.
What Are Some Dog-Friendly Celebration Ideas?
Include your pup in festive moments to help them enjoy Christmas too. These simple dog-friendly celebration ideas make them feel loved and involved in the fun.
- Let them unwrap a new toy during supervised play.
- Set up a cosy space near the Christmas tree where they can relax comfortably.
- Organise a sniff-and-find game around the house to engage their natural instincts.
- Include them in family photos so they feel part of the celebration.
- Offer extra cuddle time or a quiet break if celebrations become overwhelming.
If your pup or senior dog experiences anxiety during the season, recognising early signs of stress and knowing how to provide comfort can make them feel safe and supported.Ā
Make Your Dogās Christmas More Special
Homemade goodies like DIY Christmas dog treats are a heartfelt way to celebrate the holidays and make your pup feel included in the excitement. When you take the time to create something just for them, the joy and love they show become a special part of your family traditions, adding warmth to every festive moment together.
If your schedule gets busy during the season, you can still show that extra love with convenient options from Fullr, such as Fullr Digestive Care and Fullr Daily Wellness Soft and Chewy Sticks. These treats are made using human-grade meat and quality ingredients and are an easy way to treat your dog and keep them happy.
How many homemade Christmas treats can my dog have in a day?
Festive DIY Christmas dog treats should be given in small portions as occasional rewards. Treats should be only 10% of daily calorie intake to prevent tummy upsets during the celebrations.
Can I mix homemade holiday treats with my dogās regular food?
Yes, you can add homemade holiday treats for dogs as toppers on their usual meals, but only in moderation. Too many extras at once can lead to digestive issues.
What should I do if my dog reacts to a Christmas treat?
Stop the treat immediately and monitor for vomiting, loose stools, or itching. If your dog-friendly celebration ideas include new ingredients, introduce them slowly and contact a vet if symptoms continue.
Can I give Christmas treats to senior dogs?
Yes, older pups can enjoy grain-free dog treats or soft-textured options if they have dental issues. Just tailor the treat size and ingredients to their health needs and vet advice.