Plant-Based Dog Treats for Aging Canines: Healthy and Delicious Options

As our beloved dogs age, it's important to provide them with treats that not only taste delicious but also support their overall health and well-being. Plant-based dog treats offer a fantastic option for aging canines, providing them with nutritious ingredients and avoiding potential allergens. In this blog post, we will share 10 easy-to-prep plant-based treats that are vegan, healthy, and perfect for senior dogs. Whether you prefer homemade goodies or simple treats like carrot sticks, these options will satisfy your aging furry friend's cravings while keeping their health in mind.

Carrot Sticks

Carrots are a crunchy, low-calorie snack packed with vitamins and minerals. Simply wash, peel, and cut them into bite-sized sticks for a refreshing treat.

Sweet Potato Chews

Slice sweet potatoes into thin strips and bake them until they are chewy. Sweet potatoes are rich in fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants, making them a nutritious and tasty option. Don’t want to DIY? Petaluma has you covered with dehydrated organic sweet potato jerky. 

Frozen Banana Bites

Peel and slice bananas into bite-sized pieces. Freeze them for a few hours, creating a cooling treat rich in potassium, fiber, and natural sweetness.

Blueberry Delights

Fresh or frozen blueberries make for a delightful and antioxidant-rich treat for senior dogs. Serve them as-is or mix them into homemade frozen treats.

Homemade Peanut Butter Cookies

Combine whole wheat flour, natural peanut butter (no sugar or salt added), and water to form a dough. Roll it out and use cookie cutters to create shapes. Bake until golden brown and let them cool before serving. These are best used immediately or stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container to preserve freshness. 

Spinach and Apple Bites

Blend fresh spinach and apples until smooth. Pour the mixture into ice cube trays and freeze. These green bites offer a boost of vitamins, minerals, and fiber and are offer a cooling treat on a summer day.

Pumpkin Biscuits

Mix canned pumpkin puree, whole wheat flour, and a dash of cinnamon. Shape the dough into small biscuits and bake until firm. Pumpkin is excellent for digestion and offers a range of nutrients.

Coconut Yogurt Drops

Drop small spoonfuls of natural coconut yogurt (no sugar added, minimal ingredients) onto a baking sheet and freeze until firm. Coconut yogurt provides healthy fats and can be a soothing treat for senior dogs, but should be fed sparingly. 

Zucchini Chips

Slice zucchini into thin rounds and lightly coat with olive oil. Bake them until crispy for a tasty and low-calorie snack. Zucchini is rich in vitamins and minerals.

Watermelon Cubes

This one is an easy favorite at Petaluma HQ: cut fresh watermelon into bite-sized cubes and remove the seeds. Watermelon is hydrating, low in calories, and packed with vitamins, making it a refreshing treat for senior dogs.