Schnoodles are a charming and playful breed of dogs that are a cross between schnauzers and poodles. These furry friends are known for their loyalty, intelligence, and affectionate personality, which makes them excellent companions for families with kids or anyone who loves having pets. In addition to their easygoing nature, schnoodles are also very active which means they require a lot of exercise and mental stimulation to remain healthy. One way to keep your Schnoodle happy and healthy is by providing them with treats! Treats not only satisfy your dog’s sweet tooth but also play an important role in their overall well-being. They can be used as rewards during training sessions or simply as a way to bond with your furry friend. Keep reading to find out 5 awesome homemade treats Schnoodles love!
Brief Description of Schnoodles as a Breed
Schnoodles come in different sizes ranging from small to medium size. They have a wavy or curly coat that doesn’t shed much, making them perfect for people with allergies.
The coat can be black, white, brown, gray or any combination of those colors. These dogs are moderate shedders and require regular grooming to maintain their coats.
Schnoodles have an average lifespan of 12-16 years which is longer than most dog breeds; however, they can be prone to certain health issues such as hip dysplasia, eye problems, or skin allergies due to the poodle in their genetic makeup. Regular checkups with the vet can help manage these issues before they become more serious.
As previously mentioned, Schnoodles are energetic dogs that need regular exercise – at least 30 minutes per day – and mental stimulation through playtime or training sessions. Keeping your Schnoodle active will help prevent destructive behavior such as chewing on furniture or constant barking.
Why Treats Are Important for Schnoodles
Treats play an essential role in your schnoodle’s diet as they provide a variety of benefits including:
- Healthy Teeth – Chewing on treats helps remove plaque and tartar buildup from your dog’s teeth, reducing the risk of dental problems such as gum disease or decay.
- Nutritional Needs – Many commercial dog treats are formulated to meet your dog’s nutritional requirements for protein, vitamins, and minerals. Homemade treats can also include healthy ingredients that supplement your schnoodle’s diet.
- Mental Stimulation – Treats can help keep your Schnoodle mentally stimulated by providing them with a challenge or puzzle to solve. This is particularly true for interactive toys that require your furry friend to figure out how to get the treat out of its hiding place.
- Bonding – Sharing treats with your Schnoodle is a great way to bond with them and show them affection. It can be an opportunity for you both to relax and enjoy each other’s company.
- Positive Reinforcement – Using treats as positive reinforcement during training sessions is an effective way to teach your Schnoodle new tricks or behaviors while also rewarding them for a job well done!
Incorporating treats into your schnoodle’s diet can benefit their overall health and well-being while also being an enjoyable experience for both you and your furry friend! Stay tuned for our top 5 awesome treats that Schnoodles love along with two homemade recipes that are sure to keep tails wagging!
Top 5 Awesome Treats Schnoodles Love
Peanut Butter and Banana Frozen Treats
Schnoodles are highly active dogs that require a lot of physical exercises. On hot days, however, it can be difficult to keep your Schnoodle cool and hydrated.
That’s where frozen treats come into play! These peanut butter and banana frozen treats are perfect for those hot summer days.
To make these frozen treats, you will need:
- Ripe bananas
- Creamy peanut butter
- Plain Greek yogurt
- Water
Simply blend all the ingredients together in a blender until smooth.
Pour the mixture into ice cube trays or silicone molds and freeze them overnight. These frozen treats are packed with nutrients that are good for your schnoodle’s health.
Bananas provide potassium which is essential for strong muscles while peanut butter has healthy fats that promote good skin health. Furthermore, Greek yogurt contains probiotics which aid in digestion.
Chicken Jerky
Chicken jerky is an excellent source of protein that satisfies your schnoodle’s hunger while providing essential nutrients at the same time! It is also easy to make at home – all you need is boneless chicken breast or thigh meat.
- Begin by preheating your oven to 200 degrees Fahrenheit (90 degrees Celsius).
- Slice the chicken meat into long strips about ¼ inch thick.
- Place them on a wire rack over a baking sheet lined with parchment paper so they don’t stick when cooking.
- Bake the chicken strips for around 2-3 hours until they become dry and slightly crispy.
- Store them in an airtight container once cooled down completely.
This homemade snack avoids harmful preservatives found in store-bought jerky snacks while providing a high-protein, low-fat option for your Schnoodle.
Sweet Potato Chews
Sweet potatoes are nutrient-rich and provide a host of vitamins and minerals that can promote good health in dogs. They are also easy to make into sweet potato chews that serve as a tasty snack for your Schnoodle.
- Preheat your oven to 250 degrees Fahrenheit (120 degrees Celsius).
- Wash the sweet potatoes thoroughly then cut them into slices or sticks around 1/8 inch thick.
- Place the slices or sticks onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake them in the oven for around 2-3 hours until they become dry and crispy.
- Store them in an airtight container once cooled down completely.
Sweet potato chews provide dietary fiber, antioxidants, potassium, vitamins A and C, iron, calcium, and beta-carotene which all contribute positively to the overall health of your schnoodle.
Cheese and Bacon Biscuits
Who doesn’t love cheese and bacon? These homemade biscuits combine both to create a snack that will have your schnoodle drooling!
To make these biscuits you will need:
- Bacon bits (homemade)
- Shredded cheddar cheese
- Flour
- Water or chicken broth (for added taste)
- Baking powder
- Eggs beaten lightly with fork
Instructions:
- Begin by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (180 degrees Celsius).
- Mix all the ingredients together until it forms a dough.
- Roll out dough on floured surface about 1/2 inch thick then cut out biscuits using a cookie cutter or knife.
- Bake for around 12-15 minutes until golden brown.
- Allow biscuits cool before giving them to your Schnoodle as a treat.
These cheesy bacon biscuits should only be given as a special treat since they are high in fat and salt. But it’s great to have them on hand when you want to spoil your Schnoodle!
Carrot Sticks with Peanut Butter Dip
A Healthy and Nutritious Snack for Your Schnoodle
Carrots are low in calories and high in dietary fiber that can help support digestion. They also contain vitamin A which is essential for good vision, healthy skin, and strong bones.
To make carrot sticks with peanut butter dip, start by washing and peeling carrots then cutting them into sticks. Set aside.
For the dip, mix together natural peanut butter (without xylitol), plain Greek yogurt, water, and honey until well combined. Serve the dip alongside the carrot sticks for a tasty snack!
This healthy snack is ideal for your schnoodle’s diet since it contains no added salt or sugar. It’s also a great way to get picky eaters to consume more vegetables!
2 BONUS Homemade Treat Recipes
Easy Homemade Dog Treats with Pumpkin and Peanut Butter
Making homemade dog treats can be a fun way to personalize your pet’s diet. This recipe includes pumpkin and peanut butter, two ingredients that most dogs love. For this recipe, you will need:
- 1/2 cup canned pumpkin
- 1/4 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1/4 cup coconut oil – 2 cups whole wheat flour
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the pumpkin, peanut butter, and coconut oil. Mix well until everything is combined.
- Then add in the whole wheat flour and cinnamon until a dough is formed.
- Roll out the dough onto a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness.
- Use cookie cutters to create cute shapes for your treats.
- Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for about 20 minutes or until they are golden brown in color.
- Let them cool completely before giving them to your Schnoodle.
DIY Chicken and Rice Dog Food Recipe
If you are looking for an alternative to store-bought dog food, making homemade meals can be an excellent solution. This chicken and rice recipe is easy to make and packed with nutrients that Schnoodles need:
You will need:
- Boneless chicken breast
- Brown rice
- Carrots
- Green beans
- Olive oil
Instructions:
- Begin by cooking brown rice according to package instructions.
- In another pot cook the boneless chicken breast on low heat until it’s fully cooked.
- Set aside cooked chicken breast after removing it from the pot.
- In the same pot used for cooking chicken add olive oil then sliced carrots and green beans.
- Add already cooked brown rice into the same pan after about two minutes along with the sliced chicken breast.
- Mix all ingredients well until everything is combined.
This homemade dog food should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. You can also portion it out and freeze it so you have convenient meals for your schnoodle.
Conclusion
Making homemade treats for your schnoodle can be a fun and easy way to give them something special. It allows you to control the ingredients, ensuring that they are getting healthy options. Additionally, making your own dog food provides the same benefits as making your own treats — you know exactly what is going into their diet.
While these recipes are great starting points, do not hesitate to get creative and customize them according to your schnoodle’s taste preferences or dietary needs. Remember to always consult with your veterinarian before making any significant changes to your pet’s diet.
~Lindsie
