Basic Dog Treats

There are many kinds of dog treats out there, but it’s very easy to make your own with some of the most basic ingredients you’re likely to have in your pantry. These treats are destined for one of my favorite dogs in the world, Sukey Mowery, who lives with my cousin Barb, cousin-in-law Robb, and goddaughter Maureen.

Last weekend we visited the Mowery clan for Mo’s third birthday, and Sukey spent the day of the party sequestered in Mo’s room…more for her own protection than anything else, because most three-year-olds don’t understand why dogs can’t eat chocolate. Once released, Sukey promptly curled up on the sofa and fell asleep. She’s a very sweet dog who reminds me a lot of Millie, and I hope she enjoys these treats.

Ingredients

• 2 1/2 cups whole wheat flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 egg
• 1/2 to 3/4 cups chicken broth

Preparation

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Line a baking sheet with foil.

In a mixing bowl, combine all ingredients and stir together, then knead with your hands until a sturdy dough forms; I recommend starting with 1/2 cup of chicken broth and adding more to make the dough easier to handle as you go along.

Roll out on a very lightly floured surface and cut into desired shapes. Bake for 30-35 minutes, until golden. Cool completely on a wire rack.

Meet Sukey

Sukey is a charming dog who enjoys laying on the sofa and begging for table scraps not necessarily at the same time. To maintain her girlish figure, she eats green beans mixed in with her kibble, but she’d never turn down a slice of bacon.

In this photo, Sukey waits behind the baby gate in Mo’s room during the party. One of the little girls in attendance sat down on the other side of the gate and read to Sukey while the other kids played…one of the cutest things I’ve ever seen.