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Dogs beg for a taste of almost everything we eat, but sweet potatoes are one of the few snacks you can actually feel good about sharing. They are safe for most pups, naturally sweet, and incredibly easy to turn into healthy homemade treats.
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With just one ingredient, you can make chews, biscuits, fries, or soft bites that will make your dog go wild. Here is how to pick the right sweet potato, avoid common mistakes, and make treats that get instant tail wags.
Why Dogs Love Sweet Potatoes
Dogs are naturally drawn to the scent, sweetness, and soft texture of cooked sweet potatoes. They are one of the few human foods that feel like a treat but offer real nutritional value for most pups.
Sweet potatoes also tap into a dog’s natural preference for earthy flavors. They are gentle on the stomach and can be prepared in many textures, making them a versatile base for homemade treats.
Sweet Potato Health Benefits
Sweet potatoes offer several health perks that make them a smart base for homemade dog treats. They are naturally sweet, nutrient dense, and gentle on most stomachs.
- High in fiber: Supports digestive regularity and can help firm up stools.
- Rich in vitamin A: Promotes healthy skin, coat, and immune function.
- Packed with antioxidants: Helps protect cells from oxidative stress.
- Low in fat: A good option for dogs who need lighter treats.
- Naturally flavorful: Dogs love the smell and taste without added seasonings.
- Easy to digest: Works well for sensitive stomachs when introduced slowly.
Common Sweet Potato Treat Mistakes
Many homemade treat recipes fail because of simple mistakes that are easy to avoid. Slicing unevenly can lead to burnt edges or chewy centers that are too tough for small dogs.
Another common issue is adding unsafe ingredients like salt, nutmeg, or sweeteners. Even natural add-ins can trigger stomach upset if you use too much, so keeping recipes simple is the safest approach.
How To Choose The Right Sweet Potato
Choose firm sweet potatoes with smooth skin and no soft spots or sprouts. Deep orange varieties tend to bake well and create the best texture for dog treats.
Skip any sweet potatoes with mold or greenish discoloration. Larger potatoes work best for long chews, while smaller ones are better for fries and cubes.
Prep Basics For Perfect Treats
Uniform slicing is the secret to even cooking. Thin slices create crispy treats while thicker slices make chews that last longer.
Use parchment paper to prevent sticking and allow treats to cool completely before storing. Cooling helps prevent condensation, which can shorten shelf life.
Treat Types At A Glance
Different dogs prefer different textures, so it helps to know which style matches your pup’s personality. These are the most common types you can make with sweet potatoes.
- Crunchy biscuits: Great for quick rewards and dogs who like crisp, cookie-style treats.
- Chewy strips: Long-lasting slices that keep dogs busy and mimic jerky.
- Fries or sticks: Oven-baked pieces that are mildly crunchy with a chewy center.
- Soft bites: Gentle on teeth and perfect for puppies, seniors, and training.
- Air fryer cubes: Crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, with a short cook time.
- Dehydrated chews: Firm, slow-dried slices that last longer than baked treats.
- No-bake balls: Quick, soft, energy-bite style treats for grab-and-go rewards.
Crunchy Sweet Potato Snacks
These crunchy recipes are great for dogs who love crisp, baked treats. They smell amazing in the oven and make simple, everyday snacks.
Super Simple Sweet Potato Biscuits
Ingredients
- 1 sweet potato
- 2 ½ cups whole wheat flour or oat flour
- 2 large eggs
- ¼ cup unsweetened applesauce
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Microwave sweet potato until soft (about 6 minutes).
- Let cool, scoop out flesh, and mash. Measure 1 cup.
- In a bowl, mix mashed potato, flour, eggs, and applesauce into a dough.
- Roll out to ½-inch thick on a floured surface. Cut into shapes or strips.
- Arrange cookies on an ungreased baking sheet.
- Bake 35–45 minutes until crisp.
- Cool for 10 minutes before moving to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
Sweet Potato Crunchy Fries For Dogs
Ingredients
- 1 sweet potato
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 250°F (120°C).
- Wash potato, then cut into ⅓-inch thick sticks.
- Arrange fries on a baking sheet in a single layer.
- Bake for about 3 hours (longer for extra crunch).
- Cool completely before serving.
Notes
Homemade Sweet Potato Banana Dog Treats
Ingredients
- 2 cups whole wheat or oat flour divided
- ¼ cup oats
- 1 banana
- 2 eggs
- 1 4 oz jar sweet potato baby food
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment.
- Mash banana with baby food until smooth.
- In another bowl, mix flour, oats, and eggs.
- Combine wet and dry ingredients to form dough.
- Knead with extra flour until no longer sticky. Roll to ¼-inch thick.
- Cut into 1-inch squares and place on baking sheet.
- Bake 45–55 minutes. Turn oven off and let cool inside for crispier texture.
Notes
Chewy, Jerky-Like Treats
These recipes are perfect for dogs who enjoy something tougher to sink their teeth into. They also help keep dogs busy and may support dental health.
Easy DIY Sweet Potato Dog Chews
Ingredients
- 2 sweet potatoes
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 250°F (120°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Slice potatoes into ¼-inch thick rounds or strips (thicker = chewier).*
- Arrange slices in a single layer.
- Bake 2 ½–3 hours, flipping halfway, until dried but slightly chewy.
- Cool before serving. Store in the fridge.
Notes
Anti-Inflammatory Sweet Potato Dog Treats (Dehydrator Recipe)
Equipment
- 1 Food dehydrator*
Ingredients
- 4 medium sweet potatoes
- ½ tsp ground cinnamon
- ½ tsp ground ginger
- ½ tsp ground turmeric
Instructions
- Wash, peel, and slice potatoes into ¼-inch rounds.
- Place a steamer rack in a large pot filled with 2 inches of water. Bring the water to a simmer, then add the sweet potatoes.
- Cover the pot and steam 4–6 minutes until just tender, then cool.
- Combine the spices in a small bowl, then sprinkle over the sweet potatoes.
- Place on dehydrator trays. Dry at 135°F for about 4 hours.
- Remove when chewy in the center. Cool before serving.
Notes
Soft, Quick & No-Bake Treats
These soft treats are ideal for training or for pups with delicate teeth. They come together quickly and offer a flavorful reward your dog will love.
No-Bake Sweet Potato Energy Bites
Ingredients
- ½ cup mashed sweet potato
- ½ cup rolled oats
- ¼ cup xylitol-free peanut butter*
- 1 Tbsp chia seeds or pumpkin puree (optional)
- 1 Tbsp coconut powder (optional)
Instructions
- Microwave 1 sweet potato for about 6 minutes. Mash.
- Mix mashed sweet potato, oats, peanut butter, and any add-ins until combined.
- Roll into bite-sized balls.
- Chill in the fridge for 1 hour to set.
- Sprinkle coconut powder on top (optional).
- Store in the fridge or freezer.
Notes
Air Fryer Sweet Potato Dog Treats
Equipment
- 1 Air fryer*
Ingredients
- 2 medium sweet potatoes
- 1 Tbsp melted coconut oil
- ½ tsp ground ginger
- ¼ tsp ground cinnamon
Instructions
- Peel and cut potatoes into small cubes. Place in a bowl.
- Toss with coconut oil, ginger, and cinnamon.
- Preheat air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
- Cook for 12–15 minutes, shaking basket halfway.
- Cool completely before serving.
Notes
Sweet Potato Peanut Butter Dog Treats
Ingredients
- 1 cup mashed sweet potatoes
- 1 cup whole wheat or oat flour
- ½ cup dog-safe peanut butter
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet.
- Cook sweet potato in microwave for about 6 minutes. Mash.
- Mix peanut butter and mashed sweet potato until smooth.
- Stir in flour gradually to form dough.
- Roll dough ¼–½ inch thick. Cut into shapes.
- Bake for 10 minutes, then cool on a wire rack.
Notes
Serving Sizes & Safety Guidelines For Sweet Potato Dog Treats
Just like people snacks, even the healthiest homemade sweet potato dog treats should be enjoyed in moderation. While they’re packed with fiber and vitamins, they’re still considered an extra in your dog’s diet — not a meal replacement.
Vet Tip: Moderation Is Key With Any Treats
Experts advise sticking to modest amounts when giving your pup any snacks or treats. The general rule is that treats and additional food shouldn’t exceed 10% of your dog’s daily caloric intake. The remaining 90% should come from a complete and balanced dog food.
“I regularly come across dogs who are overweight, and often the underlying reason is that they eat too many treats in addition to their dog food,” says Dr. Hannah Godfrey, MRCVS, a small animal veterinarian in the United Kingdom.
The ideal part of homemade sweet potato dog treats? If you find the best recipe, they’re so low in calories and fat that you don’t have to worry as much about your pup putting on extra pounds!
How Much Should You Serve?
- Small dogs: 1–2 small biscuits or a thin chew per day
- Medium to large dogs: 2–4 biscuits or one to two larger chews per day
Always introduce new ingredients slowly to make sure your dog tolerates them well. Start small, and watch for any stomach upset before offering more.
Safety Reminders
- Supervise your dog while eating chews to prevent choking.
- Slice chews thinly for puppies, seniors, or small breeds with delicate teeth.
- Skip dangerous add-ins: never use xylitol, chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, or macadamia nuts.
By following these guidelines, your pup gets a safe, tail-wagging treat while you get peace of mind.
Storage Guide
Homemade treats don’t have preservatives, so storage is key:
| Treat Type | Counter (Airtight Jar) | Fridge | Freezer |
|---|---|---|---|
| Biscuits | 1 week | 2 weeks | 3 months |
| Chews | X | 3 weeks | 2 months |
| Energy Bites | X | 1 week | 2 months |
| Fries | Few days | 1 week | 2 months |
5 Fun Variations To Try
Once you’ve mastered the basics, it’s easy to get creative with your homemade sweet potato dog treats. Here are a few healthy twists you can try:
- Peanut Butter Swirl: Add 2–3 tablespoons of xylitol-free peanut butter to your sweet potato biscuit dough for an extra boost of protein and flavor.
- Pumpkin Boost: Replace half the mashed sweet potato with 100% canned pumpkin for a softer texture. Pumpkin adds fiber and creates a fall-inspired flavor dogs enjoy.
- Apple Crunch: Stir in one-fourth cup of unsweetened applesauce or grated apple for natural sweetness. Apples help the dough bind and add a little vitamin C.
- Fresh Breath Parsley: Mix in a tablespoon of finely chopped parsley to freshen breath. It adds antioxidants and keeps the flavor bright.
- Honey Glaze: Brush baked treats with a light drizzle of dog-safe honey and let them dry. Use this sparingly because honey is higher in sugar, but it makes a fun birthday surprise.
These variations not only keep things interesting for your dog, but they also let you adjust recipes based on what you already have in your pantry.
What Your Dog’s Treat Style Says About Them
Your dog’s favorite treat texture can reveal a lot about their personality. Some pups love a quick crunch while others want something they can settle in with. Here is what each preference might say about your dog.
Crunchy Treat Lovers
Crunchy snack dogs tend to be confident and food-motivated. They enjoy fast rewards and like hearing the loud crunch that tells them they scored something good.
These pups usually do well with training because they respond quickly to simple, high-value treats.
Chew & Jerky Fans
Dogs who prefer chewy treats often enjoy routine and find comfort in repetitive actions, such as gnawing. They are usually patient, focused, and happiest when they have something to work on.
Chew lovers also tend to be independent and enjoy a little solo time with their snack.
Soft Bite Enthusiasts
Soft treat lovers are often sensitive souls who enjoy gentle textures and quick praise. They are great candidates for training because they respond well to high-frequency, low-volume rewards.
Puppies and seniors also fall into this group because soft treats are easy to eat.
Fries & Stick Fans
Dogs who enjoy fries or stick-shaped treats are usually playful and curious. They like treats they can grab and toss around before eating, which makes snack time feel like a game.
These pups often love fetch and other interactive play.
No-Bake Energy Bite Dogs
These pups tend to be highly social and food-driven. They love soft, bite-sized pieces they can nibble quickly between activities.
This treat type often appeals to dogs who get excited easily and enjoy lots of positive reinforcement.
Air Fryer Snack Dogs
Dogs who prefer crispy air fryer treats usually enjoy novelty and new textures. They like snacks that are crispy on the outside but soft on the inside because the contrast keeps them interested.
These pups often enjoy trying new foods and exploring fresh flavors.
Dehydrated Chew Devotees
These dogs are committed, determined, and often strong chewers. They like treats that last longer than a quick biscuit and enjoy the satisfaction of slowly working through something tough.
This group usually includes dogs who need mental stimulation or enjoy puzzle toys.
4 Best Store-Bought Sweet Potato Dog Treats
If you don’t have time to DIY sweet potato dog treats, here are my recommendations for the healthiest store-bought alternatives.
1. One-Ingredient Chews: Caledon Farms Sweet Potato Chews
If you want something long-lasting and natural, these chews are made from 100% dried sweet potato slices. Because they’re dehydrated, the texture is chewy and long-lasting, giving dogs something satisfying to gnaw on while also helping scrape away plaque.
However, they can be tough for small breeds or seniors, and the thickness varies by piece.
- Single-ingredient, no additives or fillers
- Chewy texture helps clean teeth and keep dogs busy
- Rich in fiber and beta-carotene
Best for: Medium to large dogs that love to chew and owners who prefer preservative-free, single-ingredient snacks.
Price
- $13.84 (28-oz bag)
2. With Protein: Pur Love Chicken & Sweet Potato Jerky Wraps
The Pur Love Chicken & Sweet Potato Jerky Wraps combine two pup favorites in one: savory chicken wrapped around naturally sweet potato.
The wraps are on the larger side, so they may need to be broken down for small dogs. Some pups may also find the chew a bit tough depending on jaw strength.
- Protein-rich chicken + fiber-packed sweet potato
- Chewy, meaty texture dogs go crazy for
- Free from artificial flavors and fillers
Best for: Medium to large dogs who enjoy a meaty chew with a nutritious twist, and owners looking for a treat that balances protein with natural sweetness.
Price
- $9.79 (16-oz bag)
3. Biscuits: Three Dog Bakery Grain-Free Sweet Potato Wafers
These crunchy wafers are baked in small batches in the USA with simple, wholesome ingredients. It’s a gentle option for dogs with sensitivities that still feels like a “cookie.”
- Grain-free, no salt, no refined sugar
- Light, crunchy texture is great for everyday snacking
- Comes in a resealable box to keep treats fresh
Best for: Pet parents who want a light, crunchy snack made with simple ingredients—perfect for dogs with grain sensitivities or those who love biscuit-style treats.
Price
- $7.19 (13-oz box)
4. Training: Pupford Freeze-Dried Sweet Potato Training Treats
Training requires lots of quick rewards, and these bite-sized treats make it easy and healthy. One thing to keep in mind: since they’re freeze-dried, the texture can be a little crumbly, and some dogs may prefer chewier treats.
- Just one ingredient: sweet potato
- Soft, bite-sized pieces (great for repetition)
- Low-calorie and gentle on sensitive stomachs
Best for: Small breeds and owners who want a healthy, low-calorie reward that keeps dogs focused during training.
Price
Frequently Asked Questions
We see a lot of questions from our readers about making homemade treats for dogs. Here are some common ones about homemade sweet potato treats. If you don’t see yours here, please respond in our comments!
Can All Dogs Eat Sweet Potatoes?
For most dogs, yes, sweet potatoes are a safe, healthy snack. They’re high in fiber and vitamins, making them a nutritious alternative to processed treats.
If your dog has diabetes, pancreatitis, or is on a special diet, you’ll want to check with your vet first.
Do I Need To Peel The Sweet Potato?
Peeling is optional. The skin is full of fiber and nutrients, but some dogs with sensitive stomachs may do better without it.
If you’re making sweet potato chews, leaving the skin on helps them bake up chewier and adds extra roughage for digestion. If your dog has trouble with firm textures, peel them first for a softer chew.
How Many Treats Can I Give My Dog?
Treats should never make up more than 10% of your dog’s daily calories. For small dogs, that might mean one small chew or a few tiny biscuits. For larger dogs, a couple more is fine.
Too much sweet potato can lead to loose stools, so always start small and see how your pup handles them.
Are Sweet Potato Treats Safe For Puppies?
Yes, in moderation. Puppies can enjoy soft-baked versions of these sweet potato dog treats recipes once they’re eating solid food (around 8 weeks old).
For young or teething puppies, make sure the chews are sliced thinner and baked for less time so they’re softer and easier to gnaw on. Always supervise to avoid choking hazards.
Can I Freeze Sweet Potato Dog Treats?
Absolutely. Baked biscuits and chews freeze beautifully for up to 3 months. Just let them cool fully before freezing, and thaw a portion as needed.
This is a great way to save time — bake once, treat often!
Are Sweet Potato Chews Good For Dental Health?
Yes. Chewing on dehydrated sweet potato slices can help scrape away plaque and tartar naturally. They don’t replace brushing or dental chews designed for oral care, but they’re a tasty way to support dental hygiene.
Safe Cooking For Happy Pups
Homemade is a great way to spoil your pup, but safety comes first. Always double-check which human foods aren’t safe for dogs before adding them to recipes. Whether you’re making frozen dog treats, organic treats, or full homemade meals, stick to fresh, dog-friendly ingredients your pup can truly thrive on.
