Carrots and apples are two ingredients most dog parents already trust and when combined, they create a wonderfully wholesome, naturally sweet treat that dogs truly enjoy.
These Carrot & Apple Dog Cookies are crunchy, nourishing, and made without any added sugar, artificial flavors, or preservatives.
Perfect for everyday rewards, training treats, or special homemade snacks, this recipe is gentle on digestion and suitable for dogs of all ages. The natural sweetness from apples and carrots makes these cookies flavorful without needing anything extra, while oats and flour give them a satisfying crunch.
If you’re looking for a healthy dog cookie that feels both simple and special, this Carrot & Apple Dog Cookies fits beautifully into your homemade dog treat collection.
Why Carrots Are Great for Dogs
Carrots are one of the most dog-friendly vegetables you can use in treats.
Benefits of Carrots for Dogs
- Low in calories and fat
- High in fiber for digestion
- Rich in beta-carotene for eye health
- Help support dental health when baked crunchy
Their mild sweetness pairs perfectly with fruit-based treats and makes them easy to blend into dough.
Why Apples Are a Perfect Pair
Apples add natural sweetness and moisture to dog cookies, making them flavorful without sugar.
Benefits of Apples for Dogs
- Provide vitamins A and C
- Support digestion
- Help freshen breath
- Low in fat
Always peel the apple and remove the core and seeds before using, as apple seeds are unsafe for dogs.
Why Homemade Carrot & Apple Cookies Are Better
Many store-bought carrot or apple dog treats include added sweeteners or flavor enhancers. Baking at home keeps things clean and simple.
Homemade cookies allow you to:
- Skip sugar completely
- Use real fruits and vegetables
- Control texture for puppies or senior dogs
- Avoid preservatives and fillers
Plus, your kitchen will smell warm and comforting while these cookies bake.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe uses simple, dog-safe ingredients you may already have.
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup finely grated carrot
- 1 cup finely grated apple (peeled, core and seeds removed)
- 1½ cups rolled oats (or oat flour)
- 1 cup whole wheat flour (or oat flour)
- 1 egg
- ¼ cup unsweetened applesauce
- 2–4 tablespoons water (as needed)
Optional Add-Ins (Dog-Safe)
- 1 tablespoon ground flaxseed
- 1 tablespoon pumpkin purée
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon (optional, very small amount)
💡 Use naturally sweet apples like Gala, Fuji, or Honeycrisp for the best flavor.
Equipment Needed
- Mixing bowl
- Grater
- Spoon or spatula
- Rolling pin
- Cookie cutters or knife
- Baking tray
- Parchment paper
- Oven
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking tray with parchment paper and set it aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Carrot and Apple
Peel and finely grate the carrot. Peel the apple, remove the core and seeds, and grate it finely as well.
If the apple is very juicy, gently squeeze out excess moisture so the dough doesn’t become too wet.
Step 3: Prepare the Oats
Place rolled oats into a blender or food processor and pulse until they form a coarse oat flour. A slightly textured consistency works well for crunchy cookies.
Step 4: Mix the Dough
In a large bowl, combine:
- Grated carrot
- Grated apple
- Applesauce
- Egg
- Ground oats
- Flour
Mix until a thick dough forms. Add water one tablespoon at a time if the dough feels dry. The dough should be firm but easy to roll.
Step 5: Roll and Cut the Cookies
Lightly flour your work surface. Roll the dough out to about ¼-inch thickness.
Use dog-bone cookie cutters or cut into simple squares or rectangles. Place cookies onto the prepared baking tray with a little space between each.
Step 6: Bake Until Crunchy
Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the cookies are firm and lightly golden around the edges.
For extra crunch, turn off the oven and let the cookies sit inside for another 10–15 minutes with the door slightly open.
Step 7: Cool Completely
Remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool fully on a wire rack. They will harden more as they cool.
Never give warm cookies to your dog.
Serving Size Guide
Even healthy treats should be fed in moderation.
- Small dogs: 1 cookie per day
- Medium dogs: 1–2 cookies per day
- Large dogs: 2–3 cookies per day
Treats should stay within 10% of your dog’s daily calorie intake.
Storage Tips
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature
- Keeps fresh for 5–7 days
- Refrigerate for up to 2 weeks
- Freeze for up to 3 months
Allow frozen cookies to thaw completely before serving.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- ❌ Using apple seeds or core
- ❌ Adding sugar, honey, or syrup
- ❌ Overbaking until cookies become rock-hard
- ❌ Skipping moisture control when apples are juicy
Are Carrot & Apple Cookies Safe for Puppies?
Yes! These cookies are puppy-friendly when:
- Broken into small pieces
- Baked slightly softer
- Introduced gradually
For young puppies, reduce baking time by a few minutes to keep cookies easier to chew.
Easy Variations to Try
Once your dog loves this recipe, you can switch it up easily:
- Carrot Apple Oat Cookies: Skip wheat flour entirely
- Carrot Apple Pumpkin Cookies: Add pumpkin purée
- Carrot Apple Banana Cookies: Replace applesauce with mashed banana
Each variation keeps the treats exciting while staying dog-safe.
Final Thoughts
These Carrot & Apple Dog Cookies are crunchy, naturally sweet, and full of wholesome ingredients your dog will love. They’re simple enough for everyday baking and special enough to feel like a homemade gift for your pup.
Once you bake a batch, don’t be surprised if your dog learns exactly when cookie time is. 🥕🍎🐾
Also read on Apple Cinnamon Dog Biscuits
