There’s something truly satisfying about making your own homemade dog treats—especially when you know exactly what’s going into them. These Apple & Zucchini Chew Sticks have become a favorite in our house, especially with our energetic pup who can’t get enough of the chewy texture and fresh flavor.
These sticks are full of fiber and nutrients from zucchini and apple, and they make a wholesome alternative to store-bought treats. They’re great for teething puppies or as a boredom buster for adult dogs. Plus, they’re incredibly simple to prepare and store well for a week or more.
Whether you’re baking for your own furry friend or looking for a thoughtful homemade gift for a fellow dog lover, these chew sticks are a winner. The kids can help too—they’ll love grating, mixing, and, of course, giving the first one to the dog.
What You’ll Need
- 1 medium zucchini, grated
- 1 medium apple, peeled and grated (Fuji or Honeycrisp works well)
- 2 cups oat flour (or finely ground rolled oats)
- 1 egg
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil, melted
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
Pro Tips
- Use parchment paper to keep your sticks from sticking and to make cleanup easier.
- Grate finely so the zucchini and apple incorporate smoothly into the dough—kids love helping with this part!
- Don’t skip the rest time after baking—cooling allows the sticks to firm up into a chewier texture.
- Shape long or short depending on your dog’s size or preference.
- Batch and freeze a second tray for later—these freeze beautifully and defrost quickly.
Tools Required
- Box grater
- Medium mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Rubber spatula or wooden spoon
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Oven
Substitutions and Variations
Make Ahead Tips
You can prep the dough and shape the sticks up to a day in advance. Store in the fridge covered with plastic wrap until ready to bake. Baked sticks can be stored for a week or frozen for up to 3 months.
Instruction
1. Preheat the oven
Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Grate the apple and zucchini
Use a box grater to grate one medium zucchini and one peeled apple. Squeeze out excess moisture with a paper towel or clean dish towel.
3. Mix the dough
In a large bowl, combine grated zucchini, grated apple, oat flour, egg, melted coconut oil, and cinnamon. Stir until a soft dough forms.
4. Shape the chew sticks
Scoop out small handfuls of dough and roll them into logs about 4 inches long and ½ inch thick. Place them evenly spaced on the baking sheet.
5. Bake
Place the tray in the oven and bake for 35–40 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and firm.
6. Cool completely
Remove from oven and let the chew sticks cool completely on a wire rack before serving to your dog.
Leftovers and Storage
Store cooled chew sticks in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 7 days. For longer storage, freeze in a zip-top bag for up to 3 months. Defrost at room temperature before giving to your dog.
Conclusion
Making treats like these Apple & Zucchini Chew Sticks is such a rewarding way to care for your pet—and it makes the whole house smell amazing while they bake. Your dog will love the chewy texture, and you’ll love how easy and wholesome they are. If you give this recipe a try, I’d love to hear how it went! Leave a comment below with your dog’s review or any questions you have about the process.
Happy baking, and give your furry friend an extra pat from me!
