Maxie'S Homemade Milk Bones
Homemade dog treats with wholesome ingredients like whole wheat flour, dry milk, and garlic powder, baked into crunchy bones that dogs love and are safe for their health.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine flour, powdered dry milk, salt, garlic powder, and vegetable shortening together like a pie crust dough.
- Add cold water, cod liver oil, and rye kernels to the mixture and mix until well combined.
- Roll out the dough to a 1/2-inch thickness on a floured surface.
- Use a milk bone-shaped cookie cutter or any other shape you desire to cut out the treats.
- Place the cutouts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30 minutes until golden brown.
- Allow to cool completely before serving.
- Makes approximately 2 dozen large-sized dog milk bones.
Tips & Substitutions
For a crunchier texture, you can bake the milk bones a little longer, but keep an eye on them to avoid burning. If you don’t have rye kernels, you can substitute with rolled oats for a different texture. Always ensure the mixture is well combined to maintain a consistent shape when baking. Remember that the dough can be sticky, so use flour liberally when rolling it out.
Serving Suggestions
These homemade milk bones are perfect as a treat for your furry friends. You can serve them alongside a bowl of fresh water or as rewards during training sessions. They pair well with a cozy afternoon of playtime or cuddles. For more tasty options for your pets, consider browsing more vegetarian recipes that are dog-friendly.
Storage & Reheating
Store the baked milk bones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. For longer storage, you can freeze them in a zip-top bag for up to three months. To serve them after freezing, simply let them thaw at room temperature or warm them slightly in the oven for a few minutes to bring back their crunch.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Maxie'S Homemade Milk Bones contains roughly 251 calories, with 0g protein, 2g carbohydrates, and 28g fat.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of flour?
Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour with oat flour or all-purpose flour if necessary. However, the texture and flavor may vary slightly. Whole wheat flour adds nutrition and a nice earthy flavor, so consider adding some ground flaxseed for added health benefits if you switch flours.
How can I adjust the recipe for smaller dogs?
To make smaller treats for little pups, simply roll the dough thinner and use a smaller cookie cutter. You can also adjust the baking time down to about 20 minutes to prevent over-baking. Just keep an eye on them to ensure they turn golden brown without becoming too hard.
Is this recipe suitable for dogs with allergies?
If your dog has food allergies, consult with your vet before trying this recipe. You can modify it by using allergy-friendly ingredients such as gluten-free flour. Always introduce new treats gradually to monitor for any adverse reactions to specific ingredients.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).