Spinach & Sweet Potato Bites Recipe for Dogs: A Nutritious and Delicious Treat

If you’re anything like me, you love treating your dog to something special—especially when it’s homemade, healthy, and packed with nutrients. That’s exactly why I started making these Spinach & Sweet Potato Bites for Dogs.

My Labrador, Daisy, has always had a sensitive stomach, and store-bought treats didn’t sit well with her. I wanted a homemade alternative with simple, wholesome ingredients. Enter sweet potatoes and spinach! These ingredients are not only delicious but also full of fiber, vitamins, and minerals that support digestion and overall health.

Since I first made these treats, they’ve become a staple in our house. Daisy loves them, and I love knowing exactly what she’s eating. Today, I’ll walk you through the full process—from prepping each ingredient to baking the perfect dog-friendly snack.

Let’s get started!

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Why Sweet Potatoes & Spinach Are Great for Dogs

Before we dive into the recipe, let’s explore why these ingredients are fantastic for your pup’s health.

1. Sweet Potatoes: A Canine Superfood

Sweet potatoes are one of the best veggies you can include in your dog’s diet. Here’s why:

✔ Rich in Fiber – Supports digestion and helps regulate bowel movements.
✔ High in Beta-Carotene (Vitamin A) – Great for eye health and immune support.
✔ Packed with Antioxidants – Help reduce inflammation and promote overall well-being.

Most dogs love the naturally sweet flavor, making sweet potatoes an excellent base for dog treats.

2. Spinach: A Nutrient-Dense Green

Spinach is loaded with essential vitamins and minerals, including:

✔ Iron – Supports healthy blood circulation.
✔ Calcium & Magnesium – Strengthen bones and muscles.
✔ Vitamin K – Aids in blood clotting and bone health.

Though spinach is safe in moderation, it does contain oxalates, which can interfere with calcium absorption. Cooking it helps reduce oxalate levels, making it perfectly fine as an occasional ingredient in treats.

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How to Prepare Each Ingredient

To make the best Spinach & Sweet Potato Bites, it’s important to prepare each ingredient properly.

Sweet Potatoes

How to prepare:

1. Wash and peel – Rinse the sweet potato under running water and remove the skin.
2. Chop into cubes – This speeds up cooking time.
3. Cook – Boil or steam the sweet potatoes until soft (about 10-15 minutes).
4. Mash – Use a fork or potato masher to create a smooth puree. Let it cool before mixing.

Spinach

How to prepare:

1. Rinse thoroughly – Wash fresh spinach to remove dirt or pesticides.
2. Chop finely – This ensures even distribution in the dough.
3. Cook lightly (optional) – Steam or sauté for 1-2 minutes to reduce oxalate content.
4. Squeeze out excess moisture – If using frozen spinach, drain well before adding.

Oat Flour

How to prepare:

• If you don’t have oat flour, blend rolled oats in a food processor until you get a fine, flour-like consistency.

Egg

How to prepare:

• Crack the egg into a small bowl and whisk lightly before adding it to the mixture.

Coconut Oil

How to prepare:

• If solid, melt 1 tablespoon of coconut oil and let it cool slightly before mixing.

Turmeric & Cinnamon (Optional)

• Measure the spices carefully—too much turmeric can be overpowering. These add subtle flavor and health benefits.

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Spinach & Sweet Potato Bites Recipe for Dogs

Ingredients:

• 1 medium sweet potato, cooked and mashed
• ½ cup chopped spinach (fresh or frozen, thawed)
• 1 cup oat flour (or whole wheat flour)
• 1 egg, whisked
• 1 tablespoon coconut oil, melted
• ½ teaspoon turmeric (anti-inflammatory benefits)
• ¼ teaspoon cinnamon (optional, for digestion and flavor)

Instructions:

Step 1: Mix the Ingredients

• In a large bowl, combine mashed sweet potato, chopped spinach, oat flour, whisked egg, melted coconut oil, turmeric, and cinnamon.
• Stir well until a soft dough forms. If sticky, add more flour; if dry, add a little water.

Step 2: Shape the Bites

• Roll small portions of dough into 1-inch balls with your hands.
• If too sticky, chill for 10 minutes or dust your hands with flour.

Step 3: Bake the Treats

• Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange the bites evenly.
• Bake for 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway through, until firm but soft inside.

Step 4: Cool and Store

• Let cool completely before serving.
• Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days, or freeze for 3 months.

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Customizing the Recipe

The beauty of homemade treats is that you can tweak the recipe to fit your dog’s preferences.

Alternative Ingredients

✔ Flour Options – Use coconut flour for a grain-free version or brown rice flour for gluten-sensitive pups.
✔ Extra Nutrients – Add shredded carrots, pumpkin puree, or blueberries for an antioxidant boost.

For another great homemade treat, check out these Blueberry Pumpkin and Oatmeal Chews for Dogs!

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Why Homemade Dog Treats Are Better

I used to buy store-bought treats, but when I started reading labels, I realized how many unnecessary preservatives and additives were in them. Making homemade treats is:

✔ Healthier – Whole, natural ingredients with no fillers.
✔ More Affordable – Saves money over time.
✔ Customizable – Tailored to your dog's dietary needs.

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A Few Tips for Perfect Dog Treats

1. Use Fresh, High-Quality Ingredients

Whenever possible, choose organic produce and minimally processed ingredients.

2. Keep It Simple

Dogs don’t need elaborate flavors—just a few wholesome, dog-safe foods are enough!

3. Store Properly

To keep treats fresh, store them in the fridge or freezer as needed.

Making the Perfect Spinach & Sweet Potato Bites: Troubleshooting & Pro Tips

Even though this recipe is simple, a few small adjustments can make a big difference in texture, flavor, and nutritional value.

1. What If the Dough Is Too Sticky?

This can happen if your mashed sweet potatoes are extra moist. To fix this:

• Add a little more oat flour (1 tablespoon at a time) until the dough firms up.
• Chill the dough in the refrigerator for 10-15 minutes before rolling into balls.

2. What If the Dough Is Too Dry?

If the dough crumbles when you try to roll it, add:

• A splash of water or unsalted chicken broth (1 tablespoon at a time).
• A little extra mashed sweet potato for moisture.

3. How to Make Crunchier or Softer Treats

• For a crunchier texture, bake for an extra 5-8 minutes at 350°F.
• For softer bites, reduce baking time by 2-3 minutes and store in the fridge.

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Storage & Shelf Life: How to Keep Your Dog Treats Fresh

1. Storing in the Fridge

Once cooled, place the treats in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for about 5-7 days.

2. Freezing for Long-Term Storage

Want to make a large batch? Freeze them.

• Place the treats in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Label with the date so you remember when they were made.
• They will stay good for up to 3 months.

To serve, simply thaw a few treats at room temperature or warm them slightly in the microwave for a few seconds.

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Fun Variations: Customize Your Dog's Treats

One of the best parts of making homemade treats is experimenting with different ingredients. Here are some variations based on different dietary needs.

1. Grain-Free Version

If your dog is sensitive to grains, swap out oat flour for:

• Coconut flour – Absorbs moisture well and adds a hint of natural sweetness.
• Chickpea flour – High in protein and fiber.

Tip: If using coconut flour, reduce the amount slightly, as it absorbs a lot of moisture.

2. Protein-Packed Bites

For an extra protein boost, mix in:

• 1 tablespoon of peanut butter (make sure it’s xylitol-free).
• 1-2 tablespoons of Greek yogurt for creaminess.

Want to make your own peanut butter? Try this Homemade Peanut Butter for Dogs recipe.

3. Adding More Superfoods

Give your dog an antioxidant boost by adding:

• Blueberries – Packed with vitamins and a sweet, juicy touch.
• Pumpkin puree – Great for digestion and adds a smooth texture.

For another great homemade treat, check out Blueberry Pumpkin and Oatmeal Chews for Dogs.

4. Seasonal Flavor Twists

• Fall Treats – Add a pinch of nutmeg and swap spinach for shredded carrots.
• Summer Cooling Treats – Freeze the mashed sweet potato mixture in silicone molds for no-bake treats.

Looking for more summer dog treats? Try these Pumpkin Pupsicles for Dogs for a refreshing snack.

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Serving Size: How Many Treats Can My Dog Have?

Even though these treats are made with healthy, natural ingredients, they should still be given in moderation.

Recommended Portions by Dog Size

• Small dogs (under 20 lbs) – 1-2 small bites per day.
• Medium dogs (20-50 lbs) – 2-3 bites per day.
• Large dogs (50+ lbs) – 3-4 bites per day.

These treats should not replace a balanced diet, but they make an excellent reward or snack.

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What I Love About This Recipe (And My Dog Does Too!)

Every time I bake these treats, Daisy comes running into the kitchen, wagging her tail in excitement. The smell of sweet potatoes baking fills the house, and I love knowing that I’m giving her something healthy and homemade.

There’s something so rewarding about making your own dog treats. No preservatives, no mystery ingredients—just pure, wholesome goodness. Plus, I can customize the recipe based on what I have in my kitchen.

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FAQs: Common Questions About Dog Treat Baking

1. Can I Use White Potatoes Instead of Sweet Potatoes?

Yes, but sweet potatoes are healthier and more digestible for dogs. If using white potatoes, cook and mash them just as you would with sweet potatoes.

2. Can I Air-Fry These Treats Instead of Baking?

Absolutely. Air-fry at 325°F for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through.

3. Can I Use Frozen Spinach?

Yes, but make sure to thaw and drain excess water before adding it to the mixture.

4. My Dog Doesn't Like Spinach. What Can I Use Instead?

You can substitute spinach with:

• Chopped kale (remove stems).
• Shredded carrots.
• Finely chopped parsley (which is great for fresh breath).

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Final Thoughts: A Treat Your Dog Will Love

These Spinach & Sweet Potato Bites are an easy, healthy, and tail-wagging good snack for your furry friend. Whether you’re looking for a nutritious reward, a homemade alternative to store-bought treats, or just a fun baking project, this recipe is a winner.

Why You Should Try This Recipe Today

• Made with 100% natural ingredients – No artificial preservatives or additives.
• Super easy to make – Just mix, shape, and bake.
• Great for dogs with sensitive stomachs – Gentle ingredients that support digestion.
• Customizable – Swap ingredients based on your dog’s needs.

If you try this recipe, let me know how your pup likes it. Tag me on Pinterest and share your dog’s favorite homemade treats.

Want More Homemade Dog Recipes?

Check out these delicious treats:

• Banana and Honey Biscuits for Dogs – A naturally sweet and crunchy treat.
• Bull Penis Dog Treats – A unique, protein-rich chew for dogs.

Also, don’t forget to follow MyDogRecipe on Pinterest for even more homemade dog treat inspiration.

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