If you’re anything like me, you want the best for your dog—whether it’s a daily walk in the park, cozy snuggles at home, or the most wholesome, delicious treats. That’s why I’m thrilled to share this recipe for Tuna and Parsley Balls—a perfect blend of nutritious ingredients and flavor your furry friend will adore!

This recipe is easy to prepare, packed with essential nutrients, and a great way to treat your dog to something homemade. Not only are these treats irresistibly tasty, but they also offer numerous health benefits. From the protein-rich tuna to the breath-freshening parsley, your dog will love every bite, and you’ll feel good about offering them a snack that’s both healthy and delicious.

But first—if you love creating homemade dog treats, make sure to subscribe to my newsletter to get more recipes just like this one delivered straight to your inbox!

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What Are Tuna and Parsley Balls?

As the name suggests, Tuna and Parsley Balls are homemade dog treats made primarily from tuna and fresh parsley. These two key ingredients not only make the treats incredibly tasty but also provide a wealth of health benefits for your dog. Tuna is a great source of lean protein and omega-3 fatty acids, which promote a healthy coat, skin, and joints, while parsley helps freshen your dog’s breath and supports digestion.

These treats are baked into bite-sized, soft balls, perfect for dogs of all ages. Whether you have a playful puppy or an older dog with sensitive teeth, these Tuna and Parsley Balls are gentle on their digestive system and teeth while still offering a satisfying chew.

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Why You and Your Dog Will Love This Recipe

Here’s why I know this recipe is going to be a hit:

1. Simple and Quick – This recipe takes less than 30 minutes to prepare, and with just a few ingredients, you won’t have to hunt through the pantry or make a special trip to the store.
2. Nutrient-Rich – Tuna is loaded with protein and essential omega-3s, while parsley is an underrated herb that aids in digestion and breath freshening. Your dog gets a treat that’s not only tasty but also packed with nutrients.
3. Fresh Breath Bonus – Does your dog’s breath need a little freshening? Parsley is a natural breath deodorizer, which makes these treats a two-for-one bonus—delicious and functional!
4. Customizable – You can easily switch out ingredients if your dog has specific allergies or dietary needs. More on that later!

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What Do Tuna and Parsley Balls Taste Like?

While you probably won’t be eating these yourself, your dog will find them absolutely delightful. The combination of tuna’s savory, fishy flavor and the freshness of parsley makes for a flavor profile that dogs seem to go crazy for. The aroma alone will have your dog eagerly waiting by the oven!

The treats bake into soft, crumbly balls with a texture that’s easy for dogs to chew but firm enough to offer a satisfying bite. While dogs aren’t as focused on texture and flavor nuance as humans, they do appreciate a soft but chewy consistency, which these treats deliver in spades.

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Benefits of Tuna and Parsley Balls for Dogs

Before we dive into the recipe, let’s talk about the benefits of the ingredients and why these treats are such a great option for your dog.

1. Tuna – A Lean Protein Powerhouse

Tuna is an excellent source of lean protein, which is essential for muscle development and overall health. It’s also rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which support a shiny coat, healthy skin, and joint function.

Omega-3s also help reduce inflammation, making tuna a great ingredient for dogs with joint issues or arthritis. Moreover, the selenium and B vitamins in tuna help support your dog’s immune system and energy metabolism.

2. Parsley – More Than Just a Breath Freshener

You may know parsley as a garnish, but it offers much more, especially for dogs. Parsley contains antioxidants, vitamins A, C, and K, and folate. These nutrients help improve vision, boost the immune system, and support heart health. Plus, its breath-freshening properties make it perfect for dogs who could use a little help in the dental hygiene department.

3. Egg – Protein-Rich Binder

Eggs provide an excellent source of easily digestible protein and act as a binder in this recipe. They also supply essential fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals that contribute to healthy skin, coat, and brain function.

4. Flour – Gentle on the Stomach

We use whole wheat flour in this recipe, but you can easily substitute it with oat flour or almond flour if your dog has a sensitivity to wheat. Flour acts as a binding agent, keeping all the ingredients together while baking.

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Ingredients for Tuna and Parsley Balls

• 1 can of tuna (packed in water, drained)
• 1 cup fresh parsley (finely chopped)
• 1 large egg
• 1 cup whole wheat flour (substitute with oat or almond flour if your dog has a wheat allergy)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

These ingredients are easy to find and affordable, and they come together to create a simple yet nutrient-dense treat your dog will love!

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Tools You’ll Need

Before we start, make sure you have the following kitchen tools on hand:

• Mixing bowl
• Whisk or fork
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper (optional)
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Food processor or knife (to chop the parsley)

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How to Make Tuna and Parsley Balls for Dogs

Now that you have all your ingredients and tools ready, it’s time to make these nutritious treats. Follow these simple steps to whip up a batch of Tuna and Parsley Balls for your furry friend:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. If you don’t have parchment paper, lightly grease the baking sheet with a little olive oil.

Step 2: Prepare the Tuna

Drain the can of tuna and place the tuna into a large mixing bowl. Use a fork to break it up into smaller chunks, ensuring there are no large pieces that could cause choking.

Step 3: Add the Parsley

Finely chop the fresh parsley. You can use a food processor for this step or chop it by hand. Add the parsley to the bowl with the tuna.

Step 4: Mix in the Egg and Oil

Crack the egg into the bowl and whisk it with a fork to break up the yolk. Add the olive oil and mix everything together until well combined.

Step 5: Add the Flour

Slowly add the whole wheat flour (or your flour substitute) to the wet ingredients, mixing as you go. You should end up with a sticky dough-like consistency. If the dough is too dry, add a little more olive oil or water; if it’s too wet, sprinkle in more flour.

Step 6: Shape the Balls

Using your hands, form the dough into small, bite-sized balls. I recommend making them about the size of a golf ball for larger dogs or smaller, marble-sized balls for smaller breeds.

Step 7: Bake the Treats

Place the balls onto your prepared baking sheet, making sure to leave a little space between each one. Bake for 15–20 minutes, or until the treats are golden brown and firm to the touch.

Step 8: Cool and Serve

Once the treats are done baking, remove them from the oven and let them cool completely on a wire rack. Make sure the treats are completely cooled before offering them to your dog.

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Ingredient Additions and Substitutions

This recipe is quite versatile, and you can adjust the ingredients based on your dog’s preferences or dietary needs. Here are a few suggestions:

• Flour Substitutions: If your dog has a wheat allergy, substitute the whole wheat flour with oat flour, almond flour, or coconut flour.
• Herb Substitutions: If parsley isn’t available, you can use other dog-safe herbs like cilantro or dill. However, parsley is ideal for its breath-freshening qualities.
• Tuna Substitutions: You can swap out the tuna for canned salmon, mackerel, or sardines. Just make sure the fish is packed in water and not oil.

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What to Serve with Tuna and Parsley Balls

These treats are perfect on their own, but you can serve them alongside your dog’s favorite meal as a special addition or as a reward after a day of training and play. Because they’re soft and easy to chew, they’re also great for dogs who may have dental issues.

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Fun Ideas: Special Occasions and Interactive Treat-Making

Want to turn these Tuna and Parsley Balls into a special event? Here are a few ways you can use these treats for holidays, birthdays, or just a fun day with your dog:

1. Dog Birthday Party Favor

If you’re throwing a birthday party for your dog, these treats make an excellent party favor. Simply make a larger batch and pack them in small gift bags with a ribbon. Your dog’s friends will go home with a nutritious and tasty treat!

2. Seasonal Variations

You can easily customize this recipe for different holidays. Add some pumpkin purée in the fall for a seasonal twist, or shape the balls into festive shapes like

hearts for Valentine’s Day or bones for Halloween!

3. Involving Your Dog in the Process

Believe it or not, treat-making can be a fun bonding experience with your dog! While your dog obviously can’t handle kitchen tools, they’ll love sitting nearby and getting excited as the ingredients come together. Once the dough is ready, give your dog a small taste of the raw dough to involve them in the process. Just be sure to save the finished treats for later as a reward for their “help.”

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Tips for Perfect Tuna and Parsley Balls

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh parsley and high-quality tuna are key to making these treats as nutritious and flavorful as possible.
• Adjust for Your Dog’s Size: When shaping the balls, consider the size of your dog. Larger dogs can handle bigger treats, while smaller dogs or puppies will benefit from smaller, bite-sized portions.
• Store Them Properly: After baking, store the Tuna and Parsley Balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for up to a week.

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Storage Instructions

These treats can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. If you want to make a larger batch and store some for later, you can freeze the Tuna and Parsley Balls for up to three months. Simply thaw them in the fridge overnight before serving.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use dried parsley instead of fresh?

While fresh parsley is recommended for its breath-freshening qualities and higher nutritional content, dried parsley can be used in a pinch. Use about half the amount of dried parsley compared to fresh.

2. My dog has allergies. Can I substitute the flour?

Yes! You can substitute whole wheat flour with oat flour, almond flour, or coconut flour. Be sure to check with your vet if you’re unsure about any substitutions for your dog’s specific dietary needs.

3. How often can I give these treats to my dog?

These treats are a great occasional snack or reward, but they shouldn’t replace your dog’s regular, balanced diet. As with any treat, moderation is key.

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Conclusion

These Tuna and Parsley Balls are a simple, nutritious, and delicious treat that your dog is sure to love. They’re easy to make, packed with healthy ingredients, and offer multiple benefits from lean protein to fresh breath. Plus, the recipe is highly customizable, so you can adjust it to suit your dog’s dietary needs.

If you enjoyed making this recipe, be sure to check out other amazing dog treats on my blog, like Delicious and Nutritious Oatmeal Cookies for Dogs, Banana and Honey Biscuits for Dogs, and Blueberry, Pumpkin, and Oatmeal Chews for Dogs. You might also want to check out these fun and functional Bull Penis Dog Treats or keep your pup cool with Pumpkin Pupsicles.

And don’t forget—if you try this recipe, leave a review and share photos on Pinterest!

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Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 45
• Protein: 5g
• Fat: 2g
• Carbohydrates: 4g

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