Easy 30-Minute Salmon Dog Treats with Flaxseed

Last Tuesday, I opened a can of salmon for dinner, and Benji practically teleported from his nap spot to the kitchen. His nose was twitching like crazy, and those big beagle eyes were giving me the full guilt treatment. That’s when it hit me – why not turn this into something special for him? After some experimenting (and a few slightly burnt batches), I perfected these salmon dog treats that have become Benji’s absolute favorites.

What makes these treats so special isn’t just the irresistible fishy aroma that sends dogs into happy spins. It’s the powerhouse combination of omega-3-rich salmon and nutrient-dense flaxseed that creates a snack that’s both delicious and incredibly healthy. Plus, they take just 30 minutes from start to finish, which means you can whip up a batch even on busy weeknights.

Why Salmon and Flaxseed Work So Well Together

The magic behind these salmon dog treats lies in their incredible nutritional profile. Salmon provides high-quality protein and omega-3 fatty acids that support your dog’s coat, skin, and brain health. The fish oils in salmon can reduce inflammation and support joint health, which is especially beneficial for older dogs or active pups like Benji, who loves his daily walks.

Flaxseed brings its own set of superpowers to these homemade fish dog biscuits. Ground flaxseed is packed with alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), fiber, and lignans that support digestive health and immune function. When combined with salmon, you’re creating a treat that delivers both EPA and DHA omega-3s from the fish, plus ALA omega-3s from the flaxseed.

This combination works particularly well for dogs with sensitive stomachs or allergies to common protein sources like chicken or beef. The anti-inflammatory properties of both ingredients can help soothe digestive issues while providing essential nutrients that many commercial treats lack.

Salmon Flaxseed Dog Treats Recipe

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Baking Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: About 24 medium treats
• Difficulty: Beginner-friendly
• Storage: 1 week refrigerated, 3 months frozen

Ingredients

• 1 can (6 oz) salmon in water, drained and flaked
• 2 tablespoons ground flaxseed
• 1 large egg
• 1½ cups whole wheat flour (plus extra for rolling)
• 2 tablespoons salmon liquid (reserved from can)

Equipment Needed

• Large mixing bowl
• Fork for flaking salmon
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Rolling pin
• Cookie cutters or a knife
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Drain the salmon, reserving 2 tablespoons of the liquid for extra flavor. Flake the salmon with a fork, removing any skin or bones you might find.

Step 2: Create the Wet Mixture

In your large mixing bowl, combine the flaked salmon, ground flaxseed, egg, and reserved salmon liquid. Mix thoroughly until everything’s well combined. The mixture should look slightly chunky and smell absolutely amazing.

Step 3: Add the Flour

Gradually add the flour, starting with 1 cup and mixing as you go. Continue adding flour until the dough holds together and isn’t too sticky to handle. You might need slightly more or less flour depending on how much liquid your salmon contains.

Step 4: Roll and Cut

Roll out the dough to a thickness of about ¼ inch on a lightly floured surface. Cut into shapes using cookie cutters or simply score into squares with a knife. These salmon dog treats work best in bite-sized pieces for most dogs.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Place treats on your prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each piece. Bake for 18 to 22 minutes, or until the treats are firm to the touch and the edges are golden brown. Let them cool completely before serving.

Serving Guidelines

Start with one small treat to see how your dog responds, especially if they haven’t had salmon dog treats before. For small dogs under 25 pounds, half a treat makes a perfect reward. Medium dogs (25-60 pounds) can enjoy 1-2 treats per day, while larger dogs can have 2-3 treats as part of a balanced diet.

Keep in mind that treats shouldn’t account for more than 10% of your dog’s daily energy intake. These flaxseed dog treats are nutrient-dense, so a little goes a long way in terms of both satisfaction and nutrition.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Add one tablespoon of flour at a time until your dough is manageable, if it feels too sticky and wet. Alternately, add a small amount of water or the salmon liquid that was set aside if the dough appears too dry and crumbly.

Some dogs prefer softer treats, especially seniors or puppies. Simply reduce the baking time by 3-4 minutes for a chewier texture. For extra-crunchy salmon dog biscuits that work well for training, bake for an additional 5 minutes until very firm.

The fishy smell during baking is completely normal and will tone down once the treats cool. Don’t worry if your kitchen smells like a fish market for a while – it’s worth it when you see your dog’s reaction!

Storage Information

These homemade fish dog biscuits stay fresh in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. The high omega-3 content means they can go rancid if left at room temperature for extended periods, so refrigeration is essential.

For longer storage, freeze the treats in freezer bags for up to three months. I like to portion them into weekly servings so I can grab just what I need. Frozen treats can be given directly to your dog – Benji actually prefers them straight from the freezer on hot summer days.

Why Homemade Beats Store-Bought

When you make your own salmon dog treats, you control exactly what goes into your dog’s mouth. Commercial fish-based treats often contain preservatives, artificial flavors, and fillers that provide little nutritional value. Many also use lower-quality fish parts or fish meal instead of whole salmon.

Store-bought treats can cost $15-20 per bag, while this recipe costs less than $5 to make and produces treats that are fresher and more nutritious. You also avoid the mystery ingredients that make you squint at tiny print on packaging.

The omega-3 content in homemade salmon dog treats remains potent because you’re using fresh ingredients and consuming them quickly. Commercial treats may have been sitting on shelves for months, losing nutritional value over time.

Other Treat Adventures

If you’re enjoying making homemade treats as much as I am, you’ll want to explore my complete collection of 10 easy crunchy homemade dog treats. Every recipe offers something different.

Benji’s already tried and approved my peanut butter and banana dog treats, which offer a completely different flavor profile but similar simplicity. The pumpkin and oatmeal treats are perfect for dogs with sensitive stomachs, while the apple cheddar biscuits provide a savory-sweet combination.

For vegetable lovers, the carrot and parsley treats add a fresh crunch that helps with dental health. If your dog prefers meat-based options, the beef and sweet potato biscuits deliver hearty satisfaction.

Coming up, I’m working on Apple & Peanut Butter Chips, Chicken & Rice Crackers, Tuna & Cheese Bites, and Lamb & Rosemary Biscuits that will round out this amazing collection of homemade treats.

Safety Notes

Always use salmon packed in water rather than oil or with added salt. To make sure there are no dangerous ingredients like onion or garlic powder, look over the ingredients list. Fresh salmon works too, but make sure it’s fully cooked before incorporating it into the treats.

Remove any visible bones from the salmon, even though canned salmon bones are typically soft and safe. Some dogs have sensitive digestive systems that don’t handle bones well, regardless of size.

If your dog has never had fish before, introduce these salmon dog treats gradually. Start with small portions and watch for any signs of digestive upset or allergic reactions, though fish allergies in dogs are relatively rare.

Final Thoughts

Making these salmon dog treats has become one of my favorite weekend activities with Benji supervising from his kitchen mat. There’s something incredibly satisfying about creating healthy, delicious treats that make your dog so happy. The combination of nutrition, convenience, and cost-effectiveness makes this recipe a winner in my book.

Every time I pull out the salmon can now, Benji starts doing his happy dance because he knows what’s coming. These salmon dog treats have become our special bonding activity, and I love knowing exactly what ingredients are going into his body. Trust me, once you see your dog’s reaction to fresh, homemade salmon dog treats, you’ll never want to go back to store-bought options.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use fresh salmon instead of canned?

Yes, you can substitute fresh salmon for canned, but make sure it’s fully cooked first. Bake or pan-cook the salmon until it flakes easily, then let it cool completely before using. You’ll need about 4-5 ounces of cooked salmon to replace one 6-ounce can. Add 2-3 tablespoons of water to replace the liquid from canned salmon.

What if my dog doesn’t like fishy flavors?

Some dogs need time to develop a taste for fish. Try mixing a small amount of these salmon dog treats with their regular favorites initially. You can also reduce the salmon to ¾ can and add a tablespoon of plain cooked rice to mellow the fish flavor while maintaining nutritional benefits.

Can I make these treats grain-free?

Absolutely! Replace the whole wheat flour with coconut flour, using about ½ cup instead of 1½ cups since coconut flour is more absorbent. You can also use chickpea flour or a commercial grain-free flour blend. The texture will be slightly different, but the treats will still be delicious and nutritious.

How do I know if the treats are properly baked?

Properly baked salmon dog biscuits should be golden brown around the edges and firm to the touch. They shouldn’t feel soft or squishy in the center. If you’re unsure, bake for an additional 3-5 minutes. Overbaking is better than underbaking when it comes to food safety and shelf life.

Can puppies eat these salmon dog treats?

Puppies over 12 weeks old can generally enjoy these treats in small portions. Break the treats into smaller pieces appropriate for your puppy’s size. However, always consult with your veterinarian before introducing new foods to very young puppies, especially if they have specific dietary requirements or sensitivities.

References

1. American Kennel Club
2. PetMD
3. Veterinary Nutrition Council