Every December, something shifts in my kitchen. The air feels warmer, the counters stay dusted with flour, and my dog suddenly becomes my most loyal kitchen assistant.
He lies right at my feet, watching every move, especially when fruit comes out. A few years ago, while baking holiday cookies for my family, I caught myself wondering why my dog shouldn’t get something homemade and festive too.
That thought turned into a tradition and these Apple and Blueberry Christmas Bone Treats for Dogs have been part of our holiday season ever since.
I love these treats because they feel special without being complicated. They’re made with real ingredients, they smell incredible while baking, and most importantly, I feel confident giving them to my dog.
If you’ve ever stood in a pet store reading ingredient labels and feeling unsure, this recipe is for you.
I’m walking you through everything from why these ingredients are safe, to storage, serving size, and little tips I’ve learned along the way.
Why Homemade Dog Treats Matter (Especially During the Holidays)
The holidays are a time of extra treats, but many store-bought dog snacks contain preservatives, artificial flavors, added sugars, or ingredients that don’t serve your dog’s health.
I’m not saying store-bought treats are always bad, but I personally feel better when I know exactly what my dog is eating.
When I make homemade dog treats:
- I control every ingredient
- I avoid artificial colors and preservatives
- I can tailor treats to my dog’s size and needs
- I create something meaningful and intentional
And honestly? Watching your dog’s excitement when they smell these baking is reason enough.
Are Apples and Blueberries Safe for Dogs?
This is one of the most common questions I see and it’s such an important one.
Apples for Dogs
Apples are completely safe for dogs when prepared properly. They’re rich in:
- Dietary fiber (great for digestion)
- Vitamin A (supports skin and coat health)
- Vitamin C (supports immune function)
Important safety note:
I always peel and core apples before using them. Apple seeds contain small amounts of cyanide and should never be given to dogs. Once removed, the apple itself is a wonderful, gentle ingredient.
Blueberries for Dogs
Blueberries are often called a superfood for dogs and for good reason.
They’re packed with antioxidants that help combat oxidative stress and support brain health, especially in aging dogs.
They’re also low in calories and sugar, making them a great choice for treats.
Together, apples and blueberries create a naturally sweet flavor dogs love, without any added sugar or artificial ingredients.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple, affordable, and easy to find.
- 1 medium apple, peeled, cored, and finely grated
- ½ cup blueberries (fresh or frozen, finely chopped)
- 1 large egg
- 1 cup oat flour (or rolled oats blended into a fine flour)
- ¼ cup unsweetened applesauce
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil, melted
Optional Add-Ins
- A tiny pinch of cinnamon (optional and safe in very small amounts)
I skip sweeteners entirely dogs don’t need them.
Kitchen Supplies You’ll Need
You don’t need any specialty equipment, which I love during busy holiday weeks.
- Large mixing bowl
- Box grater or food processor
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Spoon or silicone spatula
- Rolling pin
- Bone-shaped cookie cutter
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Cooling rack (optional but helpful)
Step-by-Step: How I Make These Christmas Dog Treats
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
I preheat my oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup so much easier.
Step 2: Prepare the Fruit
I peel and core the apple, then grate it finely so it blends smoothly into the dough. For the blueberries, I chop them just enough so they distribute evenly. If they’re frozen, I let them thaw and drain excess moisture first.
Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, I combine:
- Grated apple
- Chopped blueberries
- Egg
- Applesauce
- Melted coconut oil
I stir gently until everything is evenly mixed.
Step 4: Add the Oat Flour
I gradually add the oat flour, stirring as I go. The dough should be soft but not sticky. If it feels too wet, I add a tablespoon of oat flour at a time until it’s workable.
Step 5: Roll and Cut
I lightly dust my counter with oat flour, roll the dough to about ¼-inch thickness, and cut out bone shapes. This is my favorite part — it really makes them feel festive.
Step 6: Bake
I bake the treats for 18–22 minutes, until they’re firm and lightly golden on the bottom. For crunchier treats, I turn the oven off and let them sit inside with the door cracked open for another 10 minutes.
Step 7: Cool Completely
This step matters. I always let the treats cool completely before giving one to my dog. They firm up as they cool and are safer to chew.
How Many Treats Can My Dog Have?
These treats are meant to be occasional snacks, not meal replacements.
- Small dogs: ½ to 1 treat per day
- Medium dogs: 1–2 treats per day
- Large dogs: 2–3 treats per day
I always introduce new treats slowly, especially if your dog has a sensitive stomach.
Storage Tips (So They Stay Fresh)
Because these treats don’t contain preservatives, proper storage is important.
- Room temperature: Up to 3 days in an airtight container
- Refrigerator: Up to 7 days
- Freezer: Up to 3 months
I often freeze half the batch and thaw them as needed. They thaw quickly and keep their texture beautifully.
Helpful Variations You Can Try
If you like switching things up, here are a few safe ideas:
- Replace blueberries with mashed strawberries
- Use pumpkin purée instead of applesauce
- Cut into smaller shapes for training treats
- Bake longer for extra crunch
I always stick to dog-safe fruits and avoid anything with added sugar or spices.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Over the years, I’ve learned a few things the hard way:
- Don’t skip peeling and coring the apple
- Avoid sticky dough — it means too much moisture
- Don’t overbake if your dog prefers softer treats
- Always cool completely before serving
A Gentle Reminder About Treat Safety
Every dog is different. If your dog has allergies, health conditions, or dietary restrictions, it’s always best to check with your veterinarian before introducing new treats.
Homemade doesn’t automatically mean perfect for every dog but thoughtful preparation goes a long way.
Why These Treats Are So Special to Me
These Apple and Blueberry Christmas Bone Treats aren’t just about food. They’re about slowing down during the holidays, including our dogs in traditions, and choosing simple, intentional care.
When my dog crunches into one of these treats, tail wagging, I know it was worth the effort.
If you’re looking for a safe, festive way to spoil your pup this Christmas, I truly hope you try these. They’ve become a little tradition in my home and maybe they’ll become one in yours too.
