Natural, chewy treats rich in fiber and vitamins - perfect for dogs of all sizes
That's it! This simple recipe requires just sweet potatoes. The olive oil is optional but helps create a slightly chewier texture. For more vegetable-based treats, try our Carrot and Apple Bites.
Choose firm, unblemished sweet potatoes. Wash them thoroughly and pat dry. You can peel them or leave the skin on - the skin is nutritious and adds texture.
For uniform chews, select sweet potatoes of similar size. Larger sweet potatoes will yield more chews, while smaller ones are perfect for small dogs or training treats.
Slice sweet potatoes lengthwise into strips about 1/4 to 1/2 inch thick. Thicker slices will be chewier and take longer to dehydrate, while thinner slices will be crispier.
For small dogs, cut strips about 1/4 inch thick and 2-3 inches long. For larger dogs, you can make them thicker and longer. Consistency in thickness ensures even cooking.
If using olive oil, lightly brush both sides of each strip. This helps prevent sticking and creates a slightly chewier texture. The oil is optional - the chews will work fine without it.
Use a pastry brush or your fingers to apply a thin layer. Too much oil can make the chews greasy, so use sparingly.
Preheat oven to 250°F (120°C). Arrange sweet potato strips on a parchment-lined baking sheet, ensuring they don't touch each other. This allows for even air circulation.
You may need multiple baking sheets or to work in batches. The low temperature is key - it dehydrates the sweet potatoes slowly without burning them.
Bake for 2.5 to 3 hours, flipping halfway through. The chews are done when they're leathery and pliable but not brittle. They should bend without breaking.
Check periodically after 2 hours. Thicker slices may need up to 3.5 hours. The goal is to remove most moisture while maintaining some flexibility. For more on dehydration techniques, see our Baking Techniques guide.
Remove from oven and allow to cool completely on the baking sheet. The chews will continue to firm up as they cool.
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to 1 month. These chews don't freeze well as they can become mushy when thawed. Learn more about storage methods.
Sweet potatoes are an excellent source of complex carbohydrates and fiber, making them ideal for dogs with sensitive stomachs. They're also naturally sweet, which most dogs find appealing. For more on nutritional balance, see our Nutritional Balance guide.
For chewier treats, bake for less time (2-2.5 hours). For crispier treats, bake longer (3-3.5 hours). Monitor closely near the end to achieve your desired texture. The chews should be pliable but not soft.
Adjust size based on your dog. Small dogs need smaller pieces, while large dogs can handle longer strips. For training, cut into 1-inch pieces. Always supervise your dog when giving chews to prevent choking.
If you have a food dehydrator, use it at 135°F (57°C) for 6-8 hours. Dehydrators provide more consistent results and are ideal if you make these regularly. You can also use an air fryer at 200°F for 2-3 hours.
While these are delicious plain, you can add a light sprinkle of cinnamon before baking for extra flavor. Some dogs enjoy a hint of turmeric, which also has anti-inflammatory properties. Always use spices in very small amounts.