If you want a wholesome, low-calorie treat that’s easy to make and gentle on your dog’s stomach, these zucchini chips are a perfect choice. They’re crunchy, nutritious, and free from preservatives or fillers—unlike many store-bought snacks.
Not only will your dog love the satisfying crunch, but you’ll also love knowing exactly what’s in every bite. Ready to make your pup’s new favorite treat? Let’s dive in!
Why Zucchini Chips Are Great for Dogs
Zucchini is a safe, nutrient-rich vegetable that most dogs tolerate well. It’s:
- Low in calories – helpful for weight management.
- High in vitamins A and C, which support immunity and healthy skin.
- High in fiber, aiding digestion and gut health.
These chips make an ideal training reward, snack between meals, or a fun crunchy addition to your dog’s diet—without unhealthy ingredients.
Veterinarians also confirm that plain, cooked or dehydrated zucchini is safe for dogs in moderation, as long as harmful additives like salt, garlic, or onion are avoided.
Ingredients – Simple & Dog-Safe
You’ll only need a few basic items:
- 1–2 medium zucchini
- 1 teaspoon olive oil or coconut oil (optional) – helps with crispness
- Optional dog-safe add-ons: pinch of turmeric or parsley for extra nutrition
Note: Do not add salt, sugar, garlic, onion, or any seasoning that is toxic to dogs.
Tools You’ll Need
- Sharp knife or a mandoline slicer (for even slices)
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Oven or dehydrator
- Airtight container for storage
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat & Prep
Preheat your oven to 225°F (107°C) — low heat prevents burning and slowly dries the chips. If using a dehydrator, set it to about 135°F (57°C).
2. Wash and Slice
Rinse the zucchinis thoroughly. Slice into thin rounds (about ⅛ inch thick) — thinner slices equal crispier chips. A mandoline makes this quick and consistent.
3. Lightly Oil & Season (Optional)
If you choose, very lightly brush zucchini rounds with olive or coconut oil to help texture and flavor. A sprinkle of parsley or turmeric adds dog-safe benefits but isn’t required.
4. Arrange for Baking
Lay the slices flat on the parchment-lined baking sheet — don’t overlap them, or they’ll steam instead of crisp.
5. Bake or Dehydrate
- Oven Method: Bake for about 1.5–2 hours, flipping halfway, until they’re dry and crisp.
- Dehydrator: Let them dehydrate for 6–8 hours or until fully dried.
6. Cool Completely & Serve
Allow the chips to cool — this ensures they finish crisping up and are safe to serve.
Tips for Perfect Chips Every Time
- Even Slicing: Consistent thickness ensures all chips dry at the same rate.
- Single Layer Only: Overlapping causes steaming instead of drying.
- Patience Pays Off: Crispy texture comes from slow dehydration, not high heat.
Storage Guide
- Airtight container: up to 1 week at room temp.
- Refrigerator: up to 2 weeks.
- Freezer: up to 3 months (thaw before serving).
If chips soften over time, a few minutes in a low oven will crisp them back up beautifully.
Serving & Portion Guide
Zucchini chips are a treat, not a meal replacement:
- Small dogs: 2–3 chips per serving
- Medium dogs: 3–5 chips
- Large dogs: 5–7 chips
Always consider your dog’s size, age, and activity level. These treats should make up no more than ~10% of daily calories.
FAQ
Can puppies eat zucchini chips?
Yes! Both adult dogs and puppies can enjoy zucchini chips, but make sure pieces are appropriately sized for your pup and introduce slowly to monitor digestion.
Are raw zucchini chips safe?
Dogs can eat raw zucchini, but dehydrated or baked chips are usually more digestible and more appealing.
Can I make these in an air fryer?
Yes! Air fry at 350°F for 10–15 minutes, shaking the basket occasionally (watch closely to avoid burning).
Is seasoning safe?
Avoid salt and harmful spices like garlic or onion. Stick to dog-safe herbs only.
Final Thoughts
Making homemade zucchini chips for your dog is easy, affordable, and truly healthy. You get full control over all ingredients, and your pup gets a crunchy treat they’ll happily chow down. Whether you’re rewarding good behavior or simply treating them because they deserve it, these zucchini chips are a win-win for both of you.
Give them a try — your dog’s tail will tell you everything you need to know!
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