Easy-to-Make Dog Cookies Without Using Flour

Cookies and treats made with traditional flour give some dogs tummy aches.
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When you think of cookies, the baker in you lists off a variety of ingredients, with flour likely at the top of the list. But if your dog is sensitive to wheat or other gluten products, flour is not an option. Cookies without flour are possible; just substitute one of several products for traditional flour in just about any recipe. They allow you to make some healthy treats your dog will enjoy without upsetting his tummy.

Rice Flour

Rice flour comes from ground white or brown rice and is gluten-free. Rice flour can take the place of traditional flour in recipes with some consideration. Rice flour absorbs more moisture than wheat flour, so if a recipe calls for 1 cup of flour, substitute with just 7/8 cup of rice flour. If the dough is too firm, add a splash or two of water.

Rolled Oats

Rolled oats are another option. These are naturally gluten-free, though they can be exposed to cross-contamination during packaging. However, gluten-free oats packaged without possible exposure are available. For your cookie recipe, substitute 1 1/3 cups of rolled oats for 1 cup of flour.

Meat Protein

The most important component in your dog’s diet is protein. Dogs are designed to digest meat protein easily and use it for energy. Use meat as a base for your dog cookies. Preheat your over to 350 degrees F. Mix 1 pound of ground meat -- lamb, beef, chicken or turkey -- a large mashed sweet potato, a large egg and 5 tablespoons of rolled oats. Spread the mixture onto a lightly oiled baking sheet. Cook for one hour and remove from the oven. With a knife or pizza cutter, score the dough into bite-size pieces. Reduce the oven temperature to 250 degrees F and cook for 1 hour. This will dry the cookies out, making them crisp.

Peanut Butter Biscuits

Peanut butter is a source of protein for that dogs usually enjoy. You can make peanut butter biscuits using both rice flour and oats. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Combine 1 3/4 cups of rice flour with 1 cup rolled oats. Mix in 1/3 cup peanut butter and 1 1/4 cups water. Knead the dough well to mix ingredients. Roll out onto a flat surface and use a cookie cutter to make shapes or just cut into bite-size pieces. Alternatively, you can roll the dough into small balls and flatten with a fork. Place the cookies on a greased baking sheet and cook for 40 minutes. Let them cool completely before letting your dog indulge.