Chicken Jerky Treats

I’ve recently decided to make my own chicken jerky dog treats and my three doggies highly APPROVE! How could they not, they’re only one simple ingredient – chicken. 

Tummy Troubles

After many on going visits to the vet with intestinal problems with each doggie, thinking it was a virus, the vet finally concluded the treats we were giving our dogs may have been the culprit. She said take a look at their dog food and treat bags and make sure they’re not sourced or imported from China. Sure enough, I take a look, and the chicken was sourced from China. The FDA had issued a warning about the risks associated with duck and chicken pet treats from that region, but I didn’t heed the warning thinking that was crazy. Chicken is chicken, but after all my dogs fell ill, I believed it! After much research, I’m still not certain why the chicken from China is causing harm to pets, but after the staggering number of ill dogs were reported I do know there’s some issues that need to be addressed. 

A few weeks go by of not giving the doggies the chicken jerky treats and all three doggies are back to their happy, go lucky selves. Made my heart happy knowing they’re on the path to recovery! No more sick, lethargic doggies moping around the house with upset tummies! Although, the doggies were a little irked that the treats stopped so abruptly. They looked forward to this treat every morning after they woke up. They’d beg and beg and beg….and beg all day! Hang around the pantry relentlessly, and bark, just to let us know their need vocally! Those were their most favorite treats in the whole wide world!!! I can only imagine their thoughts…How could my human do this to me? Do they even love me anymore? What did I do to deserve this? 

Looking closely, and reading every part of the packaging now, I’ve come across ones that are locally made. Expensive for the amount you get and for the amount my doggies consume daily, I decided it was time to make my own! I can control where my chicken comes from and how much I make! Time consuming, I know, but totally worth it! Your doggies will be in treat heaven! 

Make Your Own

The great part is you can make a whole bunch at one time. They’ll last up to three weeks in the refrigerator, but mine never ever last that long. They’re just too delicious for two little dachshunds and a large standard poodle! 

Method of Preparation

You’ll need one pound of chicken breasts. First, slice the chicken breasts into about 1/8 inch thick strips. I like to slice against the grain. It’s easier for the little dachshunds to chew it up and eat without choking, however, if you have bigger dogs and want a chewier snack, slice with the grain. 

Once sliced, place onto a sheet pan fitted with a cooling rack on top. This allows for heat circulation and drippings to pool away from the chicken. Place chicken strips over a greased rack, lay them flat and separate. Make sure they’re not touching each other. Put into a 250 degree Fahrenheit oven for about 2 hours.

After 2 hours, take them out of the oven and flip the chicken strips onto the other side. Now, place into the over for about an hour more. Take out of the oven once dehydrated. Cool completely and place into a ziplock bag or container and refrigerate for up to three weeks. 

Recipe

Come check out more about my doggies here and here. My doggies are my little besties! I want them to feel the best they possibly can, and feed them the best I can. If that means making them doggie treats every week, I will! I’m going to spoil them! 

Chelsea

Crazy Dog Lady!  

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