If you’re looking for an easy, healthy, and budget-friendly dog treat recipe, homemade apple chips for dogs are the perfect choice! Unlike store-bought dog treats that often contain additives, sugar, or preservatives, these simple chips are made with just one ingredient — fresh apples. They’re naturally sweet, crunchy, and full of fiber and vitamins, making them a safe and nutritious snack for your pup.
In this recipe, I’ll show you how to make air fryer apple chips for dogs (quick and easy) or oven-baked apple chips (low and slow for maximum crunch). I’ve also included a few fun substitutions like sweet potato, carrot, or banana chips, so you can mix things up and keep treat time exciting.
These DIY dog treats are:
- All-natural & preservative-free
- Super simple (single ingredient)
- Perfect for dogs that love crunchy snacks
- Affordable and easy to store
Ingredients:
- 1–2 apples (Fuji, Gala, Honeycrisp are good – avoid seeds & core!)
- Optional: sprinkle of cinnamon (Ceylon cinnamon only – not Cassia – and only a tiny pinch if your vet approves)
Instructions (Air Fryer):
- Wash apples thoroughly.
- Slice into thin, even slices (about 3mm–5mm). Remove seeds and core.
- Place slices in a single layer in your air fryer basket.
- Air fry at 160°C for 15–20 minutes, flipping halfway.
- Let cool completely – they will crisp up more as they cool.
Instructions (Oven):
- Preheat oven to 100°C.
- Place apple slices on a parchment-lined tray in a single layer.
- Bake for 1.5–2 hours, flipping halfway, until dry and crisp.
- Let cool before serving.
Substitution Ideas (Dog-Friendly Fruits & Veggies)
- Sweet Potato Chips – Peel & thinly slice; cook the same way as apples (great chewy option).
- Carrot Chips – Slice into thin rounds; they’ll be crunchier and a bit sweeter.
- Banana Chips – Slice thin; they’ll come out chewy rather than crispy.
- Zucchini Chips – Slice thin; low-calorie option for pups watching their weight.
Storage
- Store cooled chips in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
- For longer storage, refrigerate or freeze (they’ll be a little chewier after thawing).
