I made this dog beef jerky recipe because I wanted to give my dog a healthy, homemade treat using clean ingredients. I saw a video showing how simple it was to prepare using lean ground beef, and that inspired me to try it myself.
The main specialty of this dog beef jerky recipe is that it uses no preservatives, just pure meat, making it safe and nutritious for dogs.
I felt confident making something with my own hands that my dog would love. Now I’m going to share step-by-step how to make this dog beef jerky recipe so others can create it for their own pets too.
About This Recipe
This homemade Dog Beef Jerky recipe is a healthy, protein-rich treat your pup will love. Made with just one ingredient—lean beef—it’s free from additives and preservatives often found in store-bought snacks.
Simply slice the beef thin, remove all fat, and dehydrate at a low temperature until fully dried. It’s easy to store, lasts for weeks, and is perfect for training or rewarding good behavior.
Always supervise your dog while they enjoy this chewy, nutritious snack.
How To Prepare Dog Beef Jerky Recipe?
Recipe Overview
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 5 hours (depending on method and thickness)
Total Time: 5 hours 15 minutes
Course: Dog Treat
Difficulty: Easy
Cuisine: Homemade / Pet Cuisine
Calories: 60 kcal per strip (varies by thickness and fat content)
Yield: About 25 jerky strips (1–2 inches wide each)
Main Kitchen Utensils Needed
- Mixing bowl
- Rolling pin or meat press
- Parchment paper
- Oven or dehydrator
Ingredients
- 1 pound lean ground beef (10% fat or less – use flank, round, or sirloin cuts)
- Optional: A pinch of turmeric or parsley (dog-safe flavor and health boost)
Instructions
Step 1:
Place the ground beef into a mixing bowl. Mix thoroughly with optional herbs if desired. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and press the meat evenly to about ¼-inch thick using a rolling pin or your hands.
Step 2:
Using a knife or pizza cutter, slice the pressed beef into long strips (1-inch wide). This ensures even drying and easy breaking later.
Step 3:
Preheat oven to 160°F (70°C). Place strips on a baking rack over a tray and bake for 5 hours, flipping halfway through. Set dehydrator to 160°F and dry for 5 hours until fully dried and chewy.
Step 4:
Let the jerky strips cool completely. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks or freeze for longer shelf life.
Health Benefits Of Homemade Dog Beef Jerky
This homemade dog beef jerky offers numerous health benefits for your furry friend. Made from lean beef, it provides a high-quality source of protein essential for muscle maintenance and overall vitality.
The low-fat content helps support a healthy weight, while the absence of preservatives and artificial additives ensures a natural and safe treat.
Additionally, beef is rich in important nutrients like iron, zinc, and B vitamins that boost your dog’s immune system and energy.
Chewing jerky also promotes dental health by helping reduce plaque buildup and strengthening teeth and gums.
Our Favorite Ways To Serving It Up
Serving homemade dog beef jerky can be both fun and practical. Use the jerky strips as quick and easy training treats to reward your dog instantly.
Break the jerky into bite-sized pieces and mix them into your dog’s daily meals for added flavor and excitement.
You can also pack a few strips for outdoor adventures or long walks as a healthy, portable snack. For extra enrichment, try hiding pieces inside puzzle toys to keep your dog mentally engaged while enjoying their favorite treat.
Additions And Variations
Here are some additions and variations you can try to customize the dog beef jerky recipe:
➤ Add dog-safe herbs like parsley or rosemary for a fresh flavor and added health benefits.
➤ Mix in a small amount of pure pumpkin puree to add moisture and nutrients.
➤ Try adding a pinch of turmeric or ginger powder for natural anti-inflammatory properties.
➤ Substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a different protein option.
➤ For extra chewiness, slice thin strips of whole beef steak instead of ground beef.
➤ Incorporate finely chopped carrots or sweet potatoes for a slight sweetness and extra vitamins.
Storage And Shelf Life Dog Beef Jerky Recipe
Store homemade dog beef jerky recipe in an airtight container in a cool, dry place for up to 1 week. For longer shelf life, refrigerate for up to 2 weeks or freeze for up to 3 months.
Always allow the dog beef jerky recipe to cool completely before storing to prevent moisture buildup, which can lead to spoilage.
(FAQs) About Dog Beef Jerky Recipe
How long does homemade dog beef jerky last?
It can last up to 1 week at room temperature, 2 weeks in the refrigerator, and 3 months in the freezer when stored properly.
Do I need a dehydrator to make dog beef jerky?
No, you can use an oven set to a low temperature (around 160°F or 70°C) to dry the meat thoroughly.
Can I use any type of beef?
Lean cuts like sirloin, top round, or flank steak work best, as fatty meat can spoil faster.
Is it safe to add seasoning or marinade?
Avoid seasonings with salt, garlic, onion, or other ingredients toxic to dogs. Plain, unseasoned beef is safest.
How do I know when the jerky is fully dried?
The jerky should be dry, firm, and slightly flexible but not brittle. There should be no moisture inside.
Can I use other meats besides beef?
Yes, you can use lean chicken, turkey, or even fish—just ensure they’re cooked or dehydrated thoroughly and are dog-safe.
Conclusion
I hope you understand my simple description and feel encouraged to make this dog beef jerky recipe yourself.
After trying it, I saw how much my dog enjoyed the treat he was excited and happy while eating it and seemed satisfied afterward. This homemade jerky is a healthy and safe way to spoil your furry friend.
Making dog beef jerky recipe like this brings joy not only to dogs but also to their owners, knowing exactly what’s going into their pet’s snacks.
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Dog Beef Jerky Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Place the ground beef into a mixing bowl. Mix thoroughly with optional herbs if desired. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and press the meat evenly to about ¼-inch thick using a rolling pin or your hands.
- Using a knife or pizza cutter, slice the pressed beef into long strips (1-inch wide). This ensures even drying and easy breaking later.
- Preheat oven to 160°F (70°C). Place strips on a baking rack over a tray and bake for 5 hours, flipping halfway through. Set dehydrator to 160°F and dry for 5 hours until fully dried and chewy.
- Let the jerky strips cool completely. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks or freeze for longer shelf life.
Hello dog lovers, I am John. Welcome to my website healthydogfoods.com. I am happy to gain experience from my love for my dog and my pet dog. Through my experience and acquaintance with dog veterinarians, I have made myself a proper guide for dogs. I will tell you about dog care, their nutritious food, their proper safety and dog upbringing for a better life. Even though dogs cannot talk like humans, I will solve all the problems by observing their behavior. I will discuss the proper care and related issues of your dog. Which will give you the right answer to all the problems of your beloved dog.