As pet owners, we always want the best for our furry friends, and that includes the treats we give them. When my dog was diagnosed with a heart murmur, I had to cut out salt and I could not find any affordable store-bought dog treats as they all contained preservatives and additives. I tried home delivered dehydrated treats but this became expensive, so I decided to try making them myself. Making homemade dog treats ensured my boy Levi's life and routine would not change as he was able to continue to have his treats. The easy and healthy option for a Saturday treat was dehydrated chicken necks. These treats are packed with nutrients and will make your dog go crazy - my four chihuahuas loose it with the words ‘chicky chick’.  Levi passed a few years ago but I was able to continue to give him the quality of life he was used to and have continued to do dehydrating with my other fur babies.

Why Choose Homemade Dog Treats?

• Control Over Ingredients: You know exactly what goes into the treats, ensuring they're free from harmful chemicals and preservatives.
• Cost-Effective: Making treats at home can be more economical than purchasing high-quality store-bought ones.
• Freshness: Homemade treats are fresher, which means they retain more nutritional value.

Ingredients and Equipment

For this simple recipe of dehydrated chicken necks, you'll need only one ingredient and tools:

• Fresh chicken necks (choose organic if possible)
• Dehydrator
• Storage container/s (airtight)

Steps to Prepare Dehydrated Chicken Necks

Step 1: Preparing the Chicken Necks

• Purchase fresh chicken necks from a reputable source. If possible, opt for organic or free-range chicken necks for the best quality.
• Rinse the chicken necks under cold water to remove any residual blood or impurities. I don't worry about removing any extra fat.
• Pat them dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.

Step 2: Dehydrating the Chicken Necks

Using a Dehydrator:

• Place the chicken necks on the dehydrator trays, ensuring they are not touching each other for even drying.
• Start the dehydrator and let it run for about 24-48 hours. The exact time will depend on the thickness of the necks and the efficiency of your dehydrator.
• Check the necks occasionally to make sure they are drying evenly.
• Once fully dehydrated, the necks should be hard and brittle.

Step 3: Cooling and Storing

• Once the chicken necks are fully dehydrated, allow them to cool and remove them from the dehydrator
• Store the dehydrated chicken necks in an airtight container in the refrigerator or freezer for extended freshness.

Benefits of Dehydrated Chicken Necks

• High in Protein: Chicken necks are an excellent source of protein, which is essential for your dog's muscle development and overall health.
• Rich in Minerals: They contain important minerals like calcium and phosphorus, which are crucial for strong bones and teeth.
• Promotes Dental Health: The act of chewing on dehydrated chicken necks helps clean your dog's teeth and massages their gums, promoting better dental health.
• Natural and Nutritious: These treats are free from artificial additives, making them a healthy and natural option for your dog.

Other Meats

You can do this with most meats - try making ‘beef jerky’ or diced chicken kidney, I have tried other organs but could not get past the smell while dehydrating. I like to do chick hearts cut in half that my dogs get one each night after their dinner.

Conclusion

Making your own dog treats at home can be a rewarding experience that ensures your dog gets the best nutrition possible. Dehydrated chicken necks are an easy and nutritious option that your dog will love. By taking control of the ingredients and preparation, you can provide your furry friend with treats that are both delicious and healthy. Give this recipe a try and watch your dog's tail wag with joy!