Description
High-value, protein-packed treats that’ll make your dog actually want to listen during training!
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cook Time: 15-20 minutes | Total Time: 35 minutes | Makes: About 50 small training treats
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 oz cooked liver, diced (completely safe for dogs)
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed thoroughly
- 1/2 cup (60g) whole wheat flour (or oat flour for grain-free)
- 1 fresh egg
- 1/4 cup (60ml) low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon (15ml) olive oil (adds healthy fats)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper—trust me on the parchment with liver treats!
- In a food processor, combine the cooked liver and kidney beans, pulsing until you get a smooth mixture that’ll make your dog go crazy with anticipation.
- Transfer this protein powerhouse to a bowl and mix in the whole wheat flour, egg, chicken broth, and olive oil until a firm dough forms.
- Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4 inch thick and cut into tiny training-sized pieces (pinky nail size works perfectly).
- Place the liver bean nibbles on your prepared baking sheet with space between each treat.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes until firm but not rock-hard—they should have a slight give when pressed.
- Let them cool completely before using in training sessions (if your motivated pup can wait that long).
Notes:
- Always let cool completely before training—hot treats can burn and distract from learning
- These work perfectly for my 8-year-old Golden Retriever Amber because they’re high-value enough to maintain focus even with distractions
- Make sure your liver is fully cooked before processing—raw liver isn’t safe for regular feeding
Storage Tips:
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days
- Don’t leave these out on the counter—liver spoils quickly without preservatives
- Freeze portions for up to two months; just thaw what you need for each session
- Bring only what you need to training to maintain freshness
What Makes This Recipe Special:
These liver bean treats combine the ultimate high-value reward (liver) with plant-based protein and fiber that supports sustained energy during training. The intense flavor makes them irresistible for even the most distracted dogs, while the small size ensures quick consumption without breaking focus—exactly what every trainer recommends for successful sessions.
Mix It Up (Dog-Safe Variations):
- Sweet Success: Add 1 tablespoon finely chopped cooked sweet potato for natural sweetness and extra nutrition
- Joint Support: Include a pinch of turmeric for anti-inflammatory benefits (great for senior dogs)
- Summer Training: Freeze a few for outdoor training sessions on hot days
