Description
Protein-packed, gourmet treats featuring novel protein and fresh vegetables—your pup will think every day is their birthday!
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cook Time: 15-20 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes | Makes: About 16 balls
Ingredients
- 8 oz cooked rabbit meat, shredded (novel protein that’s perfect for sensitive stomachs)
- 1/2 cup grated carrots (adds natural sweetness and beta-carotene)
- 1/4 cup rolled oats (provides fiber and helps bind everything together)
- 1 large egg (helps create the perfect texture—completely safe for dogs)
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (natural breath freshener and flavor boost)
Instructions
- Get your oven ready at 350°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper—protein treats can really stick, so don’t skip this step.
- Mix all your ingredients in a large bowl until your dog starts begging from the amazing smell. Combine shredded rabbit, grated carrots, oats, egg, and parsley until you have this gorgeous, protein-packed mixture.
- Check your consistency—the mixture should hold together when squeezed. If it’s too wet, add more oats; if too dry, add another beaten egg gradually.
- Roll into walnut-sized balls with slightly wet hands to prevent sticking. Place on your prepared baking sheet with space between each ball for even cooking.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes until they’re firm when gently pressed and golden on the outside. Keep an eye on them—protein treats can overcook quickly.
- Cool completely before serving (I know your dog will be giving you those eyes, but hot meat treats can burn their mouth).
Notes:
- Always let these cool completely before serving—Amber has zero patience, but safety first with hot protein treats!
- If you’re new to cooking rabbit, simmer it in plain water until it shreds easily—usually 45 minutes to an hour
- Every dog has different texture preferences, but most pups love these with a slight firmness on the outside and tender inside
Storage Tips:
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days maximum
- These contain meat and egg, so they MUST stay refrigerated—don’t leave out on the counter
- Freeze for up to one month if you want to make big batches (thaw completely before serving)
- Toss immediately if they smell off or show any signs of spoilage
What Makes This Recipe Special:
These treats feature rabbit as a novel protein source that’s incredibly easy to digest and perfect for dogs with food sensitivities. Combined with nutrient-rich carrots and fiber-packed oats, they provide complete nutrition in a treat format that rivals premium commercial options.
Mix It Up (Dog-Safe Variations):
Senior Dog Special: Add 1/4 teaspoon turmeric for extra joint support—perfect for older pups like my 8-year-old Amber who needs that extra care.
Herb Garden Version: Mix half parsley and half fresh rosemary for an antioxidant boost that dogs absolutely love.
Sweet Comfort: Replace some carrots with sweet potato puree for extra natural sweetness that pairs beautifully with the savory rabbit.