Finding treats that won’t trigger a dog’s allergies can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack. Many pet owners struggle with limited options that either cost too much or contain mystery ingredients their furry friends can’t tolerate.
These rabbit and sweet pea crunch bites offer a simple solution for dogs with food sensitivities while delivering the satisfying crunch that makes tails wag. The combination uses two gentle ingredients that most dogs can digest easily, even those with touchy stomachs.
This guide walks pet owners through making these allergy-friendly treats at home, complete with feeding amounts for different dog sizes and tips for keeping them fresh. Dog parents will discover how to customize the recipe for their pet’s needs and learn storage tricks that keep the treats crunchy for weeks.
Table of Contents
Quick Recipe
These crunchy bites combine rabbit and sweet peas into bite-sized treats that dogs love. The recipe uses simple ingredients and takes about 30 minutes from start to finish.
Ingredients
Dog owners need just five ingredients for these allergy-friendly treats. Fresh or frozen sweet peas work equally well for this recipe.
Main Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground rabbit meat
- 1 cup sweet peas (fresh or frozen)
- 2 eggs
- 1 cup oat flour
- 2 tablespoons coconut oil
The ground rabbit provides protein while staying gentle on sensitive stomachs. Sweet peas add natural sweetness that makes tails wag with excitement.
Oat flour binds everything together without using wheat. Coconut oil helps create the perfect crunchy texture dogs crave.
Steps
Preheat the oven to 350°F before starting. This ensures even baking for perfectly crunchy results.
Preparation Steps:
- Mix wet ingredients – Combine ground rabbit, eggs, and melted coconut oil in a large bowl
- Add dry ingredients – Stir in sweet peas and oat flour until mixture holds together
- Form treats – Roll mixture into small balls about 1 inch wide
- Bake – Place on lined baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown
The treats should feel firm when pressed lightly. Cool completely before serving to prevent eager pups from burning their tongues.
Store finished treats in an airtight container for up to one week. Dogs typically demolish the entire batch much faster than that.
Benefits of This Recipe
This homemade treat delivers real value through affordable ingredients and significant health perks. The recipe costs less than store-bought alternatives while providing controlled nutrition for dogs with sensitive stomachs.
Table – Cost & Calories Per Cup
| Ingredient | Cost Per Cup | Calories Per Cup |
|---|---|---|
| Rabbit meat | $3.50 | 290 |
| Sweet peas | $0.75 | 134 |
| Oat flour | $0.40 | 404 |
| Coconut oil | $1.20 | 1,879 |
| Total Recipe | $5.85 | 2,707 |
| Per treat (24 bites) | $0.24 | 113 |
Store-bought allergy-friendly treats often cost $0.50 to $1.00 per piece. This recipe cuts costs by 75% compared to premium brands.
Each bite contains about 113 calories. This makes portion control easy for pet parents who worry about their dog’s waistline expanding faster than their own during the holidays.
Health Advantages
Rabbit meat provides lean protein that rarely triggers food allergies in dogs. Most commercial dog treats use chicken or beef, which cause reactions in many sensitive pups.
Sweet peas add fiber and vitamins without common allergens like corn or soy. The fiber helps dogs feel full longer and supports healthy digestion.
Oat flour offers B vitamins and creates a satisfying crunch. Unlike wheat flour, oats are gentler on sensitive stomachs and less likely to cause itchy skin.
Coconut oil supports skin health and gives treats a longer shelf life. It also makes the bites smell amazing, though dogs will try to convince their humans that they deserve the entire batch immediately.
Feeding Table For Different Sized Dogs & Breeds (2 Meals A Day)
Dogs come in all shapes and sizes. From tiny Chihuahuas to giant Great Danes, each pup needs different amounts of food.
The table below shows how many Rabbit & Sweet Pea Crunch Bites to give each day. Split this amount into two meals.
| Dog Size | Weight Range | Daily Amount | Per Meal |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tiny | 2-10 lbs | 1/4 – 1/2 cup | 1/8 – 1/4 cup |
| Small | 11-25 lbs | 1/2 – 1 cup | 1/4 – 1/2 cup |
| Medium | 26-50 lbs | 1 – 1 1/2 cups | 1/2 – 3/4 cup |
| Large | 51-75 lbs | 1 1/2 – 2 cups | 3/4 – 1 cup |
| Giant | 76+ lbs | 2 – 3 cups | 1 – 1 1/2 cups |
Some breeds eat like they have hollow legs. Active dogs like Border Collies may need more food than couch potato Bulldogs.
Puppies need more food than adult dogs. Senior dogs often need less food since they move around less.
Always check with a vet before changing your dog’s diet. Every dog is different, just like people.
Start with the recommended amount. If your dog acts hungry all the time, add a little more. If they leave food in the bowl, give them less next time.
Variations
These rabbit and sweet pea treats can be tweaked for different dog needs. Simple ingredient swaps and portion changes make them work for weight loss, puppies, seniors, allergies, picky eaters, tummy troubles, achy joints, and dull coats.
Weight Loss
Chubby pups don’t have to miss out on treat time. They just need smaller portions and a few clever swaps.
Cut regular treats in half or make mini versions. Dogs care more about getting something tasty than the actual size.
Replace some sweet peas with green beans for fewer calories. Add a pinch of unsweetened pumpkin puree to keep things interesting. Skip any oil in the recipe.
Smart portion guide:
- Small dogs: 1-2 mini pieces
- Medium dogs: 2-3 mini pieces
- Large dogs: 3-4 mini pieces
Give these as training rewards instead of meal additions. That way, treat calories replace some regular food calories instead of adding extra.
Puppies
Puppy tummies are still learning how to handle new foods. Start slow with these treats.
Make them extra small so tiny mouths can handle them easily. Softer textures work better for teething puppies too.
Cut back on fiber-rich ingredients like sweet peas at first. Too much fiber can upset developing digestive systems. Add ingredients gradually over several weeks.
Age guidelines:
- 8-12 weeks: Tiny pinches only
- 3-6 months: Small pieces, 2-3 times per week
- 6+ months: Regular small portions
Puppies need more protein for growth. Add a bit of extra rabbit or mix in some plain cooked chicken.
Senior Dogs
Old dogs deserve treats that don’t hurt their aging bodies. These can be perfect with a few tweaks.
Make them softer by adding a little bone broth during mixing. Hard treats can be tough on sensitive teeth and gums.
Senior dogs often have slower metabolisms. Keep portions smaller to avoid weight gain. Their digestive systems also work slower, so easier-to-digest ingredients help.
Senior-friendly additions:
- Bone broth for moisture
- Sweet potato for easy digestion
- Smaller batch sizes for freshness
Many senior dogs have multiple health issues. Check with a vet before adding new treats to their routine, especially if they take medications.
Common Allergies
Dogs with food allergies need extra careful ingredient choices. Rabbit and sweet peas are usually safe options.
Safe swaps for common allergens:
| Instead of | Use |
|---|---|
| Wheat flour | Rice flour or oat flour |
| Chicken | Rabbit (already covered!) |
| Beef | Duck or venison |
| Dairy | Coconut oil |
Always read ingredient labels on any store-bought additions. Hidden allergens love to sneak into unexpected places.
Start with just rabbit and sweet peas. Add one new ingredient every few days to watch for reactions. Itching, upset stomach, or unusual behavior means stop immediately.
Keep a food diary. Write down what the dog ate and any symptoms. This helps identify problem ingredients faster.
Picky Eaters
Some dogs turn their noses up at anything that isn’t bacon-flavored. These dogs need extra convincing.
Try different textures first. Some dogs prefer crunchy treats while others like them soft and chewy.
Picky eater tricks:
- Mix in a tiny amount of bone broth
- Add freeze-dried liver powder
- Make them extra small for easier sampling
- Warm them slightly before serving
Don’t give up after one rejection. Dogs sometimes need to see new food several times before trying it.
Make treat time special. Use an excited voice and act like these are the most amazing treats ever invented. Dogs pick up on enthusiasm.
Digestion
Dogs with sensitive stomachs need gentle ingredients that won’t cause upset.
Sweet peas are usually easy to digest, but some dogs need them mashed or pureed first. Rabbit is also gentle on most stomachs.
Digestion-friendly tips:
- Cook ingredients thoroughly
- Mash sweet peas instead of leaving them whole
- Add a pinch of plain pumpkin
- Keep portions small
Skip any oils or fats if the dog has pancreatitis. Stick to just the basic rabbit and vegetable mixture.
Probiotics can help too. Mix in a tiny amount of plain yogurt with live cultures, but only if the dog tolerates dairy.
Joints
Achy joints need extra support, especially in older or active dogs.
Add ingredients that support joint health without changing the basic recipe too much.
Joint-supporting additions:
- Bone broth for natural collagen
- Turmeric (tiny pinch only)
- Fish oil (if no fish allergies)
- Sweet potato for vitamin A
Don’t expect miracle results from treats alone. These ingredients provide small amounts of helpful nutrients, not medicine-level doses.
Active working dogs and seniors benefit most from joint-supporting treats. Young healthy dogs probably don’t need the extras.
Skin & Coat
Dull coats and itchy skin often improve with better nutrition. These treats can help provide missing nutrients.
Omega-3 fatty acids make the biggest difference for coat shine and skin health.
Skin and coat boosters:
- Fish oil (start with just a few drops)
- Coconut oil for healthy fats
- Sweet potato for beta-carotene
- Extra protein from rabbit
Avoid going overboard with oils. Too much fat can cause stomach upset or weight gain.
Results take time. Expect to wait 6-8 weeks to see real improvements in coat quality. Skin improvements might show up sooner.
Seasonal Switches
Dogs get bored with the same treats all year long. Just like humans crave hot soup in winter and ice cream in summer, pups want variety too.
Spring treats work best when dogs spend more time outside. The rabbit protein gives them energy for longer walks and backyard adventures.
Summer calls for frozen versions of these crunch bites. Pop them in the freezer for 30 minutes. Dogs love the cold crunch on hot days.
Fall favorites include mixing the bites with pumpkin. Sweet pea pairs well with pumpkin flavor. Both vegetables are safe for dogs.
Winter means comfort food for pets too. Warm the treats slightly in the oven. The smell gets dogs excited and the warmth feels good on cold days.
| Season | Best Serving Style | Why Dogs Love It |
|---|---|---|
| Spring | Room temperature | Energy boost |
| Summer | Frozen | Cool and crunchy |
| Fall | With pumpkin | Seasonal flavors |
| Winter | Slightly warmed | Cozy comfort |
Holiday switches keep things interesting. Valentine’s Day calls for heart-shaped bites. Halloween means orange-colored treats with sweet pea.
Dogs notice these small changes more than owners think. A frozen treat in July feels like a special gift. Warm treats in December make dogs feel pampered.
The key is timing the switch right. Change treat styles when seasons change. Dogs will think their owners are treat geniuses.
Storage Advice
These tasty treats need proper storage to stay fresh and crunchy. Nobody wants to give their dog a soggy biscuit that tastes like cardboard.
Room Temperature Storage Store unopened bags in a cool, dry place. A pantry or cupboard works perfectly. Keep them away from heat sources like ovens or sunny windows.
After Opening Transfer the treats to an airtight container once opened. This keeps them crispy and prevents unwanted guests like ants from crashing the party.
| Storage Method | Duration | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Sealed bag (unopened) | 12-18 months | Check expiration date |
| Airtight container | 2-3 weeks | Room temperature |
| Refrigerator | 1 month | May lose crunchiness |
| Freezer | 3 months | Thaw before serving |
What to Avoid
- Moisture – It turns crunchy treats into chewy disappointments
- Direct sunlight – Heat breaks down nutrients
- Open containers – Air makes treats go stale faster
Signs They’ve Gone Bad Toss treats that smell funny, look moldy, or feel soft when they should be crunchy. Dogs have sensitive stomachs, so fresh treats are always better.
Check the container regularly for any changes in smell or texture. When in doubt, throw them out and open a fresh bag.
Batch Cooking Tips
Making large batches saves time and keeps dogs happy longer. Smart planning means less work later.
Double or triple the recipe when making these treats. The prep time stays almost the same. More treats mean fewer cooking sessions each month.
Use multiple baking sheets to maximize oven space. Most ovens fit two sheets at once. This cuts baking time in half.
| Batch Size | Cooking Time | Storage Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Single batch | 20-25 minutes | 1 week |
| Double batch | 25-30 minutes | 2 weeks |
| Triple batch | 30-35 minutes | 3 weeks |
Line sheets with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Nobody wants to scrub dried treat dough off pans. Parchment makes everything slide right off.
Cool treats completely before storing them. Warm treats create moisture in containers. This leads to soggy disasters that dogs will judge harshly.
Divide batches into weekly portions using separate containers. This keeps treats fresh longer. It also prevents the temptation to give dogs the whole batch at once.
Label containers with dates to track freshness. Even the most organized person forgets when they baked treats. Dogs deserve fresh snacks, not mystery meat from last month.
Freeze extra portions for later use. These treats freeze well for up to three months. Thaw them overnight in the fridge when needed.
Transitioning Steps
Switching your dog’s treats is like changing TV channels – it needs to happen slowly. Dogs have sensitive stomachs that don’t like sudden changes.
Start by mixing the new Rabbit & Sweet Pea Crunch Bites with their current treats. Your pup won’t even notice the sneaky swap happening.
Week 1 Mix:
- 75% old treats
- 25% new Rabbit & Sweet Pea treats
Week 2 Mix:
- 50% old treats
- 50% new Rabbit & Sweet Pea treats
Week 3 Mix:
- 25% old treats
- 75% new Rabbit & Sweet Pea treats
Week 4:
- 100% new Rabbit & Sweet Pea treats
Watch your dog’s reaction during each step. If they get an upset stomach or act weird, slow down the process.
Some dogs are drama queens about new food. Others gobble up anything you put in front of them.
Keep the same treat schedule during the switch. Don’t change how many treats you give or when you give them.
Store both types of treats properly while mixing them. Nobody wants stale or moldy surprises.
If your dog has serious food allergies, talk to your vet first. They know your pet’s belly better than anyone.
My name is Danny Jackson and I’m the CEO and Chief Editor behind Petloverguy.com. After spending a decade working with vets and private clients as an animal behavioral and nutritional specialist I co-founded Pet Lover Guy to help other pet parents learn how to interact with, and make the most of the time that they spend with their adopted and rescued best pet friends.
Working with Ella, our chihuahua rescue, we seek to help all dog and cat lovers have the happiest life possible.
