Contents
- 1 🐾 Why Zucchini Chips Are Great for Dogs
- 2 🥒 Ingredients for Dog-Friendly Zucchini Chips
- 3 🔪 How to Make Zucchini Chips for Dogs
- 4 🔥 Baked Method (Oven)
- 5 🍃 Dehydrator Method (Best for Long-Term Storage)
- 6 🦴 Serving Suggestions
- 7 🧊 Storage Tips
- 8 ⚠️ Safety Tips
- 9 🐕 Nutrition Highlights (Per Chip)
- 10 ❓Frequently Asked Questions
- 11 ✅ Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a healthy, homemade snack your dog will actually enjoy, these Zucchini Chips for Dogs are a paw-some choice! Lightly crunchy, naturally low in calories, and packed with fiber and antioxidants, zucchini makes a perfect veggie-based treat—without salt, oil, or additives.
Whether baked or dehydrated, these clean, dog-safe chips are a fantastic way to treat your pup while staying in control of what goes into their body. Ideal for pups with sensitive stomachs, weight concerns, or those on limited-ingredient diets.
🐾 Why Zucchini Chips Are Great for Dogs
Zucchini is a safe and vet-approved vegetable for dogs in moderation. It’s high in water content, low in fat and calories, and contains key nutrients like:
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Vitamin A (supports skin and coat)
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Vitamin C (boosts immune health)
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Potassium and magnesium (important for muscle and nerve function)
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Fiber (aids digestion)
✅ Bonus: These chips are grain-free, oil-free, and additive-free, making them ideal for dogs with food sensitivities or allergies.
🥒 Ingredients for Dog-Friendly Zucchini Chips
This recipe is about as simple and clean as it gets.
Only 2 Ingredients:
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2–3 medium zucchinis
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Optional: pinch of turmeric or parsley (safe herbs that can add benefit, but skip if unsure or your dog is very sensitive)
❌ No salt
❌ No oil
❌ No garlic, onions, or seasonings (toxic to dogs)
🔪 How to Make Zucchini Chips for Dogs
🥄 Step 1: Wash & Slice
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Wash zucchinis thoroughly to remove any dirt or pesticides.
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Slice into thin rounds using a mandoline or sharp knife—about 1/8″ to 1/4″ thick.
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Uniform slices ensure even cooking and crisping.
🥄 Step 2: (Optional) Dust with Dog-Safe Herbs
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Lightly sprinkle turmeric or dried parsley if using. Avoid over-seasoning.
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Skip this step entirely if your pup has a sensitive stomach.
🔥 Baked Method (Oven)
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Preheat oven to 225°F (110°C).
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Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
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Place zucchini slices in a single layer—not overlapping.
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Bake for 1.5 to 2.5 hours, flipping halfway through, until dried and lightly crisp.
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Let cool completely before serving.
🎯 Texture Tip: For dogs that prefer soft-chew treats, bake for a shorter time. For crunch-lovers, bake longer!
🍃 Dehydrator Method (Best for Long-Term Storage)
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Arrange zucchini slices on dehydrator trays in a single layer.
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Dehydrate at 135°F (57°C) for 6–8 hours, or until dry and crisp.
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Let cool and store in an airtight container.
🐶 Dehydrated chips are more shelf-stable and ideal for meal prep or gifting to other dog parents.
🦴 Serving Suggestions
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Give 1–3 chips as a treat or training reward.
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Break into smaller pieces for puppies or small breeds.
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Add to slow feeders or puzzle toys for added enrichment.
🧠 Enrichment Idea: Tuck zucchini chips into a snuffle mat for foraging fun!
🧊 Storage Tips
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Store cooled chips in an airtight container.
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For baked chips: Use within 5–7 days if kept at room temp.
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For dehydrated chips: Store up to 2–3 weeks in a cool, dry place or refrigerate for longer shelf life.
⚠️ Safety Tips
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Always supervise dogs when introducing new treats.
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Start with a small amount to monitor for any adverse reactions.
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Avoid feeding to dogs with kidney issues without vet approval due to zucchini’s potassium content.
🐕 Nutrition Highlights (Per Chip)
Estimates based on medium-thin baked chips
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Calories: ~2
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Fat: 0g
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Carbohydrates: ~0.4g
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Fiber: ~0.2g
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Protein: ~0.1g
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Sodium: 0mg
✅ Low-calorie and suitable for dogs on weight management diets.
❓Frequently Asked Questions
🔸 Is zucchini safe for all dogs?
Yes, in moderation. Zucchini is non-toxic and generally safe. However, always introduce new foods slowly and watch for allergies or sensitivities.
🔸 Can I give these to puppies?
Absolutely! These make great teething chews for puppies when sliced a little thicker and baked less crispy. Just ensure the texture is appropriate for your puppy’s size and chewing ability.
🔸 Can I store these long-term?
For longer shelf life, use a dehydrator and store the chips in an airtight jar or food-safe bag in a cool, dry area. You can also refrigerate them to prevent spoilage.
🔸 Can I use yellow squash instead?
Yes! Yellow squash is also dog-safe and works similarly in this recipe. Just be sure it’s fresh and sliced thinly.
🔸 How many can I give my dog?
Zucchini chips are low in calories, but still treats. Feed in moderation—1 to 3 chips per day for small dogs, more for larger breeds depending on size and activity level.
✅ Final Thoughts
These Zucchini Chips for Dogs are crunchy, clean, and canine-approved. Whether you’re looking to reduce your dog’s processed treat intake or just want to offer a fresh homemade snack, this simple veggie chip is a great choice. With no added salt, oil, or harmful ingredients, you can feel confident knowing you’re giving your furry friend something safe and nutritious.
So grab a zucchini, fire up the oven or dehydrator, and treat your pup to a wholesome chip they’ll beg for again and again.