I love making treats for Nalla that I know are packed with good stuff and nothing else. These dehydrated turkey and carrot jerky chews are a perfect example – just three simple ingredients, and Nalla goes absolutely wild for them! It’s super satisfying to know exactly what she’s eating.
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Ingredients
- [ ] 1 lb (454 g) lean ground turkey (93% lean or higher)
- [ ] 1 cup (128 g) finely grated carrots
- [ ] 2 tablespoons (30 ml) water
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the lean ground turkey, finely grated carrots, and water.
- Mix thoroughly with your hands until the ingredients are well combined and form a cohesive mixture.
- On a clean surface or between two sheets of parchment paper, roll out the mixture to about 1/8 to 1/4 inch (3-6 mm) thickness.
- Cut the flattened mixture into desired jerky strip or bite-sized shapes.
- Arrange the turkey and carrot pieces in a single layer on dehydrator trays, ensuring no pieces are overlapping.
- Dehydrate at 145°F (63°C) for 6-8 hours, or until the jerky is dry, firm, and pliable, but not brittle.
- Halfway through the dehydration process, blot any excess fat that may have rendered from the turkey with a paper towel.
- Once fully dehydrated, turn off the machine and allow the jerky to cool completely on the trays before storing.
Nalla’s verdict
Nalla is a big fan of anything chewy, and these jerky pieces were no exception. She snatched one up, found her favorite spot on the rug, and savored every last bit. She definitely gives these her highest paw of approval!
Our Pick: Tools Used in This Recipe
What I actually use at home when cooking for Nalla:
- Cosori Food Dehydrator (6-Tray, 600W) — Compact countertop dehydrator with precise temperature control. Perfect for small batches of turkey or chicken jerky treats. View on Amazon
- Excalibur 3926TB Food Dehydrator (9-Tray) — Large-capacity workhorse with Parallex horizontal airflow and a 26-hour timer. Great if you batch-dry treats for the whole month. View on Amazon
- Nesco FD-75A Snackmaster Pro Food Dehydrator — Budget-friendly 700W dehydrator with adjustable thermostat and five trays. A solid starter pick for homemade dog treats. View on Amazon
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FAQ
How should I store homemade turkey and carrot jerky?
Once your dehydrated turkey and carrot jerky is completely cool, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This helps maintain freshness and prevents spoilage. Properly stored, these chews can last for up to 2-3 weeks, making them a great make-ahead option for your pup’s snack stash.
How much dehydrated turkey jerky can I give my dog?
Treats should always be given in moderation and make up no more than 10% of your dog’s daily caloric intake. For small dogs (under 20 lb), one small piece a day is plenty. Medium dogs (20-50 lb) can have 1-2 pieces, and large dogs (over 50 lb) can enjoy 2-3 pieces. Always supervise your dog, especially with chews, to prevent any choking hazards.
Why is lean ground turkey important for dog jerky?
Using lean ground turkey (93% lean or higher) is crucial because excess fat can be difficult for some dogs to digest and may lead to an upset stomach. Leaner meat also dehydrates more effectively and reduces the risk of spoilage. If you’re considering other meats, always opt for the leanest option available.
Can I use other vegetables in this jerky recipe?
While this recipe specifically calls for carrots, you can experiment with other dog-safe vegetables like finely grated sweet potato or pumpkin puree. Ensure any additions are in small quantities and finely processed to blend well with the turkey. Always introduce new ingredients slowly to ensure your dog tolerates them well.
Portion guide
- Small: 1-2 small pieces per day as a treat.
- Medium: 2-3 medium pieces per day as a treat.
- Large: 3-4 large pieces per day as a treat.
Storage
Store cooled jerky in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks, or freeze for up to 3 months.
Safety note
Ensure the turkey is lean to minimize fat content, which can upset some dogs’ stomachs. Always supervise your dog when introducing new treats or chews, especially dehydrated items, to prevent choking hazards. This recipe is xylitol-free and does not contain any ingredients toxic to dogs.