Read about the many benefits of dehydrated sweet potatoes for your fur baby in this post. Learn how to prep sweet potatoes for dehydrating with simple washing and slicing. Follow our step-by-step guide on how to dehydrate sweet potatoes for dogs in oven for a tasty treat for your dog. Find out storage and serving size info and other ways to dehydrate sweet potatoes. Your pup will thank you for these yummy and healthy snacks!
Quick Facts:
- Dehydrated sweet potatoes are a healthy and yummy treat for dogs, good for digestion and skin and coat.
- To prep sweet potatoes for dehydrating, wash and slice them evenly so they dry properly and no moisture is left that could cause mold or spoilage.
- Dehydrating sweet potatoes in the oven is easy and cheap. Low heat and follow the step by step process for crispy and tasty treats for your fur baby.
Dehydrated Sweet Potatoes for Dogs
Dehydrated sweet potatoes are a healthy and affordable alternative to commercial dog treats, with no additives and preservatives like store bought products.
These homemade chews are packed with vitamins and minerals, Vitamin A, Vitamin C, and potassium that help boost the immune system and overall health of your fur baby.
And along with the health benefits, dehydrated sweet potatoes are cheaper than store bought treats, so you save money and give your pet a tasty and healthy snack option.
Making these treats at home allows you to control the ingredients and exclude any harmful additives or fillers from your dog’s diet.
Prepping Sweet Potatoes for Dehydrating
Prepping sweet potatoes for dehydrating means washing and slicing them evenly to dry properly and get the right texture for treats for your pets.
Washing and Slicing Methods
Washing and slicing sweet potatoes properly is crucial during prep to get clean slices of the same thickness, important for even dehydrating.
- Start by washing the sweet potatoes under running water to remove any dirt or debris.
- Dry them gently with a kitchen towel.
- If you want thinner slices, use a mandoline slicer. Adjust the mandoline to the desired thickness and use the handguard for safety.
- Place the sweet potato slices evenly on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper so they dry evenly.
- Leave a small space between each slice for air to circulate during dehydrating.
Dehydrating Sweet Potatoes in the Oven
Dehydrating sweet potatoes in the oven is easy and fast and you get crispy or chewy snacks depending on the thickness of the slices and the recipe used.
Step by Step
- The steps to dehydrate sweet potatoes in the oven start by preheating the oven to low and placing the slices in a single layer on a baking sheet.
- Leave the oven door slightly open to allow moisture to escape during the dehydrating process. Check on the sweet potato slices often to ensure even drying by rotating the baking sheet or flipping the slices. For crispy texture, leave them in the oven until they are dry and slightly shriveled. For a chewy texture, remove them from the oven while they are still a bit soft.
- Making homemade dehydrated sweet potato treats not only is healthier than store bought snacks but you can also customize the flavors and seasonings to your taste.
Storing and Serving Dehydrated Sweet Potatoes for Dogs
To keep dehydrated sweet potato treats fresh and safe for your dog you need to follow proper storage and serving methods so they stay safe and tasty.
Storage Methods
Dehydrated sweet potatoes should be stored in an airtight container and refrigerated to keep them fresh and prevent spoilage.
When stored in an airtight container dehydrated sweet potatoes are protected from moisture and contaminants so mold can’t grow and quality won’t deteriorate. The lower temperature of the refrigerator will also extend the shelf life of dehydrated sweet potatoes and keep them fresh for longer. Some people store them on the counter for convenience but that exposes them to air and temperature fluctuations that will degrade them faster. So refrigeration is the best way to keep dehydrated sweet potatoes fresh and quality.
Serving Size and Frequency
The serving size and frequency of dehydrated sweet potato treats should be based on the size and breed of the dog. Smaller portions for medium-small dogs and puppies and larger portions for larger breeds like German Shepherds and Bulldogs.
For small to medium breeds and puppies a serving size would be about half a slice or a small cube of dehydrated sweet potato. Give them as an occasional treat during training or as a snack. Larger breeds like German Shepherds or Bulldogs may need a whole slice or a larger cube. Make sure to consider the dog’s overall diet and caloric intake when deciding how often to give treats.
As part of a balanced diet treats should not make up more than 10% of a dog’s daily caloric intake.
Oven Dehydration Alternatives
While oven dehydration is the most common method, there are other ways to make dehydrated sweet potato treats. One is using a food dehydrator, which according to internet research gives more control over the dehydrating process and better results.
Other Ways to Dehydrate Sweet Potatoes
Another way to dehydrate sweet potatoes is to use a food dehydrator, a recommended method in online research because of its effectiveness and ability to maintain low temperatures.
A food dehydrator works by circulating warm air to remove moisture from fruits, vegetables, and meats. Unlike conventional oven dehydration methods that may not have uniform air flow, a food dehydrator ensures even drying so the flavors and nutrients of the food are preserved. When choosing a food dehydrator look for models with adjustable temperature settings to accommodate different foods and sizes. Models with multiple trays are best for batch processing. After dehydrating sweet potatoes or other produce transfer them to airtight containers to keep fresh and extend shelf life.
FAQs
How do I prepare sweet potatoes for oven dehydration?
To prepare sweet potatoes for oven dehydration wash and peel them. Then slice them into thin slices. Place the slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
What temperature should I set my oven to for dehydrating sweet potatoes for dogs?
125-135°F is the ideal temperature for dehydrating sweet potatoes for dogs. This low temperature will preserve the nutrients in the sweet potatoes and dry them out slowly.
How long does it take to dehydrate sweet potatoes for dogs in the oven?
Time will vary depending on the thickness of the slices and the humidity in your home. 6-10 hours is the usual time. To check if they’re done the sweet potatoes should be dry and crispy but not hard.
Can I add seasonings or spices to the sweet potatoes before dehydrating?
Yes, you can add flavor to the sweet potatoes before dehydrating. Just make sure to use dog friendly seasonings like cinnamon, turmeric, or parsley. Avoid using any spices that are toxic to dogs like onion or garlic powder.
How do I store the dehydrated sweet potatoes for dogs?
Once the sweet potatoes are dry, let them cool down then store them in an airtight container. Keep them in a cool dry place and they should last for weeks. You can also store them in the fridge for a longer shelf life.
How many dehydrated sweet potatoes can I give my dog?
The amount will depend on the size and needs of your dog. As a general rule 1-2 slices as a snack or mixed with their regular food. Always consult with your vet.
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