This Homemade Beef Jerky for Dogs Is My Pup’s Favorite High-Protein Treat
I’ve made a lot of dog treats over the years, but this homemade beef jerky is hands-down my dog’s favorite—and I feel great knowing exactly what’s in it. With just one ingredient (yes, one!), it’s a chewy, protein-packed snack that’s simple to make and perfect for pups of all sizes. No fillers, no additives, and no mystery meat. Just pure, lean beef sliced thin and slowly dehydrated until it’s rich, flavorful, and totally tail-wag-worthy.
This jerky is easy to prep ahead and stores beautifully, so I always keep a stash on hand for training rewards, daily snacks, or those moments when my dog deserves a little extra love (aka, every day).
Why I Make My Own Dog Jerky
Here’s why this homemade treat is a must-have in my house:
- Only one ingredient: 100% beef. That’s it.
- No preservatives or artificial flavors
- Way cheaper than store-bought jerky treats
- Customizable texture: Make it soft and chewy or dry and crispy.
- Dogs go crazy for it: Mine literally does a happy dance when he hears the bag crinkle.
Ingredients You’ll Need
(Makes about 15–20 strips depending on size | Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cook Time: 4–6 hours)
- 1–2 pounds lean beef (top round, bottom round, sirloin, or flank steak work well)
Optional equipment:
- Dehydrator (preferred)
- Oven with low temp setting
- Sharp knife or meat slicer
- Airtight storage container or freezer bags
How I Make Dog-Safe Beef Jerky at Home
1. Choose and Trim the Meat
I start with a lean cut of beef and trim off all visible fat. Fat doesn’t dehydrate well and can lead to spoilage, so the leaner, the better.
2. Slice Thin
Using a sharp knife (or meat slicer, if I’m feeling fancy), I slice the beef into thin strips—about 1/4 inch thick. Cutting against the grain makes the jerky easier to chew, while slicing with the grain gives a chewier texture. I go with whatever my dog prefers.
3. Arrange on Racks or Baking Sheets
If I’m using a dehydrator, I lay the beef strips in a single layer on the trays. For the oven method, I line a baking sheet with foil and place a wire rack on top, then lay out the strips without overlapping.
4. Dehydrate Slowly
I dehydrate the meat at 160°F for 4 to 6 hours, checking at the 4-hour mark. The jerky should be dry but still slightly pliable—not brittle. If using an oven, I prop the door open slightly to allow moisture to escape.
5. Cool and Store
Once done, I let the jerky cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 weeks, or freeze it for up to 3 months. I usually portion it into snack-size bags to grab on the go.
My Tips for the Best Homemade Dog Jerky
- Partially freeze meat before slicing: It firms up and makes thin slicing much easier.
- Trim fat thoroughly: It helps the jerky last longer and avoids any digestive issues.
- Use a dehydrator if possible: It gives the best, most even results—but the oven works in a pinch.
- Check doneness by texture: It should bend without snapping, but not feel raw or moist.
- Cool completely before storing: This prevents condensation and spoilage.
When I Treat My Dog to Homemade Jerky
This jerky has become my go-to treat for:
- Training sessions (cut into small bites)
- Rewarding good behavior on walks
- Topping dry food for picky eaters
- Travel treats and road trips
- Just because—every dog deserves that!
And honestly? They smell so good while drying, I’ve had to remind myself they’re for the dog, not me.
FAQs From My Kitchen
Q: Can I use other meats besides beef?
Yes! Chicken breast, turkey, and even salmon can be dehydrated—but be sure to follow safe dehydration temps and times.
Q: Is it safe to add seasoning?
Stick to plain, unseasoned meat. Spices, garlic, onions, and salt can be harmful to dogs.
Q: How long does homemade dog jerky last?
In the fridge: up to 2 weeks. In the freezer: up to 3 months. Always check for signs of spoilage before serving.
Q: What’s the best cut of beef to use?
Top round or flank steak is my go-to—lean, affordable, and easy to slice.
Q: Can I bake this at a higher temp to speed it up?
Low and slow is key for safe dehydration. Higher temps can cook the outside too fast and leave the inside under-dried.
Why This Beef Jerky Is My Dog’s Favorite Homemade Treat
It’s clean, simple, and packed with protein—just the way nature (and your pup) intended. Making jerky at home means I get total control over ingredients, and my dog gets a fresh, flavorful treat that’s both healthy and satisfying. Whether you’re new to homemade dog treats or just looking for a single-ingredient snack you can trust, this beef jerky is a perfect place to start.
How I Make All-Natural Beef Jerky for Dogs with Just One Ingredient
Ingredients
- 1 pound of lean beef (such as sirloin or round)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 170°F (or use a dehydrator).
- Trim any excess fat from the beef to prevent spoilage.
- Slice the beef into thin strips, about 1/4 inch thick.
- Arrange the beef strips in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Place the baking sheet in the oven and let the beef jerky dry for about 4-6 hours, flipping halfway through, until it is fully dried and chewy.
- Once done, let the jerky cool completely before storing.
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
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