There are tons of well-meaning websites out there offering gluten-free treats you can make at home for your dog or other pet. Many of them are reputable and everything they offer is correct, except for that part about the gluten. Gluten is hidden in more foods than one would think, and some people really believe they’re creating recipes that are gluten-free.

Gluten Containing Foods

These are foods that either contain gluten or will make gluten when added to another ingredient;
            Wheat (including flour)
            Barley (most all grains)
            Oats (you can buy gluten-free oats)
            Soy products
            Food starches (cornstarch, etc.)
            Roux-based soups (made with flour)
            Bouillon cubes
            Roux-based gravy (made with any kind of flour)
            Brown rice syrup
            Sausages
            Malts
            Malt vinegar
            White pepper
            Pastas
            Pickles
            Some curry powders
            Rye
            Semolina
            Bulgur
            Wheat Grass

Gluten is also used as a stabilizing agent in ketchups and some ice creams, though giving those to dogs is not recommended.

Any kind of flour can make gluten when mixed with a liquid. Grains, in general, don’t get along with dog digestion well and cause numerous allergies. Barley, oats and wheat in any form can upset an allergy-sensitive pet.

I choose to use Instant Potatoes - the 100% real potatoes kind - in any place a recipe calls for something glutenous like any kind of flour or soy products. No cornmeal, either, corn is a major cause of allergies in pets, too, although it is not a gluten food.

Below you’ll find two recipes guaranteed to be gluten-free. As with your own treats, don’t use them to replace meals and watch the high carb intake in animals that don’t get enough exercise.

Dog Treat Recipes That Are Truly Gluten-Free

Fish Bars
# 2/3 cup cooked fish fillet – boned and chopped
# 3/4 cup instant potato flakes (100% real potatoes)
# 3 teaspoons steamed carrots, chopped
# 3 teaspoons cooked green beans

In a bowl, combine all the ingredients. Spread on a greased baking sheet and bake at 375(f) for 25 minutes, then cut into bars while it’s still hot. Move to cooling rack and completely cool before serving.

Keep refrigerated or put them in the freezer. Dogs love these when they’re frozen solid, plus it cleans their teeth like crunchy foods do.

Savory Cheese Treats
# 1 cup instant potato flakes (100% real potatoes)
# 3/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
# 5 tablespoons grated parmesan cheese
# 1/4 cup plain yogurt or sour cream

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Combine cheeses and yogurt. Add instant potatoes. If needed, add a small amount of water to create a nice dough. Knead dough into a ball and roll to 1/4 inch. Cut into one inch sized pieces and place on greased cookie sheet. Bake for 25 minutes. Makes 2 dozen.

These two recipes should keep your gluten-allergic pet happy, but stay tuned because I have many more recipes to share with parents of allergic pets.