Wheat Free Dog Treats
Ham & Cheese on Rye Dog Cookie

Wheat free dog treats can be just as easy to make as other homemade dog treat recipes. This one uses rye flour for a nutty & hearty flavor that holds up well to the strong flavors of ham and Parmesan cheese.

Rye flour is a fantastic addition to your dogs diet. Rye is a good source of fiber and can help fill up your dogs tummy. This equals an easier way to loose weight or maintain a healthy weight.

We've made this wheat free dog cookie recipe even healthier with the flax meal. Although a small amount, two tablespoons pack a punch. The needed Omega 3 fatty acids will help your dogs skin and coat. Not to mention flax is also a good source of fiber for your dog and you.

The next time you are craving a deli sandwich with all the works, by all means indulge! But don't forget about your loyal companion. Make this enticing ham and cheese on rye dog cookie, take a walk to the deli with your dog and eat up together.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup rye flour
• 1 cup rolled oats
• 1/8 cup flax meal
• 2 eggs
• 2/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese, reduced fat
• 1/3 cup chicken broth (organic & low sodium is best)
• 2 to 3 oz. ham, finely diced

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350° F
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the rye flour, rolled oats and flax meal.
3. In a separate bowl, beat the eggs and stir in the Parmesan cheese and chicken broth.
4. Make a well in the dry mixture and pour in the cheese mixture.
5. Stir together until combined.
6. Fold in the diced ham.
7. Lightly spray a baking sheet with non-stick cooking spray.
8. Using a tablespoon sized scooper, scoop out little round balls.
9. Dip the bottom of a measuring cup or glass in a bowl of water and flatten the ball into a cookie shape.
10. Repeat this process with the remaining batter.
11. Bake for 15 minutes.
12. Turn off the oven and let the treats cool completely before serving.

Storing - These wheat free dog treats should be kept in the refrigerator. In a sealed container they will stay fresh for a week or two. You can store them in the freezer for up to 6 months.

Yield - Using a tablespoon sized cookie scooper, you should get 2 dozen dog cookies to enjoy and share.

Tips & Techniques

• Whole Wheat Flour - If your dog is not sensitive to wheat you can still make this dog treat recipe. Substitute the rye flour for whole wheat flour, and enjoy.
  
  
• Ham or Different Meats - For ease of preparation I used lean ham lunch meat slices. I laid them on top of each other and then cut into 1/4 inch strips. Then I diced those strips into very small pieces, about the size of a pencil eraser head. This enables a little bit of ham to be in almost every bite. You can also use other lean lunch meats like chicken or turkey. If it's available, look for low sodium as a healthier choice.
  
  
• Gluten Free? - Rye flour is wheat free, but not entirely gluten free. Although it does have a much smaller amount of gluten than other "gluten grains". If your dog is very sensitive to gluten, please avoid this flour and make these wheat free dog treats with brown rice flour. The same is true for the rolled oats. Oats are naturally gluten free. However, they are often contaminated with gluten from neighboring fields or in the processing facilities. If your dog is very sensitive you can purchase certified gluten free oats to be safe.

Wheat free dog treats are just as delicious as their wheat counterparts. A little knowledge and a new flour or two will keep your dog healthy, happy and begging for more tasty ham and cheese on rye dog cookies.