It started with a stare.

Not the cute, casual kind.

The deep, soul-piercing “I know you’re hiding snacks” stare.

My Labrador Max had just discovered that the bag of boring store-bought treats was… well… boring. And when a Labrador loses faith in snacks, it’s basically a household emergency.

So I did what any slightly unhinged, dog-obsessed human would do: I went full homemade dog treat mad scientist mode.

And that’s how these Sweet Potato and Apple Balls for Dogs were born – and why they now rule my kitchen (and Max’s heart).

Why Sweet Potato and Apple Are a Dream Team for Dogs

These little bites of joy are more than just cute snacks. They’re real healthy homemade dog treats for sensitive stomachs:

• Sweet potato: Gentle on digestion, packed with fiber and vitamins
• Apple for dogs: A natural source of antioxidants and a little crunch of happiness
• Oats: Easy to digest and perfect for dogs with tummy troubles

If you’re looking for homemade dog treats with sweet potato and apple, this recipe is about to become your go-to.

Max’s sensitive stomach used to turn treat time into “let’s monitor the living room carpet” time.

Now? Zero drama. Only tail wags.

The Magic Recipe: Sweet Potato and Apple Balls for Dogs

Ingredients

• 1 medium sweet potato, peeled and diced
• 1 medium apple, cored and diced (no seeds!)
• 1 cup rolled oats
• 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
• 1/4 cup water

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Peel and dice sweet potato and apple into small chunks. Remove all apple seeds.
3. Boil the sweet potato for 10–15 minutes until soft. Drain and let cool slightly.
4. Add sweet potato, apple, oats, and cinnamon to a blender or food processor.
5. Blend until the mixture becomes a sticky dough. Add water slowly if needed.
6. Roll the mixture into cherry-tomato-sized balls and place them on the baking sheet.
7. Bake for 25–30 minutes until firm and lightly golden.
8. Let cool completely before serving (if Max is staring, good luck with this part).

Storage Tips for Maximum Freshness

• Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week
• Freeze for up to 3 months
• Want extra crunch? Bake a few minutes longer
• Swap sweet potato with pumpkin or add grated carrots for variety

Why Max Is Officially Obsessed

The first time I gave Max one of these, he didn’t just eat it.

He:

• Sat down calmly (a miracle)
• Sniffed it seriously
• Ate it slowly
• Looked at me like I’d unlocked a secret level of dog paradise

That’s when I knew: this wasn’t just a snack.

This was a bonding ritual.

These are now my favorite apple for dogs and sweet potato recipe when I want to spoil him without guilt.

Want More Guilt-Free Dog Treats Like This?

If your dog deserves snacks that are healthy, homemade, and tail-approved, you’ll love my book:

📘 Pup-tastic Treats: Guilt-free Snacks for Your Four-legged Companion

It’s packed with simple, wholesome recipes that make snack time fun, easy, and safe – even for dogs with sensitive stomachs.

👉 Grab your copy and turn your kitchen into your dog’s favorite place on earth.

Now I’m curious…

What’s your dog’s absolute favorite treat – sweet, crunchy, soft, or completely unhinged? 🐶✨

Tell me in the comments!