These Turkey-Cranberry Meatballs for Dogs Are the Perfect Thanksgiving Treat

Your dog looks longingly at your Thanksgiving feast every year, but most pet parents know that table scraps are a no-no. But that doesn’t mean they can’t take a bite out of the holiday, too! With ingredients that include cranberries (yes, they’re safe for dogs!), mouthwatering turkey and breadcrumbs, this fast and easy DIY dog treat—created by recipe developer, cookbook author and food blogger Alison Lewis—takes the staples of a traditional Thanksgiving dinner and turns them into a scrumptious treat for pups. It only takes about 20 minutes from start to finish (much less than that whole turkey that needs to go into your oven at the crack of dawn).

For a DIY dog treat that’s fit for the season, whip up these turkey-cranberry meatballs for dogs and prepare to be covered in thank-you kisses!

• 1 lb. ground turkey (85% lean)
• 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1 large egg
• 1/4 cup non-sweetened dried cranberries

• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Large bowl
• Measuring cup
• Spoon
• Cookie dough scoop

Yield:
About 12 meatballs

Serving size:
1 meatball

Prep time:
10 minutes

Cook time:
10 minutes

Preheat broiler to high and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey, breadcrumbs and egg.

Add cranberries, mixing until combined.

Using a cookie scoop or your hands, shape the mixture into 11/2-inch balls. Arrange meatballs 2 inches apart on prepared baking sheet.

Broil 8 to 10 minutes or until cooked through.

Allow meatballs to cool before serving. Store meatballs in an air-tight container in the fridge for 3-4 days.

Extra meatballs can also be frozen by arranging in a single layer on a baking sheet (do not allow meatballs to touch). Freeze until solid (about 1 hour), and then transfer to a freezer-safe container and store up to 1 month.

If you’re low on time (you might have a Thanksgiving feast for humans to prepare!), you can scoop up these similar turkey meatball dog treats from Spot Farms that are ready-made. Otherwise, have fun mixing up this DIY dog treat recipe—and be sure to thank your good boy or girl for being the best on the block!

This recipe was reviewed by a veterinarian. It is intended as a treat or snack. Treats should only constitute a small percentage of your pet’s daily food. Feeding too many treats can lead to nutrient deficiencies. If your pet has health issues (including sensitivities to fats) or if you have any concerns, consult your pet’s veterinarian before offering this food item.