Last December, I set out a tray of decorated Christmas dog treats at our family holiday gathering. The kids thought they were cookies for them, the adults laughed at the tiny bone-shaped frosting swirls, and the dogs? Well, let’s just say tails were wagging under the tree faster than wrapping paper could fly.

Holidays are filled with sugar cookies, gingerbread houses, and peppermint bark — but our pups usually get left out of the fun. I wanted a safe, healthy way to include them, and that’s how I ended up baking these gingerbread-inspired cookies with dog-safe decorations. They look festive on a cookie tray and are made with wholesome ingredients your dog can enjoy.

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C).

2. In a large bowl, whisk together applesauce, egg, and coconut oil.

3. Stir in shredded carrot and ginger.

4. Gradually add rice flour until a soft dough forms.

5. Roll dough into small balls or press into festive cookie cutters (trees, bells, stars).

6. Place on parchment-lined tray and bake for 20–22 minutes until firm but slightly soft in the center.

7. Cool fully before serving to your pup.

• Calories: 22 kcal

• Protein: 1.4 g

• Fiber: 0.6 g

• Fat: 0.7 g

• Wholesome fiber: Oat flour and applesauce help digestion.

• Holiday aroma: Cinnamon (in small amounts) adds seasonal flair.

• Protein boost: Egg and peanut butter keep pups energized.

• Low-Calorie: Great for small and medium dogs without overfeeding.

• High in Protein: Peanut butter and egg help maintain muscle strength.

• Digestive Support: Oat flour and applesauce provide fiber for gut health.

• Holiday-Friendly & Safe: Looks like a festive cookie but made with wholesome, dog-safe ingredients.

• Use a small piping tip to add white “snow” details.

• Sprinkle unsweetened coconut flakes for a snowy look.

• Make red and green “frosting” with beet powder or spinach powder.

• Add dog-safe decorations like freeze-dried strawberry bits.

• Dough too sticky? → Add a bit more oat flour until it’s workable.

• Cookies too dry? → Mix in a spoonful of applesauce for moisture.

• Frosting too runny? → Add extra cornstarch until it thickens.

• Dog won’t eat them? → Try drizzling a bit of peanut butter on top to encourage interest.

• Grain-Free: Swap oat flour for coconut flour (start with less, as it absorbs more liquid).

• Nut-Free: Replace peanut butter with pumpkin purée for sensitive dogs.

• Extra Flavor: Add a pinch of ginger or turmeric for anti-inflammatory benefits.

• Chewy Texture: Stir in rolled oats instead of using only flour.

• Add a drizzle of dog-safe yogurt for “frosting.”

• Replace carrot with finely chopped spinach for a green holiday touch.

• Shape into mini stars for training treats.

• Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week .

• Freezer: Place decorated cookies in layers, separated by parchment paper, and freeze for up to 2 months .

• Quick Tip: Let frozen cookies thaw at room temperature for 10–15 minutes before serving.

These Christmas dog treats decorated are more than just snacks — they’re part of the holiday memories. Putting them on the dessert table makes pups feel included in the festivities, and decorating them can become a family tradition. Just imagine your dog proudly sitting by the tree, waiting for their very own “cookie.” That’s a Christmas moment worth keeping.