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5 Homemade Treats Your Small Pooch Will Love

By Alison Kim Perry

The oven timer just went off and you're anxious to see how your concoction of dry yeast, honey, chicken broth and water has turned out. No, it's not the latest casserole recipe featured on your favorite cooking show. It's not even food for you. What's in the oven are the homemade treats you made especially for your BFF, your pride and joy -- your small dog.

Why make your little dog's treats instead of buying them? There are several reasons. For one thing, small breed dogs typically weigh less than 22 pounds (10 kilograms) or are shorter than 16 inches (41 centimeters), so it's important to make sure the treats they eat are not too big for their mouths and tummies. Also, store-bought treats can be costly, and some contain ingredients that aren't the best for your little pup. By making them yourself, you can control dog treats' nutritional value and totally avoid the colorings and preservatives found in many commercial brands. It's also a fun project to tackle with your family.

There are many types of homemade treats that your small pooch will love, and it's relatively easy to get great recipes from a number of reputable books and websites. Read on to learn more about five homemade treats that are sure to please.