A guide to gelatine for homemade gummy dog treats
Making homemade gummy dog treats can be a fun and healthy way to show your dog some love. However, choosing the right gelatine is crucial to ensure the tastiness and safety of these treats. In this guide, we'll explore the key factors to consider when selecting gelatine for your gummy dog treats.
Gelatin or gelatine: Unravelling the spelling mystery
You might encounter this spelling difference once you dive into the world of homemade gummy dog treats. Fear not; the difference is merely a matter of regional spelling variations. In the United States, "gelatin" is the preferred term, while "gelatine" is the standard spelling in many other countries. Whichever spelling you choose, the ingredient remains the same.
What is gelatine?
Gelatine is a versatile ingredient derived from collagen, a protein found in animal tissues. Principally sourced from animals' skin, bones, and connective tissues, gelatine undergoes a meticulous extraction process to transform into the powdery form we use for making gummy dog treats.
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Choosing the right gelatine for your dog's treats
This section will walk you through the essential considerations when selecting the perfect gelatine for your homemade dog treats. Here are key factors to keep in mind:
1. Type of gelatine
Plain, unflavoured gelatine can come from various animal sources, including beef, pork, chicken, and fish. When making gummy treats for your dog, choosing a type that aligns with their dietary needs is essential. For instance, you might opt for a specific gelatine if your dog has allergies, intolerances or dietary restrictions. For example, I've found that pork-derived gelatine [affiliate link] works best for my dogs, as they are intolerant to beef and chicken.
2. Unflavoured vs. flavoured
While unflavoured gelatine is the most common choice for dog treats, you might come across flavoured options on the market. Avoid these and stick with plain, unflavoured gelatine to avoid any potential additives or artificial flavours that could harm your dog.
3. Powder vs. sheets
Gelatine is available in both powder and sheet form. The powder is more convenient when making gummy treats as it dissolves more easily – it's my preferred choice for my recipes. However, if you plan to use your gelatine powder for other purposes, ensure that the gelatine you choose comes with clear instructions on converting powder and sheet amounts, as other non-dog-related recipes might specify one or the other.
4. Setting strength (bloom)
We categorise gelatine by its setting strength, often called its bloom. For gummy dog treats, a bloom of 250 is usually sufficient. Pay attention to the bloom on the packaging and adjust your recipe accordingly to achieve the desired consistency. Remember that if you opt for gelatine with a lower bloom, you may need to use a slightly larger quantity to achieve the same firmness.
5. Quality and source
The quality of gelatine can vary based on its source and processing methods, so choose a supplier that prioritises producing high-quality products. Always check that the ingredients contain only gelatine and no other additives that could harm your dog.
For those prioritising values and ethics, choosing gelatine from organic, grass-fed, pasture-raised or ethically treated animals may be an important factor. Consider looking for specific certifications, for example, MSC certification for sustainable fish sourcing.
Ultimately, selecting the right gelatine depends on your values, ethical considerations, personal preferences and your dog's dietary needs.
6. Ease of use
Preferably, opt for a gelatine powder that is easy to work with and dissolves smoothly in your recipe. Some gelatines may form clumps or have an unpleasant odour, often signs of poor-quality gelatine, so read reviews or seek recommendations to find a brand known for its user-friendly properties and quality.
Choosing the right gelatine for your homemade gummy dog treats requires careful consideration. It will depend on various factors, including your values, ethical considerations, personal preferences and your dog's dietary needs. By considering this and opting for a high-quality, unflavoured gelatine powder from a reliable source, you can create delicious and wholesome treats that your dog will love.
If you liked this post, you might enjoy Homemade Furr Boost gummy treats for dogs.
[ POSTED 12 JANUARY 2024 ]