My Bestfriend

The holiday rush is on. The preparations for Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s celebration always keep our hands full with shopping for gifts, decorating the house and preparing the holiday fare. But don’t forget to include your beloved pooch in the festivities. My friend Shaun Omstead shares this simple recipe for dog treats that will surely delight any canine buddy.

These dog treats are made of cheese (which is a favorite flavor among canines) and garlic (which is a natural flea repellant), making them any dog’s favorite chew, paws down. This treats are also great gifts to fellow dog lovers.

Ingredients:
1 1/4 cups of grated Cheddar cheese
1/4 pound of softened corn oil margarine
1 1/2 cups of whole wheat flour
1 crushed garlic clove
milk

Combine the first four ingredients and mix well. Add enough milk to form the dough into a ball, then cover the ball with plastic wrap and chill for 30 minutes. On a floured board, roll out the dough to a 1/2-inch thickness. Cut out bone shapes (or Christmas trees, stars or candy cane shapes for a more festive look) and bake on an ungreased baking sheet at 375 degrees for 15 minutes or until slightly brown and firm. Cool on a cookie rack and store in a jar. Makes 2 to 3 dozen, depending on size.