Homemade dog treats are an easy, healthy, inexpensive way to reward your dog. They are great for training your pooch, a birthday celebration or simply for a special treat or snack. With simple ingredients, they are safe for humans too, so you can enjoy a treat together!
Just remember treats are for special occasions and should make up less than 10% of your dog’s calorie intake for the day. If your dog has any dietary restrictions, allergies or gastrointestinal issues please consult your vet first before introducing new foods into their diet.
Kids, ask parents for permission and help before making these treats!
Ingredients
1 cup rolled oats (or gluten free flour if your dog has allergies)
½ cup peanut butter (with no added salt or sugar/xylitol)
½ cup mashed banana (or other soft fruits/vegetables, listed below)
Instructions
Preheat oven to 180 degrees. Line a baking tray with baking paper.
Microwave the peanut butter for 30 seconds to make it a runnier consistency.
Mash banana, then add to bowl with rolled oats and peanut butter. Mix together.
Roll teaspoons of mixture into small round balls and place them on the baking tray, leaving a gap between each biscuit. This recipe makes about 12 balls. Press down lightly with a fork.
Bake for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown.
Let cool for 30 minutes before giving to your dog. Refrigerate for up to 3 days in a sealed container or store in the freezer to keep fresh for 2-3 months. Don’t forget to defrost before feeding to your dog.
What flours can I use in dog biscuit recipes?
There are a variety of flours that are great for making dog biscuits. As you are baking from scratch you can substitute to allow for your dog’s specific tastes and food sensitivities. White flour is not dangerous for your dog. However, it provides no nutritional value and is full of carbs which can cause your pet to gain weight, so it is best to go for gluten free or wholemeal versions. This can include wholemeal flour, oat flour, gluten free flour, almond flour, coconut flour and chickpea flour. Rolled oats can be a great option too.
Can dogs eat peanut butter?
Yes, dogs can eat peanut butter, in moderation so it is safe for a treat. It needs to be pet safe and NOT contain xylitol or salt. Test sparingly first to ensure it doesn’t cause digestive issues.
What fruits or vegetables can I use in dog biscuit recipes?
Dog biscuits made with fruits and vegetables are a healthy way to treat your dog. There are so many choices including:
Apples – cooked, pureed or grated
Strawberries – fresh or frozen
Blueberries – fresh or frozen
Bananas – sliced or mashed
Pumpkin – cooked, pureed
Sweet potato – cooked, pureed
Carrot – cooked, pureed
Simply add ½ cup of fruit or vegetables to a base of 1 cup of rolled oats (or gluten free flour if your dog has allergies) and ½ cup of peanut butter (with no added salt or sugar/xylitol) and you have your biscuit dough. Refer to our recipe for instructions and cooking times.
Making your own dog biscuits is a healthy way to reward your pooch. As they are home-made, they can be customised to suit your dog’s specific tastes and sensitivities. Ready in 30 minutes, these treats are a healthy snack that you and your dog can enjoy together.