Creating homemade dog treats is a wonderful way to show your furry friend some love while ensuring they enjoy healthy, natural ingredients. There’s something so satisfying about making treats from scratch, knowing exactly what goes into them. These recipes are simple, customizable, and perfect for dogs of all sizes — I’ve tested both with my two dogs, and they’re absolute hits!
Peanut Butter Banana Bites
This is hands-down my most requested recipe from fellow dog parents. The combination of banana and peanut butter is irresistible to most dogs, and they’re so easy to make.
Ingredients:
- 1 ripe banana, mashed
- 2 tablespoons peanut butter (xylitol-free — always check the label!)
- 1 cup oat flour (or ground oats)
- 1 egg
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, mix the mashed banana, peanut butter, and egg until smooth.
- Gradually stir in the oat flour until a dough forms. It should hold together but not be too sticky.
- Roll the dough into small balls and place them on the baking sheet. Flatten slightly with a fork for that classic cookie look.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown. Let cool completely before serving — they’ll be soft when hot but firm up as they cool.
- Store in an airtight container for up to a week or freeze for longer freshness.
Sweet Potato Chews
These are perfect for dogs who love to chew, and they’re incredibly simple — just sweet potato!
Ingredients:
- 1 large sweet potato
- Olive oil (optional, for extra flavor)
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 250°F (120°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Wash and peel the sweet potato, then slice it into thin, uniform strips about ¼ inch thick.
- Lightly brush with olive oil if desired — this adds flavor but isn’t necessary.
- Arrange the slices on the baking sheet in a single layer, making sure they don’t overlap.
- Bake for 2-3 hours, flipping halfway through. They’re done when dry and slightly chewy, not crispy.
- Allow to cool completely and store in an airtight container for up to two weeks.
Pro tip: The thickness of your sweet potato slices will determine the final texture. Thinner slices become crispier, while thicker ones stay more chewy.
Both recipes are easily customizable — you can substitute pumpkin for banana in the first recipe, or try different root vegetables for the chews. The key is keeping ingredients simple and dog-safe.
(⚠️ Disclaimer: These recipes are intended as general guidelines. Please consult your veterinarian or a pet nutritionist before introducing new treats to your dog’s diet, especially if they have specific health conditions or dietary restrictions.)