Easy Homemade Dog Treat Recipes:
Three Simple & Healthy Treats for Your Pup
Making homemade dog treats is a fun, cost-effective, and healthy way to spoil your furry friend. Unlike store-bought treats, which can contain preservatives and artificial ingredients, homemade dog treats allow you to use fresh, nutritious, and dog-friendly ingredients.
Whether you’re an experienced pet parent or a beginner in the kitchen, these easy homemade dog treat recipes are perfect for you! They require minimal ingredients, no fancy equipment, and are quick to prepare.
In this post, we’ll cover:
✔️ Why homemade dog treats are better than store-bought
✔️ 3 simple and healthy homemade dog treat recipes
✔️ Tips for storing and customizing treats for your pup
Let’s get started! 🐶💛
Why Make Homemade Dog Treats?
Homemade dog treats come with a ton of benefits for both you and your pup. Here’s why they’re worth trying:
1. Healthier Ingredients
Many store-bought treats contain fillers, artificial flavors, and preservatives that aren’t great for dogs. By making your own, you control exactly what goes into their snacks—ensuring they’re natural and wholesome.
2. Customizable for Dietary Needs
Does your dog have food allergies or sensitivities? With homemade treats, you can easily adjust the ingredients to suit their needs. Whether your pup is grain-free, dairy-free, or on a special diet, you can create treats that work for them.
3. Cost-Effective
While premium dog treats can be expensive, making your own at home can save you money in the long run. Most recipes use simple pantry ingredients like peanut butter, oats, and bananas.
4. A Fun Way to Bond
Baking dog treats is a great way to spend quality time with your furry friend. Some dogs even love being part of the process—watching as their treats come together!
Now that you know the benefits, let’s dive into three easy homemade dog treat recipes.
1. Peanut Butter & Banana Dog Treats (No-Bake!)
These no-bake peanut butter & banana treats are soft, chewy, and packed with flavor. Plus, they take just 10 minutes to make!
Ingredients:
- 1 ripe banana (mashed) 🍌
- ½ cup natural peanut butter (xylitol-free) 🥜
- 1 cup rolled oats 🌾
- 1 tbsp honey (optional) 🍯
Instructions:
- In a bowl, mash the banana until smooth.
- Add the peanut butter and honey, mixing until well combined.
- Gradually add the oats and stir until the mixture forms a dough.
- Roll into small balls or press into a silicone mold.
- Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up.
Storage:
Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week or freeze for up to 3 months.
✔️ Why Your Dog Will Love It:
- Peanut butter provides protein and healthy fats.
- Bananas add natural sweetness and potassium.
- No baking required—super easy to make!
2. Sweet Potato & Oat Dog Biscuits
These crunchy, homemade dog biscuits are great for dogs who love a crispier texture. Made with real sweet potatoes, they’re rich in fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup mashed sweet potato 🍠
- 1 ½ cups oat flour 🌾
- 1 egg 🥚
- ½ tsp cinnamon (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, mix the mashed sweet potato and egg until smooth.
- Gradually add the oat flour and cinnamon, stirring to form a dough.
- Roll out the dough and use a cookie cutter to create fun shapes.
- Place on a lined baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
- Let the biscuits cool completely before serving.
Storage:
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks or freeze for up to 3 months.
✔️ Why Your Dog Will Love It:
- Sweet potatoes are nutrient-dense and great for digestion.
- Oat flour is a healthy, gluten-free alternative to wheat flour.
- Perfect for dogs who love a crunchy biscuit!
3. Apple & Carrot Dog Treats (Grain-Free!)
If your dog is on a grain-free diet, these apple & carrot dog treats are a great alternative. They’re soft, chewy, and naturally sweet!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup grated apple (no seeds) 🍏
- ½ cup grated carrot 🥕
- 1 cup almond flour 🌰
- 1 egg 🥚
- 1 tbsp coconut oil 🥥
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
- In a bowl, mix all ingredients until a dough forms.
- Roll the dough into small balls or flatten into a cookie shape.
- Bake for 15-18 minutes until firm.
- Let cool before serving.
Storage:
Store in the fridge for up to 1 week or freeze for up to 3 months.
✔️ Why Your Dog Will Love It:
- Apples provide fiber and natural sweetness.
- Carrots are rich in vitamins A & C.
- Soft texture—great for senior dogs or puppies!
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How Long Do Homemade Dog Treats Last?
Most homemade dog treats last about a week in the fridge. If you want them to last longer, store them in the freezer and thaw as needed.
2. Can I Use Regular Flour Instead of Oat or Almond Flour?
Yes! Whole wheat flour is a good alternative if your dog isn’t grain-sensitive. However, oat and almond flour are easier to digest.
3. What Ingredients Should I Avoid?
Some foods are toxic to dogs, including:
🚫 Chocolate
🚫 Grapes/Raisins
🚫 Xylitol (found in some peanut butters)
🚫 Onions & Garlic
Always check ingredients before making homemade treats!
4. Can I Add Supplements to These Treats?
Absolutely! You can mix in:
- Turmeric (for anti-inflammatory benefits)
- Flaxseed (for omega-3s)
- Coconut Oil (for a shiny coat)
Making homemade dog treats is a fun, simple way to ensure your pup gets nutritious and delicious snacks. Whether you try the Peanut Butter & Banana Bites, Sweet Potato Biscuits, or Apple & Carrot Treats, your dog is sure to love them!
Have you tried making homemade dog treats? Share your favorite recipes in the comments below! And if you try these, tag us on social media—we’d love to see your creations!
🐶 Happy Baking! 🦴✨