DIY Homemade Dog Treats: Recipes Your Pup Will Love
There’s nothing more rewarding than treating your dog to a delicious, homemade snack made with love. Not only are homemade dog treats healthier since you control the ingredients, but they’re also a great way to bond with your furry friend. These easy and nutritious recipes are sure to make your pup’s tail wag!
1. Peanut Butter and Pumpkin Dog Biscuits
Peanut butter and pumpkin are two flavors that dogs absolutely adore. This recipe combines these ingredients to create a crunchy, wholesome treat that's packed with flavor.
Ingredients: 1 cup pumpkin puree, 2 eggs, 1/2 cup xylitol-free peanut butter, and 2 1/2 cups oat or whole wheat flour.
Steps: Stir together the pumpkin, eggs, and peanut butter until smooth. Fold in the flour to form a soft dough, roll to 1/4-inch thickness, and cut shapes. Bake at 350°F for 20–25 minutes, flipping once for even crunch.
Let the biscuits cool completely on a wire rack. Store in an airtight jar for up to a week, or freeze individual treats for a longer stash.
2. Sweet Potato Chews
Sweet potatoes are a healthy and natural source of vitamins and fiber for dogs. This simple recipe turns sweet potatoes into chewy, nutrient-packed treats.
Slice sweet potatoes lengthwise into thin planks, lightly brush with coconut oil, and bake low and slow at 250°F for 2–3 hours until leathery. For extra-chewy pieces, crack the oven door during the last 30 minutes to let steam escape.
Keep chews in a paper bag to maintain their texture and offer them as a long-lasting reward after walks or training sessions.
3. Frozen Yogurt and Banana Treats
These frozen treats are perfect for hot days and provide a healthy snack packed with probiotics from the yogurt and potassium from the banana.
Mash one ripe banana with a cup of plain, unsweetened yogurt and a splash of water. Spoon into silicone molds, sprinkle with crushed blueberries, and freeze overnight. Pop out cubes as a cooling treat after playtime.
Tip: If your pup needs extra hydration, blend in a few ice cubes before freezing for an even lighter texture.
4. Oat and Apple Dog Treats
If your dog loves apples, this simple oat and apple treat recipe will be a hit. Packed with fiber and natural sweetness, these treats are both tasty and healthy.
Mix it up: Combine 1 cup unsweetened applesauce, 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt, 1 egg, and 2 cups oat flour. Fold in a handful of finely chopped apple pieces for extra crunch.
Bake spoonfuls of the batter at 325°F for 18–20 minutes until lightly golden. The soft texture makes them ideal for senior dogs or pups with sensitive teeth.
5. Cheesy Bacon Dog Treats
For the cheese lovers, these cheesy bacon dog treats are an irresistible snack! They're savory, crunchy, and full of flavor, making them perfect for a special treat.
Combine 1 cup shredded low-sodium cheddar, 1/4 cup cooked and crumbled turkey bacon, 1 cup oat flour, and 1/4 cup water to form a stiff dough. Roll into small balls, flatten gently, and bake at 350°F for 15 minutes.
Because these are richer, offer them sparingly and balance them with lighter snacks throughout the day.
6. Carrot and Banana Bites
These small, soft treats are perfect for training or rewarding your dog. The combination of carrots and bananas makes them both nutritious and delicious.
Stir together 1 mashed banana, 1/2 cup finely shredded carrots, 1 cup rolled oats, and 1 tablespoon flaxseed. Drop teaspoon portions onto a parchment-lined tray and bake at 325°F for 12–14 minutes.
They keep well in the fridge for five days, making them an easy grab-and-go training reward.
Treat Storage and Serving Tips
Introduce one new recipe at a time so you can watch for any sensitivities, and keep portions small for toy breeds or pups on calorie-restricted diets.
- Always use xylitol-free peanut butter and unsweetened yogurt to avoid hidden sweeteners.
- Cool baked treats fully before sealing them to prevent moisture buildup and mold.
- Freeze extras in single-layer bags so you can thaw only what you need for the week.
- Break larger biscuits into smaller pieces for training sessions to keep calorie counts in check.
