Rolled oats make an easy, inexpensive base for homemade dog treats. This recipe uses oats, banana and peanut butter and takes about 35 minutes, with no added sugar or salt. Always check that the peanut butter does not contain xylitol, which is toxic to dogs.
Simple oat, banana and peanut butter treats
Ingredients
- 2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats, ground in a blender or food processor into a coarse flour
- 1 ripe banana, mashed
- 1/2 cup natural peanut butter with no sugar, salt added or xylitol
- 1 egg
- 2 to 4 tablespoons water, only if the dough is too dry
Directions
- Heat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Mix the banana, peanut butter and egg until smooth.
- Stir in the ground oats until a thick dough forms. Add a spoonful of water at a time only if it is crumbly.
- Roll the dough about 1/2 inch thick on a floured surface and cut it into small shapes, or scoop it into small balls and flatten them slightly.
- Bake 18 to 22 minutes, until the edges are firm and lightly golden.
- Cool completely on a rack. They will harden as they cool.
Storage
These treats have no preservatives. Keep them in an airtight container for about 5 days at room temperature or up to 2 weeks in the fridge. For longer storage freeze them for up to 2 or 3 months and thaw a few at a time.
How many can my dog have?
Treats should make up no more than about 10 percent of your dog’s daily calories. Cut treats small for little dogs. Start with one or two the first time in case your dog has a sensitive stomach. Oats are higher in carbohydrates, so check with your vet if your dog is overweight or diabetic.
Variations
- Swap the banana for unsweetened applesauce or plain pumpkin puree (not pie filling).
- Use plain, unsweetened yogurt in place of the egg for a softer treat if your dog tolerates dairy.
- Add a pinch of cinnamon, which is safe in small amounts.
Ingredients to keep out of dog treats
- Xylitol, found in some peanut butters and sugar-free products
- Chocolate, raisins and grapes, macadamia nuts
- Onions, garlic and chives
- Added sugar, salt and spices
If your dog has allergies, kidney disease or another condition, ask your vet before you try new treats. You can find other ideas in our guides to ingredients in dog biscuits and easy puppy teething treats.
Bottom line
Oats, banana and plain peanut butter make a cheap, easy treat you can control from start to finish. Keep portions small and double-check every ingredient is dog-safe.
This is general information and not veterinary advice. Check with your vet if your dog has health or dietary needs.
