Have you ever thought about making dog treats at home, but assumed it would be complicated or time-consuming? Good news: homemade dog cookies are easier to make than you might think!
These peanut butter and banana dog treats are made with simple, natural ingredients and are a great alternative to many store-bought options. They are perfect as a small reward during training, a snack after a walk, or just a homemade treat to spoil your dog a little.
Making treats at home allows you to:
- know exactly which ingredients your dog is eating,
- avoid unnecessary additives or preservatives,
- adjust ingredients to your dog’s preferences or sensitivities,
- and turn snack time into a fun, sustainable habit.
This step-by-step recipe shows how you can make healthy dog cookies at home in just a few easy steps.
Ingredients
- 1 ripe banana, mashed
- 1/2 cup natural peanut butter
(make sure it does not contain xylitol, which is toxic to dogs) - 1 cup rolled oats
- 1/4 cup pumpkin puree
(pure pumpkin only, not pumpkin pie filling) - Optional: 1/4 cup shredded carrot
Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
- Fork or potato masher
- Spoon or spatula
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Cookie cutters (optional)
Step 1: Prepare and mix
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a large mixing bowl, mash the banana until smooth. Add the peanut butter and pumpkin puree, then mix everything together until you get a creamy, even mixture.
Gradually add the rolled oats (and shredded carrot, if you’re using it). Stir well until a thick dough forms. The dough should be firm enough to shape but still easy to work with.
Step 2: Shape and bake
Scoop small portions of dough and place them on the baking sheet. You can gently flatten them with a fork or use cookie cutters if you want to create fun shapes.
Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 15–18 minutes, or until the cookies are firm and lightly golden. Baking time may vary slightly depending on the thickness of the treats.
Step 3: Cool and serve
Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool completely before giving them to your dog.
These treats can be stored in an airtight container for several days or frozen if you want to prepare a larger batch in advance.
Want to learn more about conscious dog care?
Homemade treats are just one way to support your dog’s well-being. Choosing the right toys and play activities is just as important for physical and mental health.
Explore our decision guide to find the most suitable eco-friendly toy for your dog!