Do you know what DOG ESSENTIALS you are missing out? Find out now!
Zack Keithy, our author, is a certified veterinarian technician (UC Blue Ash) for over 6 years (contact him here). The articles written here are based on his expertise and experience, combined with a review by our expert vet reviewers including Dr M. Tarantino. Learn more about us here.
You turn the treat bag around and the ingredient list seems like a chemistry test. Preservatives, fillers, and terms that you would require a PhD to understand.
Your dog eats one, and then he spends the whole night walking nervously, and his stomach makes a gurgling sound.
Don’t waste money on lab snacks. Make your own!
Let’s try this dog treat recipe a try!
Recipe Overview
- This homemade 2-ingredient dog treat recipe takes just 10 minutes to prep and 20 minutes to bake.
- It uses simple, dog-safe ingredients.
- You’ll make about 20-30 small bites, perfect for training or everyday rewards.
- They’re packed with natural protein and healthy fats.
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Ingredients List
- Ripe Bananas (medium size, 2-3): $0.50 – $0.75 per banana
- Natural Peanut Butter (creamy, unsalted, Xylitol-free, 1/2 cup): $0.30 – $0.50 per serving
- Total Estimated Cost: $1.30 – $2.25
Suitable Substitutions:
- Peanut Butter: You can use other dog-safe nut butters like almond butter, just make sure they’re unsalted and xylitol-free.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Next, peel the bananas. Put them in a medium-sized bowl. Mash them really well with a fork until they are smooth.
- Then, add the 1/2 cup of natural peanut butter to the mashed bananas. Stir them together. Mix until everything is completely combined and smooth.
- Now, drop small spoonfuls of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet. You can make them about 1 inch in diameter. Leave a little space between each one.
- After that, bake for 15-20 minutes. Bake until the edges look slightly golden and the treats are firm.
- Finally, let them cool completely on a wire rack. They will firm up even more as they cool.
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Feeding Guidelines
- For small dogs (under 20 lbs): Offer 1-2 treats per day.
- Medium dogs (20-50 lbs): Give 2-3 treats per day.
- Large dogs (over 50 lbs): You can give 3-4 treats per day.
- Puppies: Give smaller pieces, 1 treat per day. Always consider their small stomachs.
- Senior dogs: These soft treats are great for older dogs. Stick to the lower end of the recommendations.
- Highly active dogs: They might need a few more treats as an energy boost.
- Less active dogs: Reduce the amount to avoid extra calories.
- Always check with your vet for personalized advice. This is especially true if your dog has any health conditions or dietary restrictions.
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Nutritional Benefits of the Recipe
- Bananas are a good source of potassium and vitamin B6. These support heart health and energy metabolism.
- They also provide vitamin C, which is an antioxidant. It helps with the immune system.
- Peanut butter (natural, unsalted) offers healthy fats like Omega-6 fatty acids. These are good for skin and coat health.
- It’s also a great source of protein. Protein helps maintain strong muscles.
- Bananas and peanut butter together provide natural energy. This makes them good for active dogs.
- The fiber in bananas aids digestion. This helps keep things moving smoothly.
- This recipe is naturally grain-free. It’s great for dogs with grain sensitivities or allergies.
- The treats are soft. They are easy for dogs of all ages, even those with dental issues, to chew.
Storage and Serving Tips
- These treats stay fresh in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5-7 days.
- For longer storage, freeze them for up to 2-3 months. Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
- To serve from frozen, you can let them thaw at room temperature for a bit. Or, microwave them briefly until soft.
- Serve these treats at room temperature. You can also warm them slightly for an extra appealing aroma.
- They are great as a standalone reward. You can also break them into smaller pieces for training.
- Some owners like to mix a crumbled treat into their dog’s regular kibble. This adds extra flavor and moisture.
Common Questions & Troubleshooting (FAQ)
Can I use any type of peanut butter?
No, you need to use natural, unsalted peanut butter. Make absolutely sure it does not contain xylitol. Xylitol is a sugar substitute that is highly toxic to dogs.
Are these treats suitable for puppies?
Yes, in moderation. Puppies have smaller tummies and growing bodies. Break the treats into smaller pieces and give only one per day. Always introduce new foods slowly.
My dog has a sensitive stomach, are these okay?
Generally, bananas and natural peanut butter are well-tolerated. But, every dog is different. Start with a very small piece to see how your dog reacts. If any upset occurs, stop feeding them.
How can I make these treats firmer?
You can bake them for a few extra minutes. Or, you can add a tablespoon of oat flour or whole wheat flour (if your dog can have grains) to the mixture. This will help absorb moisture.
📖 Don’t Miss This…
Need more ideas on what to cook for your dog? Then you must check out my library of homemade dog food recipes today!
Wrapping Up
Making homemade treats is a simple way to show your dog extra love. These 2-ingredient Peanut Butter & Banana Bites are healthy, easy, and taste amazing to our furry friends.
Feeling inspired? Pin this recipe to your Homemade Dog Food board for easy access and follow us for more pet-friendly tips!
