Homemade Puppy Treats Recipe Using Banana & Peanut Butter

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.

Isn’t it true that a puppy is just the most adorable thing in the world? You know, all that endless energy, the awkward little paws, and those piercing little teeth that are used to investigate everything.

And if we are talking about the time when the teeth are coming out, then a puppy is going to be very unpleasant. A cool and soothing treat is able to change everything. And really, what could be nicer than something pure and made at home?

Recipe Overview

This homemade puppy treat recipe is wonderfully simple, requiring no baking at all. It takes about 10 minutes to prepare and then a few hours to freeze. These cool, creamy pupsicles are perfect for soothing a teething puppy’s gums and provide a healthy, refreshing reward.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Freeze Time: 2-3 hours
• Serving Size: Makes about 12-18 small pupsicles (depending on mold size)

Ingredients List

Here’s what you’ll need for these soothing puppy treats. All ingredients are dog-safe and readily available.

• 1 ripe banana: About $0.20 – $0.30
• 1/4 cup natural peanut butter (xylitol-free): About $0.50 – $0.75
• 1/4 cup plain, unsweetened yogurt (dairy or non-dairy, ensure no xylitol): About $0.25 – $0.40
• Optional: 1 tablespoon water (to adjust consistency): About $0.01
• Total Estimated Cost: Approximately $0.96 – $1.46

Substitutions:

• Ripe Banana: Pureed pumpkin (plain, canned) or unsweetened applesauce can be used.
• Natural Peanut Butter: Almond butter (xylitol-free) can be used, but ensure it’s natural and unsweetened.
• Plain, Unsweetened Yogurt: Plain kefir can be used for similar probiotic benefits.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Making these pupsicles is wonderfully simple. Just follow these easy steps:

1. Prepare the banana. Peel the ripe banana and place it in a medium bowl. Mash it thoroughly with a fork until it’s smooth.
2. Combine ingredients. Add the natural peanut butter and the plain, unsweetened yogurt to the mashed banana.
3. Mix well. Stir all the ingredients together until they are thoroughly combined and form a smooth, creamy mixture. If the mixture seems too thick, you can add a tablespoon of water to reach a pourable consistency.
4. Fill molds. Spoon the mixture into small silicone molds. Ice cube trays or small candy molds work perfectly for this. Don’t overfill them.
5. Freeze. Place the filled molds in the freezer for at least 2-3 hours, or until the pupsicles are completely solid.
6. Remove from molds. Once frozen, gently pop the pupsicles out of their molds.
7. Store. Store any leftover pupsicles in an airtight freezer-safe container or bag in the freezer.

Feeding Guidelines

These pupsicles are a lovely treat, especially for teething puppies, but moderation is still key.

• Small Puppies (under 10 lbs): 1 small pupsicle per day.
• Medium Puppies (10-25 lbs): 1-2 small pupsicles per day.
• Large Puppies (over 25 lbs): 2-3 small pupsicles per day.

Always consider your puppy’s overall daily calorie intake. Treats should make up no more than 10% of their total calories. Introduce these treats slowly, starting with just one, to ensure they agree with your puppy’s tummy. If your puppy has any specific health concerns or dietary needs, always consult your veterinarian for personalized advice.

Nutritional Benefits of the Recipe

These cool treats are packed with goodness for your growing pup.

• Ripe Banana: A good source of potassium, which is important for muscle function and nerve health. It also provides natural sugars for a gentle energy boost and dietary fiber for digestion.
• Natural Peanut Butter (Xylitol-Free): Offers healthy fats, which are crucial for energy and brain development, and protein for muscle growth. It’s also a source of B vitamins and Vitamin E.
• Plain, Unsweetened Yogurt: Provides probiotics, which support a healthy gut microbiome, aiding in digestion and immune function. It’s also a source of calcium for strong bones.
• Overall: These pupsicles help soothe teething gums, provide a gentle energy boost, support healthy digestion, and contribute to overall growth and vitality.

Storage and Serving Tips

These frozen treats are easy to store and serve, making them a convenient option.

• Freezing: Store the frozen pupsicles in an airtight freezer-safe container or bag in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.
• Serving Ideas: Offer them directly from the freezer. They are particularly good for puppies who are teething, as the cold can help soothe sore gums. Always supervise your puppy while they enjoy their treat.

Common Questions & Troubleshooting (FAQ)

My puppy is sensitive to dairy. Can I still make these?

Yes, you can. Simply use a plain, unsweetened, dairy-free yogurt alternative (ensure it’s xylitol-free and free of other harmful ingredients).

How do I know if my peanut butter has xylitol?

Always check the ingredients label carefully. Xylitol is highly toxic to dogs. If you see it listed, do not use that peanut butter. Stick to natural, unsweetened varieties that list only peanuts (and maybe salt) as ingredients.

Can I add other fruits to these pupsicles?

Yes, you can. Small amounts of pureed blueberries or raspberries can be added for extra antioxidants. Always ensure any added fruits are dog-safe and pureed.

Wrapping Up

These Homemade Puppy Treats Using Banana & Peanut Butter are a simple, wholesome way to comfort your teething pup and offer a refreshing reward. They’re nutritious, easy to make, and perfect for those growing pains.

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