Homemade Banana Applesauce Dog Treats

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.

Are you tired of store-bought dog treats filled with questionable ingredients and artificial flavors?

Do you worry about what’s truly going into your furry friend’s belly, leading to potential allergies or unhealthy weight gain?

It’s time to take control and offer your beloved companion a wholesome, delicious alternative that you can trust.

Recipe Overview: Wholesome Homemade Banana Applesauce Dog Treats

These homemade Banana Applesauce Dog Treats are a fantastic, healthy snack, perfect for training rewards or just a special indulgence. They’re packed with natural sweetness and fiber, making them gentle on sensitive stomachs.

This recipe requires minimal effort, taking only 15 minutes for prep and 30 minutes to bake. You’ll yield approximately 40-50 small to medium treats, depending on your chosen cutter size.

Ingredients List

• 1 ½ cups Whole Wheat Flour: $0.50 (for a 5lb bag) – Provides essential carbohydrates and fiber.
• ½ cup Rolled Oats (uncooked): $0.25 (for a 42oz container) – Adds texture and additional fiber for digestion.
• 1 large Ripe Banana, mashed: $0.20 – A natural sweetener rich in potassium and vitamins.
• ½ cup Unsweetened Applesauce: $0.20 (for a 24oz jar) – Offers natural sweetness, vitamins, and moisture without added sugars.
• 1 large Egg: $0.20 – Binds the ingredients and provides protein.
• ¼ cup Water (or more, if needed): $0.00 – Adjusts dough consistency.

Total Estimated Cost: ~$1.35

Substitutions: For a gluten-free option, substitute whole wheat flour with an equal amount of gluten-free flour blend (ensure it’s safe for dogs, e.g., brown rice flour). If your dog has a banana sensitivity, pumpkin puree can be used as a substitute for a portion of the mashed banana, though it will alter the flavor slightly. Chicken or beef broth can be used instead of water for added flavor, just ensure it’s low sodium.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the whole wheat flour and rolled oats. Give them a quick stir to mix evenly.
3. In a separate bowl, mash the ripe banana thoroughly. Aim for a smooth consistency with no large lumps.
4. Add the mashed banana, unsweetened applesauce, and egg to the dry ingredients. Mix well with a spoon until a sticky dough begins to form.
5. Gradually add the water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough comes together. You’re aiming for a firm, pliable dough that isn’t too sticky to roll.
6. Lightly flour a clean surface and your rolling pin. Turn the dough out and roll it to about ¼-inch thickness.
7. Use a cookie cutter of your choice (small bone shapes, circles, or squares work well) to cut out the treats. Reroll any scraps and cut out more treats until all dough is used.
8. Place the cut-out treats onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving a small space between each.
9. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the treats feel firm to the touch. The baking time may vary slightly depending on the size and thickness of your treats.
10. Once baked, turn off the oven and leave the treats inside for an additional 15-20 minutes with the oven door slightly ajar. This helps them dry out and become crispier, extending their shelf life.
11. Remove the treats from the oven and let them cool completely on a wire rack before storing. Ensuring they are fully cool prevents moisture buildup.

Feeding Guidelines

These treats are intended as a supplement to your dog’s balanced diet, not a meal replacement. Portion sizes should always be adjusted based on your dog’s weight, activity level, and overall caloric intake.

For small dogs (under 20 lbs), offer 1-2 treats per day. Medium dogs (20-50 lbs) can enjoy 3-4 treats daily, while large dogs (over 50 lbs) may have 5-6 treats. Active dogs or puppies might need slightly more, whereas senior dogs or those prone to weight gain should have fewer.

For example, a petite Chihuahua might get one treat after a successful potty break, while a high-energy Labrador could enjoy a few throughout the day during training sessions. Always consult your veterinarian for personalized feeding advice, especially if your dog has specific dietary needs or health conditions.

Nutritional Benefits of the Recipe

Each ingredient in these homemade treats contributes significantly to your dog’s well-being. Whole wheat flour provides complex carbohydrates for sustained energy and essential fiber for digestive health, helping to promote regular bowel movements.

Rolled oats further boost the fiber content, beneficial for gut health and blood sugar regulation, and also contain antioxidants. Bananas are a fantastic source of potassium, which supports heart health and muscle function, along with Vitamin C and B6 for immunity and metabolism.

Unsweetened applesauce adds natural vitamins, particularly Vitamin A and C, and more dietary fiber, aiding in digestion and providing a touch of natural sweetness without any harmful added sugars. Finally, the egg binds everything together while offering a complete protein source, crucial for muscle repair and overall growth.

Storage and Serving Tips

Once completely cooled, these homemade treats can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. For longer preservation, they freeze beautifully!

Place treats in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They will last for up to 3 months in the freezer. Thaw frozen treats in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature for a few hours before serving.

Serve them at room temperature or slightly warmed for an extra special touch. You can also break them into smaller pieces for training tiny pups or for use as a tasty kibble topper to entice a picky eater.

Common Questions & Troubleshooting

Are these treats suitable for puppies?

Yes, these treats are generally suitable for puppies, especially once they are fully weaned and accustomed to solid foods. The ingredients are gentle on their developing digestive systems. Just ensure to break them into smaller, manageable pieces to prevent choking hazards.

Can I use sweetened applesauce?

It is strongly recommended to use unsweetened applesauce. Added sugars, even natural ones, are not ideal for dogs and can lead to weight gain, dental issues, or digestive upset. Always opt for the unsweetened variety to keep these treats as healthy as possible.

My treats are too soft/crumbly. What went wrong?

If your treats are too soft, they might need more baking time or a longer drying period in the oven after it’s turned off. For crumbly treats, you might need to add a tiny bit more water (½ to 1 tablespoon at a time) to the dough until it comes together better. Ensure your banana is very ripe, as this adds to the binding moisture.

My dog has allergies. How can I adapt this recipe?

If your dog has a common allergy like wheat, consider substituting whole wheat flour with an appropriate dog-safe gluten-free flour (like brown rice flour or oat flour). For egg allergies, a flax egg (1 tbsp ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tbsp water, let sit for 5 minutes) can sometimes work as a binder, though results may vary. Always introduce new ingredients slowly and consult your vet for severe allergies.

Can I add other ingredients?

You can! Safe additions include a spoonful of peanut butter (xylitol-free!), flax seeds for omega-3s, or a tiny amount of cinnamon for added flavor and health benefits. Always research any new ingredient to ensure it’s safe for dogs before adding it to the recipe.

Wrapping Up

Ready to spoil your best friend with wholesome goodness? Pin this recipe to your Homemade Dog Treats board for easy access and follow us for more pet-friendly tips and delicious ideas!