Homemade Dog Cookies With Peanut Butter & Applesauce

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.

Your dog’s begging for a snack again, but every time you check the store-bought treats, the ingredients just look like a jumble of weird stuff you can’t even pronounce.

It’s frustrating as finding treats that are both tasty and actually good for your pup feels impossible sometimes.

But here’s the thing: you can make simple, healthy homemade dog cookies without any guesswork. And it’s way easier than you’d think.

Recipe Overview

• These Homemade Dog Cookies with Peanut Butter & Applesauce are a quick and healthy treat.
• Prep time is about 15 minutes.
• Cook time is around 25-30 minutes.
• This recipe makes about 2 dozen cookies, depending on cookie cutter size.
• They are great for training or just a happy snack.

Ingredients List

• Whole wheat flour: 2 cups (estimated cost: $0.50) – provides fiber and carbohydrates.
• Creamy peanut butter (xylitol-free): 1/2 cup (estimated cost: $0.75) – a great source of protein and healthy fats.
• Unsweetened applesauce: 1/2 cup (estimated cost: $0.40) – adds natural sweetness and moisture, plus vitamins.
• Eggs: 2 large (estimated cost: $0.60) – for protein and binding the dough.
• Water: 1/4 cup (estimated cost: $0.00) – to help with dough consistency.
• Optional: Cinnamon: 1/2 teaspoon (estimated cost: $0.05) – for flavor and anti-inflammatory properties.
• Optional: Ground flaxseed: 1 tablespoon (estimated cost: $0.10) – for Omega-3 fatty acids.
• Total estimated cost: $2.40

Substitutions: You can use oat flour instead of whole wheat flour for dogs with wheat sensitivities. You can also swap pumpkin puree for applesauce. Always double-check peanut butter for xylitol, which is toxic to dogs.

Step-by-Step Instructions

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
• In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, peanut butter, applesauce, and water until smooth.
• Gradually add the whole wheat flour and cinnamon (if using) to the wet ingredients. Mix until a firm dough forms.
• If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour, one tablespoon at a time. If it is too dry, add a tiny bit more water.
• Lightly flour a clean surface. Roll out the dough to about 1/4 inch thick.
• Use a cookie cutter to cut out shapes. Place the cookies onto the prepared baking sheet.
• Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the cookies are firm.
• Let the cookies cool completely on a wire rack before serving.

Feeding Guidelines

• Small dogs (under 20 lbs): 1-2 cookies per day.
• Medium dogs (20-50 lbs): 2-3 cookies per day.
• Large dogs (over 50 lbs): 3-4 cookies per day.
• These are treats, so they should not make up a big part of your dog’s daily calorie intake.
• For very active dogs, you might give an extra cookie, but always in moderation.
• For puppies, break a cookie into smaller pieces. Consult your vet about appropriate treat portions for growing pups.
• Always talk to your veterinarian for personalized advice, especially if your dog has health conditions or is pregnant or nursing.

Nutritional Benefits of the Recipe

• Peanut butter is rich in protein, which helps with muscle growth and repair. It also has healthy fats for energy and a shiny coat.
• Applesauce provides natural sugars for quick energy, plus vitamins like C, and dietary fiber, which aids digestion.
• Eggs offer high-quality protein and essential amino acids, along with vitamins D and B12.
• Whole wheat flour contributes complex carbohydrates for sustained energy and good fiber for gut health.
• If you add flaxseed, it gives a boost of Omega-3 fatty acids, good for skin, coat, and reducing inflammation.
• Cinnamon can help regulate blood sugar and has antioxidant properties.

Storage and Serving Tips

• Store these homemade cookies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 7 days.
• For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2-3 months.
• To serve frozen cookies, you can thaw them in the refrigerator overnight or microwave them briefly until soft.
• You can serve them at room temperature or slightly warmed.
• These cookies make great training rewards.
• You can also crumble a cookie over their regular kibble as a special meal topper.

Common Questions & Troubleshooting

Can I use any peanut butter?

No, you must use xylitol-free peanut butter. Xylitol is extremely toxic to dogs, even in small amounts. Always check the ingredient list carefully.

My dough is too crumbly. What should I do?

If your dough is too crumbly, add water one teaspoon at a time until it comes together and is easy to roll. Different flours can absorb liquids differently.

How do I know when the cookies are done baking?

The cookies are done when the edges are golden brown and they feel firm to the touch. They should not be soft or sticky in the middle.

Can I add other ingredients to the cookies?

Yes, you can add other dog-safe ingredients like grated carrots, shredded zucchini, or a sprinkle of oats. Just make sure they are in small amounts and safe for dogs.

Wrapping Up

Making these Homemade Dog Cookies with Peanut Butter & Applesauce is a simple way to show your dog some love with a healthy treat. They are easy to make, packed with good stuff, and your dog will absolutely adore them.

Feeling inspired? Pin this recipe to your Homemade Dog Food board for easy access and follow us for more pet-friendly tips!