Homemade Dog Cookies With Peanut Butter & Banana

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 stare at that bag of dog biscuits from the store and wonder what’s actually inside.

The ingredient list goes on forever, and sometimes your dog starts scratching after eating one.

Finding treats that are simple, safe, and good for your pup sometimes feels impossible. But honestly, making a healthy, tasty homemade dog cookie at home is way easier than you think.

Recipe Overview

• Purpose: These homemade dog cookies are perfect for daily training, sensitive stomachs, and dogs allergic to wheat or common proteins. They are simple, highly palatable, and offer a great boost of potassium and fiber.
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Serving Size: Makes about 2 dozen medium cookies (depending on cutter size)
• Benefits: All natural, low-fat, grain-free option available.

Ingredients List

• 1 large ripe banana, mashed (Cost: $0.30)
• 1/2 cup natural peanut butter (ensure it is xylitol-free) (Cost: $1.50)
• 1 egg, large (Cost: $0.25)
• 1 1/2 cups oat flour (or 1 1/2 cups rolled oats, pulsed until fine) (Cost: $0.80)
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional, aids digestion) (Cost: $0.05)
• 1/4 cup unsweetened, plain yogurt (optional binder/flavor) (Cost: $0.20)
• Suitable Substitutions: You can swap the oat flour for brown rice flour if needed. If your dog cannot tolerate peanut butter, try sunflower seed butter, but check the ingredients first.
• Total Estimated Cost: $3.10

Step-by-Step Instructions

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
• In a big mixing bowl, mash the banana until it is smooth and there are no big chunks left.
• Add the peanut butter, egg, and yogurt (if using) to the bowl. Mix everything until the wet ingredients are totally combined and look creamy.
• Gradually stir in the oat flour and cinnamon. Mix slowly until a stiff, thick dough forms. You should be able to roll it into a ball easily.
• Lightly flour your work surface and roll the dough out to about 1/4 inch thickness. Don’t roll it too thin, or the cookies will burn fast.
• Use a cookie cutter to cut out shapes. Put the shapes onto the prepared baking sheet.
• Bake for 18 to 22 minutes, depending on the size of your cookies. They should be lightly golden brown and firm to the touch.
• Let the cookies cool completely on a wire rack before serving them. This helps them crisp up.

Feeding Guidelines

• These are treats, so they should make up less than 10% of your dog’s daily calories.
• Small Dogs (under 20 lbs): Limit to 1 to 2 small cookies per day.
• Medium Dogs (20–50 lbs): You can offer 2 to 3 medium cookies per day.
• Large Dogs (over 50 lbs): You can give 3 to 4 large cookies per day.
• Puppies and Senior Dogs: Puppies need denser nutrition for growth, so keep treats minimal. Senior dogs often have slower metabolisms, so adjust portions down if they are overweight.
• Important: Always consult your veterinarian before introducing any new treats or changing your dog’s diet, especially for dogs with known health issues like diabetes or kidney disease.

Nutritional Benefits of the Recipe

• Peanut Butter (Natural): Provides a great source of protein and healthy fats (Omega-6). It is also rich in Vitamin E and Niacin, which support skin and coat health.
• Banana: Excellent source of potassium, which is crucial for proper muscle function and regulating blood pressure. It also contains Vitamin C.
• Oat Flour: Offers complex carbohydrates for sustained energy. It is a good source of soluble fiber, which supports healthy digestion and regular bowel movements.
• Egg: Supplies essential amino acids, making it a complete protein source. The yolk provides Choline, which is vital for brain and liver health.
• This recipe is naturally high in fiber and low in sugar, supporting a stable gut environment.

Storage and Serving Tips

• Refrigeration: Store cooled cookies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 7 days.
• Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months. Thaw them overnight in the fridge or just leave them on the counter for a few minutes.
• Serving Suggestions: Serve them at room temperature. You can break larger cookies into smaller pieces for training rewards. If your dog loves a crunch, make sure you bake them until they are quite crisp.

Common Questions & Troubleshooting

Can I use regular all-purpose flour instead of oat flour?

Yes, you can, but oat flour is often better for dogs with wheat sensitivities. If you use wheat flour, use whole wheat flour for added fiber and nutrients.

Is cinnamon safe for my dog?

Yes, cinnamon is safe for dogs in small amounts like 1/2 teaspoon in the whole batch. It adds flavor and has anti-inflammatory properties. Do not use nutmeg, though, as it can be toxic.

Why did my cookies crumble after baking?

This usually happens if you used too much flour or did not include the optional egg or yogurt for binding. Next time, try adding a tablespoon of water or a little more mashed banana to the dough.

Wrapping Up

Making these treats is a simple way to show your dog extra love and keep them healthy. They smell amazing while baking, and you know exactly what they are eating.

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