Homemade Dog Treat Recipe for Allergies Using Banana & Amaranth

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.

Have​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌ you had enough of your dog scratching and itching all the time?

Getting dog treats that won’t cause a sensitive stomach or allergy in your pet may seem like a mission impossible.

It is super frustrating when all you want to do is give them a tasty treat without the need to worry.

But, I have good news: you can prepare yummy, hypoallergenic treats in your kitchen and I will guide you step by ​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌step.

Recipe Overview

• Purpose: Hypoallergenic, grain-free dog treats ideal for dogs with common food allergies or sensitivities.
• Benefits: Packed with natural fiber, essential vitamins, and healthy fats for skin, coat, and digestion.
• Prep time: 15 minutes
• Cook time: 25-30 minutes
• Serving size: Approximately 20-25 small treats

Ingredients List

• 1 ripe banana (medium) – Estimated Cost: $0.25
• 1 cup amaranth flour – Estimated Cost: $2.50 (for a 1 lb bag, approx. $0.50 per cup)
• 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce – Estimated Cost: $0.75
• 1 tablespoon coconut oil (melted) – Estimated Cost: $0.40
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon – Estimated Cost: $0.10
• 1/4 cup water (as needed for consistency) – Estimated Cost: $0.00
• Total Estimated Cost: $4.00

Substitutions:

• Banana: Sweet potato puree can be used, just make sure it’s plain and unsweetened.
• Amaranth flour: Quinoa flour or sorghum flour are good grain-free alternatives.
• Coconut oil: Olive oil or flaxseed oil can be used, but coconut oil adds healthy fats and a nice flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
• In a large bowl, mash the ripe banana well with a fork.
• Add the amaranth flour, unsweetened applesauce, melted coconut oil, and cinnamon to the bowl.
• Mix everything thoroughly until a thick dough forms. If the dough seems too dry, add water one tablespoon at a time until it comes together.
• On a lightly floured surface (you can use a bit more amaranth flour), roll out the dough to about 1/4 inch thickness.
• Use a small cookie cutter (bone shape, circle, or square) to cut out your treats.
• Place the cut-out treats onto the prepared baking sheet.
• Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the treats are golden brown and firm.
• Let them cool completely on a wire rack before serving. This makes them nice and crunchy.

Feeding Guidelines

• Small dogs (under 20 lbs): 1-2 treats per day.
• Medium dogs (20-50 lbs): 2-3 treats per day.
• Large dogs (over 50 lbs): 3-4 treats per day.
• Puppies: Give smaller pieces and introduce slowly, 1 treat per day.
• Senior dogs: These treats are soft enough for older dogs, but always watch for choking hazards.
• Active dogs might get a little more, while less active dogs should get fewer to avoid weight gain.
• Here’s the thing: treats should only make up about 10% of your dog’s daily caloric intake.
• Always talk to your vet about your dog’s specific dietary needs, especially if they have ongoing health issues or allergies.

Nutritional Benefits of the Recipe

• Banana: Good source of potassium, vitamin B6, vitamin C, and fiber. It helps with digestion and provides natural sweetness.
• Amaranth flour: A pseudo-cereal, it’s gluten-free and packed with protein (lysine is an essential amino acid), fiber, iron, magnesium, phosphorus, and manganese. It’s great for dogs with grain sensitivities.
• Applesauce: Provides fiber and vitamins A and C. Make sure it’s unsweetened to avoid extra sugar.
• Coconut oil: Contains medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs) which can aid digestion, boost energy, and support healthy skin and a shiny coat. It also has antimicrobial properties.
• Cinnamon: A little bit can help with anti-inflammatory properties and blood sugar regulation.
• This recipe offers a good balance of complex carbohydrates for energy, healthy fats, and quality protein from the amaranth. It’s also rich in dietary fiber for digestive health. For complete daily nutrition, these treats should be given as a supplement to a balanced diet, not as a meal replacement.

Storage and Serving Tips

• Store these homemade treats in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
• For longer storage, freeze the treats for up to 3 months. Thaw them in the fridge overnight or let them come to room temperature before serving.
• You can serve them at room temperature or slightly warmed.
• These treats are also great broken into smaller pieces and used as training rewards.
• Some dogs like them mixed in with their regular kibble for an extra boost of flavor and nutrition.

Common Questions & Troubleshooting

Can I add other ingredients?

Yes, you can add dog-safe ingredients like a tablespoon of chia seeds for Omega-3s, or a little turmeric for anti-inflammatory benefits. Make sure any additions are safe for your dog.

My dog won’t eat them. What can I do?

Some dogs are picky. Try breaking them into smaller pieces or warming them slightly to release more aroma. You could also try adding a tiny bit of peanut butter (xylitol-free) to the dough next time.

Are these safe for puppies?

Yes, these ingredients are safe for puppies in moderation. Just make sure to offer smaller pieces that are easy for them to chew and swallow. Introduce any new food slowly.

Wrapping Up

Making these homemade hypoallergenic banana and amaranth treats is a simple way to show your dog some love, without worrying about allergies. Your furry friend will adore these healthy, tasty snacks.

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