Homemade Dog Treats for Itchy Skin using Hemp Seeds & 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.

That incessant scratch scratch scratch is the noise that any dog owner would want to do away with. You have been through creams, special diets, and worried Google searches all without any positive result.

What else can you do then?

Here’s a homemade dog treats recipe you can try out to stop the itch.

Recipe Overview

• This homemade dog treat recipe for itchy skin takes about 15 minutes to prep and 20-25 minutes to bake.
• It uses natural ingredients like hemp seeds and banana, known for their skin-soothing properties.
• The recipe yields around 30-40 small treats, perfect for daily snacking.
• These treats are great for dogs with sensitive skin or mild allergies.

Ingredients List

• 1 ripe banana (approx. $0.30)
• 1/2 cup old-fashioned rolled oats (gluten-free if preferred) (approx. $0.50)
• 1/4 cup shelled hemp seeds (approx. $2.00)
• 2 tablespoons natural peanut butter (xylitol-free) (approx. $0.40)
• 1 tablespoon coconut oil (melted) (approx. $0.20)
• 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce (approx. $0.30)
• 1/4 cup bone broth (low sodium, dog-safe) (approx. $0.50)
• Total Estimated Cost: $4.20

You can swap chicken broth for bone broth. If your dog doesn’t like peanut butter, use almond butter, but make sure it’s also xylitol-free.

Step-by-Step Instructions

• Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
• Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
• In a large bowl, mash the ripe banana with a fork until it’s smooth.
• Add the rolled oats, hemp seeds, peanut butter, melted coconut oil, unsweetened applesauce, and bone broth to the bowl.
• Mix everything together thoroughly until you have a thick, consistent dough.
• If the dough seems too sticky, add a little more oats, a tablespoon at a time, until it’s easier to handle.
• Roll the dough out onto a lightly floured surface (you can use oat flour for this) to about 1/4 inch thickness.
• Use a small cookie cutter to cut out shapes, or just slice the dough into small squares with a knife.
• Place the treats on the prepared baking sheet.
• Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the treats are golden brown and firm to the touch.
• Let them cool completely on a wire rack before serving to your dog.

Feeding Guidelines

• For small dogs (under 20 lbs), offer 1-2 treats per day.
• For medium dogs (20-50 lbs), give 2-3 treats daily.
• For large dogs (over 50 lbs), 3-4 treats per day is a good starting point.
• Puppies and very active dogs might need a bit more, while older or less active dogs may need fewer to avoid excess calories.
• If your dog has specific health conditions or allergies, talk to your vet before introducing new foods.
• Your vet can help you figure out the exact right portion size for your dog’s unique needs.

Nutritional Benefits of the Recipe

• Hemp seeds are packed with Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids, which are fantastic for skin health and can reduce inflammation that causes itching.
• They also provide a great source of plant-based protein, helping with muscle maintenance and overall well-being.
• Banana is rich in potassium, Vitamin B6, and Vitamin C, all of which support immune function and can aid in skin recovery.
• Oats offer complex carbohydrates for sustained energy and dietary fiber, which helps maintain a healthy digestive system. A healthy gut often means healthier skin.
• Coconut oil contains medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), known for their anti-inflammatory properties and ability to improve skin and coat condition.

Storage and Serving Tips

• Store these homemade treats in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 7-10 days.
• For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to 2-3 months. Just pop them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• To serve frozen treats, let them thaw in the refrigerator overnight or for a few hours at room temperature.
• You can offer these treats as a snack, a reward during training, or even crumble them over your dog’s regular kibble for an extra boost of flavor and nutrition.
• Always make sure your dog has access to fresh water, especially when enjoying treats.

Common Questions & Troubleshooting

What if my dog doesn’t like the taste?

Try adding a little extra peanut butter or bone broth to make them more appealing. You can also mix in a tiny bit of plain cooked chicken or tuna (in water, no salt) to tempt picky eaters.

Can I add other ingredients for more benefits?

Yes, you can include a small amount of finely grated carrot or pumpkin puree for extra vitamins and fiber. Always check that any added ingredient is safe for dogs.

Are these treats suitable for puppies?

These treats are generally safe for puppies, but remember to offer them in smaller pieces appropriate for their size and chew ability. Always introduce new foods slowly to avoid upsetting a young tummy.

My dog has severe allergies. Will these help?

While these treats can help with general skin health and mild itchiness, they are not a substitute for veterinary care. If your dog has severe or diagnosed allergies, consult your vet for a specific treatment plan and dietary recommendations.

Wrapping Up

Giving your dog these homemade treats is a simple, loving way to support their skin health and ease that irritating itch. You’ll feel good knowing exactly what’s in their snack.

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