Low-Cost Homemade Dog Food using Bananas and Peanut Butter

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 health should always be a priority, but, expensive dog food is really a heavy blow to your wallet.

Wanting the best for your pet and seeing the costs pile up is really hard to stomach (no pun intended!).

On top of that, a lot of commercial foods are made with fillers or with ingredients that are not fully disclosed and if your dog eats them, they may not be good for him.

However, if you were able to prepare a healthy, tasty, and inexpensive meal in your very own kitchen, how great would that be? This is the way it is done.

Recipe Overview

• This homemade dog food recipe combines the goodness of bananas and peanut butter with other simple ingredients.
• It’s designed to be kind to your budget and packed with nutrients.
• The recipe is easy to make and perfect for dogs who love sweet and savory flavors.
• Prep time: 15 minutes.
• Cook time: 20 minutes.
• Serving size: Makes about 6-8 cups of food.

Ingredients List

• 1 cup rolled oats (quick or old-fashioned) – $0.50
• 2 ripe bananas, mashed – $0.60
• ½ cup natural peanut butter (xylitol-free) – $1.20
• 2 cups water or low-sodium chicken broth – $0.30
• 1 cup cooked lean ground turkey or chicken, shredded – $2.50
• ½ cup cooked green beans, chopped – $0.75
• ½ cup cooked carrots, finely diced – $0.60
• 2 tablespoons olive oil – $0.40
• 1 teaspoon ground flaxseed (optional, for omega-3s) – $0.20
• Total Estimated Cost: $9.25

Suitable substitutions:

• Instead of ground turkey, you can use lean ground beef or cooked salmon.
• For green beans, try peas or sweet potato.
• If your dog can’t have peanut butter, almond butter (xylitol-free) is a good option.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Base

• In a large pot, combine the rolled oats and water (or chicken broth).
• Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the oats are cooked and most of the liquid is absorbed. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Add the Flavor

• While the oats are cooking, mash the ripe bananas in a separate bowl until smooth.
• Once the oats are done, remove the pot from the heat.
• Stir in the mashed bananas and natural peanut butter until everything is well combined and creamy.

Mix in Protein and Veggies

• Add the cooked ground turkey (or chicken), chopped green beans, and diced carrots to the oat mixture.
• Pour in the olive oil and sprinkle in the ground flaxseed, if using.
• Mix everything thoroughly, making sure all ingredients are evenly distributed.

Cool and Serve

• Let the homemade dog food cool completely before serving it to your dog.
• Cooling it down prevents burns and helps the flavors meld.
• You can portion it out into individual servings once it’s cool.

Feeding Guidelines

• The right amount of food depends on your dog’s weight, age, and activity level.
• A good starting point for an adult dog is about 1/4 to 1/2 cup per 10 pounds of body weight per day, divided into two meals.
• For example, a 20-pound dog might get 1/2 to 1 cup per day. A 50-pound dog could get 1 1/4 to 2 1/2 cups per day.
• Active dogs or puppies may need more, while senior or less active dogs may need less.
• Always monitor your dog’s weight and adjust portions as needed.
• It’s always smart to talk to your vet to get personalized feeding advice for your dog’s specific needs.

Nutritional Benefits of the Recipe

Bananas

These are a great source of potassium, vitamins C and B6, and fiber.

Potassium helps with heart and kidney function. Fiber aids digestion.

Peanut Butter (natural, xylitol-free)

Provides healthy fats, protein, and vitamins B and E.

It gives a boost of energy and helps keep their coats shiny.

Rolled Oats

A fantastic source of soluble fiber, which supports healthy digestion and can be gentle on sensitive stomachs.

Oats also contain vitamins and minerals, providing sustained energy.

Lean Ground Turkey or Chicken

Offers high-quality protein, essential for muscle growth and repair.

It’s a lean protein source, making it easier to digest for many dogs.

Green Beans and Carrots

These veggies add important vitamins (like Vitamin K and A), minerals, and more fiber.

They’re low in calories, helping your dog feel full without extra weight gain.

Olive Oil and Flaxseed

Olive oil provides monounsaturated fats for skin and coat health.

Ground flaxseed offers omega-3 fatty acids, which are good for joint health and reducing inflammation.

Storage and Serving Tips

Refrigeration

Store any uneaten portions in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Make sure it cools completely before putting it away.

Freezing

For longer storage, divide the cooled food into single-serving portions in freezer-safe bags or containers.

It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.

Thaw frozen portions in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Reheating

If you prefer to serve it warm, gently reheat a thawed portion in the microwave or on the stovetop.

Always check the temperature to make sure it’s not too hot before giving it to your dog.

Serving Ideas

You can serve this homemade food as a complete meal.

Or, mix it with a smaller amount of your dog’s regular kibble to add variety and extra nutrients.

It’s also great as a special treat or a meal topper.

Common Questions & Troubleshooting

Is this recipe suitable for puppies?

While the ingredients are generally safe, puppies have different nutritional needs. This recipe might not have all the essential nutrients for a growing puppy. Talk to your vet first to see if it’s a good fit or if adjustments are needed.

Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely! Many dog-safe vegetables like peas, sweet potatoes, spinach, and pumpkin (canned, plain) can be added. Avoid onions, garlic, and grapes, which are toxic to dogs.

My dog has a sensitive stomach. Is this recipe good for them?

This recipe uses easily digestible ingredients like oats and lean protein, which can be good for sensitive stomachs. However, every dog is different. Introduce it slowly and watch for any digestive upset. If you’re concerned, chat with your vet.

How do I know if the peanut butter has xylitol?

Always check the ingredient label carefully. Xylitol is a sugar alcohol that is highly toxic to dogs. If it’s listed, do not use that peanut butter. Stick to natural, plain peanut butter with no added sweeteners.

Wrapping Up

Making your dog’s food at home doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. This banana and peanut butter recipe is a tasty, budget-friendly way to show your dog some love. It’s packed with good stuff and super easy to make.

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