Why I Love Making Homemade Peanut Butter & Banana Dog Treats 🐾
Hello, fellow dog lovers! 💛
If you’re like me, you want to spoil your pup with treats that are not only delicious but also wholesome and made with care. I’m Helen, and today I’m sharing my all time favorite no bake peanut butter and banana dog treat recipe one that I’ve been making for my golden retriever, Cooper, since his very first birthday.
🐶 Why I Started Making Peanut Butter & Banana Dog Treats
A few years ago, I began paying closer attention to what Cooper was eating both his meals and his snacks. After spotting some scary labels on store bought dog treats (unpronounceable ingredients? No thanks!), I realized I could make something even better right in my own kitchen.
One morning, while mashing a banana for my smoothie, Cooper gave me those irresistible puppy eyes and that’s when it hit me: why not make a batch of dog friendly treats using just bananas and xylitol free peanut butter?
They turned out so good that even my husband almost snagged one straight off the tray!
🍌 Ingredients You’ll Need
Just a few wholesome pantry staples:
- 1 ripe banana – mashed (the riper, the sweeter!)
- ½ cup xylitol free peanut butter – creamy or natural, just make sure it’s safe for dogs
- 1¼ cup rolled oats – for fiber and a chewy texture
- (Optional) 1 tablespoon coconut oil – supports healthy skin & coat
- (Optional) A sprinkle of cinnamon – adds flavor and can support healthy joints
⚠️ Important: Always double check that your peanut butter is xylitol free, as xylitol is toxic to dogs.
🐾 No Bake Peanut Butter & Banana Dog Treats
Busy dog parent? This no fuss, no bake recipe is perfect for quick homemade treats your pup will adore.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Chill Time: 1 hour
Makes: ~25 small treats (depending on shape)
🐶 Step-by-Step Instructions
- Mash the banana in a large mixing bowl until smooth.
- Stir in the peanut butter and optional coconut oil until fully combined.
- Gradually add the oats, mixing with a spoon or your hands until a dough forms.
- (Optional) Add cinnamon and stir again.
- Roll the dough into small balls or press into silicone molds (bone or paw shapes make them extra cute!).
- Chill in the fridge or freezer for about 1 hour until firm.
Done! No oven, no mess just tail wagging goodness.
🥣 Nutritional Benefits
These simple treats pack a punch of dog friendly nutrients:
- Bananas – rich in potassium, vitamin B6, and fiber
- Peanut Butter – healthy fats and protein (moderation is key!)
- Oats – fiber, iron, and antioxidants
- Coconut Oil (optional) – supports skin, coat, and digestion
🎨 Customizing Your Treats
Want to switch it up? Try these dog safe variations:
- Add finely grated carrots for extra crunch
- Mix in blueberries for color and antioxidants
- Use pumpkin puree instead of banana (same ratio)
- Shape them however you like silicone molds, cookie cutters, or simple balls
🐕 Bonding with Your Dog
Making these treats has become one of my favorite weekly rituals. Cooper sits by my feet, tail thumping, acting like my little sous chef. Talking to him while I prep is silly, sweet, and kind of therapeutic just a tiny act of love that reminds me how much dogs give us every day.
🧊 Storage & Serving Tips
Storage:
- Airtight container in the fridge: up to 1 week
- Freezer: up to 3 months
Serving Ideas:
- Serve cold for a refreshing summer treat
- Crumble over kibble for picky eaters
- Use as training rewards (cut into smaller pieces)
😬 Troubleshooting
- Too sticky? Add more oats, 1 tablespoon at a time.
- Too dry or crumbly? Mix in a little extra peanut butter or banana.
- Not firming up? Chill longer or try the freezer instead of the fridge.
Don’t worry your pup will love them even if they’re not Instagram perfect. ❤️
💛 Final Thoughts
There’s something magical about seeing your dog’s face light up when you offer homemade treats. These no bake peanut butter banana snacks are my way of saying “I love you” without words.
🥇 Nutrition (per treat, approx.)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 45 kcal |
| Protein | 1.5 g |
| Fat | 2.5 g |
| Carbohydrates | 5.5 g |
| Fiber | 0.8 g |
| Sugar (natural) | 1.3 g |
| Potassium | 50 mg |
| Calcium | 5 mg |
| Vitamin B6 | Trace |
| Vitamin E | Trace |
✅ Safe for all dogs (assuming xylitol free peanut butter). Treats should be given in moderation, not as meal replacements.
❓ FAQ
Can I substitute oats? Yes rice flour or ground oats work in a pinch.
Are these safe for all dogs? Yes, as long as xylitol free peanut butter is used.
Can I freeze them? Absolutely, up to 3 months.
How long do they last in the fridge? About 1 week.
Can I use crunchy peanut butter? Yes, but smooth is easier to mix.
DIY Peanut Butter Banana Dog Treats – No Bake
If you’re like me, you want to spoil your pup with treats that are not only delicious but also wholesome and made with care. I’m Helen, and today I’m sharing my all time favorite no bake peanut butter and banana dog treat recipe one that I’ve been making for my golden retriever, Cooper, since his very first birthday.
Ingredients
- 1 ripe banana – mashed (the riper, the sweeter!)
- ½ cup xylitol free peanut butter – creamy or natural, just make sure it’s safe for dogs
- 1¼ cup rolled oats – for fiber and a chewy texture
- (Optional) 1 tablespoon coconut oil – supports healthy skin & coat
- (Optional) A sprinkle of cinnamon – adds flavor and can support healthy joints
Instructions
- Mash the banana in a large mixing bowl until smooth.
- Stir in the peanut butter and optional coconut oil until fully combined.
- Gradually add the oats, mixing with a spoon or your hands until a dough forms.
- (Optional) Add cinnamon and stir again.
- Roll the dough into small balls or press into silicone molds (bone or paw shapes make them extra cute!).
- Chill in the fridge or freezer for about 1 hour until firm.
Notes
Safe for all dogs (assuming xylitol free peanut butter). Treats should be given in moderation, not as meal replacements.
Nutrition Information:
Serving Size: 1 TreatAmount Per Serving: Calories: 45Total Fat: 2.5gCarbohydrates: 5.5gFiber: 0.8gSugar: 1.3gProtein: 1.5g