There’s a special kind of comfort that comes from baking treats for your dog especially when the ingredients are simple, real, and good enough to recognize at a glance. The first time I baked these Carrot & Banana Chews, my dog Benji planted himself right in front of the oven, nose working overtime, tail tapping softly against the floor. I didn’t realize then that such an easy recipe would turn into one of our most-loved routines.
These chews are now a regular in our kitchen, and every batch still brings the same quiet joy for both of us.
Why I Chose to Start Making Dog Treats at Home
Like many dog owners, I used to rely on store-bought treats, trusting labels that promised “natural” or “healthy.” But after a few digestive upsets and more ingredient-label reading than I care to admit, I decided I wanted more control. I wanted to know exactly what Benji was eating and I wanted it to be made with care.
That curiosity led to experimenting with whole foods like oats, pumpkin, carrots, and bananas. Out of all those combinations, these Carrot & Banana Chews quickly rose to the top. They’re gentle, nourishing, and completely pup-approved.
Why Carrots and Bananas Are a Great Match for Dogs
This pairing isn’t just tasty it’s packed with benefits.
Carrots provide fiber, beta-carotene, and vitamin A, supporting eye health and digestion. Finely grated, they blend seamlessly into dough and are easy on sensitive stomachs.
Bananas add natural sweetness along with potassium, vitamin B6, and vitamin C. They also help bind the mixture, giving the chews a soft, tender texture without the need for added sugar.
Together, they create a mildly sweet, moist chew that’s especially great for senior dogs or pups with dental sensitivities.
Ingredients You’ll Need
I keep this recipe intentionally simple. Here’s what goes into each batch:
- 1 ripe banana, mashed
- 1 cup finely grated carrot (about 2 medium carrots)
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1 egg
- 2 tablespoons ground flaxseed (optional)
- 1 tablespoon natural peanut butter
- 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce
Important: Always check that your peanut butter is xylitol-free, as xylitol is toxic to dogs.
How to Make Carrot & Banana Chews
1. Prep the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
2. Combine the Wet Ingredients
Mash the banana until smooth, then mix in the egg, peanut butter, and applesauce until fully combined.
3. Add the Dry Ingredients
Stir in the oats, grated carrot, and flaxseed. Let the mixture rest for 5–10 minutes so the oats can absorb moisture.
4. Shape the Chews
Scoop small portions and roll into balls, then gently flatten into discs about ¼-inch thick.
5. Bake
Bake for 20–25 minutes, until the edges turn lightly golden. For extra crunch, add another 5 minutes.
6. Cool and Store
Allow the chews to cool completely before serving.
Customizing Texture and Flavor
Every dog has preferences. For softer chews, bake a little less and keep them slightly thicker. For crunchier treats, flatten them more and extend baking time.
You can also experiment with dog-safe add-ins like blueberries, chia seeds, or a pinch of cinnamon. Just keep quantities moderate.
Great for Dogs with Allergies or Sensitivities
This recipe is easy to adapt:
- Swap oats for quinoa flakes or coconut flour if needed
- Replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tbsp flaxseed + 3 tbsp water)
- Skip peanut butter if allergies are a concern
No dairy, no wheat, and no added sugar just gentle, wholesome ingredients.
A Small Ritual That Means Everything
Baking these chews became more than meal prep it became a moment of connection. Even on busy days, taking time to make something just for Benji reminds me why homemade treats matter. That look of trust when I open the container? That’s the real reward.
These chews have also become my go-to homemade gift for fellow dog lovers—packaged in jars, shared at the park, or given as a welcome treat to new puppies.
Storage and Shelf Life
- Room temperature: 2–3 days in an airtight container
- Refrigerator: Up to 7 days
- Freezer: Up to 2 months
I like freezing them in small portions so they’re always ready to grab.
Kid-Friendly and Training-Friendly
This recipe is perfect for baking with kids no mixers, no sharp tools, just hands-on fun. The chews also work wonderfully for training. Cut them smaller before baking and you’ll have soft, quick-to-chew rewards that keep dogs focused and happy.
Easy Ingredient Swaps
If bananas aren’t a hit, try:
- Pumpkin puree
- Mashed sweet potato
- Extra applesauce
If carrots aren’t popular:
- Grated zucchini
- Shredded apple
- Mashed butternut squash
A Treat Made with Love
At the end of the day, these Carrot & Banana Chews are more than a snack. They’re a small, everyday way to say “I love you” to the dog who gives you everything. Whether it’s a training win, a tough day, or just because it’s always the right moment for a homemade treat.
I hope these chews become a favorite in your kitchen, too. Give your pup an extra one from us today 🐾
Easy Carrot & Banana Dog Chews
There’s a special kind of comfort that comes from baking treats for your dog especially when the ingredients are simple, real, and good enough to recognize at a glance. The first time I baked these Carrot & Banana Chews, my dog Benji planted himself right in front of the oven, nose working overtime, tail tapping softly against the floor. I didn’t realize then that such an easy recipe would turn into one of our most-loved routines.
These chews are now a regular in our kitchen, and every batch still brings the same quiet joy for both of us.
Ingredients
- 1 ripe banana, mashed
- 1 cup finely grated carrot (about 2 medium carrots)
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1 egg
- 2 tablespoons ground flaxseed (optional)
- 1 tablespoon natural peanut butter
- 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce
Instructions
1. Prep the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
2. Combine the Wet Ingredients
Mash the banana until smooth, then mix in the egg, peanut butter, and applesauce until fully combined.
3. Add the Dry Ingredients
Stir in the oats, grated carrot, and flaxseed. Let the mixture rest for 5–10 minutes so the oats can absorb moisture.
4. Shape the Chews
Scoop small portions and roll into balls, then gently flatten into discs about ¼-inch thick.
5. Bake
Bake for 20–25 minutes, until the edges turn lightly golden. For extra crunch, add another 5 minutes.
6. Cool and Store
Allow the chews to cool completely before serving.
Notes
- For extra crunch, extend the baking time by about 5 minutes.
Keep treats fresh by storing them in the refrigerator for up to 7 days, or freeze for up to 2 months. - If bananas aren’t suitable, swap them with mashed pumpkin or sweet potato.
Shape smaller bites for perfect, bite-sized training rewards.
Always use natural peanut butter that contains no xylitol, as it’s toxic to dogs.
Nutrition Information:
Yield: 24 Serving Size: 1 chewAmount Per Serving: Calories: 45Total Fat: 1.5gSaturated Fat: 0.3gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 1.2gCholesterol: 7mgSodium: 5mgCarbohydrates: 6gFiber: 1gSugar: 1gProtein: 1g