Crispy Banana Chips for Dogs:
Homemade dog treats became part of my routine long before it was trendy. It started with my dog, Benji, who had a sensitive stomach and didn’t do well with commercial treats full of ingredients I couldn’t recognize. That led me back to my own kitchen and to the simple, dependable banana.
These crispy banana chips are one of the easiest and most wholesome snacks you can make for your pup. They’re naturally sweet, require almost no ingredients, and turn into crunchy little bites that dogs love. A touch of coconut oil and a sprinkle of cinnamon add gentle flavor and a nutritional boost, making this simple treat feel extra special.
Why Bananas Are a Great Treat for Dogs
Bananas provide potassium, fiber, vitamin C, and vitamin B6, making them a nutritious option for dogs when served in moderation. They’re also gentle on most digestive systems and offer natural sweetness without added sugar.
Just keep in mind that bananas do contain natural sugars, so treat portions should stay small especially for pups who are diabetic or prone to weight gain.
Choosing the Best Bananas
For crisp chips, choose bananas that are ripe but still firm. Avoid very soft or heavily speckled bananas the kind you’d save for banana bread as they will become mushy instead of drying properly. A bright yellow peel with just a few speckles is perfect.
Ingredients
- 2 firm ripe bananas
- 1 teaspoon coconut oil (optional – helps with crisping)
- ½ teaspoon Ceylon cinnamon (optional – gentle flavor and safer than cassia cinnamon)
Coconut oil adds a lovely hint of sweetness as it bakes, and Ceylon cinnamon provides a warm aroma many dogs enjoy.
Preparing the Banana Chips
- Peel and slice bananas into thin, even rounds about ⅛ inch thick. Thinner slices dry more evenly and become crispier.
- If using coconut oil, melt it lightly and brush a small amount onto each slice.
- Sprinkle a tiny amount of Ceylon cinnamon over the tops.
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat, then arrange the slices in a single, non-overlapping layer.
How to Make Banana Chips
Oven Method
- Preheat oven to 225°F (107°C).
- Bake for 1½–2 hours, flipping halfway through.
- The chips are done when they’re lightly golden and curled at the edges.
- Let them cool completely they become crispier as they cool.
Dehydrator Method
- Set dehydrator to 135°F (57°C).
- Dry for 6–8 hours, depending on slice thickness and humidity.
The oven gives the chips a slightly toastier flavor, while the dehydrator is great for longer storage and gentle drying.
Storage Tips
- Once fully cooled, store banana chips in an airtight container for 1–2 weeks.
- For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator.
- If they soften over time, simply pop them back into a low oven for a few minutes to crisp up again.
Serving Ideas
These chips are perfect for:
- Training treats (break into tiny pieces)
- Mid-day rewards
- Mix-ins with kibble
- Travel-friendly snacks
Dogs who love bananas might also enjoy soft Banana & Honey Biscuits or frozen banana based treats like pupsicles.
A Little Memory
The first time I made these, Benji sat by the oven the entire time, nose twitching as the warm scent filled the kitchen. When I offered him that first crisp chip, he perked up instantly and gave the most enthusiastic “sit” I’ve ever seen. Moments like that are what make homemade treats so rewarding.
Troubleshooting & Optional Add-Ins
If your chips turn out chewy:
- Slice thinner
- Bake a little longer
- Let them sit uncovered to finish drying
For extra nutrition or variety, try:
- A dusting of ground flaxseed
- Mixing banana slices with thin sweet potato rounds
- A drizzle of dog safe peanut butter after baking
Remember, even healthy treats should make up no more than 10% of your dog’s daily calories.
Scaling the Recipe
Make as many or as few as you like. One banana works perfectly for a quick, small batch just reduce the coconut oil and cinnamon to tiny amounts. Larger batches work beautifully in a dehydrator and keep well for weeks.
Final Thoughts
If you’re new to homemade dog treats, banana chips are a perfect starting point. They’re simple, safe, and incredibly satisfying to make. Most of all, they’re a wonderful way to add a personal touch to your dog’s snacks one crunchy, tail wagging bite at a time.
Homemade Banana Chip Treats for Dogs
These crispy banana chips are one of the easiest and most wholesome snacks you can make for your pup. They’re naturally sweet, require almost no ingredients, and turn into crunchy little bites that dogs love. A touch of coconut oil and a sprinkle of cinnamon add gentle flavor and a nutritional boost, making this simple treat feel extra special.
Ingredients
- 2 firm ripe bananas
- 1 teaspoon coconut oil (optional – helps with crisping)
- ½ teaspoon Ceylon cinnamon (optional – gentle flavor and safer than cassia cinnamon)
Instructions
- Peel and slice bananas into thin, even rounds about ⅛ inch thick. Thinner slices dry more evenly and become crispier.
- If using coconut oil, melt it lightly and brush a small amount onto each slice.
- Sprinkle a tiny amount of Ceylon cinnamon over the tops.
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat, then arrange the slices in a single, non-overlapping layer.
Notes
- Choose firm, ripe bananas to ensure the chips dry evenly and stay crisp.Keep finished chips in an airtight container; they’ll stay fresh for about 1–2 weeks at room temperature.
- If the chips lose their crunch, simply pop them back into a low oven for a few minutes to re-crisp.
- If adding cinnamon, stick to Ceylon cinnamon, which is the safer option for dogs.
- Remember to serve banana treats in moderation, as bananas are naturally high in sugar.
Nutrition Information:
Yield: 24 Serving Size: 10–12 chipsAmount Per Serving: Calories: 35Total Fat: 0gSaturated Fat: 0.8gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 0.2gCholesterol: 0mgSodium: 0mgCarbohydrates: 8gFiber: 1gSugar: 4gProtein: 0.3g