Every dog owner knows the joy of giving their furry friend a treat, but many store-bought snacks are loaded with preservatives, artificial flavors, or too much salt and sugar. That’s why this Homemade Banana and Peanut Butter Chew Stick Recipe for Dogs is the perfect solution. Simple, nutritious, and easy to prepare, these chewy sticks are not only delicious but also a healthier alternative to commercial pet snacks.
Making dog treats homemade means you know exactly what goes into them, and you can tailor recipes to your dog’s needs. Whether you’re spoiling your pup with cute dog treats homemade for fun, preparing healthy snacks for dogs, or even thinking about starting a small business with dog treats homemade to sell, this recipe is versatile, affordable, and rewarding.
If you’re already a fan of baking pet snacks, you may also enjoy other homemade comfort recipes like Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs or Vegetable Casserole for the humans in the family.
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Why Make Dog Treats Homemade Instead of Buying?
Pet parents are becoming more aware of the importance of nutrition for their four-legged family members. Store-bought treats may be convenient, but they can contain unnecessary fillers, dyes, and additives. By choosing dog homemade recipes, you control the quality, ensuring your dog gets a wholesome snack made with love.
Another benefit of making dogs treats homemade easy is cost savings. A handful of simple pantry ingredients can yield an entire batch of chew sticks for a fraction of what premium treats cost at the store. Plus, the act of preparing something yourself creates a bond between you and your pup.
Looking for inspiration? Try making Cottage Cheese Egg Salad or Vegetarian Pasta Primavera as human-friendly dishes while your pup enjoys their chew sticks.
Benefits of Banana and Peanut Butter for Dogs
This chew stick recipe isn’t just tasty; it’s packed with nutrients that support your dog’s overall well-being.
Nutritional Value of Bananas for Dogs
Bananas are naturally sweet and rich in potassium, vitamin C, and vitamin B6. These nutrients help regulate your dog’s heart health, digestion, and energy levels. Since bananas are low in calories and high in fiber, they are an excellent base for homemade dog treats for puppies and adult dogs alike.
Bananas also make a great base for sweet treats like Banana Zucchini Muffins or High Protein Banana Bread for people in the house.
Why Peanut Butter is a Favorite for Pet Treats
Peanut butter is a canine favorite. It provides protein, healthy fats, and vitamins like E and B. It also acts as a natural binding agent in dog treats homemade recipes easy, making it perfect for chewy sticks. Be sure to use an unsweetened peanut butter without xylitol, as xylitol is toxic to dogs.
For a human snack with peanut butter flair, you might love these Keto Peanut Butter Chocolate Fat Bombs.
Ingredients for Homemade Banana and Peanut Butter Chew Stick Recipe for Dogs
To make these home made puppy treats, you’ll need:
- 2 ripe bananas, mashed
- ½ cup natural peanut butter (unsweetened, xylitol-free)
- 1 ½ cups whole wheat flour (or oat flour for a gluten-free version)
- 1 egg (optional, for binding)
- 1 tablespoon rolled oats (for texture)
For more creative baking with wholesome ingredients, check out Cheesy Zucchini Bread or Pumpkin Twists.
Kitchen Tools You’ll Need for Making Dog Treats Homemade
- Mixing bowl
- Fork or potato masher (for bananas)
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper or silicone mat
- Rolling pin and knife (for shaping sticks)
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Homemade Dog Treats
Preparing the Ingredients
- Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C).
- Mash the bananas until smooth in a mixing bowl.
- Add the peanut butter and mix well until fully combined.
Mixing and Shaping the Chew Sticks
- Gradually stir in flour until a dough forms.
- Add the egg and oats if using. Mix until pliable.
- Roll out dough on a floured surface to about ½-inch thickness.
- Cut into stick shapes using a knife or pizza cutter.
Baking or Dehydrating the Dog Treats
- Place sticks on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Bake for 25–30 minutes until firm.
- For extra chewiness, lower oven temperature to 200°F (93°C) and bake another 30 minutes to dry them out.
- Cool completely before serving.
This same method of oven-drying can also be applied when preparing human snacks like Air Fryer Apple Chips for a crunchy, healthy bite.
Tips for Making Cute Dog Treats Homemade
- Use bone-shaped cookie cutters for festive designs.
- Add a sprinkle of oats on top for rustic charm.
- For birthdays, shape the dough into small hearts or stars.
These ideas work especially well if you’re making dog treats homemade to sell, since presentation matters just as much as taste. For inspiration, check out fun human party snacks like Snake Charmer’s Pretzels.
Variations for Puppies and Adult Dogs
Softer Chew Sticks for Homemade Dog Treats for Puppies
For teething puppies, bake for a shorter time to keep the sticks soft. You can also mix in a spoonful of pumpkin puree for added nutrients and flavor.
Pumpkin also makes a delicious seasonal snack—try Pumpkin Cheesecake Cookies for your own treat.
Crunchier Sticks for Active Dogs
For older dogs who love chewing, extend the drying process to create a crunchier snack. This helps keep their teeth clean and satisfies their chewing instincts.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Homemade Dog Treats
- Using peanut butter with xylitol – always check the label to avoid this dangerous ingredient.
- Overbaking – too much heat can make treats too hard for puppies or senior dogs.
- Skipping cooling time – warm treats can be too soft and fall apart, so let them firm up before storage.
Storing Your Homemade Banana and Peanut Butter Chew Sticks
- Room temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Refrigerator: Keeps fresh for up to 2 weeks.
- Freezer: Freeze in a zip-top bag for up to 3 months. Simply thaw before giving to your dog.
If you’re into batch prep, you might also like making Freezer Breakfast Sandwiches for humans alongside your dog treats.
Creative Packaging Ideas for Dog Treats Homemade to Sell
If you’re exploring the idea of turning this recipe into a small business, packaging can set your brand apart.
- Use eco-friendly brown paper bags with paw print stickers.
- Package small bundles with ribbon for gift sets.
- Add ingredient labels to show transparency and trust.
For more creative inspiration on presentation, look at how fun Halloween Snack Mix is styled for festive occasions.
Serving Ideas: When and How to Offer These Healthy Snacks for Dogs
These chew sticks can be given as:
- Rewards for training sessions
- Midday snacks to keep dogs satisfied
- A calming chew after a walk or playtime
And while your pup enjoys their snack, you can treat yourself to a refreshing Lavender Lemonade or cozy Slow Cooker Pumpkin Pie Oatmeal.
Frequently Asked Questions about Dog Treats Homemade Recipes Easy
Can I use other flours instead of whole wheat?
Yes, oat flour or rice flour are great alternatives for dogs with wheat sensitivities.
How do I make them softer for senior dogs?
Bake for less time and avoid the extra drying step. This keeps them chewy.
Is banana safe for dogs every day?
In moderation, yes. Too much banana can add excess sugar, so balance with other treats.
Can I add other flavors?
Absolutely. Pumpkin, sweet potato, or blueberries work well for variety in home made puppy treats.
For more creative ideas, explore this Fruit Dip for your own snacking table while your pup enjoys theirs.
Final Thoughts on Homemade Dog Treats
This Homemade Banana and Peanut Butter Chew Stick Recipe for Dogs proves that making your own treats is easy, affordable, and healthier than store-bought options. Whether you’re baking them for fun, preparing homemade dog treats for puppies, or even creating dog treats homemade to sell, these chewy snacks are a win for both you and your pup.
Homemade treats let you spoil your dog while giving them nutrition-packed snacks you can trust. And when you see their happy tail wags after tasting these chew sticks, you’ll know it’s worth every minute spent in the kitchen.
For another homemade treat idea, don’t miss this Crispy Smashed Potato Salad—a great dish for pet parents to enjoy.
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Wholesome & Easy Homemade Banana and Peanut Butter Chew Stick Recipe for Dogs
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 20–24 chew sticks 1x
Description
Spoil your pup with these Homemade Banana and Peanut Butter Chew Sticks—a healthy, easy, and dog-safe treat made with simple ingredients like ripe banana, natural peanut butter, and whole wheat flour. Perfect for puppies, senior dogs, and every four-legged friend in between, these chewy sticks are free from preservatives, customizable, and full of tail-wagging flavor.
Ingredients
- 1 ripe banana, mashed
- ½ cup unsweetened natural peanut butter (NO xylitol)
- 1 egg
- 2 cups whole wheat flour
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
- 2–4 tablespoons water (as needed for texture)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat to 325°F (165°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Mash Banana: In a large bowl, mash the ripe banana until smooth.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: Stir in the peanut butter and egg until combined.
- Form Dough: Gradually add flour and cinnamon. Add water 1 tablespoon at a time until a pliable dough forms.
- Shape Sticks: Roll out dough to ½-inch thickness. Cut into stick shapes or use cookie cutters.
- Bake: Place on baking sheet and bake for 25–30 minutes until golden and firm.
- Cool: Allow to cool completely before serving to your dog.
Notes
- Always use xylitol-free peanut butter, as xylitol is toxic to dogs.
- For senior dogs, bake for less time to keep sticks softer.
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for 5–7 days, in the fridge up to 2 weeks, or freeze up to 3 months.
- Add-ins like pumpkin purée, shredded carrots, or oat flour can make fun variations.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dog Treats
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: Homemade Pet Treats
Keywords: Homemade dog treats, banana peanut butter dog treats, chew stick recipe for dogs, puppy safe treats, healthy snacks for dogs
