If you’re looking for an easy and healthy homemade treat for your dog, this 3 Ingredient Dog Treats Banana recipe is just what you need. Not only are these treats simple to make, but they are also packed with nutrients that will keep your dog healthy and happy.
This recipe uses just three ingredients that are safe and beneficial for your pet, making it a perfect option for regular snacking.
In this article, I’ll walk you through how to make these treats, the health benefits of the ingredients, and essential safety precautions to consider. So, let’s dive right in!
Why You Should Make These Banana Dog Treats
There are several reasons why this 3-ingredient banana dog treat recipe is an excellent choice for your furry friend:
- Minimal Ingredients: Made from simple, natural ingredients, these treats are easy to prepare and don’t contain any hidden additives or preservatives.
- Packed with Nutrients: Each ingredient brings its own health benefits, including heart health support, energy, and digestive health.
- Perfect for All Dog Sizes: You can easily adjust the size of the treats to suit your dog’s needs, making them perfect for all breeds and sizes.
These dog treats can become a regular part of your pet’s diet, helping to provide them with wholesome snacks that support their overall health.
3-Ingredient Dog Treats Banana Recipe
Prep & Cook Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
Tools Needed
- Mixing bowl
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper (optional, but recommended)
- Measuring cups and spoons
Ingredients Needed
- 1 ripe banana
- 1/2 cup natural peanut butter (ensure it’s xylitol-free)
- 1 cup old-fashioned oats
How to make: Step by Step
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure it’s hot and ready to bake the treats.
- Mash the Banana: In a mixing bowl, peel and mash the ripe banana with a fork until smooth. A ripe banana will work best as it’s soft and easier to mash.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the natural peanut butter and oats to the mashed banana. Stir everything together until you get a thick, dough-like consistency. If the mixture feels too dry, you can add a little more banana or a splash of water.
- Shape the Treats: Scoop spoonfuls of the mixture and roll or shape them into small balls, or flatten them into discs. You can use your hands or a cookie cutter to make fun shapes for your dog.
- Bake: Place the shaped treats onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake in the oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the treats are lightly golden and firm to the touch.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the treats to cool completely on a wire rack before serving them to your dog. This step is crucial, as hot treats can burn your dog’s mouth.
Feeding Size
- These treats are intended to be a snack, not a full meal. Adjust the portion size based on your dog’s weight and dietary needs. For small dogs, break the treats into smaller pieces. For larger dogs, you can serve them as is.
Storage Tips
- Store the cooled treats in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze the treats. Just place them in a freezer-safe bag or container, and they will last for up to 3 months.
Nutritional Value Estimated
Here’s an estimated breakdown of the nutritional value of each treat:
| Nutrient | Amount per Treat |
| Calories | 45 |
| Protein | 2g |
| Fat | 2g |
| Carbohydrates | 6g |
| Fiber | 1g |
How These Ingredients Benefit Your Dog
- Banana: This tropical fruit is not only tasty, but it’s also packed with essential nutrients like potassium, vitamin B6, and vitamin C. These nutrients help maintain healthy heart function, support muscle development, and boost the immune system. The fiber in bananas also promotes digestion and regular bowel movements.
- Natural Peanut Butter: A great source of protein and healthy fats, peanut butter helps provide energy and supports your dog’s muscle health. It also contains vitamin E, which contributes to healthy skin and a shiny coat. It’s important to ensure the peanut butter is xylitol-free as xylitol is toxic to dogs and can lead to severe health issues.
- Old-Fashioned Oats: Oats are a fantastic source of soluble fiber, which helps regulate digestion and maintain healthy blood sugar levels. The fiber also supports a feeling of fullness, making these treats great for dogs with sensitive stomachs or those on a weight-management plan. Oats are also rich in essential vitamins and minerals, like iron and magnesium.
Each of these ingredients brings valuable nutrients that contribute to your dog’s overall health. Together, they make a wholesome, delicious treat that you can feel good about giving your pet.
Safety Precautions for this Recipe
While this 3-ingredient treat recipe is generally safe for most dogs, there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure your dog’s safety:
- Check for Allergies: Make sure your dog is not allergic to any of the ingredients. For example, some dogs may be allergic to peanuts. If you’re unsure, consult your veterinarian before introducing a new treat.
- Watch the Portion Size: Although these treats are healthy, they should still be given in moderation. Overfeeding can lead to obesity or digestive upset. Adjust portion sizes based on your dog’s size and dietary needs.
- Always Use Xylitol-Free Peanut Butter: As mentioned, xylitol is extremely toxic to dogs, even in small amounts. Be sure to read labels carefully when purchasing peanut butter. Never use any peanut butter that contains xylitol, which is often found in sugar-free varieties.
- Keep Treats Cool: Always allow the treats to cool completely before offering them to your dog. Hot treats can burn their mouths.
By following these precautions, you can ensure that your dog enjoys these treats safely and healthily.
Ingredients to Avoid for This Exact Recipe & Any Other Dog Treat Recipe
While this recipe is simple and safe, there are several ingredients you should avoid when making homemade dog treats in general:
- Xylitol: A sugar substitute commonly found in sugar-free products like peanut butter, gum, and baked goods. Xylitol is extremely toxic to dogs and can cause low blood sugar, seizures, and liver failure.
- Chocolate: Even small amounts of chocolate can be deadly to dogs. It contains theobromine, which dogs cannot metabolize.
- Grapes and Raisins: These can cause kidney failure in dogs, even in small amounts.
- Onions and Garlic: Both of these common kitchen ingredients can be harmful to dogs and cause digestive issues or damage red blood cells.
- Nuts (except peanuts): Some nuts, like macadamia nuts, are toxic to dogs and should be avoided.
Always double-check the ingredients you’re using and make sure they’re safe for dogs. When in doubt, consult your veterinarian.
How Healthy Dog Treats Should Be Made & The Nutrients They Should Have
Healthy dog treats should be made from simple, natural ingredients that provide nutritional benefits without unnecessary additives. Here are some key considerations when making healthy dog treats:
- Protein: A good dog treat should contain an adequate amount of protein to support muscle growth and energy. Ingredients like peanut butter, chicken, or eggs are great sources.
- Healthy Fats: Omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids are essential for your dog’s coat and skin health. Healthy fats can be found in ingredients like fish oil or natural peanut butter.
- Fiber: Fiber is crucial for healthy digestion. Look for ingredients like oats, sweet potatoes, or pumpkin that provide fiber to help regulate bowel movements.
- Vitamins and Minerals: Vitamins like A, C, and E, along with minerals like potassium and magnesium, support a dog’s immune system and overall health. Fruits and vegetables like carrots, blueberries, and spinach can offer these nutrients.
- Low Sugar & Salt: Avoid using ingredients with high amounts of added sugar or salt. Dogs don’t need extra sugar in their diet, and excess salt can lead to dehydration or kidney problems.
Can I make these treats in bulk and freeze them?
Yes, these treats can be frozen! Just store them in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag, and they’ll last up to 3 months.
How can I adjust the recipe for a dog with food allergies?
If your dog has a peanut allergy, you can substitute the peanut butter with a safe alternative like sunflower seed butter, as long as it’s xylitol-free.
Can I use instant oats instead of old-fashioned oats?
While old-fashioned oats are the best option, you can use instant oats if you don’t have them. Just be aware that the texture of the treats may vary.
Final Thoughts
These 3 Ingredient Dog Treats Banana are an easy, nutritious, and tasty way to spoil your dog. With simple ingredients and a straightforward recipe, your dog will be wagging its tail for more.
Always remember to store the treats properly and feed them in moderation. Try making this recipe for your dog today and watch them enjoy the wholesome, homemade goodness!
