If you’re looking for a simple, nutritious treat for your dog, look no further than these 3 Ingredient Dog Treats with Peanut Butter and Oats! Packed with wholesome ingredients, this recipe is easy to make, and your dog will love the delicious taste.
In this article, I’ll walk you through the benefits of this recipe, give you step-by-step instructions, and offer tips to make sure your dog is enjoying a safe and healthy treat.
Why Make Homemade Dog Treats?
Making your own dog treats at home gives you complete control over what your pet is consuming. Unlike store-bought treats, which can often be full of artificial additives and preservatives, homemade treats are free from harmful chemicals and are packed with wholesome ingredients.
This particular recipe uses just three ingredients, all of which are safe and nutritious for your dog. By making these treats yourself, you can ensure that you’re giving your dog a healthier, more natural snack.
Plus, it’s easy to make and will save you money in the long run!
How to Make 3 Ingredient Dog Treats with Peanut Butter and Oats
This recipe uses only three simple ingredients oats, peanut butter, and banana. Making it quick to prepare and perfect for any occasion.
Prep & Cook Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
Tools Needed
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Mixing bowl
- Fork
Ingredients Needed
- 1 cup old-fashioned oats
- ½ cup natural peanut butter (xylitol-free)
- 1 ripe banana
Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Before starting, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures the oven is at the right temperature for baking the treats.
Step 2: Mash the Banana
Peel your ripe banana and place it in a mixing bowl. Use a fork to mash it until it’s smooth. Bananas act as a natural binder, making it easier to form the treats while adding a subtle sweetness to them.
Step 3: Add Peanut Butter and Oats
To the mashed banana, add ½ cup of natural peanut butter and 1 cup of old-fashioned oats. Mix everything together using the fork until well combined. You should get a dough-like consistency. The oats will provide fiber and texture, while the peanut butter will give your dog the protein and healthy fats they need.
Step 4: Shape the Treats
Now, it’s time to shape your treats. You can roll the mixture into small balls or use a cookie cutter to create fun shapes such as bones or hearts.
If you don’t have a cookie cutter, just use your hands to form small dough balls. Then, flatten each piece with a fork to create a classic cookie shape. If you’re using a fork, be sure to press down gently so the treat maintains its structure while baking.
Step 5: Place on the Baking Sheet
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent the treats from sticking. Arrange the shaped treats on the sheet, leaving a little space between them to allow for even baking.
Step 6: Bake the Treats
Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 10-12 minutes. Keep an eye on the treats as they bake. Once they turn golden brown and firm up, they’re ready to be taken out of the oven.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
Allow the treats to cool completely on a wire rack before serving them to your dog. This helps the treats harden and cool down to a safe temperature. Once they’re cool, store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week or refrigerate them for up to two weeks.
Nutritional Value Estimated
Here’s an estimated breakdown of the nutritional value for each treat:
| Nutrient | Amount per Treat |
| Calories | 50 |
| Protein | 2g |
| Fat | 2g |
| Carbohydrates | 6g |
| Fiber | 1g |
These treats provide a balance of macronutrients that are important for your dog’s health. They’re also low in calories, making them a great option for dogs that need to maintain a healthy weight.
Why This Recipe is Healthy for Your Dog
This recipe is packed with ingredients that provide nutritional benefits to your dog. Let’s break down each of the three main ingredients and discuss why they are good for your pup.
Oats
Oats are a fantastic source of fiber, which helps to regulate your dog’s digestion and keep their bowel movements regular. Fiber also aids in weight management by helping your dog feel full longer, which can prevent overeating. Oats are also rich in vitamins and minerals, such as manganese and iron, that support overall health.
Peanut Butter
Peanut butter is a favorite of many dogs, and it provides a range of health benefits. It’s high in protein, which supports muscle development and repair. Peanut butter also contains healthy fats that provide energy and contribute to healthy skin and a shiny coat. However, always use unsweetened, xylitol-free peanut butter, as xylitol is toxic to dogs.
Banana
Bananas are rich in potassium, which is essential for proper muscle function and heart health. They also contain vitamin B6, which helps maintain healthy brain function and energy metabolism. Bananas are a great natural sweetener, providing your dog with a tasty treat without added sugar or artificial sweeteners.
Safety Precautions for This Recipe
While these treats are healthy, there are some safety precautions you should keep in mind:
- Peanut Butter: Make sure to use unsweetened, xylitol-free peanut butter. Xylitol is a toxic sweetener that can cause a dangerous drop in blood sugar and liver failure in dogs. Always check the ingredient list to ensure it is safe.
- Bananas: Bananas are safe for most dogs, but like all treats, they should be fed in moderation. Too much banana can cause an upset stomach due to its high sugar content. Stick to the recommended portion size.
- Portion Control: Even though these treats are healthy, it’s essential to give them in moderation. Dogs have different nutritional needs based on their size and activity level. Generally, it’s safe to give 1-2 treats per day, but you may need to adjust based on your dog’s size and weight.
Ingredients to Avoid for This Recipe (and Others)
While preparing homemade treats, it’s important to avoid certain ingredients that are harmful to dogs. Here’s a list of ingredients you should never include in dog treats:
- Xylitol: This artificial sweetener is highly toxic to dogs, even in small amounts. It can cause rapid insulin release, leading to hypoglycemia, seizures, or liver failure.
- Chocolate: Chocolate contains theobromine, which is toxic to dogs and can cause vomiting, diarrhea, seizures, and even death.
- Grapes and Raisins: These can cause kidney failure in dogs and should always be avoided.
- Onions and Garlic: Both of these can damage red blood cells and cause anemia in dogs.
Always double-check ingredient labels, and when in doubt, avoid potentially harmful foods in your dog’s treats.
How Should Healthy Dog Treats Be Made?
Healthy dog treats should be made using whole, natural ingredients that provide essential nutrients for your dog’s overall health. When making dog treats, focus on ingredients that offer:
- High-quality protein sources such as chicken, turkey, or peanut butter
- Digestive aids like oats, sweet potatoes, and pumpkin
- Healthy fats from fish oils, flaxseeds, and peanut butter
- Vitamins and minerals from fruits and vegetables like carrots, bananas, and blueberries
The treats should be free from additives, preservatives, and artificial sweeteners, and they should focus on providing a balanced mix of protein, fiber, healthy fats, and nutrients.
Can I use almond butter instead of peanut butter?
Yes, almond butter can be used as a substitute for peanut butter. Just make sure that it is unsweetened and xylitol-free.
How many treats can I give my dog?
It’s best to give 1-2 treats per day, depending on the size of your dog. Smaller dogs should receive fewer treats, while larger dogs may enjoy more.
How long will these treats last?
These treats can last for up to one week when stored in an airtight container at room temperature. You can refrigerate them for up to two weeks.
Can I freeze these treats?
Yes, you can freeze these treats for up to three months. Simply store them in a freezer-safe container or bag, and thaw them before serving.
Final Thoughts
These 3 Ingredient Dog Treats with Peanut Butter and Oats are a great way to treat your dog to something healthy and delicious.
Simple to make and packed with nutritional benefits, they’ll be a hit with your pup. So why not whip up a batch today and watch your dog’s tail wag with excitement?
Try this easy recipe and enjoy the benefits of homemade, nutritious dog treats!
