Dogs deserve tasty treats that are both delicious and nutritious. That’s why homemade dog pancakes are a fantastic choice!
These pancakes are simple to make, full of wholesome ingredients, and can easily become your dog’s new favorite snack.
By following the recipe, you’ll not only be spoiling your dog with a yummy treat, but you’ll also be giving them a special snack that’s safe and healthy.
Benefits of Homemade Dog Pancakes
Making your own dog pancakes offers several benefits. First, you get to control all the ingredients, ensuring there are no harmful additives or preservatives that can often be found in store-bought treats.
You can cater the recipe to your dog’s specific dietary needs, whether that means making a gluten-free, grain-free, or low-fat option.
Plus, it’s an affordable way to treat your dog with something fresh and wholesome. When you see the joy on your dog’s face as they devour a pancake you made just for them, you’ll feel even better knowing you’ve given them something both safe and tasty.
Homemade Dog Pancakes Recipe
Prep Time & Cook Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
Tools Needed
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring spoons and cups
- Spoon or whisk for mixing
- Non-stick skillet or frying pan
- Spatula
- Plate for serving
Ingredients Needed
- 1 cup whole wheat flour (or gluten-free flour if needed)
- 1/4 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth or water
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil (optional)
- 1/4 cup mashed banana (or pumpkin puree)
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
How to Make Homemade Dog Pancakes Step by Step
- Prepare the ingredients: Start by gathering all your ingredients and measuring them out. In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, oats, and baking powder. You can use whole wheat flour, but if your dog has a gluten sensitivity, you can opt for a gluten-free flour mix instead.
- Add wet ingredients: In the same bowl, add the egg, chicken broth (or water), mashed banana (or pumpkin puree), and coconut oil. Coconut oil helps keep the pancakes moist and adds a bit of flavor that dogs love.
- Mix thoroughly: Stir the ingredients together until the batter is smooth. Make sure there are no lumps. The consistency should be similar to pancake batter, not too thick and not too runny. If the batter seems too thick, you can add a bit more chicken broth or water.
- Heat the skillet: Place your non-stick skillet or frying pan over medium heat and lightly grease it with a small amount of coconut oil or cooking spray. Let the pan heat up for a couple of minutes.
- Cook the pancakes: Using a spoon, drop small portions of the batter into the skillet, about 2-3 tablespoons each. Gently press them down with the back of the spoon to form small, thick pancake shapes.
- Flip the pancakes: Cook the pancakes for 2-3 minutes on the first side, until bubbles start to form. Flip the pancakes and cook for another 1-2 minutes on the other side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
- Cool and serve: Once the pancakes are cooked, remove them from the skillet and let them cool down to room temperature before serving them to your dog. This prevents them from burning their mouths.
Feeding Size
The serving size will vary depending on the size and breed of your dog. For small dogs, one small pancake is usually enough, while larger dogs may be able to enjoy two or three. Remember, pancakes should be an occasional treat, not a meal replacement.
Storage Tips
Store any leftover pancakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can last up to 3-4 days. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them. Just make sure to store them in a freezer-safe bag or container. When you’re ready to serve them again, simply thaw them or warm them up in the microwave for a few seconds.
Nutrition Values Estimated
Nutrient | Amount per Pancake |
Calories | 75-90 kcal |
Protein | 2-3 g |
Fat | 3-4 g |
Carbohydrates | 10-12 g |
Fiber | 1 g |
Safety Precautions for This Recipe
While homemade dog pancakes are safe for most dogs, there are some important safety considerations to keep in mind:
- Eggs: Ensure that the egg is fully cooked before feeding your dog. Raw eggs can carry the risk of salmonella, which can make both you and your dog sick.
- Allergies: Some dogs may have allergies to wheat, oats, or even eggs. If you know your dog has food sensitivities, make substitutions as needed. For example, you can replace wheat flour with rice flour or use a dairy-free alternative to yogurt or broth.
- Portion Size: Don’t overfeed your dog. Even healthy treats should be given in moderation. If you’re introducing a new ingredient to your dog, start with small portions and monitor for any allergic reactions.
Ingredients to Avoid for This Recipe
When making dog treats, it’s crucial to avoid ingredients that can be harmful to your pet. Here are some ingredients that should never be used in your dog pancake recipe:
- Chocolate: Chocolate contains theobromine, which is toxic to dogs.
- Xylitol: This sugar substitute is highly toxic to dogs and can lead to low blood sugar, seizures, and liver failure.
- Raisins or Grapes: These can cause kidney failure in dogs, so avoid them at all costs.
- Nutmeg: While often used in baking for humans, nutmeg is toxic to dogs and can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and seizures.
- Dairy Products: Many dogs are lactose intolerant, so it’s best to avoid using milk, cheese, or yogurt in their treats unless you’re sure they can tolerate it.
Can I make this recipe for dogs with allergies?
Yes! You can adjust the recipe based on your dog’s allergies. If your dog is sensitive to gluten, simply replace the whole wheat flour with a gluten-free flour mix. You can also substitute pumpkin puree for the banana if your dog doesn’t tolerate it well.
How often can I feed my dog these pancakes?
These pancakes should be considered a treat, not a regular part of your dog’s diet. You can offer them once or twice a week, depending on your dog’s size, age, and overall diet. Always remember to factor in the calories from the treat when considering your dog’s daily intake.
Can I freeze these pancakes?
Absolutely! If you make a batch of pancakes and your dog isn’t able to eat them all right away, freezing them is a great option. Just make sure they are completely cooled before placing them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
Can I add other flavors to these pancakes?
Yes! You can experiment with different ingredients to make the pancakes even more fun. Try adding finely chopped apples, blueberries, or sweet potato puree to the batter. Just make sure that all the ingredients you add are safe for dogs.
Can I use other types of flour for the pancakes?
Yes, you can use different types of flour such as rice flour, oat flour, or coconut flour if your dog has a sensitivity to wheat. Just keep in mind that the texture may vary slightly depending on the flour you use.
Final Thoughts
Homemade dog pancakes are an excellent way to show your dog how much you care while providing them with a healthy and tasty treat.
They’re easy to make, customizable to your dog’s dietary needs, and free from harmful preservatives. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply spoiling your dog, these pancakes are sure to put a wag in their tail!
Give the recipe a try, and see how your dog reacts, you may just find that they’re hooked on homemade treats.