Some flavor combinations are simply timeless and banana and peanut butter is one of them. Dogs absolutely love the natural sweetness of ripe bananas paired with the rich, nutty taste of peanut butter. When baked into soft, homemade treats, this duo becomes an irresistible snack that’s both nutritious and comforting.
These Banana Peanut Butter Dog Treats are easy to make, require only a few pantry staples, and are perfect for dogs of all ages. They’re especially great for dogs who prefer softer treats, puppies learning new commands, or senior dogs who need something gentle on their teeth.
If you’re looking for a homemade dog treat that feels indulgent but is still healthy and safe, this recipe is a must-try.
Why Banana Is a Great Ingredient for Dogs
Bananas are more than just a tasty fruit they’re packed with nutrients that can benefit your dog when served in moderation.
Benefits of Bananas for Dogs
- Rich in potassium for heart and muscle health
- Contain vitamin B6 and vitamin C
- Provide natural sweetness without added sugar
- Easy to digest and gentle on the stomach
Because bananas are naturally soft, they blend beautifully into dough and help create tender, moist treats.
Is Peanut Butter Safe for Dogs?
Yes—peanut butter is safe for dogs, as long as it’s the right kind.
Peanut Butter Safety Tips
- Always choose natural, unsweetened peanut butter
- Never use peanut butter with xylitol, which is toxic to dogs
- Avoid added salt, sugar, or artificial flavors
Benefits of Peanut Butter for Dogs
- Healthy fats for skin and coat
- Protein for muscle support
- A taste dogs find incredibly rewarding
In this recipe, peanut butter also helps bind the dough and enhances flavor without the need for additives.
Why Homemade Banana Peanut Butter Treats Are Better
Store-bought banana or peanut butter dog treats often contain preservatives, fillers, or added sugars. Making them at home gives you full control over what your dog eats.
Homemade treats allow you to:
- Use real, recognizable ingredients
- Adjust texture for puppies or senior dogs
- Avoid artificial additives
- Bake fresh batches whenever needed
Plus, the smell of banana and peanut butter baking is guaranteed to bring your dog running into the kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe uses simple, dog-safe ingredients you may already have at home.
Main Ingredients
- 1 ripe banana, mashed
- ½ cup natural peanut butter (xylitol-free)
- 1 egg
- 1½ cups oat flour (or finely ground rolled oats)
- 2–4 tablespoons water (as needed)
Optional Add-Ins (Dog-Safe)
- 1 tablespoon ground flaxseed (for coat health)
- 1 tablespoon unsweetened applesauce
- 1 tablespoon pumpkin purée
💡 The riper the banana, the sweeter and more flavorful the treats no added sugar needed.
Equipment Needed
- Mixing bowl
- Fork or potato masher
- Spoon or spatula
- Rolling pin (optional)
- Baking tray
- Parchment paper
- Oven
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking tray with parchment paper and set it aside.
Step 2: Mash the Banana
In a mixing bowl, mash the ripe banana until smooth. A few small lumps are fine, but aim for a mostly creamy consistency.
Step 3: Add Peanut Butter and Egg
Add the peanut butter and egg to the mashed banana. Stir until fully combined and smooth. The mixture should look thick and creamy.
Step 4: Mix in the Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the oat flour to the wet mixture, stirring until a dough forms. If the dough feels too dry, add water one tablespoon at a time until it becomes soft but not sticky.
The dough should be easy to handle and slightly moist.
Step 5: Shape the Treats
You have two easy options:
- Roll small balls of dough and gently flatten them
- Roll the dough out to about ¼-inch thickness and cut into shapes
Place the treats onto the prepared baking tray, leaving a little space between each.
Step 6: Bake Until Set
Bake for 15–20 minutes, depending on the size and thickness of your treats.
- For softer treats: remove closer to 15 minutes
- For firmer treats: bake closer to 20 minutes
The treats should be lightly golden and set but not overly hard.
Step 7: Cool Completely
Remove the treats from the oven and allow them to cool fully on a wire rack. They will firm up slightly as they cool.
Never give warm treats to your dog.
Serving Size Guide
Even healthy treats should be fed in moderation.
- Small dogs: 1–2 small treats per day
- Medium dogs: 2–3 treats per day
- Large dogs: 3–4 treats per day
Treats should make up no more than 10% of your dog’s daily calorie intake.
Storage Tips
Because these treats are softer, storage matters.
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator
- Keeps fresh for 7–10 days
- Freeze for up to 3 months
To freeze, place treats in a freezer-safe bag and thaw as needed.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- ❌ Using peanut butter with xylitol
- ❌ Adding sugar, salt, or honey
- ❌ Overbaking until treats become dry
- ❌ Feeding too many treats at once
Are Banana Peanut Butter Treats Safe for Puppies?
Yes! These treats are often puppy favorites because they’re:
- Soft and easy to chew
- Naturally sweet
- Made with gentle ingredients
Break treats into small pieces and introduce slowly, especially for younger puppies.
Easy Variations to Try
Once your dog loves this recipe, try these simple twists:
- Banana Pumpkin Treats: Add pumpkin purée
- Banana Oat Bites: Skip rolling and drop spoonfuls of dough
- Frozen Banana Peanut Butter Bites: Skip baking and freeze small portions instead
These variations help keep treat time exciting while staying dog-safe.
Final Thoughts
These Banana Peanut Butter Dog Treats are soft, flavorful, and incredibly easy to make. They’re perfect for training sessions, special rewards, or just because your dog deserves something homemade and healthy.
Once you bake a batch, don’t be surprised if your dog sits patiently by the oven, nose in the air, waiting for that first taste. 🍌🐕
Also read on Sweet Potato Dog Cookies
