Name: Homemade Dog Treats With Peanut Butter - Simple, Tasty, and Pup-Approved
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 cup natural peanut butter (unsalted, xylitol-free); 1 cup pumpkin puree (plain, not pie filling) or unsweetened applesauce; 2 large eggs; 2 to 2½ cups whole wheat flour (or oat flour for a gentler option); 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional); Water as needed to adjust dough

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Peanut butter is a crowd-pleaser for most dogs, and making treats at home lets you control exactly what goes into your pup’s snacks. These homemade dog treats are easy, budget-friendly, and come together with pantry staples. The dough rolls out smoothly, cuts cleanly, and bakes into crunchy biscuits most dogs love.

They smell great, too—just try keeping your dog out of the kitchen while they cool. If you’re looking for a wholesome, no-fuss recipe, this one’s a solid pick.

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What Makes This Special

Overhead shot of freshly baked peanut butter dog biscuits on a parchment-lined baking sheet, evenly

These treats use simple, recognizable ingredients you likely already have. There are no mystery additives, and you can customize the texture and flavor to suit your dog.

The recipe is flexible, so you can swap flours or add mix-ins like pumpkin or banana. It’s also beginner-friendly—no fancy equipment needed, just a bowl, a spoon, and a baking sheet.

Shopping List

1 cup natural peanut butter (unsalted, xylitol-free)
1 cup pumpkin puree (plain, not pie filling) or unsweetened applesauce
2 large eggs
2 to 2½ cups whole wheat flour (or oat flour for a gentler option)
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
Water as needed to adjust dough

How to Make It

Close-up detail of bite-size training treats being cut from a rolled 1/4-inch sheet of baked-and-coo

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Mix the wet ingredients. In a large bowl, stir together peanut butter, pumpkin (or applesauce), and eggs until smooth.
Add dry ingredients. Sprinkle in 2 cups of flour and the cinnamon.
Stir until a soft dough forms. If sticky, add more flour 1 tablespoon at a time. If too dry, add 1–2 teaspoons of water.
Roll the dough. Lightly flour your surface and roll the dough to about 1/4-inch thickness.
Cut shapes. Use cookie cutters or slice into small squares.
Aim for bite-size pieces for easier portioning.
Bake. Place on the prepared sheet and bake for 18–22 minutes, until firm and lightly golden at the edges.
Cool completely. Let the treats cool on the pan for 5 minutes, then move to a rack to cool fully before serving.
For extra crunch (optional): Turn off the oven and let the treats sit inside for 20–30 minutes with the door cracked.

Keeping It Fresh

Store fully cooled treats in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to 2 weeks. Freeze for up to 3 months in a zip-top bag; thaw a few at a time as needed. If treats soften, re-crisp them in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 5–7 minutes.

Benefits of This Recipe

Simple ingredients: You’re in control of quality and additives.
High-value training bites: Dogs find peanut butter irresistible, so these work well as rewards when cut small.
Budget-friendly: One batch makes plenty of treats without the price tag of premium store options.
Customizable: Easy to adjust for texture, flavor, and dietary needs.

Pitfalls to Watch Out For

Xylitol alert: Some peanut butters contain xylitol, which is toxic to dogs.
Read labels carefully.
Added sugars and salts: Choose unsweetened, unsalted peanut butter.
Overbaking: Dark edges can taste bitter and be too hard for smaller or older dogs.
Portion size: Treats should be no more than 10% of your dog’s daily calories.
Allergies and sensitivities: If your dog reacts to wheat, use oat or rice flour.

Recipe Variations

Banana Boost: Swap half the pumpkin for 1 mashed ripe banana for a slightly sweeter biscuit.
Oat Lover’s: Use 100% oat flour for a gentler option and a more tender bite.
Cheesy Nibble: Add 1/4 cup finely shredded low-fat cheddar for extra aroma.
Mini Training Treats: Roll the dough thinner (1/8 inch) and cut into pea-sized squares; reduce bake time by 3–5 minutes.
Soft Snacks: Bake 12–14 minutes for a softer texture; store in the fridge.

FAQ

Is peanut butter safe for dogs?

Yes, in moderation. Make sure it’s unsalted, unsweetened, and xylitol-free. Always read the label.

Can I use almond or other nut butters?

Almond butter is usually okay in small amounts, but avoid macadamia nut products.

Stick to peanut butter if you’re unsure, and consult your vet for dogs with sensitivities.

What if I don’t have whole wheat flour?

Oat flour works well and is gentle on many stomachs. You can also use a 50/50 mix of oat and all-purpose flour for easier handling.

How many treats can my dog have?

As a guideline, keep treats to under 10% of daily calories. For small dogs, 1–2 small treats a day; for larger dogs, 2–4, depending on size and activity.

Can I make these grain-free?

Yes.

Try a blend of oat flour and rice flour, or use finely ground certified gluten-free oats. Adjust liquid as needed to form a workable dough.

How do I make them extra crunchy?

Bake until the edges are golden, then let them dry in the warm oven with the door slightly open for 20–30 minutes.

My dough is sticky. What should I do?

Dust your surface with flour and add more flour to the dough 1 tablespoon at a time.

Chill the dough for 10 minutes if needed.

Wrapping Up

These Homemade Dog Treats With Peanut Butter are straightforward, customizable, and a hit with most pups. With just a few pantry staples and about 30 minutes, you’ll have a batch of crunchy, wholesome biscuits your dog will love. Keep a stash on hand for training, special occasions, or just because they’re a good dog today.