Homemade Peanut Butter Oat Dog Treats recipe

Homemade and Dog-Friendly!

Making food from scratch has its benefits—fewer additives, better ingredients, and the satisfaction of knowing exactly what’s in your meals. That applies to both human food and dog treats. This week, I had some beautiful Ontario Ambrosia apples on hand and made a simple homemade applesauce. Since it’s free of added sugar or preservatives, it’s perfect for both people and dogs. I used it as the base for an easy, three-ingredient dog treat recipe that takes minimal effort and delivers solid nutrition.

Homemade Applesauce (For the Humans & the Dogs)

Store-bought applesauce often contains unnecessary sugars and preservatives. Making it at home ensures a clean, natural alternative, especially when using a naturally sweet variety like Ambrosia apples.

Ingredients:

• 8 Ambrosia apples, peeled, cored, and chopped (any sweet red-skin variety of apples will do, just go with your favorite!

• ½ cup water

• ½ teaspoon cinnamon (optional—leave out for dog-friendly version)

Instructions:

1. Add the chopped apples and water to a saucepan over medium heat.

2. Cover and simmer for about 15–20 minutes until the apples soften.

3. Mash with a fork for a chunkier texture or blend until smooth.

4. Let it cool before using in the dog treat recipe below.

   
   

Peanut Butter Oat Dog Treats Recipe

These homemade peanut butter oat dog treats are simple, healthy, and easy to make! Oats provide fiber, applesauce adds natural sweetness, and peanut butter offers healthy fats and protein. Be mindful of your peanut butter choice—ensure it’s free from preservatives, extra oils, and xylitol, which is toxic to dogs.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup oats (quick or rolled, blended slightly if a smoother texture is preferred)

• ⅓ cup homemade applesauce

• 1 tablespoon natural peanut butter (choose organic or natural, xylitol-free)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).

2. In a bowl, mix the oats, applesauce, and peanut butter until a dough forms.

3. Roll into small bite-sized balls. Flatten with your thumb and space evenly on a baking sheet, lined with parchment paper.

4. Bake for 15-20 until desired tenderness. Some dogs enjoy crunchy bite and some prefer softer treats.

5. Let them cool completely before serving.

   
   

Why Make Homemade Dog Treats?

Making DIY dog treats isn’t just rewarding—it ensures your pup gets high-quality, nutritious snacks without artificial fillers. Benefits include:

✅ No additives or preservatives

✅ Cost-effective & budget-friendly

✅ Customizable for your dog’s needs

✅ Supports a fresh, natural canine diet

FAQs: Homemade Dog Treats

Can dogs eat applesauce?

Yes, as long as it’s unsweetened and free from artificial additives. Apples provide fiber and vitamins for dogs.

Is peanut butter safe for dogs?

Yes, but avoid peanut butter with xylitol, a sweetener toxic to dogs. Stick to natural or organic varieties.

How long do homemade dog treats last?

Store in an airtight container for up to a week, or freeze for longer shelf life.

Final Thoughts

Making homemade treats doesn’t have to be complicated and can be just plain fun. You really can't go wrong with such a happy audience! With a few basic ingredients, it’s easy to create healthy dog treats that are both nutritious and delicious. These peanut butter oat treats are a great way to use homemade applesauce while keeping snacks simple and wholesome.

About the Author

Kate Bell is a writer, entrepreneur, and professional dog trainer specializing in puppy socialization and canine behavior. She founded Belle’s Pet Services in 2016 and is a retired member of the Canadian Association of Professional Dog Trainers (CAPDT) and International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants (IAABC).

Inspired by her French Bulldog’s food allergies, Kate is passionate about natural canine wellness. When she’s not writing or experimenting in the kitchen, she spends time leading group dog hikes and puppy clinics with her best kitchen helpers, Axel and Lola.

📢 Share Your Thoughts! Have you tried making homemade dog treats before? Share your experience in the comments below!

👉 Read more from the Dinner & The Dogs series here:https://www.katesapothika.com/post/dinner-the-dogs

Disclaimer: This post is based on personal experience and is not intended as veterinary advice. Always consult your veterinarian regarding your dog’s specific dietary needs.

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