Nothing says “I love you” to your dog quite like a homemade treat. If you’re looking for an easy, nutritious, and delicious snack to whip up for your furry friend, these Peanut Butter Oat Rounds are just the thing. Made with simple, wholesome ingredients, these treats are perfect for dog owners who want to provide a healthier alternative to store-bought snacks filled with preservatives.
Today, I’ll walk you through the steps to make these tasty treats, along with some helpful tips and a few heartwarming anecdotes about my own treat-making journey. We’ll also dive into the nutritional benefits of peanut butter and oats for dogs. Plus, I’ve included links to other recipes your pup will love, so you can keep their treat jar full of variety!
Why Peanut Butter and Oats Make the Perfect Pair
Peanut Butter: A Dog’s Delight
Peanut butter has long been a favorite among dog owners for training treats and the occasional snack. It’s rich in healthy fats and protein, which can help support a dog’s energy levels and promote a shiny coat. But not all peanut butter is safe for dogs. When making treats at home, it’s crucial to use natural peanut butter without added sugar, salt, or xylitol—a sugar substitute toxic to dogs. Look for a peanut butter with minimal ingredients (just peanuts, if possible) to ensure it’s safe for your pup.
The Benefits of Peanut Butter for Dogs Include:
- Healthy fats: These can improve coat health, making it shinier and softer.
- Protein: Helps support muscle development and provides lasting energy.
- Taste: Most dogs absolutely love the rich, creamy flavor of peanut butter, which makes it a great ingredient for treats.
Oats: A Nutritional Powerhouse
Oats are an excellent source of fiber, which can aid in digestion and keep your dog’s tummy feeling happy. They’re also packed with vitamins and minerals like iron and vitamin B, which help support a dog’s immune system and energy levels. Oats are especially beneficial for dogs with sensitive stomachs or wheat allergies, as they’re naturally gluten-free and easy to digest.
Why Oats Are Great for Dogs:
- High in fiber: Promotes digestive health, which is particularly helpful for older dogs.
- Rich in minerals: Provides essential nutrients like manganese, phosphorus, and zinc.
- Low allergenic: Great alternative for dogs with sensitivities to wheat or other grains.
By combining peanut butter and oats, you’re creating a treat that’s not only tasty but also loaded with health benefits. And as a bonus, these ingredients make the treats easy to chew and digest.
Peanut Butter Oat Rounds for Dogs: Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what you’ll need to make a batch of these delectable treats:
- 1 cup rolled oats (or oat flour, for a finer texture)
- 1/2 cup natural peanut butter (make sure it’s xylitol-free)
- 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce (adds moisture and a touch of natural sweetness)
- 1 tablespoon honey (optional, but adds flavor and acts as a natural preservative)
These ingredients come together to create a chewy, flavorful treat that will have your dog coming back for more. If you’re interested in more oatmeal-based treats, try our Delicious and Nutritious Oatmeal Cookies for Dogs for another healthy snack option.
Step-by-Step Recipe Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients and Workspace
Before you start, gather all your ingredients and preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent the treats from sticking, and have your mixing bowls and measuring spoons ready.
Step 2: Blend the Oats
If you’re using whole rolled oats and prefer a smoother texture, you can pulse them in a food processor until they resemble a coarse flour. If your dog enjoys a bit of crunch, you can skip this step and use the rolled oats as they are.
Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the peanut butter, applesauce, and honey (if using). Stir until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This will serve as the base of your dough and give the treats their signature peanut butter flavor.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Slowly add the oats (or oat flour) into the wet mixture, stirring until everything is evenly combined. The dough will be thick but should hold together well. If it feels too sticky, add a bit more oat flour, a tablespoon at a time, until it reaches a workable consistency.
Step 5: Shape the Dough into Rounds
Roll the dough out on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4-inch thickness. Use a small cookie cutter or shape the dough into rounds with your hands. Dogs don’t care about perfect shapes, so feel free to keep it simple. If you’d like, you can even use fun shapes like bones or paws for a little extra charm.
Step 6: Bake
Place the rounds on your prepared baking sheet, leaving a bit of space between each one. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until they’re golden brown and slightly firm to the touch. Let them cool completely before offering one to your pup.
Storing Your Peanut Butter Oat Rounds
To keep these treats fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator for up to two weeks, or freeze them for up to three months. Just make sure to let the treats thaw before giving them to your dog.
Why Make Homemade Dog Treats?
There’s something special about making treats for your dog with your own hands. Not only do you know exactly what’s going into them, but you can also cater to your dog’s specific dietary needs. Many store-bought treats contain artificial preservatives, flavors, and colors that may not be the healthiest options for your dog.
Benefits of Homemade Dog Treats
- Control over ingredients: You can avoid harmful additives and focus on nutritious ingredients.
- Tailored to your dog’s preferences: Does your dog have a favorite flavor? You can customize the treats accordingly.
- Special treats for special needs: Homemade treats allow you to avoid allergens and adapt recipes for dietary restrictions.
Homemade treats can also be a fantastic bonding activity. Dogs seem to know when you’re making something just for them, and they love the extra attention. Making these Peanut Butter Oat Rounds is a way to show your dog just how much they mean to you.
Tips for Customizing the Recipe
One of the best things about homemade treats is that you can easily adjust the recipe to fit your dog’s tastes and needs. Here are some ideas for tweaking the Peanut Butter Oat Rounds to keep things interesting.
Add Banana for Extra Flavor
Bananas are a great addition to these treats, providing natural sweetness and additional nutrients like potassium. You can add 1/4 cup of mashed banana to the wet ingredients for a hint of fruitiness. If your dog loves bananas, you might also want to check out our recipe for Banana and Honey Biscuits for Dogs.
Throw in Some Pumpkin Puree
Pumpkin is another dog-friendly ingredient that adds fiber and vitamins. Try adding 1/4 cup of canned pumpkin (make sure it’s pure pumpkin, not pumpkin pie filling) to the mixture. Pumpkin can help with digestion and adds a delightful flavor that many dogs enjoy. For more pumpkin-based treats, try our Pumpkin Pupsicles for Dogs, perfect for hot days!
Include Blueberries for Antioxidants
Blueberries are rich in antioxidants and provide a burst of flavor. Adding 1/4 cup of fresh or dried blueberries to the dough can give the treats a pop of color and an extra health boost. Our Blueberry Pumpkin and Oatmeal Chews for Dogs are another great recipe featuring this superfood.
Frequently Asked Questions About Homemade Dog Treats
Is peanut butter safe for all dogs?
In general, peanut butter is safe for most dogs in moderation. However, it’s essential to ensure that the peanut butter you’re using doesn’t contain xylitol, a sugar substitute that is toxic to dogs. Stick to natural, unsweetened peanut butter without any additives.
Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?
Yes, you can use quick oats in this recipe, but keep in mind that they’ll create a slightly different texture. Quick oats absorb moisture more rapidly, so you might need to adjust the amount slightly to get the right dough consistency.
How often can I give these treats to my dog?
Like all treats, Peanut Butter Oat Rounds should be given in moderation. Treats should make up no more than 10% of your dog’s daily caloric intake, so consider their size, activity level, and dietary needs when offering these.
Can I make a bigger batch and freeze them?
Absolutely! These treats freeze well, so feel free to make a large batch and store extras in the
freezer for up to three months. Just thaw them out before serving.
More Treat Recipes Your Pup Will Love
If you’ve enjoyed making these Peanut Butter Oat Rounds, why not try out some other recipes to keep your pup’s treat jar exciting? Here are a few of our favorites that are sure to get tails wagging:
- Delicious and Nutritious Oatmeal Cookies for Dogs – Another oatmeal-based treat with a crunchy texture.
- Homemade Peanut Butter for Dogs: A Tail-Wagging Treat Your Pup Will Love – Want to make your own peanut butter? Here’s how!
- Banana and Honey Biscuits for Dogs – These biscuits are sweet, crunchy, and ideal for training sessions.
- Pumpkin Pupsicles for Dogs – A refreshing frozen treat, perfect for summer days.
For more ideas and dog-friendly recipes, don’t forget to check out our Pinterest page. We’re always sharing new treat ideas and tips for keeping your dog healthy and happy.
A Labor of Love for Your Four-Legged Friend
There’s something truly special about making homemade treats for your dog. It’s more than just a snack—it’s a way to show your love and appreciation for all the joy they bring into your life. These Peanut Butter Oat Rounds are not only healthy but also a small gift of gratitude to the most loyal member of your family.
As you knead the dough, cut out each round, and bake these treats, you’re creating a moment of connection. Your dog may not know exactly what you’re doing, but they’ll know that whatever comes out of the oven is made just for them. So next time you want to treat your pup, roll up your sleeves, grab some peanut butter and oats, and make something special that’s sure to have their tail wagging.
Happy baking, and don’t forget to share your treat-making adventures with us on Pinterest!
PrintPeanut Butter Oat Rounds for Dogs Recipe Homemade Treat
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Yield: 15–20 treats 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Peanut Butter Oat Rounds for Dogs are a nutritious, homemade treat made with simple ingredients like oats and peanut butter to keep your dog happy and healthy.
Ingredients
- 1 cup rolled oats (or oat flour for a smoother texture)
- 1/2 cup natural peanut butter (xylitol-free)
- 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- If desired, pulse the rolled oats in a food processor to create oat flour for a smoother texture.
- In a large bowl, mix the peanut butter, applesauce, and honey until smooth.
- Gradually add the oats (or oat flour) to the mixture and stir until fully combined. The dough should be thick but workable.
- Roll the dough out on a floured surface to 1/4-inch thickness. Use a cookie cutter or shape the dough into rounds by hand.
- Place the rounds on the prepared baking sheet, spaced slightly apart.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown.
- Let the treats cool completely before serving to your dog.
Notes
- Ensure the peanut butter is free of xylitol, which is toxic to dogs.
- Store the treats in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week or refrigerate for up to two weeks.
- Freeze any extra treats for up to three months, thawing before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dog Treats
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Dog-Friendly
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 treat
- Calories: 45
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 10mg
- Fat: 3g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 1.5g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: Peanut Butter Oat Rounds for Dogs, homemade dog treats, dog-friendly recipe, peanut butter dog treat recipe