Making treats for my dog is one of my favorite ways to bond and show her love. When I stumbled upon the perfect combination of strawberries, bananas, and oats, I knew it would be a hit with her. These Strawberry and Banana Oat Balls are not only simple to make but also packed with nutrients that dogs love and need. Plus, they look so good that you might be tempted to try one yourself (and you can—they’re made with human-grade ingredients!).

Why Make Homemade Dog Treats?

Homemade dog treats give us control over what goes into our pups' bodies. With store-bought options, you can never be sure of hidden additives or low-quality fillers. But when you prepare treats at home, every bite is filled with love and wholesome ingredients. Strawberries, bananas, and oats bring a powerhouse of vitamins, minerals, and fiber to this easy recipe.

And let’s not forget the joy on your dog's face as they enjoy a treat made just for them. Trust me, the tail wags are worth it!

Ingredients and Their Benefits

Here’s why these ingredients are perfect for your pup:

Strawberries: Rich in antioxidants, fiber, and vitamin C, strawberries are great for boosting your dog’s immune system. They also add natural sweetness without the need for added sugar.
Bananas: A fantastic source of potassium, vitamin B6, and magnesium. Bananas also give the treats a creamy texture and a flavor dogs love.
Rolled Oats: Oats are easy to digest and great for dogs with sensitive stomachs. They provide a good amount of fiber to aid digestion.

What You’ll Need:

1 cup fresh strawberries (hulled and chopped)
1 ripe banana (mashed)
1½ cups rolled oats (plus extra for coating)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients

Start by washing and hulling the strawberries to remove any leaves or stems. Chop them into small pieces. Mash the banana in a bowl until it’s smooth. If your dog isn’t a fan of chunky textures, you can puree the strawberries and banana together for an ultra-smooth mixture.

Step 2: Mix the Base

In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed banana and chopped strawberries. Add the rolled oats and mix thoroughly until it forms a thick, sticky dough. If the dough feels too wet, sprinkle in a bit more oats until you achieve a consistency that’s easy to shape.

Step 3: Shape the Treats

Scoop a small amount of the mixture (about a tablespoon) and roll it into a ball. Repeat until all the dough is used up. For added flair (and texture), roll each ball in extra oats to give them a beautiful coating.

Step 4: Chill and Set

Place the oat balls on a plate or tray lined with parchment paper. Chill in the refrigerator for 1-2 hours to firm them up. Once set, they’re ready to serve!

Tips for Success

Adjust for Texture: If your pup prefers softer treats, blend the mixture into a puree before rolling the balls.
Make It Fun: Use cookie cutters to press the mixture into fun shapes before chilling.
Storage: Store these treats in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week or freeze for up to a month. They make a great grab-and-go snack!

A Personal Touch

Every time I make these treats, I think about the first time I gave one to my dog, Bailey. Her excitement was contagious, and I loved seeing how much she enjoyed the fresh, fruity flavors. It’s moments like these that remind me why I started making homemade treats in the first place.

For more recipe inspiration, check out these other ideas on My Dog Recipe:

Creative Twists and Additions to Strawberry and Banana Oat Balls

If you’re like me, you enjoy experimenting with recipes to keep things fresh and exciting for your furry friend. While the original recipe is a winner on its own, there are a few ways to jazz it up and add even more nutrition or variety. Here are some ideas you can try:

Flavorful Add-Ins for Extra Nutrition

Peanut Butter:
A tablespoon of unsalted, natural peanut butter adds a creamy, nutty flavor that most dogs can’t resist. Just make sure the peanut butter you use doesn’t contain xylitol, which is toxic to dogs. For a homemade option, try this Homemade Peanut Butter for Dogs.
Pumpkin Puree:
Adding a couple of tablespoons of unsweetened pumpkin puree can increase the fiber content and make these treats even more digestible. Pumpkin is also a great choice if your pup has a sensitive stomach.
Coconut Flakes:
Roll the balls in unsweetened coconut flakes instead of oats for a tropical twist. Coconut is not only delicious but also good for your dog’s coat and skin.
Blueberries:
Toss in a handful of blueberries for an extra antioxidant boost. They complement the sweetness of the bananas and strawberries beautifully. Speaking of blueberries, you might also enjoy making Blueberry Pumpkin and Oatmeal Chews.

Serving and Sharing Tips

Perfect for Hot Days

Turn these treats into frozen delights by popping the rolled oat balls into the freezer for a few hours. They’ll harden into a refreshing snack that’s perfect for cooling your dog down on a warm day. If you’re a fan of frozen recipes, you can also check out these Pumpkin Pupsicles for Dogs.

Portion Control

While these treats are made with healthy ingredients, remember that they’re still a snack. Stick to one or two per day, depending on your dog’s size and activity level.

Why Dogs Love Homemade Treats

When I first started making my own dog treats, I noticed something remarkable: my dog’s excitement and enthusiasm weren’t just about the taste—it was about the love and attention behind the treat. Dogs are incredibly intuitive, and they can tell when something is made especially for them. It’s a special bond that goes beyond food.

Moreover, homemade treats ensure your dog is getting the best quality. With no artificial preservatives or unnecessary fillers, you’re giving your pup a healthy, guilt-free indulgence.

Storage Tips and Shelf Life

To keep the treats fresh:

Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 7 days.
For longer storage, place the oat balls in a freezer-safe bag and freeze them for up to 1 month. Just let them thaw for a few minutes before serving.

More Homemade Recipes to Explore

If you enjoyed this recipe, you’ll love diving into other homemade dog treat ideas. For instance, these Banana and Honey Biscuits for Dogs are a great way to switch things up, or you can go adventurous with these Bull Penis Dog Treats, which are packed with protein and chewiness.

Join the Community

If you try this recipe, I’d love to hear how it turned out for you and your pup! Share your pictures or experiences in the comments, or tag My Dog Recipe on Pinterest to showcase your creations. There’s nothing better than seeing happy dogs enjoying treats made with love.

Whether you’re new to homemade dog recipes or a seasoned pro, there’s always something new to learn and try. Be sure to visit My Dog Recipe for even more inspiration.

Your dog deserves the very best—and these Strawberry and Banana Oat Balls are just the start! Happy treat-making! 🐾