If you’re a dog owner who enjoys baking, you’re in for a treat (sorry, can’t resist a pun)! Homemade peanut butter dog treats are a fun and rewarding way to show your furry friend some love.  Even if you’re not a baker, with only three ingredients, Peanut Butter Dog Biscuits are easy, affordable, and healthy. By baking your own dog treats, you have complete control over what goes into them, ensuring they’re made with nutritious, safe ingredients. In this article, we’ll guide you through the process of making peanut butter dog treats that are guaranteed to be pup-approved.

Why Peanut Butter Dog Treats Are the Perfect Snack

Peanut butter is a favorite ingredient for most dogs, and it’s easy to see why. Packed with protein, healthy fats, and essential vitamins, peanut butter can be a fantastic treat for your dog when used in moderation. Not only does it taste great, but it also offers several health benefits, such as promoting heart health and supporting a shiny coat.

However, it’s essential to be cautious when selecting peanut butter for your dog treats. Not all peanut butters are created equal. Always choose peanut butter that’s free of xylitol (a sweetener that is toxic to dogs) and added sugars. Whenever possible, opt for natural, unsweetened varieties with just peanuts and maybe a touch of salt. By making your own peanut butter dog treats, you can ensure your dog is getting a safe and nutritious snack.

Although peanut butter contains healthy fats, it should still be fed in moderation.  Your pup will be begging for these treats, but make sure not to overdo it!

Essential Ingredients for Making DIY Peanut Butter Dog Treats

Before you start baking, let’s go over the ingredients that will make up your homemade peanut butter dog treats. The beauty of these treats is their simplicity—most of the ingredients are things you probably already have in your kitchen.

Common Ingredients:

• Peanut Butter: The star ingredient. Choose an all-natural peanut butter that’s free of harmful additives.  Most importantly, ensure the peanut butter is xylitol free. 
• Dog-Safe Flour: A dog-friendly flour that’s easy on the stomach and full of fiber.  Whole wheat or oat is a great choice.  For more information see our article on Dog-Friendly Flours. 
• Eggs: Helps bind the dough together while adding protein.

Optional Add-Ins:

• Pumpkin: Adds moisture and a dose of vitamins A and C. You can replace part of the peanut butter with pure pumpkin puree if desired. 
• Honey: A natural sweetener that’s safe for dogs, but should be used sparingly.  A teaspoon added to this recipe is enough, although it truly doesn’t need it. 
• Carrot or Banana: Both are healthy, dog-friendly options that add flavor and texture to your treats.  To add carrot, wash and grate a medium carrot and mix it into the dough.  To add banana, replace some of the peanut butter with mashed banana. 
• Flaxseed: A great source of omega-3 fatty acids, which promote a healthy coat.  Mix a small amount into the dough. 
• Turmeric: Known for its anti-inflammatory properties.  Use only a small amount (about a teaspoon).  Warning, turmeric may stain your hands and clothing.
• Cinnamon: A tasty, dog-safe spice that can aid in digestion.  Use only a small amount (about half a teaspoon) if using. 

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Easy Peanut Butter Dog Biscuits

Ready to start baking? Follow this simple guide to create delicious, homemade peanut butter dog cookies that your pup will adore.

Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients

• 1 cup of peanut butter (xylitol-free)
• 2 cups of dog-friendly flour (you can grind your own oats to make oat flour if you prefer)
• 2 eggs
• 1/8-1/4 cup of water

Step 2: Prepare Your Dough

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine the peanut butter, eggs and flour. Mix well until combined.  Once the dough starts to come together, it will be easier to use your hands. 
3. Add water, a little at a time, until dough is stiff but rollable.  It should not be crumbly. 

Step 3: Shaping and Baking the Treats

These treats can be rolled into balls and pressed with a fork or rolled out on the counter and cut into shapes.

Option 1: Ball technique

1. Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper
2. Use a measuring spoon for consistent cookie sizes.  We used a tbsp for our large dogs.  If you have a smaller dog you may prefer a smaller size
3. Scoop out a spoonful of dough
4. Roll it between your palms until it becomes a ball, smoothing over any cracks as you go
5. Place the ball on a parchment lined baking sheet
6. Repeat until all dough is used up, placing balls about an inch apart
7. Using the tines of a fork, press down on each cookie to flatten it and to create that traditional peanut butter cookie imprint
8. Bake for 18-22 minutes
9. Let the treats cool completely before serving them to your dog.

Option 2: Rolled and shaped technique

1. Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper
2. Flour your countertop and rolling pin lightly with a little flour to prevent the dough from sticking
3. Roll out the dough to about 1/4 inch thickness. If you don’t have a rolling pin, you can also press it down with your hands or even use a clean wine bottle
4. Use cookie cutters to create fun shapes like bones, paw prints, or any shape your dog (or you!) enjoys. You can also simply cut the dough into squares or strips using a knife, or circles using the rim of a glass
5. Place the cut-out shapes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Make sure the treats are not touching, as they will expand a slightly as they bake.
6. Re-combine and re-roll any scraps, repeating steps 2-4 until dough is used up
7. Bake for about 18-22 minutes, or until the treats are golden brown and firm to the touch.
8. Let the treats cool completely before serving them to your dog.

Step 4: Cooling and Storing

Once the treats have cooled down, store them in an airtight container. They’ll stay fresh for up to a week at room temperature, or you can refrigerate them for longer shelf life. If you prefer, you can also freeze them for up to 3 months.

Creative Variations to Try

While the basic peanut butter dog treat recipe is already a hit, why not experiment with some variations?

• Peanut Butter & Banana Dog Treats: Mash up a ripe banana and mix it into the dough. Bananas are rich in potassium and fiber, making them an excellent addition to your treats.  They also add a bit of natural sweetness to the cookie
• Peanut Butter & Pumpkin Dog Treats: Add extra pumpkin puree for a boost of fiber and vitamins. Pumpkin is great for digestion, which can help dogs with sensitive stomachs. 
• Peanut Butter & Carrot Dog Treats: Grated carrots not only add texture but also provide vitamin A and beta-carotene, which are great for your dog’s eyesight and skin.  Carrots will also add a touch of natural sweetness to the treat

Feel free to mix and match these variations based on your dog’s preferences and dietary needs!

Troubleshooting Common Issues When Making Peanut Butter Dog Treats

Even the most experienced bakers run into issues sometimes. Here are some common challenges and how to solve them:

• Dough Too Sticky? If your dough is too sticky to handle, kneed in a little more flour until it reaches a workable consistency.  If you are rolling out the treats, make sure your counter and rolling pin are both floured. 
• Dough Too Dry? Add a splash of water or an extra tablespoon of peanut butter to moisten the dough. Add only a little at a time until you reach the right consistency. 
• Treats Too Hard? If your treats are too crunchy, try reducing the baking time by a few minutes, or simply bake them at a lower temperature.
• Treats Too Soft?: If your treats are too soft, try baking them a bit longer.

How to Make Peanut Butter Dog Treats for Specific Dietary Needs

If your dog has special dietary needs, don’t worry—these peanut butter dog treats can be easily modified to fit most needs.  These simple substitutions can make your homemade peanut butter dog treats suitable for nearly any pup!

• Gluten-Free Options: Use a gluten-free flour such as almond flour or coconut flour. Both are gentle on the stomach and provide a different texture.
• Low-Calorie Treats: For a lighter treat, reduce the amount of peanut butter do not include honey. Add pumpkin, which is low in calories but high in fiber.
• Allergy-Friendly Treats: If your dog has allergies to certain ingredients, swap out the peanut butter for sunflower seed butter or a different dog-friendly nut butter.  Always make sure it is xylitol free.

Why Baking Peanut Butter Dog Treats at Home Is Worth It

There are so many reasons to bake peanut butter dog treats at home:

• Cost-Effective: Store-bought dog treats are often expensive, especially for high-quality options. Homemade treats are not only cheaper, but you can make large batches that last longer.  And often your dog will enjoy them more!
• Healthier: By using fresh, natural ingredients, you know exactly what your dog is eating. No preservatives, artificial flavors, or harmful additives. 
• Customizable: From flavor to shape, homemade treats are completely customizable to your dog’s preferences and dietary needs. Plus, baking together is a fun bonding activity! 

Easy Peanut Butter Dog Biscuits

Made with only 3 ingredients, your dog will love these easy and quick peanut butter treats.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 22 minutes mins

Cuisine Dog Treats

Servings 45 treats

Ingredients

  

• 1 cup peanut butter
• 2 cups flour
• 2 eggs
• 1/8-1/4 cup water

Instructions

 

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• In a large bowl, combine the peanut butter, eggs and flour. Mix well until combined. Once the dough starts to come together, it will be easier to use your hands.
• Add water, a little at a time, until dough is stiff but rollable. It should not be crumbly.

Shaping and Baking the Treats – Ball technique

• Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper
• Use a measuring spoon for consistent cookie sizes. We used a tbsp for our large dogs. If you have a smaller dog you may prefer a smaller size
• Scoop out a spoonful of dough
• Roll it between your palms until it becomes a ball, smoothing over any cracks as you go
• Place the ball on a parchment lined baking sheet
• Repeat until all dough is used up, placing balls about an inch apart
• Using the tines of a fork, press down on each cookie to flatten it and to create that traditional peanut butter cookie imprint
• Bake for 18-22 minutes
• Let the treats cool completely before serving them to your dog.

Shaping and Baking the Treats – Rolled and shaped technique

• Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper
• Flour your countertop and rolling pin lightly with a little flour to prevent the dough from sticking
• Roll out the dough to about 1/4 inch thickness. If you don’t have a rolling pin, you can also press it down with your hands or even use a clean wine bottle
• Use cookie cutters to create fun shapes like bones, paw prints, or any shape your dog (or you!) enjoys. You can also simply cut the dough into squares or strips using a knife, or circles using the rim of a glass
• Place the cut-out shapes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Make sure the treats are not touching, as they will expand a slightly as they bake.
• Re-combine and re-roll any scraps, repeating steps 2-4 until dough is used up
• Bake for about 18-22 minutes, or until the treats are golden brown and firm to the touch.
• Let the treats cool completely before serving them to your dog.

Notes

Storage

Once the treats have cooled down, store them in an airtight container. They’ll stay fresh for up to a week at room temperature, or you can refrigerate them for longer shelf life. If you prefer, you can also freeze them for up to 3 months.

Keyword 3 ingredient dog biscuits, easy dog treats, peanut butter dog treats

Conclusion

Making peanut butter dog treats at home is easy, affordable, and most importantly, fun! Whether you stick with the classic recipe or get creative with variations, your pup will be delighted with whatever you bake. So, next time you’re in the kitchen, why not whip up a batch of homemade peanut butter dog treats? Your dog will love you for it, and you’ll feel great knowing you’re giving them a healthy, homemade snack.

Looking for more peanut butter dog treat ideas? Try these recipes:

• No Bake Peanut Butter Dog Treats
• Irresistible Peanut Butter Banana Dog Treats
• Peanut Butter Liver Gelatin Dog Treats