If you’re like me, you’re always on the lookout for easy, healthy dog treat recipes that don’t crumble and can be used as training treats during your daily exercise sessions. These peanut butter and rolled oat dog treats are a perfect find!
Not only are they delicious and easy to make, but they’re also packed with ingredients that are beneficial for your dog’s health.
Let’s dive into this simple recipe and discover why each ingredient is a fantastic choice for your pup!
Ingredients
- 2 eggs (or 2 flax eggs, see note below)
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- 1/4 cup peanut butter
- 2 cups rolled oats, ground into oat flour
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a cookie sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine the eggs (or flax eggs), pumpkin puree, and peanut butter. Mix well until smooth.
- Add Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the rolled oats, ground into oat flour, to the wet mixture. Stir until everything is well combined and forms a dough.
- Shape the Dough: Place the dough on a second sheet of parchment paper or a silicon mat. You can either use a cookie cutter to cut out larger shapes or roll the dough to flatten it and cut it into small bite sized pieces after you bake it.
- Bake: Bake the treats in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, or until they are firm and golden brown.
- Dehydrate (if you want firmer treats): I like to bake my treats for 10-15min then break them into tiny training treat sizes while they are still flexible. Then I place my in dehydrator for 3-4hr on high
- Cool and Store: Let the treats cool completely on a wire rack before storing them in an airtight container.
- They cane be stored in the fridge for up to a week, or in the freezer for up to 3 months
Recipe Notes
To Make a Flax Egg: Combine 1 tablespoon of ground flax seed with 3 tablespoons of water. Mix well and let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes gelatinous. This is a great vegan alternative to regular eggs.
Add in variations: a few things you can add in: honey, dried or fresh berries, a teaspoon of tuna- just remember, the more moist the ingredients, the long it will take to bake and dehydrate. And it will last only a few days vs a week of more.
Ingredient Benefits
Is Pumpkin Good for Dogs? Absolutely! Pumpkin is a fantastic addition to your dog’s diet. According to PetMD, pumpkin is excellent for promoting regularity and is a great source of fiber. It’s rich in Vitamins A and C, potassium, and is low in fat and calories. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak some veggies into your dog’s diet.
Can Dogs Eat Eggs? Yes, cooked eggs are a great source of digestible protein for dogs. They provide essential fatty acids and amino acids, making them a nutritious choice. Just remember to cook the eggs before serving them to your dog.
Peanut Butter: Good or Bad? Peanut butter is generally safe for dogs in moderation. It’s a good source of protein, B vitamins, and healthy fats. However, it’s important to use natural peanut butter without xylitol (an artificial sweetener that can be fatal to dogs) or added sugars. Some dogs might have peanut allergies, so keep an eye out for any adverse reactions.
Can Oatmeal Hurt Dogs? No, oatmeal is beneficial for dogs. It’s high in fiber and nutrients that support a healthy coat and skin. It can help with weight management and regularity of their stool. Just avoid instant or flavored oatmeal as they are high in sugars and may contain xylitol, a toxic substance for pets.
Instead opt for plain, unsweetened options like sprouted oats, which are easier for dogs to digest.
Moderation is Key: While it’s tempting to shower your furry friend with treats, it’s important to remember that treats should not make up more than 10% of their total diet for the day. This guideline applies to all types of treats, including training rewards, enrichment activities like Lick-Lick mats, and edible chews. Overindulgence can lead to weight gain and nutritional imbalances, affecting your dog’s overall health. By keeping treats within this limit, you ensure they enjoy their special rewards while maintaining a balanced and nutritious diet and not gaining weight.
There you have it—a simple, nutritious recipe for peanut butter and rolled oat dog treats that are perfect for training and satisfying your pup’s cravings.
Not only are these treats easy to make, but they also offer a range of health benefits thanks to wholesome ingredients like pumpkin, eggs, and oats.
Remember, while treats are a delightful way to show your dog some extra love, moderation is key. Keep treats to no more than 10% of their daily diet to ensure they stay healthy and balanced.
Ready to whip up a batch of these delicious treats for your furry friend? Give the recipe a try and watch your pup enjoy every bite!
If you found this guide helpful, be sure to share it with fellow dog owners who might also be looking for tasty, healthy treat ideas. And don’t forget to let us know how your dog liked their homemade goodies in the comments below!
For more pet-friendly recipes and tips, stay tuned and keep loving those wagging tails!
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