Introduction

These Apple and Banana Dog Treats are a wholesome, tasty snack your furry friend will love. Made with simple, natural ingredients, they’re easy to prepare and perfect for rewarding good behavior or just showing some extra love.

A grey round plate filled with a pile of golden-brown rectangular chicken nuggets with a slightly crispy texture is placed on a wooden surface. Behind the plate, there are two red apples to the left and three yellow bananas to the right, all slightly out of focus. The lighting is warm, giving the scene a cozy feel. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 ripe banana (mashed)
1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce OR 1/2 finely grated apple
1 cup rolled oats (quick or regular)
1/4 tsp ground cinnamon (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) if you prefer oven-baked treats.
Step 2: In a bowl, mash the ripe banana until smooth.
Step 3: Stir in the unsweetened applesauce (or grated apple) and cinnamon if using.
Step 4: Add the rolled oats and mix everything together until a thick dough forms.
Step 5: Shape the dough into small balls or flatten them with a fork on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Step 6: Bake for 15–18 minutes, or until the treats are lightly golden.
Step 7: Let the treats cool completely before giving them to your dog.
Alternative No-Bake Method: Mix all ingredients as above, roll into balls, place on a tray lined with parchment, and freeze for 1–2 hours until firm. Store frozen and serve as needed.

Tips & Variations

Ensure your applesauce contains no added sugar or xylitol, which is toxic to dogs.
Try adding finely grated carrot to the mix for a vitamin boost and extra crunch.
Use quick oats for a softer texture or regular rolled oats for chewier treats.
Instead of cinnamon, you can add a pinch of turmeric for its anti-inflammatory benefits, but avoid any spices your dog hasn’t had before.

Storage

Store baked treats in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks or freeze for up to 3 months. No-bake frozen treats should remain in the freezer and served frozen or slightly thawed for a refreshing snack.

How to Serve

A white plate filled with a stack of seven round, golden brown cookies with a slightly rough texture, placed on a white marbled surface. In the background, there are three red apples with soft lighting creating a warm and cozy feeling. The cookies are arranged in a loose pile, overlapping slightly, showing their uneven edges. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use other fruits instead of banana and apple?

Bananas and apples are safe and gentle on most dogs’ stomachs, but you can experiment with fruits like pumpkin or pear. Always introduce new ingredients gradually and avoid anything that’s toxic to dogs, such as grapes or raisins.

Are these treats suitable for puppies?

Yes, these treats are made with gentle, natural ingredients suitable for most puppies. However, always check with your vet before introducing new treats, especially if your puppy has any health concerns or dietary restrictions.