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There’s something really special about making homemade treats for your dog, especially when you share your days with a senior pup. My dog, Droid, is 12 years old now, and as he’s gotten older, I’ve become much more intentional about the snacks I give him. Treats aren’t just rewards… they’re tiny moments of care that can support his health, digestion, energy, and overall comfort.
That’s why I love keeping things simple and nourishing. These homemade banana–oat treats are made with just a few pantry staples, but each ingredient has a purpose:
- Bananas add fiber, vitamins, and natural sweetness
- Oats are gentle on sensitive stomachs
- Peanut butter makes them irresistible while adding healthy fats
- No preservatives, no fillers, no artificial ingredients, just whole-food goodness
Homemade treats give you full control over what goes into your dog’s body, which is especially important for senior dogs like Droid. And honestly? Making them becomes its own little ritual, a small act of love that brings joy to him and peace of mind to me.
Prep Time
10 minutes
Cook Time
15 minutes
Serves
20-24 small treats
Ingredients
- 1 ripe banana, mashed
- ½ cup natural peanut butter (Make sure it contains NO xylitol — very important for safety.)
- 1 cup oat flour (You can blend regular oats into flour.)
- Optional:
- A sprinkle of cinnamon (safe in small amounts)
- 1 tbsp unsweetened applesauce to make them softer
- Extra oats on top for crunch
Steps
1
Preheat your oven Set to 175°C / 350°F.
2
Mix the ingredients In a bowl, combine the mashed banana, peanut butter, and oat flour. Stir until a dough forms. If the dough feels sticky, add a bit more oat flour.
3
Shape the cookies
Use cute cookie cutters (bone shape, paw prints, etc.)
Roll small balls and flatten them with a fork, OR
4
Bake
Place on a lined baking sheet and bake for 12–15 minutes, or until firm and lightly golden.
5
Cool completely
Let them cool before giving one to your dog.
Storage
- Fridge: up to 7 days
- Freezer: up to 2 months
Store in an airtight container.
(Pro tip: freeze half the batch, they thaw quickly and stay fresh longer.)
Notes
- If your dog is very senior or has dental sensitivities, bake them for less time for a softer texture.
- You can add 1 tbsp of ground flaxseed for extra fiber and skin support.
- Always check with your veterinarian if your dog has allergies or digestive issues.
