I know, it sounds like a hassle to make your own dog treats, but there’s a good reason to consider getting that mixer out and baking up a batch of some homemade snacks for your dog.
It seems like every day there’s a new warning about a brand or line of dog treats that’s been recalled because it contains ingredients that are dangerous for our pets. Sadly, some unfortunate dog owners find out too late that a product has been recalled only after their dog starts showing symptoms of illness. Tragically, some dog owners have lost a pet because of contaminated dog treats.
Most unsafe treats are jerky type treats imported from China where manufacturing standards are lower than in the United States. Although treats made in Canada, Australia, New Zealand and United States are considered safer, it can be hard to tell where the ingredients were sourced to make the products. Just because a product has a Made in the USA or Product of USA claim or an American flag logo on the package, doesn’t necessarily mean the ingredients to make the product came from within the USA.
Some major pet supply chains have started phasing out products from China, but instead of trying to decipher product labels and hoping those companies are honest in their labeling, why not keep your dog safe by making your own homemade dog treats?
Here’s a great recipe from my daughter-in-law Colleen and her Aunt Marilyn. Some of Colleen’s favorite dogs are lucky to find a gift wrapped package of these yummy treats under their Christmas trees each year. I love this recipe because it’s healthy, easy to make and the treats dry out nicely so they will last for months. Let me know if your dog finds these treats irresistible too!
Peanut Butter Dog Biscuits
Ingredients
4 Cups Whole Wheat Flour
2 Cups Quick Cooking Rolled Oats
1/4 Cup Flax Seeds
2 1/2 Cups Warm Water (can use 1/2 Broth and 1/2 Water, if desired)
1/2 Cup Peanut Butter
Directions
1. Combine first three ingredients.
2. Stir in water and peanut butter.
3. Knead dough, working in more flour until dough isn’t sticky.
4. Roll 1/4 inch thick, cut into shapes and bake on greased cookie sheet for 40 min at 350 degrees.
5. Turn oven off and leave in oven with door closed until completely cooled.
A big “thank you” goes to Colleen and Marilyn for sharing their recipe and if you’re looking for a healthy treat recipe that contains pumpkin, check out the post 7 Benefits of Pumpkin for Dogs!
Love this picture of Haley. And I’m still looking for my Haley. I have this recipe and it looks good enough to eat. I think the dogs in my neighborhood will be receiving an unexpected treat before Christmas. Thanks Elaine
Hi Sharon, You could bake these today for National Dog Day to share with the neighborhood dogs. You’ll be their new best friend, lol!
Sounds yummy! And if you are concerned about the sugar in the peanut butter, you could just use a brand made without sugar. Many of the natural brands have just one ingredient, peanuts.
A great way to make these even healthier, thanks Lindsay!