If you know me, you know I love to cook and bake. I never miss an opportunity to spend a Saturday stirring up things in the kitchen. Of course, I also bake for Benji. He is well aware when the pan in the oven is for him. I’ve even caught him peeking when the delicious aroma fills the house!
The good thing about making dog treats is that you don’t need a bunch of fancy ingredients. Just a few simple pantry staples, and you have a healthy, homemade, human-grade treat that your pup will love. Plus, it’s a great way to ensure your dog isn’t consuming any unnecessary additives or preservatives.
Why Bake Your Own Dog Treats?
Making treats at home not only saves money but also gives you control over the ingredients. This is especially important if your dog has allergies or sensitivities. For example, Benji can’t tolerate chicken, so I always make sure to avoid it in his meals and treats. Homemade treats are also a great way to bond with your pup—you can even let them “supervise” (aka watch with excitement) as you prepare their goodies.
Benji’s Delicate Shortbread
These treats are called “delicate” because Benji is my delicate flower! They’re easy to make, full of wholesome ingredients, and perfect for pups with sensitive tummies.
Ingredients:
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons coconut oil (I use Simple Truth)
- ¼ cup mashed banana
- 1 ½ cups oat flour (I use Bob’s Red Mill)
- 1 teaspoon aluminum-free baking powder (I use Rumford)
Directions:
Preheat your oven to 350°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a large mixing bowl, combine all the ingredients. Stir until the dough comes together.
Turn the dough out onto a lightly oat-floured surface and knead until smooth.
Roll out the dough to about ¼” thick. Use your favorite cookie cutter to cut shapes—I love using a 2” bone cutter, but circles or squares work just as well.
Place the treats on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them slightly apart.
Bake for 20 minutes. For a crispier texture, turn off the oven and let the treats sit inside for an additional 20 minutes.
Cool the treats completely before serving to your pup.
Store these delicate shortbreads in an airtight container for up to 7 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them and thaw as needed.
Tips for Customizing Your Dog’s Treats
- Swap the Banana: If your dog isn’t a fan of bananas, try substituting unsweetened applesauce or canned pumpkin (not pumpkin pie filling).
- Add a Boost: Sprinkle in a tablespoon of ground flaxseed or chia seeds for added nutrients.
- Experiment with Shapes: Get creative with cookie cutters—try hearts, paws, or seasonal shapes like snowflakes for winter!
Other Fun Ways to Treat Your Pup
If baking isn’t your thing, don’t worry—there are still plenty of ways to treat your pup with wholesome snacks:
- Frozen Delights: Mix plain yogurt with a bit of peanut butter and freeze it in silicone molds. These make great lickable treats for dogs.
- Veggie Chips: Slice sweet potatoes or carrots thinly and bake them into crispy chips.
- Stuffed Kong: Fill a Kong toy with a mixture of peanut butter and kibble, then freeze for a long-lasting activity.
Bonding Over Homemade Treats
One of the things I love most about making Benji’s treats is the extra time we get to spend together. While I’m rolling out the dough, he’s right there with me—watching every move, tail wagging in anticipation. It’s a small act of love that brings us closer.
Winter is the perfect season to try new recipes, spend time indoors, and show your dog how much they mean to you. After all, dogs bring us so much joy every day. Why not return the favor with a homemade treat (or two)?
If you try Benji’s Delicate Shortbread or any other treat ideas, let me know! I’d love to hear how your pup enjoys them. Happy baking!
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