DIY Dog Treats That Are Healthier (and Cheaper!) Than Store-Bought
DIY Dog Treats That Are Healthier (and Cheaper!) Than Store-Bought
We all want to spoil our furry best friends, but buying store-bought treats can add up—and let’s be honest, some of those ingredient labels are a little sketchy. If you’re looking for a fun, budget-friendly way to show your pup some love, why not try making your own dog treats?
At I Was Today Years Old, we believe that what we feed our pets should be as wholesome as the love we give them. These DIY dog treat recipes are easy to make, full of healthy ingredients, and will have your dog wagging their tail for more. Bonus? They’re often cheaper than the store-bought stuff and free from unnecessary fillers and additives.
Why Make Your Own Dog Treats?
Healthier Ingredients: You control what goes into them—no weird preservatives or artificial flavors.
Budget-Friendly: Most recipes use simple, affordable pantry staples.
Customizable: Tailor recipes to suit your dog’s tastes or dietary needs.
Bonding Time: Your dog will love “helping” in the kitchen (or, at least, the taste tests).
3 Easy DIY Dog Treat Recipes
1. Peanut Butter and Pumpkin Biscuits
Perfect for fall or any time of year, these treats are packed with fiber and healthy fats.
Ingredients:
2 ½ cups whole wheat flour (or oat flour for gluten-free)
½ cup unsweetened pumpkin puree
½ cup natural peanut butter (make sure it’s xylitol-free)
2 eggs
Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Combine all ingredients in a large bowl and mix until it forms a dough.
Roll out the dough and cut it into shapes with cookie cutters.
Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Bake for 20–25 minutes or until golden brown.
Let cool completely before serving.
2. Sweet Potato Chews
These chewy treats are a simple, one-ingredient wonder and perfect for dogs who love to gnaw.
Ingredients:
1 large sweet potato
Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 250°F (120°C).
Wash and peel the sweet potato.
Slice it into thin strips (about ¼ inch thick).
Place the strips on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Bake for 2–3 hours, flipping halfway through, until the strips are dried but still slightly chewy.
Store in an airtight container for up to two weeks.
3. Banana and Oat No-Bake Treats
Great for when you don’t feel like turning on the oven, these quick bites are full of natural sweetness and fiber.
Ingredients:
2 ripe bananas
1 ½ cups rolled oats
¼ cup natural peanut butter (xylitol-free)
Instructions:
Mash the bananas in a bowl.
Mix in the oats and peanut butter until well combined.
Roll into small bite-sized balls.
Place on a tray and refrigerate for 1–2 hours until firm.
Store in the fridge for up to a week.
Tips for Making DIY Dog Treats
Allergies: Always check that ingredients are safe for dogs. Avoid chocolate, raisins, xylitol, and other toxic foods.
Portion Control: Use small cookie cutters or roll treats into small sizes to prevent overfeeding.
Storage: Most DIY treats are free from preservatives, so store them in the fridge or freezer to keep them fresh.
Why Your Dog Will Love These Treats
DIY treats aren’t just healthier—they’re also a labor of love. Your dog will taste the difference, and you’ll feel great knowing exactly what’s in their snacks. Plus, making treats is a fun way to bond and bring some positive energy into your home.
At I Was Today Years Old, we believe that the little things—like baking for your pup—can lead to big moments of joy. If you try one of these recipes, let us know how your furry friend reacts in the comments below. Happy baking! 🐾