Banana applesauce dog treats are soft, naturally sweet homemade snacks made with simple, dog-safe ingredients. They’re easy to bake, budget-friendly, and free from artificial preservatives often found in store-bought treats in the USA.
If you have a ripe banana on your counter, this quick recipe is a practical way to turn it into a healthy reward your dog will enjoy.
Why You’ll Love These Banana Applesauce Dog Treats
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Naturally sweet – Banana and applesauce add flavor without added sugar.
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Ready in about 30 minutes – Simple prep and quick baking time.
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Soft yet firm texture – Suitable for most adult dogs and seniors.
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Pantry-friendly ingredients – Uses common grocery staples.
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Freezer-friendly – Make a batch and store for later.
Banana Applesauce Dog Treats
Ingredients
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1 ripe banana, mashed – Provides natural sweetness and potassium.
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½ cup unsweetened applesauce (no added sugar or xylitol) – Adds moisture and vitamins A and C.
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1½ cups whole wheat flour – Creates structure and provides energy.
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1 egg – Acts as a binder and adds protein.
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¼ cup rolled oats – Adds fiber and texture.
Always use unsweetened applesauce. Artificial sweeteners like xylitol are toxic to dogs.
Optional Add-Ons
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1 tablespoon peanut butter (xylitol-free) – Adds flavor and healthy fats.
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1 teaspoon ground cinnamon – Adds mild flavor (optional and safe in small amounts).
Keep additions simple and dog-safe. Avoid chocolate, raisins, nutmeg, or artificial sweeteners.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 2: Mash the Banana
In a large bowl, mash the ripe banana using a fork until mostly smooth. Small lumps are fine.
A very ripe banana works best for natural sweetness.
Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
Add applesauce and egg to the mashed banana. Stir until fully combined and smooth.
Step 4: Add Dry Ingredients
Gradually mix in whole wheat flour and rolled oats. Stir until a soft dough forms.
If the dough feels sticky, add a tablespoon of flour at a time until manageable. If too dry, add a teaspoon of water.
Step 5: Roll and Cut
Lightly flour a clean surface. Roll dough to about ¼-inch thickness. Use cookie cutters or slice into small squares.
Step 6: Bake
Place treats on baking sheet. Bake for 15–20 minutes, until edges turn lightly golden and treats feel firm.
Check at 15 minutes to prevent overbaking.
Step 7: Cool Completely
Transfer to a wire rack and allow to cool for 20–30 minutes. Cooling helps them firm up properly.
Storage and Serving
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Room temperature: Store in airtight container for up to 1 week.
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Refrigerator: Up to 2 weeks.
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Freezer: Up to 3 months.
Serve as a snack or training reward.
Feeding Guidelines
Treats should not exceed 10% of your dog’s daily calorie intake.
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Small dogs (under 20 lbs): ½–1 treat daily
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Medium dogs (20–50 lbs): 1–2 treats daily
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Large dogs (50+ lbs): 2 treats daily
Introduce slowly if your dog hasn’t had banana or applesauce before.
Always supervise treat time.
Tips for Best Results
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Use very ripe bananas for better texture.
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Avoid sweetened applesauce.
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Roll dough evenly for consistent baking.
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Break into smaller pieces for training sessions.
Substitutes and Variations
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Replace whole wheat flour with oat flour for sensitive dogs.
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Use a flax egg (1 tbsp flaxseed + 3 tbsp water) instead of egg.
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Swap applesauce with pumpkin puree for a different flavor.
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Add chia seeds for an omega-3 boost.
Benefits of the Ingredients
Banana – Provides potassium and fiber for digestive health.
Applesauce – Gentle fruit option with vitamin content.
Oats – Adds fiber and steady energy.
Egg – Supports muscle maintenance with protein.
Whole Wheat Flour – Supplies carbohydrates for energy.
If your dog has allergies or health conditions, consult your veterinarian before adding homemade treats regularly.
FAQs
Can I use sweetened applesauce?
No. Only unsweetened applesauce is safe for dogs.
Are these treats safe for puppies?
Yes, in small amounts. Introduce gradually and monitor digestion.
Can I skip the egg?
Yes. Use a flax egg substitute if needed.
Conclusion
These Homemade Banana Applesauce Dog Treats are simple, affordable, and made with ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen. They’re soft, naturally sweet, and easy to customize.
Making treats at home gives you control over what your dog eats. Keep portions moderate, store properly, and enjoy rewarding your dog with a homemade snack.
