Banana peanut butter chew sticks for dogs are soft, protein-rich homemade treats made with simple pantry ingredients. They combine the natural sweetness of ripe bananas with creamy peanut butter for a flavorful snack most dogs love.
If you’re looking for an easy homemade dog treat in the USA that’s free from artificial preservatives and fillers, this recipe is a practical and affordable option.
Why Your Dog Will Love These Chew Sticks
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Naturally sweet flavor – Ripe bananas add mild sweetness without added sugar.
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Peanut butter taste – A favorite flavor for many dogs.
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Chewy texture – Fun to chew and satisfying.
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Simple ingredients – No artificial additives.
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Multiple cooking options – Oven, air fryer, or dehydrator.
Banana Peanut Butter Chew Sticks for Dogs
Ingredients
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2 ripe bananas, mashed – Provide potassium and natural sweetness.
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½ cup natural peanut butter (unsalted, xylitol-free) – Adds protein and healthy fats.
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1½ cups whole wheat flour – Forms the structure of the chew sticks.
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1 teaspoon olive oil – Adds healthy fats and improves texture.
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½ teaspoon honey (optional) – Adds mild sweetness.
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Water (as needed) – Helps adjust dough consistency.
Always check that peanut butter is xylitol-free, as xylitol is toxic to dogs.
Making the Dough
Step 1: Preheat (If Baking)
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 2: Mash the Bananas
Mash bananas in a large bowl until mostly smooth. Small lumps are fine.
Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
Add peanut butter, olive oil, and honey (if using). Stir until fully combined.
Step 4: Add Dry Ingredients
Gradually add whole wheat flour. Stir until thick dough forms.
If too dry, add water 1 tablespoon at a time.
If sticky, add small amounts of flour.
Step 5: Knead the Dough
Transfer dough to a lightly floured surface. Knead for 2–3 minutes until smooth.
Shaping the Chew Sticks
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Divide dough into golf ball-sized portions.
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Roll each portion into sticks about 4–5 inches long and ½ inch thick.
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Place on baking sheet or air fryer basket, leaving space between each stick.
Cooking Methods
Oven Method
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Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20–25 minutes.
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Sticks should be firm and lightly golden.
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Cool completely before serving.
Air Fryer Method
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Preheat to 325°F (160°C).
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Cook for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway through.
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Cool completely.
Dehydrator Method
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Set to 145°F (63°C).
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Dehydrate for 6–8 hours for longer-lasting chewiness.
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Allow to cool before storing.
Feeding Guidelines
Treats should not exceed 10% of your dog’s daily calorie intake.
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Small dogs (under 20 lbs): 1 stick daily
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Medium dogs (20–50 lbs): 1–2 sticks daily
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Large dogs (50+ lbs): 2 sticks daily
Introduce gradually if your dog hasn’t had banana or peanut butter before.
Always supervise chewing.
Storage and Serving Tips
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Room temperature: Store in airtight container up to 1 week.
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Refrigerator: Up to 2 weeks.
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Freezer: Up to 3 months.
Break into smaller pieces for training rewards.
Tips for Best Results
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Use very ripe bananas for better sweetness and easier mixing.
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Always confirm peanut butter is xylitol-free.
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Adjust flour slowly to control texture.
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Bake longer for firmer chew sticks.
Benefits of the Ingredients
Bananas – Provide potassium and fiber for digestion.
Peanut Butter – Supplies protein and healthy fats.
Whole Wheat Flour – Provides carbohydrates for energy.
Olive Oil – Supports skin and coat health.
Honey (optional) – Natural sweetener safe in small amounts.
If your dog has allergies, diabetes, or special dietary needs, consult your veterinarian before introducing new homemade treats.
FAQs
Can I use oat flour instead of whole wheat?
Yes. Oat flour is a good alternative for dogs sensitive to wheat.
Is honey safe for dogs?
Yes, in small amounts. Avoid giving to puppies under one year old.
Can I use store-bought peanut butter?
Yes, as long as it is unsalted and xylitol-free.
Conclusion
These Banana Peanut Butter Chew Sticks are simple to prepare and made with ingredients you can trust. They offer natural sweetness, a chewy texture, and flexible cooking methods to suit your kitchen setup.
Homemade treats allow you to control what goes into your dog’s snacks. Keep portions moderate, store properly, and enjoy treating your dog to something made with care.
