A wagging tail, an excited face, and a nose following me around the kitchen are all the signs I need to know I’m making something my dogs are going to love.
Every time I mash a ripe banana or open a jar of peanut butter, they somehow appear out of nowhere, patiently waiting for the first taste.
Making homemade treats has become one of my favorite ways to spoil my pups because I know exactly what’s going into every bite.
Instead of relying on store bought snacks filled with ingredients I can’t always pronounce, I can use simple, wholesome foods that are both nutritious and delicious.
These banana and peanut chew sticks have easily earned a spot among my go to recipes.
They’re soft, chewy, easy to make, and packed with flavors that my dogs never seem to get tired of.
Even better, the recipe comes together with everyday ingredients that are probably already sitting in your pantry.
If you’ve been looking for a fun homemade dog treat that’s healthy, budget friendly, and guaranteed to earn plenty of happy tail wags, you’re in the right place.
I’ll share exactly how I make these chewy treats, along with the tips that help them turn out perfectly every single time.
Affiliate Disclaimer: Some links in this post are affiliate links. I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
AMAZON SHOPPING LIST (HOMEMADE DOG CHEW TREAT ESSENTIALS)
- Natural Peanut Butter for Dogs (No Xylitol)
Adds flavor and healthy fats dogs love
BUY NOW ON AMAZON - Mixing Bowl Set
Makes it easy to combine bananas, peanut butter, and other ingredients
BUY NOW ON AMAZON - Silicone Baking Mat
Prevents chew sticks from sticking while baking
BUY NOW ON AMAZON - Non-Stick Baking Sheet
Ensures even baking for crispy chew sticks
BUY NOW ON AMAZON - Airtight Treat Storage Container
Keeps homemade dog chews fresh and ready for snack time
BUY NOW ON AMAZON
Why Banana and Peanut? The Health Benefits
I always like knowing that the treats I make for my dogs are doing more than just satisfying their taste buds.
That’s one of the reasons I love this combination.
Bananas and natural peanut butter work so well together, not only because dogs love the flavor, but also because they provide some wonderful nutritional benefits.
Bananas are naturally rich in potassium, vitamin B6, vitamin C, and fiber.
They add natural sweetness without refined sugar and help create a soft, easy to work with dough.
I also appreciate that they’re gentle on most dogs’ stomachs, making them a great ingredient for homemade treats.
Natural peanut butter is another favorite in my kitchen because it’s packed with protein and healthy fats that help support strong muscles, healthy skin, and a shiny coat.
The rich, nutty flavor is usually enough to get my dogs excited the moment they smell it.
I always make sure to use a peanut butter that is completely free from xylitol, as this sweetener is extremely dangerous for dogs.
When combined with wholesome ingredients like oat flour and egg, bananas and peanut butter create a delicious homemade chew stick that’s both nutritious and satisfying.
It’s one of those simple recipes that lets me spoil my dogs while feeling good about every ingredient that goes into it.
Ingredients for Banana and Peanut Chew Sticks
Here’s what I use every time I make a batch. You probably already have most of these at home:
1 ripe banana, mashed
A ripe banana adds natural sweetness, moisture, and a soft texture to the dough.
It’s also a great source of potassium, vitamin B6, and fiber.
¼ cup natural peanut butter
Natural peanut butter gives these chew sticks their rich flavor that my dogs can’t resist.
I always choose one that’s free from xylitol, added sugar, and artificial sweeteners.
2 cups oat flour
Oat flour creates the perfect dough for shaping into chew sticks while adding fiber that supports healthy digestion.
It’s also gentle on most dogs’ stomachs.
1 large egg
The egg helps bind all the ingredients together while providing high quality protein and essential nutrients that support healthy muscles.
1 tablespoon coconut oil, melted
A little melted coconut oil keeps the dough easy to work with and adds healthy fats that help support a soft, shiny coat.
2 to 3 tablespoons water, if needed
Depending on the size and ripeness of the banana, I sometimes add a little water to bring the dough together into a smooth, easy to shape consistency that’s perfect for rolling into chew sticks.
Pro tip: I usually use bananas that are slightly overripe—they mash easily and add natural sweetness.
Step-by-Step Guide: How I Make Them
Step 1: Prepare the Oven
I begin by preheating my oven to 325°F (163°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Getting everything ready first makes the process smooth and stress free.
Step 2: Mash and Mix
In a large mixing bowl, I mash the ripe banana until it’s nice and smooth.
Then I stir in the natural peanut butter, egg, and melted coconut oil until everything is fully combined.
Step 3: Add the Oat Flour
Next, I gradually mix in the oat flour until a soft dough forms.
If it feels a little dry, I add a small splash of water until the dough is easy to handle without becoming sticky.
Step 4: Knead the Dough
I place the dough on a lightly floured surface and knead it gently for a minute or two.
This helps create a smooth, even dough that’s easy to shape.
Step 5: Shape the Chew Sticks
I divide the dough into small portions and roll each one into a stick about 5 to 6 inches long.
I like keeping them similar in size so they bake evenly.
Step 6: Bake
I arrange the chew sticks on the prepared baking sheet and bake them for 25 to 30 minutes, until they’re lightly golden and firm.
Step 7: Cool Completely
Once they’re out of the oven, I let the chew sticks cool completely on a wire rack.
They continue to firm up as they cool, creating the perfect chewy texture.
Step 8: Store and Enjoy
After they’ve cooled, I store the chew sticks in an airtight container.
They keep well in the refrigerator for up to two weeks, and I often freeze a batch so I always have a homemade treat ready whenever my dogs deserve a little reward.
Tips I Learned From Experience
After a few batches, I discovered some tricks to make these treats even better:
- Adjust the size for your dog: Max is medium-sized, so I make sticks about 3 inches long. Smaller dogs might need shorter sticks, and larger dogs might enjoy a longer chew.
- Texture matters: For chewier treats, bake a little less. For crunchier sticks, leave them in a few extra minutes. I personally love soft chews because Max can eat them slowly without breaking a tooth.
- Flavor variations: Sometimes I add a pinch of cinnamon or shredded coconut. Dogs love the aroma, and it adds a little variety to their treat routine.
- Supervision is key: Always watch your dog the first time they try a homemade treat—especially if it’s new. Even soft sticks can be a choking hazard if eaten too fast.
The Joy of Homemade Treats
Making these banana and peanut chew sticks has been so rewarding.
I love knowing exactly what Max is eating, and it feels good to give him something healthy, homemade, and delicious.
It’s also a great way to bond with your dog.
My kids often help roll the dough, and Max sits patiently (or impatiently) waiting for the first batch to come out of the oven.
Seeing him excited, tail wagging furiously, makes all the effort worth it.
When and How to Serve
I usually give Max a chew stick:
- As a reward for good behavior
- During training sessions
- When I need him to stay occupied while I do chores or cook
Even though they’re healthy, I limit treats to 1–2 per day, depending on size and activity level.
Too many—even homemade ones—can upset your dog’s tummy.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making homemade treats is easy, but here are a few things I learned the hard way:
- Never use xylitol-containing peanut butter—it’s extremely toxic for dogs.
- Avoid chocolate, raisins, and other human foods that are unsafe.
- Don’t overfeed—these treats are just supplements, not replacements for a balanced diet.
- Monitor the texture—too hard can hurt teeth, too soft can break apart easily.
Health Benefit Of This Dog Food
Not only are these treats yummy, but they also provide:
- Better digestion thanks to the fiber in bananas
- Energy and coat health from protein and healthy fats in peanut butter
- Dental benefits if given as a chew to gnaw slowly
- Mental stimulation since dogs enjoy working to eat chewy treats
Personal Story
One of my favorite memories was making these treats on a rainy afternoon.
Max was bored and restless, so I started mixing the bananas and peanut butter.
By the time I rolled the dough into sticks, he was doing circles around me, whining (cutely, of course), and trying to “help” with the rolling.
When the treats came out of the oven, he carefully sniffed each one, picked his favorite, and carried it to his bed.
It was such a small moment, but it reminded me why I love homemade dog treats: it’s not just about the food—it’s about the joy and bond it creates.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can dogs eat bananas and peanut butter?
Yes. Both bananas and natural peanut butter are safe for most dogs when served in moderation.
Always make sure the peanut butter is free from xylitol and artificial sweeteners.
What type of peanut butter should I use?
Choose a natural peanut butter with as few ingredients as possible, ideally just peanuts or peanuts with a little salt.
Avoid products containing xylitol.
How should I store the chew sticks?
Store the cooled chew sticks in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks, or freeze them for up to 3 months.
Can I make these chew sticks gluten free?
Yes. Simply use certified gluten free oat flour to make this recipe suitable for dogs that need a gluten free treat.
Can puppies eat these chew sticks?
Yes, if they’re already eating solid food.
Offer small pieces first and introduce any homemade treat gradually.
How many chew sticks should I give my dog?
These chew sticks are meant to be an occasional reward.
Small dogs can enjoy half to one stick, while medium and large dogs can usually have one whole stick, depending on their size and daily calorie needs.
Final Thoughts
Making these banana and peanut chew sticks has become one of my favorite ways to treat my dogs with something homemade and wholesome.
I love that the recipe uses simple ingredients I already have in my kitchen, and it’s always rewarding to see those excited tails wagging as soon as the treats come out of the oven.
If you’re looking for an easy homemade dog treat that’s packed with flavor and made with ingredients you can trust, this recipe is a wonderful place to start.
I hope your pup enjoys every chewy bite as much as mine does, and that these homemade treats become a regular part of your baking routine.
