Did you know that it’s really easy to make your own dog treats? These vegan dog biscuits can be made with staples you have in the pantry and a nice ripe banana. Who knows, maybe you’ll be able to teach them a new trick or two to get these goodies.
Since I’ve been baking dog biscuits for my pups, they get so excited when they smell bananas or cinnamon coming out of the oven.
Making vegan dog biscuits is pretty much the same as making people cookies. You use the best ingredients that you have in your kitchen, mix everything up together and bake them. You can even eat homemade dog cookies yourself.
Just know that that dog cookies are drier, that way they’ll store longer. So, it’s actually dry on purpose and I can promise you that your pup will not be complaining.
My pups love banana and cinnamon in their treats. I also used whole wheat flour, flaxseed, and coconut oil. They could smell the cookies as they baked and really, so could I. The way they kept coming into the kitchen let me know that they were hoping at least some of the cookies were for them.
Are there vegan dog treats?
There are so many vegan dog treats, but you do need to read the labels. In fact, you should pay close attention to what is in your pet’s food and treats to make sure it’s full of healthy ingredients. My dogs also have allergies, so if yours do too it will save you an expensive trip to the vet later on.
The easiest vegan dog treats to find at the store are dried sweet potatoes. Yep, just one ingredient dehydrated into a chewy slice to keep your pup occupied – plus it’s good for them.
Threepaws Gourmet Bones’ Coconut Bacon Bones are one of my dog, Max’s favorite. I love Threepaws because they are even owned and run by vegans, and many. of the ingredients are organic. V-Dog is the go-to for vegan dog food and their V-dog Breathbones are loved by my pups.
Here are some more vegan dog cookies that you can order:
Why do dogs like treats so much?
Dogs love to eat and just like you they love things that taste good to them. Dogs are as discerning as people or cats, so they often get the short end of the stick when it comes to their treats.
Another reason is that humans train dogs with treats, so they learn that a treat means a reward for doing the right thing.
Do dog biscuits taste good?
Just like everything else, it depends. If you are making homemade dog cookies they are going to taste better than most store-bought ones. Some dogs are picky and will let you know that they like a particular one, or if they don’t.
Will you like them? If you make it with people’s food, you can eat them. You might need them to have a little more flavor or add sweetener, but you could transform this recipe into something you make for your whole family – the ones on two legs or four legs.
How do you make plant-based dog biscuits?
1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees and grease or cover a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a mixing bowl or mixer, combine the flaxseed, oats, flour, cinnamon, and salt. Mix until it is well blended.
3. Stir in the coconut oil and banana until thoroughly combined, then add 1/4 cup water and stir again. Since the dough will be thick, mixing it in a mixer will be simpler. If you're mixing by hand, you may need to add a little more water to get it to come together.
4. Place 1 tablespoon of cookie dough on the cookie sheet and flatten. I use a cookie scoop and a wooden spoon to flatten the dough. Rep before all of the dough has been used.
5. Cook for 20 minutes at 350°F.
Max is our white polka-dotted dog above and we think he's a hound-pit mix. He loves wearing sweaters that cover his naked belly, curling up in a blanket, and sleeping with his head on the closest lap or under the covers in bed.
His hobbies include obsessing over his toy monkey, and one day he's sure that he'll be able to catch the mailman red-handed.
Brenna is pretty much Max's opposite. She's 12 years old, mellow, and has a thick, beautiful reverse brindle coat. She likes to be the boss almost as much as she likes her naps. Note: Brenna passed but she always lives on in our hearts.
Her main obsessions are playing tug, rolling on her back in the grass, and trying to sneak food off of Cheryl's plate.
Despite their personality differences, they both loved these cookies. I took them out on the deck one at a time to get the photos. The whole time a wet nose was pressed into the glass to watch the other one as they ate their cookies.
One thing you can always say about dogs is that they will always appreciate your cooking.
Are flax seeds good for dogs?
They sure are! Why? Omega 3 and Omega 6 fatty acids are in flaxseed, they can help make a dog's coat glossy and help skin become healthier.
Flaxseed contains alpha-linolenic acid, which is a fatty acid with anti-inflammatory properties. That's great for your dog's immune system.
Is flaxseed good for constipation?
Flaxseed may help with constipation because it is full of fiber. A tablespoon of both brown and golden flaxseeds contains 2.8 grams of soluble and insoluble fiber.
If your dog or even cat is constipated, try some canned pumpkin.
Are flax seeds gluten-free?
Like oats, flax seeds are naturally gluten-free. Like oats, it is another crop that is often affected by cross-contamination, so check the label or ingredient list for the words gluten-free or a certification logo.
Are rolled oats good for dogs?
Rolled oats are great for dogs and can help their skin and coats be healthier. In addition to adding them into your dog's diet through treats, you can mix them in with wet food, cooked grains, and sweet potatoes.
Can rolled oats be eaten raw?
Rolled oats are actually steamed, so they are already cooked a bit at least. You can eat them as-is, though you and your dog probably like cooked oatmeal better.
Can rolled oats be frozen?
Oatmeal that has been opened should be kept in a resealable plastic bag or a plastic or glass container at room temperature. To extend its shelf life it can also be frozen for up to a year in a freezer bag. This goes for all grains and even nuts.
Are bananas safe for dogs?
Bananas are safe for you and your dogs to eat. It's a good thing because my dogs insist on a piece whenever I'm eating one myself.
But remember not all human food is safe for your best friend. If you are unsure check this article by the American Kennel Association.
More vegan dog biscuit recipes to try
I know that you will love these, but if you don't have a banana on hand be sure to try these Pumpkin Cranberry Dog Cookies. They use pumpkin instead of bananas and are even made with gluten-free brown rice flour. So they are perfect for pups with allergies.
There's no delicate way to say this, but sometimes your dog may have bad breath. If you didn't brush your teeth you would too! For a win-win solution try the recipe for Peppermint Puppy Cookies, they are easy to make and just happen to freshen breath too.
Make Your Own Banana Flax Vegan Dog Biscuits
Sometimes your puppy needs some incentive to be good. Or is it just my dogs? These dog cookies come together quickly and are filled with whole food ingredients that are actually good for them. The other bonus is these don't cost a fortune like the organic ones in the fancy pet stores.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons ground flax seed
- 1 cup rolled oats or Irish oats, which are stone-ground
- 1 cup whole wheat flour
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/3 cup melted coconut oil
- 1 large banana mashed
- 1/4 cup water
Instructions
Oil a large cookie sheet or cover with parchment paper and preheat the oven to 350 degrees.
Add the flax seed, oats, flour, cinnamon and salt to a mixing bowl or mixer. Mix until well combined.
Add in the coconut oil and banana then mix in well, add 1/4 cup water and mix more. The dough will be thick and it's easier to mix in a mixer. If you are mixing by hand you may need to add a little extra water to get it to come together.
Measure 1 tablespoon of cookie dough and flatten on the cookie sheet. I use a cookie scoop and flatten with the back of a wooden spoon. Repeat until you use up all the dough.
Bake for 20 minutes.
Nutrition Information
Yield 24 Serving Size 1Amount Per Serving Calories 71Total Fat 4gSaturated Fat 3gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 1gCholesterol 0mgSodium 23mgCarbohydrates 9gFiber 1gSugar 1gProtein 1g
Nutrition information is provided from nutritionix.com as a close estimate. If you have specific health issues please put the recipe information, including the exact ingredients you use, into the nutritional calculator your Dr. recommends.
radioactivegan says
Um, I would totally eat these cookies.
Kathy Hester says
Add a little coconut sugar and go for it!
Sylvie says
I did!
What I do give to my Italian greyhound I usually taste. I do talk to her when I cut and mix her food and she goes crazy.
Kathy Hester says
That’s great news!
Sylvie says
For my Celeste, I am using a bone shape cookie cutter and added a little pink Wilton icing color. Are we crazy here?
Kathy Hester says
That is adorable! I’m sure your pups will love them <3
Maria says
I really enjoyed this post–what cute pooches you have! I make a version of these for Romeo with peanut butter instead of the cocout oil. He, and all visiting dog friends, love them! And actually making those gave me inspiration for my gingersnaps for people! LOL You learn a lot of things you wouldn’t otherwise learn when you have a dog. 🙂 Thanks for the great recipe Kathy!
Kathy Hester says
The dogs thank you for the compliment! I’ve made all kinds of versions of this the past year and have had happy testers. Making these did make me want to cook up some banana muffins 😉
lysette says
Awesome! My eleven year old german shep will love this recipe. Your canine companions do look pretty blissed 🙂
Jessica says
Can’t wait to try these for my Miranda! I was wondering though, what is the shelf life? How do you recommend storing them?
Thanks!!!
Kathy Hester says
If they are good and dried out in the oven and it’s not humid they should last at least a week. I had a different cookie that I didn’t bake dry and they got moldy after that.
This is a new recipe to me, but we’re almost out so I’m not sure they’ll make it to a week. I do store them at room temperature.
Heather says
I have had good success freezing small zip lock bags of 6-8… I also make them into tiny balls as a training trigger as we play lots of training games. I add tiny bits of chicken breast to the mixand have substituted wheat flour for pea flour for my puppy…she loves loves them!
thrillraceresq says
I’ll make these for my dawg next time I get some bananas. 🙂
Kathy Hester says
Send a photo of them eating them and I’ll post it!
BlessedMama says
What a great post and great pics.
Kathy Hester says
You are so sweet, thank you! <3
Kyra says
I wish I had a dog so I could make these biscuits for him/her! Instead, I have 8 carnivorous cats : your dogs are gorgeous, they sure look like they are enjoying the biscuits!
Kathy Hester says
Thank you! I have made a cat treat with nooch and catnip, but some cats won’t eat it : (
Deborah Davis @UrbanNaturale says
Hi Kathy,
I just hopped over from Virtual Vegan Potluck to check out your banana flax vegan dog biscuits. This recipe looks so healthy and delicious. I can’t wait to make them for my friends’ dogs. They will be so thrilled and so will their dogs. I subscribed to stay in touch. I’m pinning and sharing this recipe as well. All the best, Deborah
Kathy Hester says
Welcome, it’s great to have you stop by. Your blog looks awesome and I’m headed there to read for a bit ; )
Philip says
My question is – Are these are as good 4 human consumption as they sound, sure hope they are..And also too, are they alright to feed to a ferret as a treat ?
Kathy Hester says
People can eat them for sure. I’ve never had a ferret so I’m not sure what they can and can’t have. If you aren’t sure you want to ask your vet. Sorry I don’t know the answer!
Kenna says
Dogs should not eat cinnamon.
Kathy Hester says
From the articles I’ve read dogs that get into a bottle cinnamon will have a toxic reaction or that breathe it in, but that it is safe and even good for them in small dosages in treats. Here are links to a few of them:
Beckie says
I’m sure my 3 (Diesel, Kiah, and Zeva) will love these. Thanks for the recipe.
Christina says
Is there a particular reason coconut oil is used? i don’t have any in the house as I don’t use it. can you make any substitution options for me?
Kathy Hester says
I use it because it’s good for their coats and both my dog have had skin issues. You can use any cooking oil like olive oil, avocado oil, etc.
If you don’t use at all try subbing applesauce or pumpkin puree. These will not keep as long, but you can keep them in the fridge to stretch out how long they will last.
Carol says
I just made these for my little vegan dog and she loves them so much. I used a teaspoon of dough per cookie and slightly shortened the bake time. She always wants at least three so I just make them small. Thanks so much for the recipe!
Kathy Hester says
I’m so glad your pup likes them!
blue says
I made these in a loaf formation and twice baked after cutting into 1 in squares for training. Great!
My only question. . What can I sub for the wheat . I have a pup with allergies.. thank you
Kathy Hester says
You could try a gluten-free baking blend – that should work.
Stephanie says
You can use brown rice flour or coconut flour instead. Coconut flour is a bit drier than brown rice flour which is a bit drier than wheat flour. So you may need to add a bit more water accordingly.
Jen says
I just made theses with brown rice flour as I also have a dog with allergies. They turned out great and my boys love them!
Kathy Hester says
Yay!
Nikki says
Use Coconut or Quinoa Flour. Hypoallergenic, Gluten Free, VERY nutritious. You can completely replace the Whole Flour for the Quinoa Flour. You can also try ‘Pea Flour or Bean flour’.
Rick says
Thanks for sharing. I just made some of these and mixed in a little Metamucil because one of our dogs needs more fiber. I made another recipe that said when treats are done to leave them in the oven while it is turned off so they cool slower which helps them harden. I’m gonna try that with your recipe.
Kathy Hester says
Those are both great ideas. The drier the cookie the longer they store.
JulieMcGold says
Your babies are beautiful Godsends..I was up early working and came across your post. Made my day. We are Res
cue Dog owners too! Thanks for the biscuit tips.
Scott says
Your dogs take the cookies so gently. I have been experimenting with some vegan dog treat recipes and I think I might try these next. They are just a little more complicated than what I have done so far but I really enjoyed making my own treats. I made these peanut butter based ones just yesterday
They were just ok but the recipe you shared here sounds like something I think my dogs and I would enjoy more. I’ll give you a shout after I make them and let you know how it goes. I’ll probably give them a go this weekend.
Namrata says
Wow !! Such adorable dogs <3
I want to make these vegan treats for some shelter dogs. They are not used to eat bananas. Do you think they would still like them?
Kathy Hester says
I think they would. Also look for the sale bananas at groceries – they are sometimes half the price and rarely even ripe. That’s a great idea to make cookies for the shelter!
jennifer says
Hi,
What would you say the shelf life of these are?
Kathy Hester says
It really depends on how dry you cook them. I’ve had dry ones last almost 10 days, but moister ones only lasted 4 or 5 days during a very humid week. I hope that helps!
Michelle says
Hi Kathy, these look so good! I’m definitely going to make them for my bubs. The rolled oats- do you add them just like that or ground them first? Ps. Your pups are beautiful <3
Kathy Hester says
I just add the rolled oats whole.
Adrian Scherer says
Can these be freezed and roughly how long would you say they stay good for?
Kathy Hester says
I think they should freeze fine. You may need to pop them in the oven to get all the moisture out once you thaw them. I’d think they would keep a few months.
Coral says
Hi,
Our little boy is a cross between a Chihuahua and a Yorkie. Coco Joe is 8 now. We found out when he was 2 and having sezures that he can’t process protein. He was on medication and we had to completely change his diet. I make him treats with peanut butter,oats,chia seeds, flax oil, grated carrot, pure pumpkin, vitamin E, milk thistle (to clean his liver) a recommendation from our vet and a little peppermint and parsley for bad breath. He loves them! Since we changed his diet he is super healthy, active and at an ideal weight. Our vet said if we hadn’t changed his diet, he would not be with us anymore. If you have anymore fabulous recipient I would love them.
Thanks,
And feel free to share our story.
Coral
Lauren Smith | The Oatmeal Artist says
I decided to make these last minute for a friend’s dog. I had all the ingredients on hand it came together SO fast. Thanks!
Crissie says
These are PERFECT!! I was looking for a peanut free Vegan dog cookie recipe because my dog is sensitive to certain foods, and these were exactly what I was looking for!! And I just subbed the flour for oat flour to be gluten free. They’re amazing! My dogs love it and even I tried a bit and were surprisingly good! Thank you for the recipe! Will definitely make more!