If you’re looking for a way to treat your dog with healthy, delicious snacks, homemade dog biscuits recipes are the perfect solution. Making your own dog biscuits allows you to control the ingredients, avoid harmful additives, and cater to your pup’s specific dietary needs. Whether your dog has allergies, weight concerns, or simply loves a tasty reward, homemade treats are a great way to show them love.
In this guide, we’ll cover why homemade dog biscuits are better than store-bought, essential baking tips, and a variety of healthy and tasty recipes. You’ll also learn how to store them properly, customize treats for different dog breeds, and answer common questions about baking for dogs. Let’s get started!
Why Make Homemade Dog Biscuits?
Many pet owners wonder if making homemade dog biscuits is worth the effort. The answer is a resounding yes! Here’s why:
1. Healthier Ingredients
Commercial dog biscuits often contain preservatives, artificial colors, and fillers that provide little nutritional value. By making your own, you can use high-quality, dog-friendly ingredients like:
- Whole wheat or oat flour – A great source of fiber and nutrients.
- Pumpkin & sweet potatoes – Promote digestion and add vitamins.
- Lean proteins (chicken, eggs, peanut butter) – Essential for muscle development.
2. No Harmful Additives
Many store-bought treats include BHA, BHT, and artificial flavor enhancers, which have been linked to health issues in dogs. Homemade treats allow you to avoid these harmful additives while using natural preservatives like honey and cinnamon.
3. Cost-Effective
A bag of high-quality, organic dog biscuits can cost anywhere from $10 to $30, depending on the brand. By making them at home, you can save money while ensuring quality. Below is a cost comparison of store-bought vs. homemade dog biscuits:
| Type | Average Cost per Pound | Ingredients Quality |
| Store-Bought (Cheap Brand) | $5-$10 | Low (Fillers, Preservatives) |
| Store-Bought (Premium Brand) | $15-$30 | High (Organic, Limited Ingredients) |
| Homemade Dog Biscuits | $3-$8 | Highest (Fresh, Natural) |
4. Customization for Dietary Needs
Dogs, like humans, can have food allergies or special dietary needs. Homemade biscuits let you:
✅ Make grain-free treats for dogs with wheat allergies.
✅ Adjust protein levels for active or senior dogs.
✅ Control calorie intake for weight management.
5. Strengthen the Bond with Your Dog
Baking for your pup isn’t just about nutrition—it’s an act of love! Many dogs enjoy the smell of fresh-baked treats and get excited watching their owners bake. Creating a positive association with food can enhance training sessions and strengthen your bond.
What You Need to Know Before Baking Dog Biscuits
Before you start making homemade dog biscuits, there are a few important things to keep in mind. Using the right ingredients, baking at the correct temperature, and ensuring proper storage will help you create safe, nutritious, and long-lasting treats for your pup.
Dog-Safe Ingredients to Use
Not all human foods are safe for dogs. When making homemade dog biscuits, use ingredients that are both nutritious and non-toxic. Below is a list of safe and unsafe ingredients:
✅ Safe Ingredients for Dogs
- Flour: Whole wheat flour, oat flour, coconut flour, or chickpea flour.
- Proteins: Eggs, plain cooked chicken, turkey, beef, and peanut butter (xylitol-free).
- Fruits & Vegetables: Pumpkin, carrots, apples (seedless), bananas, blueberries, and sweet potatoes.
- Healthy Fats: Coconut oil, olive oil, flaxseeds.
- Natural Sweeteners: Honey, unsweetened applesauce.
🚫 Ingredients to Avoid
- Xylitol – Found in sugar-free peanut butter and some sweeteners. Toxic to dogs.
- Chocolate & Caffeine – Can cause serious health problems.
- Onions & Garlic – Damage red blood cells and can lead to anemia.
- Grapes & Raisins – Can cause kidney failure.
- Dairy (in large amounts) – Some dogs are lactose intolerant.
Choosing the Right Flour for Dog Biscuits
Not all flours are created equal. Some are more nutritious and digestible for dogs than others. Here’s a quick guide:
| Flour Type | Benefits | Best For |
| Whole Wheat Flour | High in fiber & nutrients | Most dog biscuit recipes |
| Oat Flour | Gluten-free, easy to digest | Dogs with wheat allergies |
| Coconut Flour | Low-carb, rich in fiber | Low-fat, grain-free diets |
| Chickpea Flour | High in protein & iron | Protein-packed treats |
Baking Tips for Perfect Dog Biscuits
Follow these baking tips to ensure your homemade dog biscuits turn out just right:
- Preheat Your Oven – Most dog biscuits bake well at 325-350°F (163-177°C).
- Use Parchment Paper – Prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier.
- Roll Dough Evenly – Ensures biscuits bake uniformly.
- Cut to the Right Size – Small dogs need bite-sized treats, while large dogs can handle bigger biscuits.
- Bake Until Crispy – The crunchier the biscuit, the longer it lasts!
How to Store Homemade Dog Biscuits
Proper storage ensures your homemade dog biscuits stay fresh and crunchy for weeks. Here’s how to keep them fresh:
| Storage Method | Shelf Life | Best Practices |
| Room Temperature | 1-2 weeks | Store in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. |
| Refrigerator | 3-4 weeks | Keeps treats fresh longer, especially in warm climates. |
| Freezer | 2-3 months | Store in freezer-safe bags; thaw before serving. |
Easy Homemade Dog Biscuit Recipes
Making homemade dog biscuits is easier than you think! Below are four simple, healthy, and delicious recipes your pup will love. Each recipe uses natural, dog-safe ingredients and can be customized to fit your dog’s dietary needs.
Classic Peanut Butter Dog Biscuits
This is a basic, crunchy dog biscuit recipe using peanut butter—a favorite for most dogs!
Ingredients:
- 2 cups whole wheat flour (or oat flour for gluten-free)
- ½ cup natural peanut butter (xylitol-free)
- 1 egg
- ¼ cup unsweetened applesauce or mashed banana
- ¼ cup water (as needed)
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (177°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, mix the flour and peanut butter.
- Add the egg and applesauce, stirring until combined.
- Slowly add water, one tablespoon at a time, until the dough holds together.
- Roll out the dough to ¼-inch thickness and use a cookie cutter to cut shapes.
- Place on the baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
- Let cool completely before serving.
Pumpkin & Oat Dog Biscuits (Great for Digestion!)
Pumpkin is packed with fiber and vitamins, making these biscuits perfect for dogs with sensitive stomachs.
Ingredients:
- 1 ½ cups oat flour
- ½ cup pumpkin purée (unsweetened, not pie filling)
- 1 egg
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (177°C).
- Mix oat flour, pumpkin, egg, cinnamon, and coconut oil in a bowl.
- Knead the dough and roll out to about ¼-inch thick.
- Use a cookie cutter or knife to cut into pieces.
- Bake for 20 minutes, then let cool completely.
Cheesy Cheddar Dog Biscuits
If your dog loves cheese, this cheddar-flavored treat is a winner!
Ingredients:
- 2 cups whole wheat flour
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 egg
- ¼ cup unsweetened applesauce
- ¼ cup water
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (177°C).
- In a large bowl, mix flour and shredded cheese.
- Add egg, applesauce, and water, stirring until a dough forms.
- Roll out and cut into small pieces.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Sweet Potato & Flaxseed Dog Biscuits
Packed with omega-3s and fiber, these biscuits are a superfood treat for your pup.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup mashed sweet potato (cooked and skin removed)
- 1 ½ cups brown rice flour or oat flour
- 2 tablespoons ground flaxseed
- 1 egg
- 2 tablespoons water (if needed)
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (177°C).
- Mix all ingredients in a bowl until a dough forms.
- Roll out and cut into desired shapes.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, then let cool.
How to Store and Preserve Homemade Dog Biscuits
Once you’ve baked a batch of delicious homemade dog biscuits, proper storage is key to maintaining their freshness, texture, and safety. Unlike store-bought treats loaded with preservatives, homemade biscuits have a shorter shelf life, so let’s explore the best ways to store and extend their longevity.
How Long Do Homemade Dog Biscuits Last?
The shelf life of homemade dog biscuits depends on moisture content and storage method. Here’s a general guideline:
| Storage Method | Shelf Life | Best For |
| Room Temperature (Airtight Container) | 5-7 days | Soft or crunchy biscuits |
| Refrigerator (Sealed Bag or Container) | 2-3 weeks | Treats with fresh ingredients like pumpkin or banana |
| Freezer (Freezer-Safe Container) | 3-6 months | Long-term storage, best for large batches |
Best Ways to Store Homemade Dog Biscuits
1. Room Temperature Storage (Short-Term, Up to 1 Week)
✔ Use an airtight container or a cookie jar to prevent biscuits from becoming stale.
✔ Store in a cool, dry place away from heat and humidity.
✔ If using natural ingredients like fresh fruit or meat, avoid leaving treats at room temperature for too long.
2. Refrigeration (Mid-Term, Up to 3 Weeks)
✔ Place biscuits in a sealed container or resealable bag to prevent moisture buildup.
✔ Refrigerate if the biscuits contain perishable ingredients like eggs, dairy, or fresh produce.
✔ Let refrigerated biscuits sit at room temperature for 5-10 minutes before serving for better texture.
3. Freezing (Long-Term, Up to 6 Months)
✔ Use freezer-safe bags or airtight containers to prevent freezer burn.
✔ Label bags with the baking date so you know when to use them.
✔ Thaw before serving – Simply leave a biscuit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes, or microwave for a few seconds.
Signs of Spoiled Dog Biscuits
Just like human food, dog biscuits can go bad. Watch out for these signs:
🚨 Mold or Fuzzy Spots – Indicates moisture exposure. Toss them out!
🚨 Unusual Smell – If biscuits smell sour or rancid, they’re no longer safe.
🚨 Change in Texture – Soft biscuits turning slimy or too hard to chew could be a sign of spoilage.
🚨 Loss of Interest – If your dog suddenly refuses their favorite treats, they might sense spoilage before you do.
Can You Make Dog Biscuits Last Longer?
✔ Bake at a Lower Temperature for a Longer Time – This removes more moisture, creating crispier, longer-lasting treats.
✔ Dehydrate After Baking – Pop biscuits in a dehydrator or oven at low heat (150°F/65°C) for an extra 1-2 hours.
✔ Use Dry Ingredients – Avoid excessive use of fresh fruit, dairy, or meat unless planning to freeze.
✔ Vacuum Seal for Extra Freshness – This removes air and keeps biscuits fresh for months.