The Easiest 2-Ingredient Dog Treats Banana & Oats

 Dogs are truly incredible companions. They greet you with excitement even after a five-minute trip to the mailbox. They snuggle with you when you’re feeling low, and somehow, they always seem to know when you need a friend. If you’ve ever looked into those trusting eyes and felt your heart melt, you know exactly what I mean. Life with a dog is richer, warmer, and undeniably happier, and showing them love in return is something we all want to do. One of the simplest ways to show care is through food—because, let’s be honest, dogs absolutely love treats, and seeing them wag their tail in delight never gets old.

 Making dog treats at home isn’t about fancy techniques or professional baking skills. It’s about connecting with your pup, using ingredients you trust, and creating something that makes both of you happy. Even if the thought of baking makes you nervous, I promise this is something anyone can do. In fact, once you try it, you’ll probably find yourself enjoying the process as much as your dog enjoys the result.

 Yes, you read that right—just two ingredients. That’s it. No eggs, no flour, no complicated measurements. All you need is a ripe banana and some oats, and you’re already halfway to tail-wagging heaven. These treats are naturally sweet, soft yet chewy, and so simple that even the busiest pet parent can whip them up in minutes. And the best part? You can see exactly what’s going into them—no mystery chemicals, preservatives, or unnecessary fillers.

Why DIY?

Choosing to make your own dog treats opens a world of benefits. First, you control the ingredients entirely. That means nothing artificial or harmful touches your dog’s bowl. If your pup has allergies, sensitivities, or just a delicate stomach, you can adapt these treats to suit their exact needs. Beyond health, making treats yourself creates a quiet moment of bonding. As you mash, mix, and shape, your dog watches intently, tail wagging, eyes sparkling, silently appreciating your effort. And don’t underestimate the cost factor—bananas and oats are inexpensive, common staples, making this treat budget-friendly. Compared to store-bought options, you’re saving money while giving your dog something far superior in quality and taste.

Ingredients (Yes, Just Two)

• 1 ripe banana – The riper, the better. Those bananas with spots and soft skins are perfect because they’re naturally sweet and easy to mash.
  
• 1 cup of oats – You can use old-fashioned or quick oats; both work beautifully. It’s a forgiving recipe, so don’t worry about getting it “perfect.”
  

Optional extras include a bit of peanut butter (xylitol-free, of course), pumpkin purée, shredded carrots, or a pinch of cinnamon. These can enhance flavor and nutrition, but the base recipe is already excellent on its own.

How to Make These Treats (Even If You Burn Toast on the Regular)

1. Preheat Your Oven to 350°F (175°C)
Start by preheating your oven. It’s always a good idea to set it early so it’s ready when your dough is mixed.

2. Mash the Banana Like Your Life Depends on It
Grab a fork and mash the banana until it’s completely smooth. A few lumps won’t hurt, but the smoother it is, the easier it is to combine with the oats. If you’ve ever made baby food, it’s that consistency—soft, creamy, and perfectly spreadable.

3. Mix the Oats and Banana
In a bowl, combine the mashed banana with the oats. You’ll notice it’s sticky and thick, almost like cookie dough. If it feels too wet to handle, sprinkle in a little more oats until it holds together nicely. This is the stage where you can sense if your mixture is ready to form into treats.

4. Shape into Treats
Scoop small portions of the dough and shape them into balls or flatten them into little discs. Want to have some fun? Use cookie cutters to make shapes like bones or hearts. Your dog won’t care about the shapes, but it’s an enjoyable way to personalize the treats and make the process even more engaging for you.

5. Bake for 15-20 Minutes
Slide them into the oven and bake until they turn golden brown. The baking time will slightly affect texture: 15 minutes will yield softer, chewier treats, while 20 minutes will make them crunchier. Pay attention to what your dog prefers and adjust accordingly.

6. Let Them Cool
It’s tempting to give your dog a treat immediately, but resist! Let the treats cool completely. This ensures they hold together and prevents your dog from burning their tongue. Watching your pup patiently wait during this step can be one of the cutest experiences ever.

Optional Add-Ins (Because Sometimes You’re Feeling Fancy)

If you feel like experimenting, you can add a few dog-safe ingredients:

• Peanut butter – Always check that it doesn’t contain xylitol, which is toxic to dogs.
  
• Pumpkin purée – Adds fiber and a natural sweetness that most dogs adore.
  
• Cinnamon – A pinch can give a subtle flavor boost.
  
• Shredded carrots – Adds crunch and nutrition.
  

Even with these add-ins, simplicity is key. The original two-ingredient recipe is already wholesome, nutritious, and loved by dogs everywhere.

How to Store These Treats

• Room Temperature: Keep in an airtight container for up to three days. Perfect if you plan to give them out gradually.
  
• Fridge: Extends freshness up to a week.
  
• Freezer: Can be stored for up to three months. Just thaw before serving. Although, if your dog is anything like mine, you might not get a chance to freeze them—they’ll disappear fast!
  

FAQs (Because I Know You’ve Got Questions)

1. Are these treats safe for all dogs?
Yes, these treats are safe for virtually all breeds and sizes. Just be mindful if your dog has a specific allergy to bananas or oats, and always start with a small amount when introducing something new.

2. Can I use instant oats instead of rolled oats?
Absolutely. The texture might vary slightly, but dogs are not picky. They’ll enjoy the treat just the same.

3. What if my dough is too sticky to shape?
Add a little more oats until it’s easy to handle. You want it sticky enough to hold together, but not so much that it becomes unmanageable.

4. Can I eat these myself?
Technically yes, since all ingredients are human-grade. That said, they’re not exactly a gourmet snack for humans unless you add extra sweeteners. But for dogs, they are pure bliss.

Final Thoughts of 2-Ingredient Dog Treats Banana & Oats

These banana and oat treats are simple, affordable, and incredibly healthy. They are free of preservatives, full of natural flavor, and loved by dogs of all ages. Making them gives you a chance to connect with your furry friend in a meaningful, playful way. Watching your dog enjoy something you created with your own hands is a joy that never gets old. So grab a banana, scoop up some oats, and make a batch today—your pup’s happiness is guaranteed.