If you’re looking for a simple, nutritious, and vet-approved treat for your furry friend, homemade oatmeal cookies for dogs are the perfect choice. Oatmeal is gentle on the stomach, rich in healthy fiber, and packed with nutrients that support your dog’s overall well-being. Best of all? These cookies are incredibly easy to make with ingredients you likely already have at home.
In this guide, you’ll learn how to make crunchy and chewy oatmeal dog cookies, what ingredients are safe, how to store them, and why this treat is healthier than store-bought alternatives.
Why Oatmeal Is Good for Dogs
Oatmeal is one of the safest and healthiest grains for dogs. It’s especially great for pups with wheat allergies or sensitive digestion.
Benefits of oatmeal for dogs include:
-
High in fiber — supports digestion and bowel health
-
Rich in vitamins like B vitamins and minerals such as iron and magnesium
-
Good source of antioxidants
-
Gluten-free and safe for dogs with wheat sensitivity
-
Low in fat and gentle for senior dogs or dogs with dietary restrictions
This makes oatmeal cookies a great everyday treat or training reward.
Ingredients You Can Safely Use in Oatmeal Dog Cookies
When baking treats for dogs, keep the ingredients simple. Dogs don’t need sugar, artificial flavors, or additives.
Here are safe, healthy add-ins you can use:
✔ Peanut butter (unsweetened, xylitol-free)
✔ Unsweetened applesauce
✔ Mashed banana
✔ Pumpkin purée
✔ Carrots or blueberries
✔ Honey (very small amount)
✔ Eggs
✔ Coconut oil
These natural ingredients add flavor, nutrients, and moisture to your homemade oat cookies.
⭐ Simple Homemade Oatmeal Cookies for Dogs (Easy Recipe)
This recipe is beginner-friendly, requires only a few ingredients, and takes less than 20 minutes to bake.
Ingredients:
-
1 cup rolled oats
-
1 cup oat flour (blend oats in a blender to make flour)
-
½ cup unsweetened applesauce
-
1 tablespoon natural peanut butter (NO xylitol)
-
1 egg
Instructions:
-
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
-
Mix oats and oat flour in a bowl.
-
Add applesauce, peanut butter, and egg.
-
Combine until a dough forms.
-
Roll the dough into small balls or flatten into cookie shapes.
-
Place them on a lined baking sheet.
-
Bake for 12–15 minutes or until golden brown.
-
Let them cool completely before serving.
These cookies come out chewy, lightly sweet, and completely dog-safe.
Variations You Can Try
Banana Oat Cookies
Add 1 mashed banana for extra sweetness and potassium.
Pumpkin Oat Dog Cookies
Add ¼ cup pumpkin purée for fiber and digestive support.
Blueberry Oat Bites
Mix ¼ cup fresh blueberries into the dough.
Carrot Crunch Treats
Add ¼ cup grated carrots for added vitamins.
How to Store Homemade Dog Cookies
Homemade dog treats contain no preservatives, so proper storage is key.
Room Temperature: 4–5 days in an airtight container
Refrigerator: 10–14 days
Freezer: Up to 3 months
Freeze in small batches and thaw as needed to keep treats fresh longer.
Tips for Making Oatmeal Dog Cookies Safe
-
Always use xylitol-free peanut butter
-
Avoid salt, sugar, chocolate, raisins, and artificial sweeteners
-
Introduce new ingredients slowly to avoid digestive upset
-
Offer treats in moderation
-
If your dog has allergies, check ingredients carefully
Are Homemade Oatmeal Cookies Better Than Store-Bought?
Absolutely! Here’s why:
✔ No preservatives
✔ No artificial colors
✔ No added salt or sugar
✔ Customizable ingredients
✔ Budget-friendly
✔ Great for dogs with allergies
Plus, dogs love the smell and taste of fresh-baked treats.
FAQs About Homemade Oatmeal Cookies for Dogs
Can dogs eat oats every day?
Yes, in moderation. Oats are safe and nutritious unless your dog has a grain allergy.
Is peanut butter safe for dogs?
Yes, as long as it is unsweetened and xylitol-free.
Can puppies eat oatmeal cookies?
Yes, but break them into small pieces and avoid hard, crunchy cookies for very young puppies.
Final Thoughts
Making homemade oatmeal cookies for dogs is a fun and rewarding way to treat your pup with healthy, natural ingredients. These cookies are easy to bake, customizable, and much safer than many store-bought treats loaded with preservatives.
Your dog will love the delicious flavor — and you’ll love knowing exactly what’s in every bite.