Last Updated on July 6, 2026 by Shannon
Thinking about making homemade treats for your dog, but not sure where to start?
Good news: it doesn’t have to be complicated.
Some of my favorite homemade dog treats use just a handful of ingredients, take only a few minutes to make, and don’t require any special baking skills. Whether you’re trying to save money, control what goes into your dog’s treats, or simply enjoy spoiling your pup a little, there are plenty of easy recipes to start with.
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Why Make Homemade Dog Treats?
I don’t think homemade treats have to replace store-bought treats. I use both with my dogs.
But every now and then, it’s fun to make something myself. Homemade treats are a simple way to add a little variety, try new ingredients, and make something special for your dog.
Some of the things I like about homemade treats are:
- Knowing exactly what’s in them
- Using simple ingredients I already have at home
- Being able to customize recipes for my dogs
- Having another treat option to add to the rotation
And let’s be honest, half the fun is watching your dog hang around the kitchen the entire time, convinced every ingredient is being prepared specifically for them. 😄
Easy Homemade Dog Treat Recipes to Try
If you’re new to homemade dog treats, start simple. These are beginner-friendly recipes that don’t require a lot of ingredients or experience.
No-Bake Peanut Butter and Pumpkin Dog Treats
If you want the easiest possible starting point, this is it.
These no-bake treats come together quickly with simple ingredients like pumpkin and peanut butter. No oven required.
They’re perfect if:
- You want a quick recipe
- You don’t feel like baking
- Your dog prefers softer treats
Ice Cream for Dogs
Looking for a fun treat your dog will go crazy for?
Dog-friendly ice cream is always a favorite around here.
Made with simple ingredients and frozen, it’s an easy way to give your dog something a little special.
You’ll love this recipe if:
- Your dog enjoys frozen treats
- You want something different from traditional biscuits
- You like simple blend-and-freeze recipes
Frozen Applesauce Dog Treats
This is one of the easiest homemade dog treats you can make.
With just a few ingredients, these frozen treats come together quickly and are great for warmer weather.
This recipe is a good fit if:
- You like simple recipes
- You want minimal prep work
- Your dog enjoys lighter frozen treats
Soft Peanut Butter and Pumpkin Dog Treats
Not every dog loves crunchy treats.
These baked treats stay soft, making them a great option for puppies, senior dogs, or dogs that simply prefer a softer texture.
You might want to try these if:
- Your dog struggles with crunchy treats
- You’re looking for a classic homemade recipe
- You want a baked treat that’s still soft and chewy
A Few Beginner Tips
If this is your first time making homemade dog treats, don’t overthink it.
A few simple things to keep in mind:
- Always double-check that your ingredients are dog-safe
- Make sure your peanut butter does not contain xylitol
- Start with small batches until you know what your dog likes
- Store treats properly in the refrigerator or freezer when needed
Most importantly, don’t worry about making them look perfect.
Your dog isn’t judging your baking skills.
The Dog Treat Cookbook
Now available for purchase is The Dog Treat Cookbook, a compilation of 42 recipes from this blog. Available for purchase in color on Amazon as both an ebook and a paperback book. A black and white copy is also available here. Click the buy now button to be taken to my author page on Amazon.
Where to Go Next
Once you’ve made a batch or two, you’ll start figuring out which flavors and textures your dog loves most.
If you’re ready to learn more, check out:
Final Thoughts
Homemade dog treats don’t have to be fancy to be a hit.
Start with one simple recipe, see what your dog thinks, and go from there. Before long, you’ll have a few favorites that become part of your regular routine.
And don’t forget the most important step:
Let your dog be the official taste tester. 🐾
