DIY Pet-Friendly Holiday Treats
The holidays are a time for indulgence, togetherness, and sharing. While we treat ourselves to cookies, cakes, and festive feasts, let’s not forget about our furry family members! What better way to include them in the holiday fun than by whipping up some homemade treats just for them? These easy-to-make, pet-friendly recipes are safe and sure to get tails wagging and whiskers twitching.
Peanut Butter Pumpkin Biscuits (For Dogs)
Pumpkin is a holiday favorite and is also great for your dog’s digestion. Pair it with peanut butter, and you’ve got a treat they won’t resist!
Ingredients:
1 cup canned pumpkin (unsweetened—make sure it’s not pumpkin pie filling)
2 tablespoons natural peanut butter (check that it’s xylitol-free)
2 eggs
2½ cups whole wheat flour
Directions:
Preheat your oven to 350°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Mix the pumpkin, peanut butter, and eggs in a large bowl until smooth.
Gradually add the flour until a dough forms—it’ll be firm but easy to roll.
Roll out the dough to about ¼ inch thick and use cookie cutters to make festive shapes (bone-shaped, snowflakes, or anything fun!).
Place on the baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Storage: Store in an airtight container. These will stay fresh for about a week—if your dog doesn’t eat them all first!
Catnip Crumble Bites (For Cats)
Cats may not beg like dogs, but that doesn’t mean they don’t deserve a tasty holiday treat! These catnip bites are fun, easy, and purr-fect for your feline friend.
Ingredients:
1 cup whole wheat flour
½ cup powdered milk
1 egg
2 tablespoons dried catnip
2 tablespoons olive oil
½ cup water
Directions:
Preheat your oven to 325°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Combine all the ingredients in a bowl until it forms a sticky dough.
Roll the dough into small balls about the size of marbles and place them on the baking sheet.
Bake for 10-12 minutes or until firm. Let them cool completely before serving.
Note: Only use pet-safe catnip designed for consumption. Store these in an airtight container for up to a week.
Frozen Banana Bites (For Both Dogs and Cats)
If you’re looking for something quick and healthy, these frozen banana bites are a simple, guilt-free treat for cats and dogs.
Ingredients:
1 ripe banana
½ cup plain yogurt (unsweetened and free of artificial sweeteners)
Optional: A sprinkle of crushed kibble or cat treats
Directions:
Mash the banana in a bowl and mix it with the yogurt until smooth.
Spoon the mixture into a silicone mold or ice cube tray.
Sprinkle a little crushed kibble, or a small cat treat on top for added crunch.
Freeze for 2-3 hours or until solid.
Pop-out a treat and serve as a cool snack!
Tip: These are especially great as a refreshing reward after playtime.
Holiday Chicken Jerky (For Dogs)
For pups who prefer savory snacks, homemade chicken jerky is a winner. It’s simple, healthy, and packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
2-3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Directions:
Preheat your oven to 200°F.
Slice the chicken into thin strips, about ¼ inch thick.
Place the strips on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, ensuring they don’t overlap.
Bake for 2-3 hours, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is thoroughly dried and slightly crispy.
Allow them to cool completely before serving.
Storage: Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two weeks, or freeze for longer storage.
Holiday Treat-Making Tips
Check your ingredients: Ensure everything you use is safe for your pet. Avoid chocolate, xylitol (in some peanut butter), raisins, grapes, and certain spices.
Don’t overdo it: Treats are meant to be occasional indulgences, not replacements for meals. Moderation is key!
Get festive: Use cookie cutters or molds to make the treats feel extra special. Snowflakes, stars, and bones are always fun.
Show your pets how much you love them this holiday season by including them in the celebration with these homemade treats. It’s a simple way to spread the joy of the season, and they’ll appreciate every bite!
From all of us at Becky’s Pet Care, we wish you and your furry companions a safe, happy, and treat-filled holiday season. If you try these recipes, share your photos with us—we’d love to see those happy faces!