Banana, Pumpkin & Oat Recipe – 3 Ingredient Dog Treats

Last updated on January 31st, 2026 at 07:15 am

You know those days when you’re staring at your pantry, wondering if you could somehow turn random ingredients into a tasty dog treat?

Well, here’s the answer: banana, pumpkin, and oats. Simple, right? But trust me, these 3 ingredients combine to make the perfect, healthy treat for your dog—easy to whip up, and your dog will love you even more for it.

Sure, store-bought treats are convenient, but they can’t compare to the joy of watching your dog munch down something homemade, knowing exactly what went into it.

Plus, these treats are all-natural and free from weird preservatives. That’s a win in my book.

What Makes This Recipe Shine

Okay, let’s talk about what makes this recipe stand out. First off, it’s ridiculously simple—just three ingredients! That’s right, no fancy stuff needed.

Plus, you probably already have these in your kitchen. So, no need to run to the store for something obscure (looking at you, nutritional yeast).

But the best part? The ingredients are actually good for your dog. Bananas are packed with potassium and fiber, pumpkin is fantastic for digestion, and oats—well, oats are like the MVP of healthy snacks.

This recipe is the trifecta of healthy dog treats, and your furry friend will thank you. Seriously, I can’t think of a better way to spoil your pup.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 ripe banana – The riper, the better. You want it nice and soft for easy mashing.
• 1/2 cup canned pumpkin – Make sure it’s plain pumpkin, not the spiced pie filling (unless you want your dog to experience a pumpkin spice overload).
• 1 cup oats – I use old-fashioned rolled oats, but you can use quick oats too. Just make sure they’re plain, no sugar added.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Mash the Banana

First, grab your ripe banana. You want it to be soft, so don’t go picking out the firm ones. Mash it up with a fork until it’s smooth. The banana acts as the binding agent in this recipe, so make sure you get a nice mash. You don’t want any big chunks hanging around.

Step 2: Mix in the Pumpkin

Once your banana is all mashed up, it’s time to add the pumpkin. Throw half a cup into the bowl and stir. The pumpkin adds a smooth texture and a bit of a flavor punch. It’s great for your dog’s tummy, and it gives these treats a bit of extra bulk, so they’re filling but not heavy.

Step 3: Add the Oats

Next, throw in your oats. This is the part where everything starts coming together. Stir it all in, making sure the oats get coated with the banana and pumpkin mixture. You’ll want the dough to be thick but still manageable—if it’s too sticky, just add a little more oats until you get the right consistency.

Step 4: Shape the Dough

Now, the fun part. Take the dough and roll it into little balls or shape it with cookie cutters. If you’re feeling fancy, use some bone-shaped cutters to really get into the dog treat spirit. If you’re like me and can’t be bothered with cookie cutters, just roll them into small balls. It’s less effort, and your dog won’t care.

Step 5: Bake the Treats

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place your shaped treats on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake them for about 15-20 minutes. You want them to be firm and lightly golden on the edges. Trust me, the smell will drive your dog crazy.

Step 6: Cool and Serve

Once the treats are baked, let them cool completely before serving. I know your dog will probably be waiting at the oven like a hawk, but let them cool to avoid burning your dog’s mouth. Once they’re cool, feel free to spoil your dog rotten.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Using pumpkin pie filling instead of plain pumpkin – I get it, we all love a little spice, but your dog does not. Stick with plain pumpkin to avoid any unnecessary ingredients.
2. Overbaking the treats – Yes, you want them to be firm, but don’t go full-on charred. Overbaking can make them too hard and less enjoyable for your dog. Aim for a golden, crisp edge, not a burnt one.
3. Not letting them cool properly – The treats will seem irresistible, but avoid serving them hot. Give them time to cool, so they’re safe for your dog to eat.
4. Not mashing the banana enough – Lumpy banana is harder to mix, and you want a smooth dough for uniform baking. Mash it well!

Alternatives & Substitutions

• Gluten-free oats: If your dog has a gluten sensitivity, you can swap regular oats for gluten-free oats. They’ll work just as well in the recipe.
• Sweet potatoes instead of pumpkin: If you’re out of pumpkin or just want to mix things up, sweet potatoes are a great substitute. They have similar health benefits and a bit of sweetness your dog will love.
• Add-ins: Feeling a little extra? You can add a handful of dog-safe peanut butter or some shredded carrots for added texture and flavor. Just make sure everything you add is safe for dogs to consume.

FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?

Yes, you can use fresh pumpkin, but make sure it’s cooked and pureed. Canned pumpkin is just more convenient, but fresh works too!

Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?

Absolutely! Quick oats will work just fine. You might get a slightly different texture, but your dog won’t mind.

How long will these treats last?

These treats should last about a week in an airtight container. If you want them to last longer, you can store them in the fridge for up to two weeks.

Can I freeze these treats?

Yes! You can freeze them in a single layer, and they’ll keep for up to three months. That way, you can have fresh treats on hand whenever your dog is feeling spoiled.

Are these treats safe for all dogs?

For the most part, yes. However, if your dog has food allergies or sensitivities, it’s always a good idea to check with your vet first.

Final Thoughts

There you have it! The easiest, healthiest, and most delicious dog treats your pup will ever get their paws on. Banana, pumpkin, and oats—how simple is that? And the best part is, you know exactly what’s going into the treats. No mystery ingredients, just pure goodness.

Give it a go, and let your dog enjoy the tastiest homemade treats in town. Trust me, they’ll be wagging their tail in appreciation.