Homemade Dog Bones

Store-bought dog bones and treats aren't always the healthiest choice for your canine. Prepackaged bones contain preservatives and several unpronounceable materials that may harm your pet. In the past, dog food and treats have been recalled due to poisoning of the ingredients. Avoid these hazards by baking your own peanut butter dog bones using natural ingredients.

  1. Peanut Butter

    • Peanut butter is a natural source of nutrients and good fats for dogs and humans alike. Peanut butter is a great source of vitamin E, protein and magnesium. Plus, it tastes great and dogs love it. When choosing a peanut butter for homemade dog treats, purchase a jar that is organic and unsweetened. Commercial peanut butters have a lot of sugar in them, which isn't good for your dog.

      Rather than using store-bought peanut butter, try making your own for your dog bone recipe. Buy 15 ounces of unsalted, shelled peanuts from the grocery store. Mix together the peanuts, a teaspoon of sea salt and one-and-a-half teaspoons of honey and blend them in a food processor or blender. Slowly add one-and-a-half tablespoons of peanut oil to the mixture until smooth. Leave the peanut butter chunky to give your dog a crunchier treat.

    Dog Bone Recipe

    • Preheat the oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit and mix together two cups of whole-wheat flour and a tablespoon of baking powder in a large bowl. In another bowl, mix together one cup of peanut butter and one cup of skim milk until well blended. Pour the peanut butter mixture into the flour mixture and blend well using a large wooden spoon. Lightly flour a surface and knead the dough with your hands until the dough is completely smooth. Use either a rolling pin or your hands to flatten the dough to about a quarter-inch thick. Create bones by using bone-shaped cookie cutters. When choosing the size of the cookie cutters keep in mind the size of your dog. Place the dough cutouts on a greased cookie sheet and bake for about 20 minutes, or until lightly browned. Store the treats in an airtight container.

    Treating Your Dog

    • Giving your dog a special treat is a good way to bond with your pet. Give your dog a treat as a reward when she has performed well during training. If your dog has dependency issues, try giving her a treat as you leave the house. This will make your dog more comfortable being alone when she knows you will reward him with a treat when you leave.

      Don't give your dog too many treats. Treats for dogs are much like human treats such as candy and ice cream; eat them in moderation. Do not go over 15 percent of the dog's daily dietary requirement when giving treats.