Treat your four-legged family member to something homemade, wholesome and easy enough for little hands to help make. Homemade pet treats are a healthy alternative to store-bought options, letting owners control ingredients and avoid artificial additives. This no-bake recipe combines whole oats, peanut butter and coconut for a simple kitchen project children can help prepare.
Because the recipe requires no oven time, the treats can be customized for small and large dogs.
Tools Needed
Large mixing bowl
Wooden spoon
Measuring cups
Cookie sheet
Parchment paper
Ingredients
1 ¼ cups whole oats, quick or regular
1 cup unsweetened dried coconut flakes
1 cup all-natural peanut butter, preferably no salt; absolutely no xylitol
¼ cup coconut oil, melted
¼ cup local honey
All-natural carob powder and coconut flakes for finishing
Preparation Steps
Combine the Base
In a large mixing bowl, combine the whole oats and coconut flakes. Add the peanut butter, melted coconut oil and honey. Mix thoroughly with a wooden spoon until a uniform dough forms.
Shape the Treats
With wet hands, roll small amounts of the mixture into balls. Shape portions according to the dog’s size. Larger treats will need more time to firm up in the refrigerator.
Chill and Coat
Place treats on a parchment-lined cookie sheet. Transfer the tray to the refrigerator. Treats sized at roughly 2 tablespoons each will require approximately 15 minutes to set before the final coating.
Once the treats are slightly firm, roll each ball in a mixture of carob powder and coconut flakes. If carob powder is unavailable, plain coconut flakes or raw oats serve as suitable alternatives.
Final Chill and Storage
Return the coated treats to the refrigerator for an additional 30 to 40 minutes. Once the treats are dry and hold their shape securely, they are ready to serve. Transfer the remaining portions to an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to one week.
About Tater Bear Treats
Tater Bear Treats is a New Jersey-based business founded in 2022 by dog owner Christine Weber and her dog, Bear. The company specializes in all-natural, small-batch, home-baked treats designed for pets using human-grade ingredients.
With 10 distinct varieties tested by Bear and a second rescue dog named Ford, the brand avoids preservatives and additives in its products. In addition to traditional cookies, the product line features smoked jerkies, pet accessories and curated home decor.
Tater Bear Treats products are available online: @tater.bear.treats on Facebook and Instagram.