There’s nothing like that look a dog gives when peanut butter is around—ears perked, tail wagging, and eyes wide with anticipation. And the best part? Making peanut butter at home is easier than expected. With just a few natural ingredients, it’s possible to whip up a treat that’s safe, simple, and full of tail-wagging goodness.
This homemade peanut butter is a great go-to for stuffing toys, sneaking in pills, or just offering a little love on a spoon. And with zero mystery ingredients, it’s a win for both pups and their humans.
What You’ll Need
- 2 cups unsalted, dry-roasted peanuts (no salt, sugar, or additives)
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil (optional – for added creaminess and healthy fats)
- 1 teaspoon honey (optional – for a touch of natural sweetness)
Pro Tips for a Doggone Good Result
- Double check the label – No xylitol. Ever. It’s highly toxic to dogs and sneaks into some peanut butters. Always make sure peanuts are plain and unsalted.
- Start small with pups – Just a lick or two to start. Most dogs do great with peanut butter, but a small intro helps avoid surprises.
- Use it as a boredom buster – A spoonful inside a Kong or lick mat works wonders on rainy days or during bath time.
- Let the kids help – This one’s safe, fun, and a great kitchen task to do together. Bonus points for giving the family dog a taste test after.
- Watch those portions – Peanut butter is a high-calorie treat, even when homemade. A little goes a long way.
Tools to Grab Before Getting Started
- Food processor or high-speed blender
- Spatula (for scraping down sides)
- Airtight jar or container for storing
Substitutions & Variations
- Nut Alternatives: Allergic pup? Try unsalted almonds or cashews (always vet-approved first).
- Extra Goodness Add-Ins:
- Ground flaxseed or chia seeds for omega-3s
- A spoonful of canned pumpkin for digestion support
- A few fresh blueberries blended in for antioxidants
- Smooth or Chunky: Blend longer for silky smooth, or keep it rustic with a shorter blend time.
Make Ahead Tips
- Batch it: Make a larger amount and freeze in mini silicone molds. Pop one out when needed.
- Keep it fresh: Store in the fridge to help it last longer—up to 3 weeks. In the freezer, it stays good for up to 3 months.
How to Make Homemade Peanut Butter for Dogs
- Prep the peanuts If starting with raw peanuts, roast them in the oven at 350°F for 8–10 minutes. Let them cool slightly.
- Blend it up Add peanuts to the food processor or blender and blend. At first, they’ll become a chunky mess. Then a dough-like ball. Then finally, creamy magic. Keep scraping the sides and don’t stop too soon—this can take 5–10 minutes.
- Add the extras (optional) Coconut oil and honey can go in once the texture is mostly smooth. Blend again until fully mixed in.
- Store and enjoy Transfer to an airtight jar and refrigerate. Spread a little on a spoon, fill up a toy, or swirl into homemade dog treats.
A Quick Nutrition Breakdown (Per Tablespoon)
- Calories: ~90
- Protein: 4g
- Fat: 8g
- Carbs: 3g
- Fiber: 1g
(Note: These values are approximate and will vary slightly depending on ingredients used.)
Storing & Leftovers
- Refrigerate: Keeps up to 3 weeks when sealed and stored in a cool fridge.
- Freeze for later: Scoop into small portions (think silicone trays) and freeze. Thaw as needed.
- Serving Ideas:
- Swirl into dog-safe yogurt
- Use as pill hider
- Mix into frozen summer treats
FAQs
Can dogs eat regular peanut butter from the store? Only if it’s free from xylitol, sugar, and salt. Always check the label. When in doubt, homemade is best.
How much peanut butter can a dog have? A small dog can have about ½ teaspoon. Larger dogs can enjoy up to 1 tablespoon. It’s a treat, not a main course.
Is coconut oil safe for dogs? Yes, in small amounts! It adds healthy fats that are great for skin and coat.
Can peanut butter be used with training toys? Absolutely. Spread some inside a Kong, on a lick mat, or use to distract during grooming or nail trims.
What if the peanut butter turns hard in the fridge? That’s totally normal. Let it sit at room temp for 5–10 minutes to soften, or stir in a touch more coconut oil to help.
Final Words
Homemade peanut butter is a simple, fun, and healthy way to treat a dog with something they’ll love. It’s easy enough to make anytime and packed with ingredients that are safe and wholesome. Once this recipe is tried, there’s a good chance no dog will ever want the store-bought stuff again.
Tried this out or planning to? Leave a comment below with how it went, what the pup thought, or any questions along the way.
