A quick, wholesome snack your dog will drool for—no oven required!
When you’re short on time but still want to treat your pup to something homemade, these no-bake oatmeal peanut butter balls are the perfect solution. They take just minutes to make, don’t require any baking, and are packed with dog-safe, fiber-rich ingredients your furry friend will love.
I first made these on a hot summer day when turning on the oven wasn’t an option. Snickers was instantly hooked—and now these are a staple in our fridge year-round.
Why You’ll Love These No-Bake Dog Treats
- Ready in under 10 minutes
- No baking required
- Made with pantry staples
- Great for digestion and energy
Oatmeal Peanut Butter Balls for Dogs Recipe
Here’s what you’ll need to make one batch (yields about 20–25 small balls):
| Ingredient | Benefits |
|---|---|
| 1 cup pumpkin purée (unsweetened) | High in fiber, supports healthy digestion |
| ½ cup natural creamy peanut butter (xylitol-free) | Rich in protein, healthy fats, and flavor your dog will love |
| 2 to 2½ cups old-fashioned rolled oats | Source of fiber and energy; helps form the dough |
| 4 tbsp unsweetened coconut milk (canned or carton) | Adds moisture and healthy fats |
| Optional: 1 tbsp ground flaxseed | Boosts omega-3s and supports skin, coat, and digestion |
Make sure all ingredients—especially peanut butter—are free from added sugars, salt, or artificial sweeteners like xylitol.
How to Make Oatmeal Peanut Butter Balls
Step 1: Prep the Mixing Bowl
Grab a large mixing bowl to hold all ingredients comfortably. Ensure it’s clean and dry to avoid clumping. Have a spoon or spatula ready for mixing, and keep a microwave-safe bowl nearby in case you need to warm the peanut butter.
Step 2: Combine Wet Ingredients
Measure 1 cup unsweetened pumpkin purée, ½ cup natural creamy peanut butter (xylitol-free), and 4 tbsp unsweetened coconut milk. Add them to the bowl. Stir vigorously for 1–2 minutes until the mixture is smooth and creamy, like a thick frosting. If the peanut butter is too thick, warm it in the microwave for 10–15 seconds to make it easier to mix. Scrape the sides to ensure everything’s blended.
Step 3: Check Wet Mixture Texture
Inspect the wet mixture—it should be thick and uniform, with no streaks of pumpkin or peanut butter. If it’s too runny, add 1 tsp more peanut butter and stir. If too stiff, add 1 tsp more coconut milk. This ensures the base binds the dry ingredients properly.
Step 4: Add Initial Oats
Measure 2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats and gradually stir them into the wet mixture using a spoon or spatula. Mix for 1–2 minutes until the oats are fully incorporated, forming a thick, sticky dough. Scrape the bowl’s sides to ensure even mixing.
Step 5: Incorporate Optional Flaxseed
If using, add 1 tbsp ground flaxseed to the dough. Stir gently for 20–30 seconds to distribute evenly, boosting omega-3s and firming the texture. Ensure the flaxseed is finely ground to avoid a gritty feel.
Step 6: Adjust Dough Consistency
Check the dough—it should be thick but pliable, like soft cookie dough. If it’s too wet or sticky, add more oats (up to ½ cup, 1 tbsp at a time), mixing after each addition until it’s not overly sticky. If too dry, add 1 tsp coconut milk and stir. Knead lightly to confirm uniformity.
Step 7: Prep for Shaping
Line a tray or plate with parchment paper to hold the balls. Keep a small bowl of water or coconut oil nearby to dampen your hands if the dough sticks. Have a spoon or mini cookie scoop ready for portioning.
Step 8: Scoop and Roll Balls
Scoop small portions (about 1 tbsp) using a spoon or mini cookie scoop. Roll each portion between your palms into a 1-inch bite-sized ball. If the dough sticks, lightly dampen your hands with water or coconut oil. Place each ball on the parchment-lined tray, aiming for 20–25 balls.
Step 9: Chill to Set
Place the tray in the refrigerator and chill for at least 30 minutes to firm up the balls. This makes them easier to handle and enhances texture. Check after 30 minutes—balls should feel solid but not hard.
Storage Tips
Store the finished treats in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week. For longer storage, freeze in a zip-top bag for up to 3 months. They thaw quickly at room temperature or in the fridge overnight.
These treats keep their shape and texture well, even after freezing—making them perfect for batch prepping.
Feeding Guidelines
These no-bake dog treats are rich and satisfying, so a little goes a long way. Offer them as rewards or occasional snacks, not as meal replacements.
Small dogs: 1 ball per day. Medium dogs: 1–2 balls per day. Large dogs: 2–3 balls per day.
Always adjust based on your dog’s overall diet, weight, and activity level. As a general guideline treats should not make up more than 10% of your dog’s daily calorie intake.
Tips for Success
- Stick with rolled oats, not quick oats or steel-cut—rolled oats give the best chew and hold.
- Use smooth peanut butter for a consistent texture (chunky versions can make the dough fall apart).
- Want smaller treats? Just roll into smaller balls or flatten slightly for training bites.
- Not firm enough? Add a few more oats or chill the mixture before rolling.
- Make them extra special: Roll finished balls in unsweetened shredded coconut or crushed dog biscuits.
Benefits of the Ingredients
- Pumpkin: Rich in fiber, helps regulate digestion
- Peanut Butter: Tasty source of protein and healthy fats
- Rolled Oats: Gentle on the stomach, provides long-lasting energy
- Coconut Milk: Adds moisture and supports coat health
- Flaxseed: Boosts omega-3s and gut health
FAQs
Can I use canned pumpkin pie mix instead of pumpkin purée?
No—pumpkin pie mix contains added sugar and spices. Always use 100% pure, unsweetened pumpkin.
Can I skip the flaxseed?
Absolutely. It’s optional—just a nice boost if your dog tolerates it well.
Can I use quick oats?
You can, but the texture will be softer and a bit more dense. Rolled oats give better structure.
Final Thoughts
These no-bake oatmeal peanut butter balls are the kind of treat you can whip up on a whim—and feel great about feeding. They’re soft, nutrient-packed, and full of dog-approved flavor, with no oven (or stress) required.
Snickers thinks they’re the perfect combo of chewy and tasty—and I love having a healthy, homemade snack ready to grab from the fridge. Total win-win.