Saturday mornings at our house smell like butter, maple syrup, and chaos (the good kind), where everyone’s shuffling around the kitchen in pajamas waiting for pancakes to hit their plate.
A couple of weeks ago, Snickers was doing his usual routine of sitting perfectly still next to the stove, convinced that if he were patient enough, a pancake would magically fall his way.
I had extra batter, an overripe banana that needed using, and a sudden thought: why can’t he have his own stack too?
Turns out, making dog-friendly pancakes is just as easy as making the regular kind, and watching her devour his own little breakfast stack has become the highlight of our weekend mornings.
Why Your Dog Deserves These Pancakes
- Breakfast Tradition, Dog Edition
Including your dog in family breakfast rituals strengthens your bond and makes them feel like part of the pack. These pancakes turn an ordinary morning into something memorable.
- Gentle on Sensitive Stomachs
The simple, whole-food ingredients make these pancakes easy to digest, perfect for dogs with touchy tummies or those who need bland, gentle foods.
- Versatile Serving Options
Serve them whole as a special breakfast, break them into training rewards, or cut them into fun shapes for extra excitement. One recipe, multiple uses.
Fluffy Banana Pancakes for Dogs Recipe
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Oat flour | 2 cups |
| Ripe banana | 1 medium |
| Large egg (room temperature) | 1 |
| Water | ⅔ cup |
| Coconut oil (plus extra for cooking) | 1 tablespoon |
| Baking powder | ⅔ teaspoon |
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Combine Your Dry Ingredients
Measure the oat flour and add it to a medium mixing bowl. Sprinkle the baking powder over the flour. Use a whisk or fork to blend them together thoroughly.
Step 2: Prepare the Banana Base
Take your ripe banana and place it in a separate bowl—the riper and spottier, the better for natural sweetness and easy mashing. Use a fork to mash it completely until it becomes a smooth puree with minimal lumps.
Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients
Crack your room-temperature egg into the bowl with the mashed banana. Add the water to the same bowl. Use a fork or small whisk to stir everything together briskly until the egg is fully incorporated and the mixture looks uniform and slightly frothy.
Step 4: Create the Pancake Batter
Pour your wet banana mixture into the bowl containing your dry ingredients. Add the tablespoon of coconut oil at this point as well. Using a wooden spoon or spatula, stir everything together with smooth, consistent strokes. Mix until you see no dry flour pockets and the batter appears cohesive (thick but still pourable, similar to regular pancake batter).
Step 5: Heat Your Cooking Surface
Place a skillet or griddle on your stovetop and set the heat to medium. Let it warm up for 2-3 minutes—you want it hot enough that a drop of water sizzles when it hits the surface. Add a tablespoon of coconut oil to the pan and swirl it around to coat the bottom evenly.
Step 6: Cook the First Side
Using a measuring cup or ladle, pour about ¼ cup of batter onto the hot skillet for each pancake. You can cook 2-3 pancakes at once if your pan is large enough, just leave space between them. Let them cook undisturbed for approximately 5 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready to flip when you see small bubbles forming on the surface and the edges look set and slightly dry.
Step 7: Flip and Finish Cooking
Slide your spatula under each pancake and flip it over in one smooth motion. Cook the second side for another 3-4 minutes until it matches the golden-brown color of the first side. The pancake should feel firm when you press it gently with the spatula. Once done, transfer the finished pancakes to a wire cooling rack.
Step 8: Repeat and Cool Completely
Continue cooking the remaining batter in batches, adding a bit more coconut oil to the pan between batches if needed. Stack the finished pancakes on your cooling rack with a bit of space between them for air circulation. Let them cool to room temperature for at least 20-30 minutes before serving to your dog.
Storage and Serving Tips
Refrigerator Storage (4-5 Days): Stack cooled pancakes in an airtight container with parchment paper between each one to prevent sticking. Keep them refrigerated and pull out individual pancakes as needed.
Freezer Storage (Up to 3 Months): These pancakes are excellent freezer candidates. Layer them with parchment paper in a freezer-safe container or bag, removing as much air as possible. They’ll stay good for up to 3 months.
Reheating Options: Microwave individual pancakes for 10-15 seconds, or warm several at once in a 300°F oven for 5-7 minutes.
Pancake Feeding Guidelines
I’m not a dog nutritionist — just a dog parent who loves baking for my pup. That being said, every dog is different when deciding how much to serve.
Individual needs can vary widely depending on activity level, metabolism, health conditions, and breed traits. It’s always best to keep an eye on your dog’s weight, age, and energy levels and adjust treat portions as needed.
As a rule of thumb, treats should make up no more than about 10% of your dog’s daily calories. And if your dog has any health concerns, sensitivities, or special dietary requirements, it’s always a good idea to check in with your vet before adding new treats to their routine.
Health Benefits of Doggy Pancakes
- Digestive Support from Oat Flour
Oat flour is naturally gluten-free and packed with soluble fiber that promotes healthy digestion, supports beneficial gut bacteria, and helps regulate bowel movements.
- Natural Energy from Bananas
Bananas provide easily digestible carbohydrates for quick energy, plus potassium that supports heart health, muscle function, and nerve transmission.
- Quality Protein from Eggs
Eggs deliver complete protein with all essential amino acids your dog needs for muscle maintenance, tissue repair, and overall cellular function.
- Beneficial Fats from Coconut Oil
Coconut oil contains medium-chain triglycerides that support cognitive function, provide sustained energy, and contribute to a shiny, healthy coat.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is baking powder safe for dogs?
Small amounts used in dog treats are not harmful. However, eating large amounts of either, on their own, is harmful.
Can I add other ingredients like blueberries?
Absolutely! Small amounts of dog-safe add-ins like blueberries, diced strawberries, or a sprinkle of cinnamon work beautifully. Just keep additions minimal—no more than ¼ cup per batch.
Are these safe for dogs with grain allergies?
Oats are technically grain-free and gluten-free, so most dogs with grain sensitivities tolerate them well. However, if your dog has a specific oat allergy, you can substitute coconut flour (use about ⅔ cup) or almond flour (use the same 2 cups)