Homemade Dog Treats: Sweet Potato & Peanut Butter Recipe

Homemade dog treats are generally better than store-bought options because you control the ingredients and avoid artificial preservatives, colors, and fillers. When making treats like these sweet potato and peanut butter biscuits, you're using whole ingredients with clear nutritional benefits:

• Sweet potatoes provide vitamin A and fiber
• Natural peanut butter offers protein and healthy fats
• Whole wheat flour adds complex carbohydrates
• Egg contributes additional protein

While quality commercial treats can be convenient, homemade treats are typically more cost-effective and can be customized to your dog's preferences and dietary needs. They're especially beneficial for dogs with food sensitivities since you can avoid problem ingredients.

Store-bought treats often contain:

• Artificial preservatives for extended shelf life
• Multiple additives and fillers
• Lower-quality protein sources
• Added sugars or salt

Always introduce new treats gradually and watch for any digestive changes, regardless of whether they're homemade or store-bought.

Homemade dog treats like these sweet potato and peanut butter biscuits don't require artificial preservatives and stay fresh for:

• 1 week at room temperature in an airtight container
• 2 weeks in the refrigerator
• Up to 3 months in the freezer

Natural ingredients in this recipe provide some preservation:

• The baking process removes moisture
• Peanut butter contains natural fats that help preservation
• Sweet potato has antimicrobial properties

Watch for signs of spoilage like:

• Mold growth
• Off smells
• Change in texture or color

For longest shelf life without preservatives:

• Store in airtight containers
• Keep in cool, dry places
• Make smaller batches
• Consider freezing extra treats
• Let treats cool completely before storage

Sweet potato treats are an excellent healthy option for dogs. They provide:

• Vitamin A for eye health and immune function
• Dietary fiber for digestive health
• Beta-carotene for skin health
• Complex carbohydrates for energy
• Low-fat content, making them ideal for weight management

When combined with peanut butter in homemade treats, they offer:

• Balanced protein and carbohydrates
• Natural sweetness dogs love
• Easy digestibility
• Antioxidant properties

Important safety notes:

• Always cook sweet potatoes fully
• Cut treats appropriate to dog size
• Introduce gradually to prevent digestive upset
• Monitor portion size as treats should only make up 10% of daily calories
• While nutritious, these treats complement but don't replace regular meals

Peanut butter can be a safe and healthy treat for dogs when chosen carefully:

Safe peanut butter should be:

• Xylitol-free (this sweetener is toxic to dogs)
• Natural or organic
• Unsweetened
• Low in sodium

Benefits of peanut butter treats:

• High in protein
• Contains healthy fats
• Rich in vitamins B and E
• Excellent training motivator

Serving guidelines:

• Follow the 10% treat rule
• Small dogs: 1/2 teaspoon daily max
• Medium dogs: 1 teaspoon daily max
• Large dogs: 2 teaspoons daily max

Warning signs of peanut butter sensitivity:

• Excessive thirst
• Digestive upset
• Allergic reactions like itching
• Changes in behavior

Always check ingredients before serving and introduce gradually into your dog's diet.