Why not bake these delicious and healthy Peanut Butter and Turmeric Dog Biscuits for your hound? We all know that a happy hound makes a happy home!

NOTE: HONEY IS NOT SUITABLE FOR ALL PUPPIES. ONE TEASPOON IS USUALLY SAFE FOR FULLY GROWN DOGS TO EAT. IF YOU ARE MAKING THESE TASTY TREATS FOR A PUPPY, LEAVE OUT THE HONEY AND SUBSTITUTE WITH EXTRA PEANUT BUTTER.

Peanut Butter & Turmeric Dog Biscuits

1 C (250 ml) rolled oats
2 C (500 ml) whole-wheat flour
1 Tbsp (15 ml) turmeric
1 C (250 ml) smooth *sugar-free peanut butter
¼ C (60 ml) organic local *honey (optional)
2 Tbsp (30 ml) coconut oil
small jug/bowl of water

*Peanut Butter: check the label to make sure the peanut butter doesn’t contain xylitol or sugar additives. Alternatively, use a pet-friendly peanut butter (available at pet stores).

*Honey: only add honey if the cookies are for a fully grown dog, otherwise substitute with equal parts peanut butter.

What to Do:

Preheat oven to 160 °C and grease a baking tray.

Combine the dry ingredients in a bowl or on a flat surface. Work in the peanut butter, honey and oil. Knead until all of the ingredients are combined and the mixture forms a dough. If the mixture is too dry, add a teaspoon of water at a time until the right consistency is achieved.

Lay out a sheet of baking paper, place the dough in the centre and roll out evenly to approximately 8 mm thickness. Cut the desired shapes out of the dough with a cookie cutter. Remove the excess dough from around the shapes and carefully transfer the cut shapes to the prepared baking tray. Repeat the rolling out and cutting process until all of the dough has been used.

Chill the cookies in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to prevent spreading.

Bake for 15-20 minutes. Keep an eye on the cookies, as they can burn very quickly. Remove from the oven and allow to cool on the tray.

Once completely cooled, store in an airtight container.

Are these ingredients safe for my dog to eat?

Like any treat, these cookies are best consumed in moderation. Much the same as humans, some dogs can have allergies to certain ingredients, so monitor your pet to ensure that these ingredients agree with his/her tummy.

Peanut Butter: Dogs love peanut butter! It also happens to be a good source of protein, contains heart-healthy fats, vitamin B, niacin, and vitamin E. Choose organic, unsalted and unsweetened peanut butter. It is a bit pricier but is much healthier without all the added sugar.

Rolled Oats: Oats can reduce the risk of developing high blood pressure, prevent artery clogging and help boost a dog’s immune system. Oats are high in fibre and are naturally gluten-free, promoting a healthy digestive system.

Raw Honey: Honey helps aid digestive problems and boosts energy. Choose a variety that is local to your area for all the allergy relief benefits. Also note that fully grown dogs can eat honey, whereas it is not suitable for puppies to eat.

Coconut Oil: Helps aid digestion, makes for a shiny and healthy coat and is a powerful antioxidant.

Turmeric: Turmeric helps reduce (arthritis) inflammation in active and older dogs. It also helps cure skin irritation and symptoms of irritable bowel.

Now that you’ve made your Peanut Butter and Turmeric Dog Biscuits, check out these dog-friendly restaurants in Cape Town.