12 Easter Themed Dog Biscuits and Treats
Easter is a joyous time when the entire family comes together in the celebration and that includes your furry baby. While hearty meals are a part of the Easter spirit, making your pet part of the celebration doesn’t mean feeding them table scraps or food off your plate—I don’t need to tell you (at least, I hope not) how risky that can be. But you can always make the day special for your pooch by whipping up some festive dog treats for Easter.
From crunchy bunny-shaped biscuits to frozen yogurt pops, there are so many DIY Easter dog treats you can experiment with. To help you get started, I’ve rounded up some Easter dog treat recipes that will have your pupper wagging their tail with excitement.
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Ingredients to Use and Avoid in Dog Treats
An important part of figuring out how to make homemade treats for your dog is understanding which ingredients are nutritious and beneficial and which ones could be harmful or toxic. Some provide essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber while others can lead to serious health issues like digestive problems, poisoning, or even organ failure. To help you tell these apart, let’s take a look at which ingredients to use in DIY Easter dog treats and which ones to avoid.
Ingredients to use in dog treats
Whether you’re looking for best ingredients for Easter dog biscuits or something more creative like pops, dog-friendly Easter eggs, or cooling treats, here are some tried and tested options you can’t go wrong with:
1. Peanut butter (unsalted and xylitol-free)
Peanut butter is a favorite for most dogs, thanks to its rich, nutty flavor and creamy texture. It’s also packed with healthy fats, protein, and vitamin E, which support a healthy coat and immune system, making it one of the best ingredients for Easter dog biscuits or other treats. However, you must make it a point to choose natural, unsweetened peanut butter and check the label for xylitol, an artificial sweetener that is highly toxic to dogs.
2. Pumpkin puree
You’ll find so many Easter dog treat recipes that use pumpkin as a core ingredient, and it’s not hard to see why. It is a powerhouse ingredient for dogs, loaded with fiber, beta-carotene, and essential vitamins like A and C. It’s especially great for digestion—helping with both diarrhea and constipation. When using pumpkin, always opt for plain canned pumpkin rather than pumpkin pie filling, which contains added sugars and spices that can be harmful.
3. Carrots and sweet potatoes
Both carrots and sweet potatoes are excellent sources of vitamin A, fiber, and antioxidants, making them great for eye health, digestion, and immune support. They also add natural sweetness to your DIY Easter dog treats, making them a healthy alternative to sugar.
4. Oats and whole wheat flour
Oats are a gentle, gluten-free grain that is rich in fiber and essential nutrients, making them great for dogs with sensitive stomachs. Whole wheat flour is another good option, providing fiber and protein. If your dog has wheat allergies, you can substitute coconut flour, chickpea flour, or oat flour.
Suggested Reading: 10 DIY Recipes for Dogs on a Weight Loss Diet
5. Apples
Apples are another great choice of ingredient for healthy homemade Easter treats for dogs. Not only does their natural sweetness enhance the flavor but they’re also a rich source of vitamins A and C, fiber, and antioxidants.
6. Blueberries
These tiny berries are antioxidant-rich superfoods that help support brain function, immune health, and heart health. They’re also a great natural alternative to processed sugar in dog treats.
7. Plain Greek yogurt
If you’re looking to make creamy, delectable festive dog treats for Easter, you’ve got to look out for recipes that include Greek yogurt. Plain, unsweetened yogurt adds a nice dimension to the flavor of treats. It’s also a good source of calcium, protein, and probiotics, which can support digestive health.
8. Eggs
The nutritional value of eggs is well-established. From protein to healthy fats, and essential amino acids, one little egg is packed with lots of essential nutrients that aid in your dog’s overall well-being by contributing to muscle development, coat health, and overall well-being. They’re also a great binding agent for homemade treats.
9. Lean meats
Lean meats like chicken, turkey, and beef are excellent sources of high-quality protein, essential amino acids, and vitamins like B12, which support muscle growth and energy levels. It’s a no-brainer really to use these for your DIY Easter dog treats.
Suggested Reading: Can Dogs Eat Raw Meat?
10. Coconut oil and flaxseeds
Coconut oil is another nutritional powerhouse, known especially for healthy fats, that makes for a great ingredient for healthy homemade Easter treats for dogs. Likewise flaxseeds provide omega-3 fatty acids and fiber to support heart and digestive health. Both can be added in small amounts to homemade dog treats.
Suggested Reading: 10 Healthy Snacks You Can Share with Your Dog
Ingredients to avoid in dog treats
As I’ve said before, not all foods that humans consume are safe for dogs. Some can even be toxic. Here are the ones you need to avoid at all costs when making homemade treats:
1. Xylitol (artificial sweetener) — highly toxic!
Xylitol is a sugar substitute commonly found in sugar-free peanut butter, gum, candy, and baked goods. It is extremely dangerous for dogs, even in small amounts, as it causes a rapid insulin release, leading to dangerously low blood sugar, seizures, liver failure, or even death.
2. Chocolate and caffeine
Chocolate contains theobromine, a compound that dogs cannot metabolize efficiently. It can cause vomiting, diarrhea, rapid heart rate, tremors, and seizures, and in severe cases, it can be fatal. The darker the chocolate, the more dangerous it is. Similarly, caffeine (found in coffee, tea, and energy drinks) can overstimulate a dog’s nervous system and heart.
3. Grapes and raisins
Even small amounts of grapes or raisins can cause kidney failure in dogs. The exact toxic compound is unknown, but ingestion can lead to vomiting, lethargy, and kidney damage within hours.
4. Onions and garlic
Onions and garlic, whether raw, cooked, or powdered, contain compounds that can damage red blood cells, leading to anemia. Even small amounts over time can build up and cause serious health problems.
5. Macadamia nuts
Macadamia nuts can cause weakness, vomiting, tremors, fever, and lethargy in dogs, even in small amounts.
6. Dairy (milk, cheese, butter)
While some dogs tolerate dairy, many are lactose intolerant, meaning they lack the enzyme needed to break down lactose properly. This can lead to digestive upset, bloating, gas, and diarrhea.
7. Artificial preservatives
Avoid artificial additives like sorbitol, BHA, BHT, and propylene glycol are all harmful to dogs and can pose potential long-term health risks. Since the entire purpose of preparing DIY Easter dog treats is to give your pet something healthy and wholesome to indulge in, you must avoid ingredients that contain preservatives and stick to all-natural options.
8. Excess salt and spices
Too much salt can lead to dehydration and sodium ion poisoning, while certain spices like nutmeg and cinnamon can be toxic in high amounts. It’s important to make sure that the Easter dog treat recipes you try don’t include salt and spices.
10. Processed sugars and syrups
High amounts of sugar can contribute to obesity, diabetes, and dental problems in dogs. Stick to naturally sweet ingredients like pumpkin, apples, or blueberries instead.
Suggested Reading: 10 Slow Cooker Dog Food Recipes for Busy Parents
Easy Recipes Easter Themed Dog Biscuits and Treats
Now, coming to easy Easter dog treat recipes that you can whip up without breaking a sweat in the kitchen or feeling like you’re adding to the load of already overwhelming festivity preparations. From Easter-themed dog cookies and biscuits to pops, bite-sized treats and summer-friendly cooling options, there is a whole plethora of ideas for you to explore. Let’s take a look at my carefully curated Easter-themed dog cookies and treats:
1. Carrot & peanut butter bunny biscuits
If you’re looking for easy Easter dog treat recipes with peanut butter, this one is a winner. These crunchy, flavorful homemade Easter dog biscuits are packed with fiber, protein, and healthy fats—perfect for an Easter treat!
Ingredients
- 1 cup whole wheat flour
- ½ cup rolled oats
- ½ cup grated carrots
- ¼ cup natural peanut butter (xylitol-free)
- ¼ cup unsweetened applesauce
- 1 egg
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine all the ingredients until a dough forms.
- Roll out the dough and use bunny-shaped cookie cutters.
- Place on a lined baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes, until golden brown.
- Let them cool completely before serving.
2. Easter egg dog treats
Want to prepare festive dog treats for Easter for your pooch? Why not go with the classic Easter egg—with a twist? This is a cool and refreshing treat for warmer Easter days. And the best part? These frozen treats are packed with probiotics, fiber, and vitamins.
Ingredients
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
- ½ cup mashed banana
- ½ cup pureed pumpkin
Instructions
- Blend all the ingredients until smooth.
- Pour the mixture into Easter egg-shaped silicone molds.
- Freeze for at least 2 hours or until solid.
- Pop them out of the molds and serve as a refreshing snack.
Here’s a different version:
3. Carrot cake pup cookies
These soft, bite-sized Easter-themed dog cookies are inspired by the classic carrot cake, but without the sugar and condiments that aren’t dog-friendly.
Ingredients
- 1 cup oat flour
- ½ cup grated carrots
- ¼ cup unsweetened applesauce
- ¼ tsp cinnamon
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F.
- Mix all ingredients in a bowl to form a dough.
- Roll into small balls and flatten slightly on a baking sheet.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes until firm.
- Let cool completely before serving.
4. Peanut butter & banana bunny ears
These are one of the most fun, festive dog treats for Easter. Chewy, protein-rich treats shaped like bunny ears that your furry baby will lap up with joy.
Ingredients
- 1 banana, mashed
- ½ cup peanut butter
- 1½ cups whole wheat flour
- 1 egg
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 325°F.
- Mix all the ingredients together until a dough forms.
- Roll out and cut into long ear shapes.
- Place on a baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes.
5. Coconut carrot bites
One of the easy-to-make Easter dog treat recipes, this no-bake treat is packed with fiber, healthy fats, and the natural sweetness of coconut and carrots. This will have your mutt drooling to no end.
Ingredients
- 1 cup shredded coconut
- ½ cup grated carrot
- ¼ cup coconut oil
Instructions
- Mix all the ingredients together until well combined.
- Roll the mixture into small bite-sized balls.
- Refrigerate until firm (about 30 minutes).
6. Sweet potato Easter eggs
Want to send your dog on a tail wagging tizzy on Easter? Try your hand at this soft, nutrient-rich treat packed with fiber and vitamins. Easy Easter dog treat recipes with peanut butter like these can elevate the festive spirit for the entire household.
Ingredients
- 1 cup mashed sweet potato
- 1 cup oat flour
- ¼ cup peanut butter
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F.
- Mix all ingredients together until a soft dough forms.
- Shape into egg-shaped treats and place on a baking sheet.
- Bake for 15 minutes until firm.
Suggested Reading: Can Dogs Eat Peanuts? Everything You Need to Know
7. Apple & oat bunny treats
Easter-themed dog cookies are fun to bake and munch on. Shaped like little bunnies, these cookies are light, crispy and enriched with a touch of natural sweetness from apples and honey.
Ingredients
- 1 cup oat flour
- ½ cup unsweetened applesauce
- 1 tbsp honey
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F.
- Mix all ingredients together to form a dough.
- Roll out and cut into bunny shapes.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes until golden brown.
Watch this recipe in action:
8. Blueberry & yogurt Easter pops
These pops make for a rich, creamy, cooling Easter day treat for your beloved pet, packed with the goodness of antioxidants.
Ingredients
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
- ½ cup blueberries
Instructions
- Blend the yogurt and blueberries together until smooth.
- Pour into bunny-shaped silicone molds.
- Freeze for at least 2 hours before serving.
9. Honey & pumpkin Easter bones
When you set out on your quest for DIY Easter dog treats, I bet you didn’t think it’d entail making chewy bones from scratch. Guess what, it does! This crunchy treat with natural sweetness and digestive benefits, shaped like a bone, will take care of your pet’s nibbling needs and have them delighting in its flavor.
Ingredients
- 1 cup whole wheat flour
- ½ cup canned pumpkin
- 1 tbsp honey
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F.
- Mix all ingredients together until a dough forms.
- Shape into bone-shaped treats.
- Bake for 15 minutes until golden brown.
10. Spinach & cheese bunny bites
In keeping with the bunny-shaped treats for Easter, here is a savory delight that’s perfect for cheese-loving (and lactose tolerant) pups. Oh, and it’s loaded with vitamins.
Ingredients
- 1 cup oat flour
- ½ cup shredded cheese
- ¼ cup pureed spinach
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F.
- Mix all ingredients together.
- Roll out and cut into bunny shapes.
- Bake for 15 minutes until lightly golden.
11. Chicken & carrot mini muffins
Treat your little muffin to a basket of muffins (okay maybe not the whole basket at once, but you get my drift, right?). This is another sweet and savory snack that your pupper will fall in love with.
Ingredients
- 1 cup cooked shredded chicken
- ½ cup grated carrots
- 1 egg
- ½ cup oat flour
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F.
- Mix all ingredients together and scoop into mini muffin tins.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes until cooked through.
Suggested Reading: Can Dogs Eat Dragon Fruit?
12. Coconut & peanut butter Easter eggs
Could there be a better way to wrap up this list than with another one of those easy Easter dog treat recipes with peanut butter? I think not! That’s why, I bring you this soft, chewy treat that’s equal parts healthy and delicious.
Ingredients
- 1 cup coconut flour
- ½ cup peanut butter
- ½ cup mashed banana
Instructions
- Mix all ingredients together to form a dough.
- Shape into Easter egg shapes.
- Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Safety Considerations for Easter Dog Treats
This step-by-step guide to DIY Easter dog cookies wouldn’t be complete without a rundown on the correct way to prep for, serve, and store these treats. Here are a few things to keep in mind to make sure that these treats pack a punch, both in terms of taste and nutritional value:
- Monitor portion sizes: Yes, holidays are a time of indulgence but it’s wise not to overdo it. Even healthy treats should be given in moderation. Make sure that these treats don’t exceed 10% of your dog’s calorie intake
- Ensure proper baking & cooling: Undercooked treats may be difficult to digest, while hot treats can burn your dog’s mouth. Always let treats cool completely before serving
- Check for allergies or sensitivities: Introduce new ingredients slowly to ensure your dog doesn’t have an adverse reaction. Watch for signs of allergies like itching, vomiting, or diarrhea, and discontinue if you notice your pet in distress
- Store treats properly: Keep baked treats in an airtight container and refrigerate perishable treats like frozen or no-bake options. If unsure, freeze treats to extend their shelf life
- Use clean tools and surfaces: Prevent contamination by washing hands, utensils, and surfaces before and after making treats
- Supervise your dog when trying new treats: Observe your dog when giving a new treat to ensure they chew it properly and don’t have any negative reactions
FAQs
1. Can I use regular flour instead of oat or whole wheat flour in these recipes?
Yes, you can use all-purpose flour, but it’s not the best option for dogs. Whole wheat and oat flour are more nutritious and easier to digest, while all-purpose flour is more processed and offers little nutritional value. Some dogs may also have wheat sensitivities, so if you’re unsure, it’s best to stick with oat flour, coconut flour, or whole wheat flour. If you do use regular flour, introduce it slowly and monitor your dog for any digestive issues or allergic reactions.
2. How should I store these homemade treats, and how long do they last?
Baked dog treats should be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5-7 days. For longer freshness, refrigerate them for up to two weeks. No-bake or frozen treats should be kept in the refrigerator and consumed within 5 days. Always check for signs of spoilage, like mold or an off smell. Since homemade treats don’t contain preservatives, they spoil faster than store-bought ones, so proper storage is essential to keep them fresh and safe.
3. Can I freeze these treats for later use?
Absolutely! Most homemade dog treats can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Store them in an airtight container or freezer bag, and thaw individual treats as needed. Freezing is especially useful for soft treats and no-bake recipes, as it helps preserve their texture and freshness. When ready to serve, let the treat sit at room temperature for a few minutes or warm it slightly in the microwave. Freezing ensures you always have healthy, homemade treats on hand without worrying about spoilage.
Takeaway
Making homemade dog treats is a fun and healthy way to make your furry baby a part of your Easter celebrations. After all, you don’t want them pouting away in a corner while lap up sumptuous helpings of food and partake in festive activities with your loved ones. These Easter dog treat recipes have you covered—for the next 12 Easters, at least.