Around 20 years ago when I had two Springer Spaniels, I started making home-made dog bones purely for the enjoyment of pampering my two pooches. They loved them so much that I thought I was on to something. I toyed with the idea of marketing natural dog treats, possibly having a gourmet dog bakery or even better, a food truck that could travel to dog parks and provide healthy natural treats. Sounds a little crazy but I think I missed my opportunity because since then, huge warehouse size pet stores and premium natural dog foods have become the norm. There is a large demand in specialized products and services for all types of household pets.
PEANUT BUTTER & BANANA BISCUITS:
1/2 cup mashed banana
1/3 cup peanut butter ( I used all natural)
1/2 cup oats
1 cup whole wheat flour
1 egg
Preheat the oven to 300 degrees. Mix all ingredients. Knead the dough enough to form into a ball. Spread some wheat flour on table surface or cutting board and roll out with a rolling pin. Cut into bone or other fun shapes. Use parchment paper on cookie sheet and bake for 20 - 25 minutes. I turned the oven off and left the biscuits in the oven for 5 minutes longer to make extra crispy. Store in airtight containers in the refrigerator.
I enjoy baking to try new recipes but sometimes purely for the simple gratification of pleasing others. Its has always been very rewarding to hear that someone enjoyed my creation. Same goes for when you surprise your "best pal" with a home-made treat. They might not verbally express their approval but they find ways to let you know if it passed the test. I know my dogs love them just by the way they come running when I take out the box of treats. To complete the taste test, I distributed samples to all the dog owning staff members to see if their favorite pooch loved them too. Looks like they scarfed them up and are begging for more!
I decided to make these especially for Xavier on his 4th birthday.
XAVIER
