13 Adorable Dog Friendly Donut Recipes for Gotcha Day Celebrations

You can’t go wrong with this classic combination! The natural sweetness of banana paired with the nutty richness of peanut butter is a canine-approved flavor explosion. This recipe is simple, requires minimal ingredients, and is a perfect starting point for beginner dog bakers.

Ingredients:

• 1 ripe banana, mashed
• 1/4 cup creamy peanut butter (ensure it’s XYLITOL-FREE)
• 1 cup whole wheat flour (or oat flour for a gluten-free option)
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 egg
• 1/3 cup water or unsweetened almond milk

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a donut pan.
2. In a medium bowl, mix the mashed banana and xylitol-free peanut butter until well combined.
3. Whisk in the egg and water until the mixture is smooth.
4. In a separate bowl, combine the flour and baking powder.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix.
6. Spoon or pipe the batter into the prepared donut pan, filling each cavity about 3/4 full.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Let the donuts cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Pros & Cons

Verdict:

This is the perfect recipe for first-time dog treat bakers or for anyone who needs a quick, reliable, and crowd-pleasing (pup-pleasing!) treat for a Gotcha Day party.

Bring the cozy flavors of autumn to your dog’s celebration with these apple and cinnamon donuts. Unsweetened applesauce provides moisture and natural sweetness, while a pinch of cinnamon adds warmth and flavor. They’ll make your kitchen smell amazing!

Ingredients:

• 1 cup whole wheat flour
• 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
• 1 egg
• 1 tablespoon coconut oil, melted
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease your donut pan.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the unsweetened applesauce, egg, and melted coconut oil.
3. In another bowl, stir together the whole wheat flour, cinnamon, and baking powder.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until a soft dough forms.
5. Carefully spoon the batter into the donut pan.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
7. Allow to cool completely before serving or decorating.

Pros & Cons

Verdict:

Ideal for dogs who enjoy fruity flavors and for owners who want a simple, healthy treat that smells as good as it tastes. A great option for a fall or winter Gotcha Day celebration.

Pumpkin isn’t just for lattes! It’s a superfood for dogs, packed with fiber and great for digestive health. This recipe combines pure pumpkin puree with a hint of ginger for a delicious and tummy-friendly treat.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup oat flour
• 1/2 cup pure pumpkin puree (NOT pumpkin pie filling)
• 1 egg
• 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup (optional)
• 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly oil a donut pan.
2. In a bowl, mix the pumpkin puree, egg, and optional honey/maple syrup.
3. In a separate bowl, combine the oat flour, ginger, and baking soda.
4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Fill the donut pan cavities with the batter.
6. Bake for 18-22 minutes, until they are firm to the touch.
7. Let them cool on a wire rack. For an extra touch, you can ‘frost’ them with a thin layer of plain Greek yogurt.

Pros & Cons

Verdict:

Perfect for dogs with sensitive tummies or those who need a little extra fiber in their diet. This is a healthy, festive treat that’s especially fitting for an autumn celebration.

Sweet potato is another fantastic, nutrient-rich ingredient for dog treats. It’s packed with vitamins and has a natural sweetness dogs love. The addition of ginger can help soothe an upset stomach, making this a doubly beneficial donut.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup cooked and mashed sweet potato
• 1 1/2 cups whole wheat flour
• 1 egg
• 1/4 cup water
• 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a donut pan.
2. In a large bowl, combine the mashed sweet potato, egg, water, and ginger. Mix well.
3. Gradually add the flour, mixing until a thick batter forms.
4. Pipe or spoon the batter into the donut pan.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes until the donuts are firm and slightly browned.
6. Cool completely before letting your pup enjoy.

Pros & Cons

Verdict:

A wonderful choice for health-conscious pet parents. These donuts are not just a treat but also a little nutritional boost, ideal for dogs of all ages.

Think of this as a dog-friendly version of carrot cake! Shredded carrots add texture, moisture, and a healthy dose of beta-carotene, while oats provide slow-release energy. It’s a hearty, wholesome donut perfect for an active pup.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup rolled oats, ground into flour
• 1/2 cup finely shredded carrot
• 1 egg
• 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 2 tablespoons water
• 1 teaspoon baking powder

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and prepare your donut pan.
2. If you don’t have oat flour, simply blend 1 cup of rolled oats in a blender until it reaches a flour-like consistency.
3. In a bowl, mix the oat flour, shredded carrot, and baking powder.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk the egg, Greek yogurt, and water.
5. Combine the wet and dry ingredients and stir until you have a thick batter.
6. Spoon the mixture into the donut pan.
7. Bake for 15-18 minutes. The donuts should be firm and spring back when touched.
8. Let them cool completely.

Pros & Cons

Verdict:

An excellent, nutrient-dense option for active dogs. The chewy texture is satisfying, and the ingredients support everything from vision to digestion. It’s a guilt-free indulgence!

Who says donuts have to be baked? For a Gotcha Day in the heat of summer, these frozen yogurt and blueberry donuts are the perfect cooling treat. They’re incredibly simple to make and require no oven time at all.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup plain Greek yogurt (ensure it’s xylitol-free)
• 1/2 cup fresh or frozen blueberries
• 1 tablespoon water (to help with blending)

Instructions:

1. Place the Greek yogurt, blueberries, and water into a blender.
2. Blend until the mixture is smooth. You can leave a few small berry chunks for texture if you like.
3. Carefully pour the mixture into a silicone donut pan.
4. Tap the pan on the counter a few times to release any air bubbles.
5. Freeze for at least 4 hours, or until completely solid.
6. Pop the frozen donuts out of the mold and serve immediately.

Pros & Cons

Verdict:

The ultimate treat for a summer celebration or for any dog that runs hot. They’re refreshing, healthy, and a fun way to help your dog cool down.

Not all dogs have a sweet tooth! For the pup who prefers savory snacks, these bacon and cheddar donuts are a dream come true. They smell incredible and are guaranteed to get your dog’s full attention.

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 cups whole wheat flour
• 2 strips of bacon, cooked crispy and crumbled
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 egg
• 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce or water
• 1 teaspoon baking powder

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a donut pan.
2. In a large bowl, combine the flour, crumbled bacon, shredded cheese, and baking powder.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk the egg and applesauce (or water).
4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry and mix until just combined. The batter will be thick.
5. Press the batter evenly into the donut pan cavities.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden and cooked through.
7. Cool completely on a wire rack.

Pros & Cons

Verdict:

This is a special occasion, high-reward treat for the dog that loves all things meat and cheese. Perfect for picky eaters who might turn their nose up at fruity options. Serve in moderation!

Here’s a savory treat with a bonus benefit! This recipe uses cooked, shredded chicken for a protein punch and fresh parsley, which is known to help combat doggy breath. It’s a win-win for you and your pup.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup cooked, finely shredded chicken
• 1 1/4 cups brown rice flour
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1 egg
• 1/4 cup low-sodium chicken broth

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease your donut pan.
2. In a bowl, combine the shredded chicken, brown rice flour, and fresh parsley.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and chicken broth.
4. Pour the liquid into the dry ingredients and mix to form a sticky dough.
5. Press the dough into the donut pan cavities.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes until firm.
7. Cool completely before serving.

Pros & Cons

Verdict:

A fantastic choice for owners who want a functional treat. It’s great for dogs who love chicken and could use a little help in the fresh breath department. The savory flavor makes it a special indulgence.

Boost your dog’s skin and coat health with these omega-3 packed donuts. Canned salmon is an easy and affordable way to add this healthy fish to your dog’s diet, and a touch of dill complements the flavor perfectly.

Ingredients:

• 1 can (6 oz) salmon, drained (packed in water, no salt added)
• 1 cup oat flour
• 1 egg
• 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped (or 1 tsp dried)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and oil your donut pan.
2. In a bowl, flake the drained salmon with a fork.
3. Add the oat flour, egg, dill, and olive oil to the salmon. Mix until everything is well combined.
4. Spoon the mixture into the donut pan, pressing it down gently.
5. Bake for 20-22 minutes until the edges are golden.
6. Let them cool completely. These will have a strong fishy smell, which your dog will love!

Pros & Cons

Verdict:

The perfect functional treat for dogs who need a skin and coat boost. If your dog goes crazy for fishy flavors, this will be their new favorite Gotcha Day tradition.

Chocolate is a huge no-no for dogs, but carob is a perfectly safe and delicious alternative! It has a slightly sweet, roasted flavor that mimics chocolate, allowing you to make a ‘chocolatey’ treat your dog can safely enjoy.

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 cups whole wheat flour
• 1/4 cup carob powder
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 egg
• 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
• 1/4 cup water
• For the ‘glaze’ (optional): 2 tablespoons carob powder mixed with 1-2 tablespoons water.

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease the donut pan.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, carob powder, and baking powder.
3. In a separate bowl, mix the egg, applesauce, and water.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry and stir until just combined.
5. Pipe or spoon the batter into the donut pan.
6. Bake for 15-18 minutes. Let cool completely.
7. If using the glaze, mix the carob powder and water until you have a smooth, drizzling consistency. Drizzle over the cooled donuts.

Pros & Cons

Verdict:

For the pet parent who wants to give their dog a truly decadent-looking treat. These carob donuts look like a human indulgence but are 100% pup-safe and perfect for a special celebration.

Get a taste of the tropics with this delightful combination. Fresh strawberries provide a juicy burst of flavor, while coconut adds a chewy texture and healthy fats. It’s a light, sweet, and unique donut recipe.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup coconut flour
• 1/2 cup finely diced fresh strawberries
• 2 eggs
• 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted
• 1/4 cup water

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a donut pan well, as coconut flour can stick.
2. In a bowl, whisk together the coconut flour and diced strawberries.
3. In another bowl, beat the eggs, then mix in the melted coconut oil and water.
4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Mix well. The batter will be very thick.
5. Press the batter firmly into the donut pan cavities.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes, until the edges are lightly browned.
7. Let them cool in the pan for 10 minutes before carefully removing them to a wire rack to finish cooling. Coconut flour is delicate when warm.

Pros & Cons

Verdict:

A fantastic grain-free option for dogs with allergies or sensitivities. The light, fruity flavor is perfect for a spring or summer Gotcha Day, and it offers great health benefits from the coconut oil.

Need a super-fast, no-oven-required treat? These no-bake balls can easily be formed into donut shapes for a festive look without the heat. They come together in minutes and are a guaranteed hit.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup rolled oats (not instant)
• 1/2 cup xylitol-free peanut butter
• 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
• 1/4 cup water or unsweetened applesauce
• Optional: Crushed dog biscuits or shredded coconut for ‘sprinkles’.

Instructions:

1. In a medium bowl, combine the rolled oats, peanut butter, and honey/maple syrup.
2. Add the water or applesauce, one tablespoon at a time, mixing until the mixture holds together when pressed. It should be firm, not sticky.
3. Take a small amount of the mixture and roll it into a ball, then flatten it slightly.
4. Use your finger or the end of a wooden spoon to poke a hole in the middle, forming a donut shape.
5. If using ‘sprinkles’, roll the edges of the donuts in the crushed biscuits or coconut.
6. Place the donuts on a parchment-lined plate and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up.

Pros & Cons

Verdict:

The perfect recipe for busy pet parents or those who aren’t confident bakers. These are quick, easy, and use pantry staples to create a delicious and celebratory treat in under an hour.

For dogs on a grain-free diet, almond flour is a fantastic, protein-rich alternative. Paired with the natural sweetness of apple, this recipe creates a soft, cake-like donut that’s both healthy and delicious.

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 cups almond flour
• 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce
• 1 egg
• 1 tablespoon coconut oil, melted
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Almond flour burns more easily, so a lower temperature is key. Grease your donut pan.
2. In a large bowl, combine the almond flour, baking soda, and cinnamon.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the applesauce, egg, and melted coconut oil.
4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until a smooth batter forms.
5. Spoon the batter into the donut pan cavities.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean. Watch them closely to prevent burning.
7. Let them cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. They will be delicate.

Pros & Cons

Verdict:

This is the go-to recipe for dogs with grain sensitivities or allergies. It produces a wonderfully soft donut that feels like a true indulgence, allowing every dog to participate in the Gotcha Day fun.

Baking for your dog is a fun and rewarding experience, but it’s a little different from baking for humans. Here are a few key things to keep in mind to ensure your Gotcha Day donuts are both safe and delicious.

Choosing Dog-Safe Ingredients

Your dog’s health is the top priority. Always double-check your ingredients.

• Flours: Whole wheat, oat, brown rice, coconut, and almond flour are all great choices. Avoid all-purpose white flour, which has little nutritional value.
• Sweeteners: Natural options like mashed banana, applesauce, pumpkin, or a small amount of honey or maple syrup are best.
• Fats: Coconut oil, olive oil, and salmon oil are healthy choices.
• Frosting: Plain Greek yogurt, cream cheese (in moderation), or mashed banana make excellent, safe frostings. You can add a drop of natural food coloring (like beet juice for pink) for fun.

Ingredients to ALWAYS Avoid

Some common baking ingredients are toxic to dogs. Never use:

• Xylitol: This artificial sweetener is extremely toxic to dogs and is often found in peanut butter, yogurt, and sugar-free products. READ YOUR LABELS!
• Chocolate & Cocoa Powder: Toxic to dogs. Use carob powder as a safe alternative.
• Grapes & Raisins: Highly toxic and can cause kidney failure.
• Macadamia Nuts: Toxic to dogs.
• Nutmeg: This common spice can cause hallucinations and nervous system problems in large doses. Stick to cinnamon and ginger.

Essential Baking Tools

You don’t need a lot of fancy equipment, but a few items make the process much easier:

• Donut Pan: A silicone or non-stick donut pan is essential for getting that perfect shape.
• Mixing Bowls & Whisk: Standard baking equipment.
• Piping Bag: A piping bag (or a zip-top bag with the corner snipped off) makes filling the donut pan much neater and easier, especially with thicker batters.

Storage Tips

Since these treats don’t have preservatives, they won’t last as long as store-bought ones.

• Countertop: Most baked donuts can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days.
• Refrigerator: For longer storage, or for any treats with yogurt/cheese frosting, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.
• Freezer: Most of these donuts freeze beautifully! Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months. This is a great way to have single-serving treats on hand.

Can I use all-purpose white flour instead of whole wheat?

You can, but it’s not recommended. All-purpose flour has been stripped of most of its nutrients and fiber. Flours like whole wheat, oat, or almond offer more health benefits for your dog. If you only have all-purpose flour, it’s generally safe to use, but the treat will be less nutritious.

How many donuts can my dog have?

Treats should always be given in moderation and should not make up more than 10% of your dog’s daily caloric intake. These donuts are a special celebration food. One donut is plenty for a medium to large dog, while a small dog might only need half. Always consider your dog’s size, activity level, and overall health.

My dog has allergies. What are the best recipes to try?

For dogs with common allergies, look for recipes that are naturally free of those ingredients. The Strawberry & Coconut (#11) and Grain-Free Apple & Almond Flour (#13) recipes are excellent grain-free options. The Pumpkin Spice (#3) and Salmon & Dill (#9) recipes are also great choices that use oat flour, which is often well-tolerated by dogs with wheat sensitivities.

What are some easy, dog-safe decoration ideas?

Decorating is the best part! You can create a simple ‘glaze’ by mixing plain Greek yogurt with a little water until it’s a drizzling consistency. You can also melt a small amount of xylitol-free peanut butter. For ‘sprinkles,’ try using crushed-up versions of your dog’s favorite biscuits, shredded unsweetened coconut, or finely chopped parsley.