Given the way we cherish our pets as integral members of our families, it’s only fitting that they partake in the tastiest day of the year – Pancake Day! With an array of tempting options available, it’s essential to craft treats that are not only delicious but also safe for our furry friends’ sensitive tummies.
The experts at Pooch & Mutt have taken the hassle out of creating the perfect pancake for your pooch with delightful and nutritious ideas as well as noting which ingredients to steer clear of.
Dog-Friendly Banana Pancakes
A great base recipe for pooch-friendly pancakes is a simple one:
Ingredients:
· One ripe and sweet banana
· One egg (shell can be included if desired)
· 100g of plain flour*
*For dogs intolerant or allergic to grains, consider using alternative flour such as coconut flour or almond flour (flour is usually made from wheat).
Recipe Step-by-Step:
1. Mash the ripened banana with a fork until smooth.
2. Add the egg and flour, beating until a smooth batter forms.
3. The batter can be fried like a classic pancake or used in a waffle maker.
4. If frying, use a small amount of coconut or olive oil. Alternatively, opt for oil spray for a healthier cooking option for your dog*.
*For dogs prone to pancreatitis, steer clear of the oil altogether!
Time for Toppings – Sweet vs. Savoury
Whether your pooch prefers sweet, savoury, or ‘anything goes’ flavours, there are plenty of dog-friendly toppings to make your pancakes extra-appetising:
Sweet
· Peanut Butter (xylitol free)
· Honey
· Berries
· Mango
· Apple
· Peach
Savoury
· Spinach
· Carrot
· Broccoli
· Peas
· Cheese
Pancake ingredients that aren’t dog-friendly
There are some definite no-go’s when it comes to pancake toppings and our dogs. These include:
· Toxins like raisins, grapes, chocolate and macadamia nuts.
· Dairy cream. Most adult dogs are lactose intolerant and dairy can cause a stomach upset.
· Sugar or syrup. While a sweet treat for us, it has no real nutritional value and can contribute to weight gain.
· Lemon or lime. These citrus fruits are not well tolerated by dogs and their juice isn’t easily digested.
Top tips for feeding time
- When it’s time to serve up, make sure you allow the pancakes to cool to room temperature first. Otherwise, the smell may be so tempting that your dog chomps it down before giving it time to cool, which could burn their mouth or even lead to oral ulcers.
- Make sure your dog doesn’t overindulge. A small dog should only get a few bites of pancake, while a giant breed would be able to eat a whole pancake with ease. Feeding too many pancakes can lead to an upset stomach and bloating. Also ensure the calories are part of their daily recommended intake, not on top of it.
Now you have everything you need to ensure your furry companion enjoys a truly special Pancake Day with these delicious and safe pancake options while steering clear of the no-go ingredients.
