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Festive gingerbread biscuits your dog can enjoy

With National Gingerbread House Day coming up on 12th December, there’s no better time to get baking – and let your dog join in too.

Baking gingerbread is one of the cosiest parts of the festive season. Between the decorating, the warm spices and the smell drifting through the kitchen, it’s only natural for your dog to want to get involved too. But can dogs eat gingerbread safely?

The short answer is no, not the human kind. Traditional gingerbread is usually high in sugar and often contains nutmeg, which isn’t safe for dogs. The good news is that your dog doesn’t need to miss out. With a few simple swaps, you can make your own dog gingerbread biscuits at home that feel festive without the worry.

Can dogs have gingerbread biscuits?

Although shop-bought gingerbread isn’t suitable for dogs, they can enjoy homemade versions that leave out anything they shouldn’t have. A dog-friendly gingerbread recipe uses straightforward ingredients like ginger, cinnamon and wholemeal flour to create a biscuit that feels seasonal and safe.

Dogs can eat ginger in small quantities, and it may even offer some general health benefits. So a light sprinkle of ginger in your homemade biscuits isn’t just tasty, it can be a nice addition too.

If you enjoy baking or want your dog to feel included in your festive traditions, making your own dog gingerbread biscuits is a lovely way to do it. Read more about what dog's can and can't eat in our "Can Dogs Eat" library.

Make your own dog gingerbread biscuits

Overhead view of a festive table of ingredients to make gingerbread.

We’re sharing this recipe from the lovely folks at PDSA, who provide vital support for pets and owners when they need it most. You can also find the original on their website at pdsa.org.uk.

You will need:

300g flour
60g smooth dog-safe peanut butter (make sure it doesn’t contain xylitol, also called birch sugar)
1 apple, peeled and grated (or finely chopped)
1 tsp ground cinnamon
1 tsp ground ginger
1 tbsp blackstrap molasses (black treacle)
120ml water
A 5cm x 4cm gingerbread template or cookie cutters
(Optional) Download the gingerbread template from PDSA website

Instructions

Preheat your oven to gas mark 4 or 180°C (160°C for a fan oven) and line a baking tray with baking paper.
Add all the ingredients to a large bowl and mix thoroughly. Sifting the flour can help create a smoother dough, though it’s not essential.
Once your dough has formed, roll it out on a lightly floured surface to about ¼ inch thick.
Cut out your biscuits using your template or chosen cutters and place them on the lined baking tray.
Bake for around 20 minutes, or until the biscuits are firm and golden.
Let the biscuits cool completely before offering one to your dog.

As with any treat, offer these biscuits in moderation and adjust your dog’s usual food to avoid over-feeding.

Simple ingredients, minimal fuss, and a kitchen that smells beautifully festive.

Try making a gingerbread dog house

Ready to celebrate the national day? If you’re feeling creative, you can take things a step further and build a gingerbread dog house. Think of it as a fun seasonal craft, not a technical baking challenge under Paul Hollywood’s watchful eye. You can:

Use your baked biscuit shapes as “panels” and attach them with a small amount of dog-safe icing, such as plain unseasoned mashed potato. Or, decorate a cardboard house and use your biscuits as edible additions.

There’s no pressure to make it perfect. It’s simply a bit of festive fun for you and a nice way to bring your dog into the celebration.

Enjoy the moment with your dog

Small boy rolling out gingerbread dough while his pet whippet looks on

The festive season can feel busy, so small traditions like baking together can turn into lovely moments of calm. Whether you’re making a simple batch of biscuits or trying your hand at a gingerbread dog house, it’s a sweet way to involve your dog in the celebrations.

If you decide to make them, take your time, enjoy the process and let your dog have a sniff of the magic along the way.

Tried the recipe? Share your gingerbread creations with us on Instagram by tagging @yumove_uk