Turmeric has attracted considerable attention in both human and veterinary medicine for its active compound curcumin, which has documented anti-inflammatory properties. A 2025 peer-reviewed study confirmed that curcumin combined with glucosamine-chondroitin significantly reduced pain scores and inflammation markers in dogs with osteoarthritis.1
These no-bake chews use turmeric alongside coconut oil (which improves curcumin absorption, as curcumin is fat-soluble), oat flour, and peanut butter as a base — making them easy to prepare and popular with most dogs.
⚠️ Important before you start: Turmeric is safe for dogs in small culinary amounts (as used in this recipe) but can interact with certain medications including blood thinners and diabetes medication — consult your vet if your dog is on any prescription medication. Peanut butter must be xylitol-free — xylitol is toxic to dogs. Check the label every time you buy a new jar. Start with a small amount (1–2 chews) on the first day and monitor for digestive changes before giving more. These are treats, not a daily meal supplement.
Ingredients
- 1 cup (100g) oat flour — or blended rolled oats
- 3 tbsp natural peanut butter — xylitol-free, no added salt or sugar (check every jar)
- 2 tbsp coconut oil — melted and cooled slightly
- 1 tsp ground turmeric — or use ½ crushed joint tablet for a stronger curcumin effect
- 1 tbsp honey (optional — small amount for binding and palatability)
- 2–3 tbsp warm water — add gradually until dough comes together
1
Combine dry ingredients.
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the oat flour and turmeric until evenly distributed. The turmeric will turn everything a vibrant yellow — this is normal and washes out of most surfaces with cold water.
2
Add wet ingredients.
Add the peanut butter, melted coconut oil, and honey (if using). Mix until combined. Add warm water one tablespoon at a time, mixing between additions, until the dough comes together and is firm enough to roll into balls.
3
Shape into chews.
Roll the dough into small balls (about 1–2cm for small dogs, 2–3cm for large dogs) or press into silicone moulds. Place on a parchment-lined tray or plate.
4
Chill until firm.
Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes until the chews are firm. They won't be completely hard — they should have some give, like a soft caramel. If you want them firmer, freeze for 20 minutes first.
5
Store in the fridge.
Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week. For longer storage, freeze individually on a tray first, then transfer to a freezer bag. Take out what you need each day.
🌿
A note on turmeric and bioavailability
Curcumin — the active compound in turmeric — is poorly absorbed on its own. Fat and black pepper (piperine) both significantly improve absorption. This recipe uses coconut oil as the fat source. Some veterinary supplement formulations (including Curcumin C3 Complex as used in the 2025 study) use more concentrated forms with enhanced bioavailability — so don't expect these treats to replicate the effects of a clinical-grade curcumin supplement. They're a tasty addition to a balanced diet, not a medical treatment.
A 2025 study found that curcumin combined with glucosamine-chondroitin significantly decreased pain scores and inflammation markers in dogs with osteoarthritis — offering greater protection than glucosamine alone.
— Zheng E et al., Veterinary Sciences (2025)🥜
Peanut butter — the crucial safety check
Xylitol is an artificial sweetener added to some peanut butters that is highly toxic to dogs — it can cause fatal hypoglycaemia within 30–60 minutes of ingestion. It may also appear on labels as 'birch sugar' or 'sugar alcohols'. Safe peanut butter has one ingredient: peanuts (sometimes with a small amount of salt, which is acceptable in the tiny amounts used here). Check every single jar — formulations change without notice.
For stronger joint support
Joint Supplements with Curcumin
Several products on our supplement list combine curcumin with glucosamine and green-lipped mussel for evidence-based joint support beyond what treats can deliver.